Since Phil and I started dating, each summer we began making a day trip down to Starved Rock (like many others do!). We never intended for it to become a family tradition of sorts, but by some chance, it has.
Back in 2017, when I was pregnant with our first son, Jaxon, we went hiking on a day trip. As we walked across one of the boarded pathways, Phil snapped a selfie of the two of us and me cradling my barely noticeable bump. The following year, we went back with Jaxon- who was then nearly 8 months old. While walking around, Phil thought it would be a fun idea to try and recreate that same photo. And the rest is now history…
This year has been the first year that the kids actually enjoyed hiking and we were able to stay out there for nearly two hours. Honestly, we probably could have even aimed for longer but Mom and Dad were exhausted. In past years, the kids were still too young to handle all of the steps and walking without a LOT of complaining, wanting to be carried, picked up, etc. This year, all of them ran and hiked the entire time. They were choosing which way to go, what they wanted to see, and it was an overall, very pleasant experience (finally! LOL).
Last year we stayed at the resort nearby, Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock. The kids absolutely LOVED it. The indoor waterpark, arcade, mini golf, and other family friendly activities made it worth it (it also made the drive worth it!). This year, we went a bit later than usual due to having a newborn over the summer. And with my hectic schedule and having so much going on, we simply couldn’t make the overnight stay work out again. But in years to come, that is definitely the move.
8 years later, we have captured our growing family in that same spot. I must admit, in past years, it has been annoying to load up the car with numerous children, snacks, carriers, waters, etc. all to drive an hour and a half away, to barely hike for an hour, and turn around and drive home. But truthfully, seeing those photos side by side each year do make it worth it. I absolutely love this unintended family tradition we’ve created.
To see our side by side photos from 2017-2024, head over to my instagram: @kait_ejensen
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