tamisparks, Author at Tami's Travel and Adventures

Santa Margarita River Trail – Beauty in Fallbrook

Hiking Santa Margarita River Trail — Beautiful day hike

My Passion for Hiking

I have had a love for hiking for as long as I can remember. As a young girl growing up in Sacramento, I would often set out exploring along the banks of the American River. I don’t know if it was my father’s passion for the outdoors that influenced me at a young age or just my own desire to escape the confinement of four walls. Whatever it is, there is something about being out hiking that fills me with energy and excitement.

A Nice Day Hike

Sometimes we don’t have time to go on extended hikes so being able to have so many local hikes around us is wonderful. It gives us the reboot we need without having to make a full day out of it. Fallbrook is a beautiful little community filled with great eateries and the quaint charm of something from the past.

Santa Margarita River Trail

Located in Fallbrook, the 5 mile trail winds along the edge of the Santa Margarita River. It is a fairly easy hike with an elevation gain of less than 500′. The river (more like a large stream) adds to the tranquil scenery making it a nice relaxing trip for families and pets. We took the dogs along and they had so much fun jumping in the river and cooling off. Leashes are a must for dogs; for kids… optional!

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/santa-margarita-river-trail

Dogs enjoying the cool watr — Smoky and Romy enjoying a dip.

Family joins us for a hike — Danny and Amber joined us for a day of hiking

If you are looking for a hike that you can go on and get some respite from the sun when needed, this is a great trail. Trees line the trail in most areas and provide some great nature shots for those avid photographers. I think that this trail is prettier than the Daly Ranch trails as Daly tends to be much more open and exposed to the elements.

Favorite Apps

As the communities have grown, the opportunities to hike are still around us, you just have to know where to look. There are several great apps but one of my favorites is All Trails. You can see hiking trails and reviews and choose paths that fit your skill set. https://www.alltrails.com/ .

There are several options for people who don’t want to hike alone as well. A great website to locate groups for wherever your passion lies is Meetup. https://www.meetup.com/ You can select the area and what groups you would like to learn about or get notifications from. They often have weekly outings or meetings and offer various skill levels. I learned about this site when I went through a career transition. They actually provided classes on writing resumes and looking for a new career.

Lake Wohlford – Escondido’s Hidden Gem

Family Fun, Fishing

Day tripping to Lake Wohlford

Just a few minutes above Escondido is a hidden gem known as Lake Wohlford. It sits in a small community where hospitality comes naturally and the opportunity to enjoy nature and fish are endless. The lake is open from 6 am to dusk and provides hiking trails, boat rentals and shoreline fishing. https://www.escondido.org/lake-wohlford.aspx

Just Relax!

Going fishing or boating are two activities that seem to help people relax. Being out in nature, waves slapping on the boat and sounds of birds singing in the background seem to bring a zen state to the body and mind. It took me back to the movie “On Golden Pond” as we ventured onto the lake and listened to the birds wake up with beautiful song. While the rest of the country is dealing with extreme cold in the middle of January, by midday we were relaxing in shorts with temperatures in the mid 70’s. You have to love San Diego!

Greg enjoying the morning on Lake Wohlford

Go out and explore

Life is too short to not get out and have adventures. We’re always looking for new places and day trips to venture out on and classes that we can learn something new. Brandi and Erin seem to be our partners in crime and are always game for our various escapades.

We planned on getting two boats and linking them together while out on the lake. This would enable us to share our ice chest, fried chicken and various goodies we brought along. The day was wonderful and other than a periodic whipping up of the wind, the weather was perfect! Greg and I did manage to get our anchor stuck just as we were leaving for the day. The park ranger had to come out and release it from our boat and he couldn’t get it unstuck either. Thank goodness we did not get charged for the anchor!

Tied our boats together to keep an eye on Brandi and Erin on Lake Wohlford

Our Second Trip Back

The first trip was so much fun that we decided to try it again in March. We finally had a weekend that it wasn’t raining so we headed back up to the lake with snacks galore. It has been a wet winter and San Diego isn’t used to so much dampness. When we heard sunshine all weekend we were quickly planning our escape!

