Ocala National Forest

This past weekend we decided to take a short trip up to the Ocala National Forest and hike to some springs. We got rained out a bit for the hiking part, but we discovered many, many places to go back and explore. They have these wonderful warm springs that the children can swim in and lots of trails and such. We really enjoyed driving around the park and speaking to the forest ranger in the welcome center. Madeline now wants to become a Jr. Forest Ranger! Isn't that cute? Fine by me, as I just can't wait until she can join the Daisy Girl Scouts in Kindergarten. I sure had fun as a G.S. and I hope she does, too. Being so interested in forest life is a good sign! This weekend they are having the Florida Black Bear Festival and I think we may go. We might have rain again, but we'll see. This park is only an 1 1/2 hours from home. There sure is a lot of STUFF to do and see here in Florida!
It was too wet to have our picnic outside, so we did the next best thing and ate in the back of the Explorer!

A nature lesson, perhaps? I'm not sure what he was showing her here.....but he sure likes teaching her things! sigh. Such a great Daddy.