A Journey Through Time and Memories: Rediscovering My Blog and Summer Adventures in Orange County

Once upon a time, this little corner of the internet served as my personal diary—a vibrant scrapbook of my life since I embarked on this blogging journey in 2010, while I was still navigating the halls of college. Over the years, this site transformed into a treasure chest of memories encapsulating some of the most pivotal moments of my life, from getting engaged and married to moving across continents, traveling the globe, and becoming a mom. Each post is a snapshot, a page in my online scrapbook, and I’ve decided it’s time to rekindle that style. Welcome back to the essence of simple life documentation!

As I reflect on the past decade, I realize just how much has changed—new cities experienced, cultures explored, and lessons learned. Most recently, our family has relocated to the sunny shores of Southern California, where this summer has truly been one for the books. It was a season filled with sand, sunshine, and endless adventures—mainly revolving around our ever-enthusiastic six-year-old’s summer camp escapades.

Summer Adventures and Camp Experiences

This summer stood out with an array of exhilarating summer camps for our six-year-old. From Kanakuk’s sleep-away adventures to more specialized activities like sail camp, oceanography camp, and surf camp, our son embraced every experience wholeheartedly. Initially, we thought we’d be experimenting with activities to find what he enjoyed most, but to our surprise, he loved it all! Each camp enriched his understanding of the world while providing a wonderful opportunity to form friendships and memories.

While our youngest, at three years old, was too young for most traditional summer camps, he nonetheless enjoyed a few weeks of summer fun at our local church camp. These experiences have created a perfect balance, filled with laughter, learning, and growth.

When camp was not on the agenda, our family took the opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of Orange County. Biking through our favorite local areas became a daily delight—combining exercise and exploration seamlessly. Whether playing at the beach, boating on the serene waters, or swimming in our community pool, every moment was a cherished memory waiting to be made.

Family Favorites in Newport Beach

If you find yourself planning a visit to Orange County with kids, Newport Beach is a wellness haven for family-friendly activities. Here are some of our top recommendations:

1. Ride Bikes on the Newport Beach Boardwalk

Cycling along the Newport Beach boardwalk is an experience like no other. The fresh ocean breeze, picturesque views, and a vibrant atmosphere create the perfect backdrop for a fun family outing. It’s an idyllic way to soak in the California sun while enjoying some quality family time.

2. Take the Ferry to Balboa Island

Crossing the water on the ferry to Balboa Island is a delightful adventure. Once there, we love strolling around the charming island, indulging in delicious treats from local eateries like Wilma’s, and, of course, savoring a signature Balboa Bar or frozen banana from Sugar n’ Spice.

3. Dine at Ruby’s on the Balboa Pier

Ruby’s on the Balboa Pier is simply a must-visit. With its retro vibe and classic diner fare, it’s always a hit with our boys, especially when milkshakes are on the menu! Dining there is more than just a meal; it’s an experience filled with laughter and light-hearted conversations.

4. Rent a Duffy Boat

For a dose of relaxation, renting a Duffy Boat on the harbor is perfect for cruising the calm waters. It’s a uniquely fun way to bond as a family while soaking in the breathtaking coastal views.

5. Visit Marina Park Playground

Marina Park Playground has become a favorite destination for our kids. Designed for children’s enjoyment, it features fantastic play structures and a lovely beach area on the harbor. Watching our boys gleefully explore is often the highlight of our day.

Bonus: Legoland in Carlsbad

If you’re looking for a great theme park experience, Legoland in Carlsbad is a family favorite for us. The lines are significantly shorter than those at Disneyland, and the crowds are manageable. Younger children can ride a multitude of attractions, making it an enjoyable day for everyone.

Embracing Simplicity in Blogging

This summer has been a delightful chapter in our family story, filled with experiences that have ignited a joy for life unraveling before us. As I rekindle my passion for this blog, I am excited to document not just our adventures, but the simple pleasures of everyday life.

I invite you to check out some of my summer essentials here as we gear up for the next adventures.

Here’s to reliving those cherished memories, savoring every moment as we navigate this beautiful journey called life, and embracing the simple act of recording our family’s story—one blog post at a time.