We found a nice dock that we claimed as our own for the day. The fish were jumping and ready to be caught! We unfortunately lost a few trying to get them on the dock but that didn’t discourage us. We bought a fishing net on Amazon for our next time out.

Lake Wohlford trout catch — **Lake Wohlford and my big catch for the day!**

**Erin helps Greg with his pole while he shows his big catch at Wohlford**

Fun and Games

A trip out with Brandi and Erin wouldn’t be the same without some type of mischievous act. While Erin headed back to the truck for a moment, we tied Greg’s fish onto Erin’s line and threw it back in the water. When she came back, she said her line had come in and she would have to recast. As Erin reeled in her line the rest of us were trying to hold it together and not crack up. She methodically attempted to get the hook out of the fish and finally Brandi had to let her in on the joke. We all love hanging out together, there is never a dull moment!

Life is short so go do something!

Regardless of if your passion lies in the outdoors, cooking, reading or just playing video games, go do something! Try new things and dare to step out of your comfort zone. You never know if you will actually enjoy something unless you try it. You can sit on the couch thinking one day I will do _________ or you can actually go do it! Create the life you want!

Family Fun in Kauai

Family Fun, Hikes, Travel

Princeville Kauai — Mountains above Hanalei, Kauai

When Opportunity Knocks

My favorite Hawaiian Island is Kauai, not because of the beautiful beaches, green lush hillsides or multitude of things you can do there but because it seems to be the less commercialized of the 4 most popular islands. The people are so nice, the weather is great and the food and activities are endless.

My sister-in-law was planning a week long getaway in Princeville Kauai with her husband and three boys. She decided it would be fun to make it a little family vacation and invited her dad and two brothers (one being my husband) and me! It was an opportunity we could not pass up! She threw in the deal breaker… all we had to pay for was airfare and food! We were in!

Family Fun House in Princeville Kauai — Our home for the week in Princeville Kauai

She rented an Airbnb https://www.airbnb.com/ for the week in Princeville. The rental was a beautiful 2-story home that overlooked the golf course and was a short walk to the beach. We had stayed in Airbnbs before https://tamistravelandadventures.com/index.php/2018/09/25/airbnb-its-worth-a-try/ and loved the ability to travel with all the comforts of home including your privacy!

Off to Explore Queen’s Bath

We decided to do a short hike down to Queen’s Bath in Princeville. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g60626-d586624-Reviews-Queen_s_Bath-Princeville_Kauai_Hawaii.html Some have problems finding the trailhead but we followed the directions and went straight to the site. There are warning signs all over the place stating people have drowned there but if you stay back on the trail and don’t attempt to go in the water, you will be fine. It can be a little slippery so wear good shoes to do the short hike down. I had on hiking sandals and had no problems.

Trail to Queen's Bath Princeville Kauai — Two of my favorite people!

The trail down is lush with vegetation and there is a little creek that runs down along side the trail. It is hard to believe how beautiful it is here and how green! Living in California and in the midst of what seems like a lifelong draught has made me forget that there are colors in nature other than brown! Alex and Deanna stopped long enough for a photo opp before heading down to the main pool.

Greg at Queen's Bath Kauai — Greg looking down on Queen’s Bath

Deanna & Tami at Queen's Bath — Love this Woman!

Beauty of the Sea

Once we made it down to the bottom of the trail at Queen’s Bath we were able to see the various tide pools and watch the power of the sea crash up onto the rocks. I could have stayed there all day enjoying the warmth of the sun. There is something so majestic about the sea and all it’s power and beauty.

Queen's Bath Kauai — Queen’s Bath and the Power of the Ocean – Kauai

Family Fun Kauai — Greg & I Enjoying the Day

Wailua Falls

Remember the old TV series Fantasy Island? It really was a somewhat corny show in the 70s but seemed to have sucked me in each week. I am not sure if I just wanted to be taken away to an island like theirs or if it was just the accent I enjoyed of Ricardo Montalban. Why do I bring this up? The beautiful double-tiered waterfall of Wailua Falls was in the opening scene of the show! https://www.hawaii-guide.com/kauai/sights/wailua_falls

What is great about these falls is anyone can go and see them. No hiking is required and it is easily accessible by car. We took the opportunity to drive up to the falls after a day of snorkeling. It really did seem like a fantasy with the sheer beauty of it all.

Family Fun at Wailua Falls Kauai — The Beautiful Wailua Falls in Kauai

Greg at Wailua Falls Kauai — Greg taking a moment to observe Wailua Falls

Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge

We took a short drive over to see the Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge. The colors of the sea and views of the coastline are exquisite! The refuge is on top of a dormant volcano that provides a safe environment for much of Kauai’s wildlife in a natural habitat. http://www.kauai.com/kilauea-lighthouse

For the Nature Lover

Kilauea Lighthouse Kauai — Looking off the point of Kilauea Lighthouse

If you are a bird watcher, this is a great place to go and sit and observe the various seabirds. They have telescopes set up so you can view the surrounding coastline and watch for whales and other sea life passing by. Inside the small store, they have information regarding some of the rare birds found in the area. If you are lucky, you may even see a humpback whale off the coast!

There is a small entry fee and at the time we went,the lighthouse was open Tuesday-Saturday. Be sure to check hours of operation if you plan on visiting here during your stay!

Watch for our next story on Kauai’s awe-inspiring snorkeling, kayaking and the Kauai Mountain Tubing Adventures!

Forever Footprints – Walk to Remember

Events

Parents of Shane and angel baby Kai at Walk to Remember — Kai and Shane’s Parents Amber and Danny at Walk to Remember

Our Story and Forever Footprints

For those who know me, you are well aware that in 2016 devastation hit my family. My youngest daughter Amber gave birth to a beautiful baby boy who we watched pass away in our arms within two days due to a massive stroke. Complications during delivery, a ruptured placenta and an emergency C-Section left my daughter in critical condition and the little man below on a rapid decline due to a stroke on the back of the brain. This was the hardest thing our family has ever had to go through. My daughter and her husband found additional support from the organization Forever Footprints http://www.foreverfootprints.org/ and slowly started their recovery not only from Amber’s own near death experience but also from their broken hearts.

Honoring our Grandson Kai at Walk to Remember — Signs are placed throughout the Forever Footprints – Walk to Remember honoring the babies lost. This is our Grandson Kai.

Walk to Remember Event

Each year in October we participate in the Forever Footprints – Walk to Remember event at Cal State San Bernardino. Many may think what a sad event but actually it is quite the opposite. This event gives family and friends the opportunity to come together and walk those steps that the babies will never take. Each family is encouraged to make posters that are then displayed along the walk and most families create shirts honoring their baby.

Walk to Remember speaker — Listening to a few people share their stories

One of this Year’s Speakers

This is the first year since I have attended that a father spoke about his family and their loss. He explained why this group of people and Forever Footprints is such a strong support; simply put, they get it. People who have gone through a loss like this don’t make comments like; “You are still young, you can try again”, “Well you have other kids”, or “It just wasn’t meant to be”. Instead they listen to your story, provide support and a way to slowly rebuild your life with resources to help along the way. Forever Footprints truly is an amazing organization.

Baby Memorial Wall

The camaraderie of people is empowering and the love and support felt at the event is overwhelming. The event normally starts with a few speakers who have lost a baby of their own and then is followed by a presentation of a single white rose to every parent there walking for their child. Each babies name is placed on a memorial wall and their name called out as the rose is presented.

The Memory Rope

The Memory Rope represents how this community of families is intertwined together. Babies names are displayed on the rope and parents are encouraged to write messages on the back to their child. This rope is then carried by volunteers through the course taking the steps the babies never got to take.

Memory Rope poster at Walk to Remember — What is a Memory Rope

Walk to Remember Memory Rope — Memory Rope with my family right behind in blue.

Taking the Steps

The course around Cal State San Bernardino which is the walk we participate in, is less than 3 miles. There is also an option to take an even shorter walk which is about 1 mile and you can walk as fast or slow as you like. Strollers and wheelchairs have access throughout the course however dogs and skateboards are not allowed! Sorry Smoky and Romy, we would take you if we could! This walk takes place in rain or shine. I don’t know what it is but every year, it can be in the 60’s leading up to the event and then Whammo! The temperature soars into the 90’s every year!

Friends at Walk to Remembe — Good Friends came out for support! Corwin, Ashley, Danny and Amber and Matt

Walk to Remember friends — Jenna, Amber and Heidi forever together at Walk to Remember

Shane’s an Advocate!

This kid has been in more walks for causes before age two then any child I know. He has participated in two Walk to Remember events, Walk a Mile in Her Shoes (bringing awareness to domestic violence), American Heart Association Walks and I am sure a few others I have forgotten to mention. We believe it is important to teach children at an early age that they can make a difference by getting involved. It is also a great way for the family to come together and get some exercise! This year Shane kept us on our toes as he would take off after all the other little kids and he wanted to give them all hugs. Love this lil’ man!

Hanging out before Walk to Remember starts — Papa Greg and Shane waiting for Walk to Remember to begin

Forever Footprints Walk to Remember tattoo — Shane got a temporary tattoo while he took a nap at Walk to Remember. This is the Forever Footprints Logo.

After the Walk

In the past years we have brought chairs and ice chests of food and drinks to have a picnic. Cal State San Bernardino has huge shade trees that are a great place to come together after the walk and enjoy time with family and friends. It is almost like a family reunion. We exchange stories of the past year and enjoy the closeness and support of each other. This picture is of Amber and Danny with part of our group in the background at the 2016 walk.

Picnic time at Forever Footprints - Walk to Remember — Danny and Amber at Walk to Remember 2016

This year however we decided to meet after at Danny and Amber’s house to enjoy a BBQ and then relax indoors in the air conditioning! With it being 95 degrees, we all welcomed the change in scenery and those that could not come to the walk, met up with us later for the BBQ. It was another great year honoring our little man Kai! Thank you to everyone who came out this year and in past years to show your support. We love you all!

Great Resources for Families

There are so many wonderful resources available not only for parents but grandparents, family and friends. Here are two that we used:

Molly Bears https://www.mollybears.org/ This organization creates stuffed bears that replicate the weight of your little angel. The organization was started in 2010 after the loss of their own daughter, Molly. Bears can weigh as little as one-half ounce or as much as 14 lbs. They have great resources as well on their site. Here is a picture of our Molly Bear that we call Kai Bear.

Molly Bears & Forever Footprints - Two great resources — Shane and Kai Bear

Forever Footprints http://www.foreverfootprints.org/ Provides resources, support groups, recommended reading and education to families, medical professionals and so much more!

I know there are several other out there so if you know of any that you have used, please feel free to comment and we will add the link to the page!

San Felipe – Beauty of Mexico

Travel

Our First Trip to San Felipe Mexico

When our good friends Brandi and Erin asked us to go with them to San Felipe in 2016, we were not even sure where that was! Sure it sounded like it was in Mexico but where exactly, we had no idea. We were excited however and jumped at the opportunity to join this crazy duo. We had our passports and within a few weeks we were ready to head out on a new adventure. For those of you who don’t know it’s location, let me save you from Googling it. San Felipe is a town on the bay side in the Sea of Cortez, also known as the Gulf Of California in Baja California. It is approximately 190 km south of the US (118 miles). Now, on with the trip!

Getting There

When I told my daughter that we were headed to Mexico, she was not too thrilled. She told us all sorts of stories and was worried about our safety. We thought, how dangerous can it be? Our friends go there all the time and they seem like responsible and logical people. We headed out on a Friday afternoon and after crossing the border we were zipping along highways that are better than any freeway I have seen in California. I honestly was surprised. There was very little traffic and the roads were well kept. We stopped for a quick photo opp off the side of a road.

Picture on the side of road — Stopping for a picture. Erin, Brandi and Greg

Reminder to Get Gas Before You Go!

We were about 2-3 hours into the trip when Brandi realized our gas light was on and we were NO WHERE near a gas station. All I could picture was us stuck out in the middle of the desert in Mexico. We passed a check point where Brandi was trying to ask the Mexican Federales if they knew where we could get gas but they were of no help. We continued to crawl along and then decided to stop at a little house on the side of the road. Brandi walked up to a little window where she proceeded to speak in broken Spanish asking if they had gas. Before long, a young boy popped out of the back with a milk gallon filled with gasoline. Score!

Tacos Tacos Everywhere

I never realized how many tacos I could eat until this trip. Random taco shops lined the road every 15-20 minutes and we would pull over at each one and sample the goods. Sure there were flies that would hang out but if you got past that, the food was amazing. We would eat our tacos and then load back into the car and take off for the next stop. When we arrived in San Felipe, we were ready for a cold one. We relaxed outside and enjoyed the evening and the beauty of the sky without all the light pollution we have back at home. It was magnificent!

All to Ourselves

We went to the end of the road the next day and enjoyed sometime under the talapas. The white sand beach was beautiful and seemed to go on forever. There was a light breeze that carried away any stress we had in life. It was perfect! Coming from California, I was not used to seeing an entire beach that was vacant and all to ourselves. I asked myself how this could get any better?

It Got Better!

Just as I had asked how this beach could get any better, I saw this distant spot approaching us. As it neared, I realized it was a small truck with a canopy on top. Brandi and Erin went down to stop him and as we followed we realized the truck was selling adult beverages! Pina Coladas out of hollowed out pineapples that were so refreshing and delectable we thought we had died and gone to heaven! I wish they had these in California!

Truck selling Pina Coladas — Pina Coladas and our new friend

Meet Rosie

Enter into the story, Rosie. Rosie is a princess to say the least. She goes wherever Brandi and Erin go and has her princess bed regardless of where she is. We took a trip up north one time and she sat up on top of a box on a pillow so she could lay down and look out the window the whole trip! Did I mention she was spoiled? She unfortunately has moved on to doggy heaven but her legacy still lives on.

Don’t Leave the Dog Behind

Trash Everywhere — Don’t leave me again!

When a dog is used to hanging out with you and chilling like one of the gang, they do not like to be left behind.We were gone for a couple hours seeing the sites in San Felipe and Rosie had stayed back in the trailer getting some beauty rest. (Or so we thought). When we returned, she had blessed us with our punishment for leaving her behind and not taking her into town with us. She had dumped the trashcan and literally dragged it all over the trailer! It is hard to be mad at a little dog that has such attitude and an adorable face!

Heading into Town

We cruised in to the main part of town to one of the favorite hang outs. We sat out on the patio at Club Miramar and enjoyed a few mimosas and a cold beers. A local vendor dragged his cart with his speaker and guitar from spot to spot playing for anyone who cared to listen. It was a great morning and we all agreed we would come back tonight for drinks and a walk on the beach.

Back to Club Miramar

Club Miramar is a great little bar right in the heart of town. We enjoyed a few cocktails and then walked across the street to enjoy the beach. Brandi and Greg are definitely the two wild children while Erin and I have a tendency to be the ones that attempt to keep us all from being kicked out of places and monitor the situation. Thanks Erin! I need all the support I can get when these two get together.

Outside of Club Miramar — Brandi & Erin at Club Miramar

Pic outside Club Miramar — My Main Squeeze

Two Big Kids

As we were strolling across the beach enjoying the moon and reflection off the water, Brandi and Greg had found a lifeguard tower. Erin and I look over and see Greg trying to pull up Brandi over the edge of the tower but Greg’s feet are not touching the ground! This was not going to end well! We went over and broke up the fun and the two nuts stopped for a photo opp. It does not matter if we are kicking it back at the house in Cali or hanging out at one of our favorite places in Fallbrook, when we are with these two, laughter is always sure to be a part of the visit.

Choose your attitude.

Some people go through life and forget how to have fun and enjoy themselves and those around them. They have what we call “downward spiral thinking” where every thought and how they relate to life is always negative. Negativity welcomes negative outcomes folks! When you surround yourself with fun and positive people, you can get through even the most bleakest of times.

I mention this because these two ladies are an inspiration to us. They are positive and don’t take themselves too seriously. This always creates an environment where laughter and good times are sure to be present! Brandi and Erin, we love you guys and can’t wait until our next adventure together!

Daly Ranch – Just a Short Hike Away

Family Fun, Hikes

Work, Hike and Play

We all know that the work – life balance can often tilt more in the direction of work. When part of my work team asked me to lead them on a hike one weekend I was thrilled. I have always enjoyed being outdoors and being able to take people out into nature so they can see what I enjoy excites me! The best part is watching the confidence glow from someone who did not think they could do it. Awwww the power of the outdoors.

Hike with my team — Strong and Beautiful – Lindsey, Brittany and Yolanda

The Start of the Day

I decided to make our first hike a somewhat shorter hike of 3.4 miles. Two girls from my front office, Lindsey and Brittany met at my house at 7 a.m. and then we traveled to Daly Ranch in Escondido to start our adventure. https://www.escondido.org/daley-ranch.aspx We met up with Yolanda and started promptly at 7:30 am. The morning was cool and carried the crispness one feels in the beginning of fall. My husband was teasing me stating I was like a school teacher because I had packed tangerines and protein bars for each of us. I don’t know about you but I never had a school teacher pack me a bag of goodies!

The First Mile

Our first mile was a gradual uphill climb. We took it nice and slow and stopped when I could hear the breathing of the team sounding labored. It wasn’t about finishing our hike in record time, it was about showing people they had it in them to be out on the trail. We would stop and peer out over North County as the cloud cover slowly began to burn off. Soon the cool morning air would be thickening with the heat of the day as the sun peeked through the clouds.

Brittany relaxing on our hike — Brittany enjoying a quick break

As we reached the peak, there was a park bench that provided a view looking out over Lake Dixon and the surrounding rolling hills. Brittany took the opportunity to take a break and enjoy the view from a different angle!

Break Time

Daly Ranch House is a beautiful Ranch House that has a surrounding picnic area. There is an old barn that seems to draw me in everytime I see it like an old friend. We took our packs off and enjoyed some tangelos and protein bars while we shared stories of younger days. There was something nice about being away from work with these ladies. Each has a story of their own and courage and perseverance that is inspiring to witness.

Picnic time on our hike — Enjoying time out of the office

The Last Mile

Although Daly Ranch has miles of trails, the final trail back to the dirt parking lot is actually a paved road that leads up to the Ranch House itself. You have the option of returning on the original path we came up but we took the ranger’s road down.

Lindsey on ranger road on hike — Lindsey with attitude

The trees and surrounding landscape are beautiful and create a nice easy stroll back to the cars. There are several small trails that branch off in each direction from the ranger’s road that allow you the opportunity to add in a few more miles before returning home.

An Unexpected Surprise

As we approached the parking lot we were all talking about how good a nice cold beer would taste. Yolanda opens up her back door and pulls out a makeshift ice chest. What do you think was in it? Gotta love that lady!!!!

enjoying a cold one after hike — Cheers to the best team!

Remember to Make Time to Play

It is so easy to get caught up in the daily routines of wake, work, eat, sleep. Many say they don’t have the time to do anything but the fact is, you have to make it. Just like you have to make time to go grocery shopping, get into a doctor’s appointment or go to that dreaded party. You have to make time for fun. Remember that the good times you share with family and friends are memories that will not soon be forgotten.

If you are looking for local hikes in your area my favorite app is All Trails. You can use the free version or upgrade to Pro. Now get out there and play!