The Importance of Making Time for Family

A Weekend Adventure with My Kids

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it's easy to forget the importance of spending quality time with our family and children.

I discovered years ago on a camping trip to Swallow Falls State Park, there's nothing quite like a weekend adventure to bring a family closer together and create lasting memories.

This weekend was the start of many more outdoor adventures with my kids like Rubicon Trail with My Boys and taking my son for the First Time Off-road.

Myself & my two boys hiking

Making time for your family is so essential. 

Life is too brief to let your desires go unfulfilled. I began to realize that when my kids began to get older.  With that in mind, years ago, we loaded up the Jeep with camping gear and embarked on a journey to Swallow Falls State Park, a destination that was on my Bucket List. 

Our camping trip to Swallow Falls State Park taught me the importance of making time for family and kids. This Family Tradition created lasting memories  and experiences that will stay with us for a lifetime. 

Life is indeed too brief to let your desires go unfulfilled, so I encourage you to take a break from the daily grind and embark on a family adventure of your own. You won't regret it.

The Journey Begins: A Topless Jeep Ride

Our adventure began when we loaded up my Jeep with camping gear and set off for Swallow Falls State Park. The excitement was palpable as we embarked on a journey to a destination I had been eager to visit for years. The open-air experience of a topless Jeep ride only heightened our anticipation for the weekend ahead.

Topless in My Jeep

Making Family Memories

Once we arrived at the park and set up our tent, we realized that this trip wasn't just about exploring new places; it was about creating unforgettable memories with our loved ones. From roasting marshmallows to hiking to the falls, every moment was a chance to bond and strengthen our family ties.

My kids setting up the tent

Exploring the Quaint Mountain Town 

During our stay, we ventured into the nearby town of Oakland, which offered a variety of attractions, including antique shops, the National Transportation Museum, and a train museum. This charming town provided the perfect opportunity to take a break from hiking and enjoy some local culture.

Since it was my birthday weekend, I was able to pick our dinners all weekend. I didn't want to pack food, cook or clean up, so we hopped into the Jeep after setting up camp. 

Mexican Restaurant

The Breathtaking Youghiogheny River and Waterfalls

The highlight of our trip was undoubtedly the Youghiogheny River and the stunning waterfalls that surrounded it. The water was flowing at an incredible rate, creating a breathtaking display of mother nature's power. The 53-foot Muddy Creek Falls was a sight to behold, and we couldn't help but be amazed at the beauty and ferocity of the landscape.

Swallow Falls, MD

Hiking Through the Mountains and Along the Creek

Our hike through the mountains and along the banks of the creek was an unforgettable experience. We explored rock formations, marveled at the stunning scenery, and enjoyed each other's company as we navigated the trails. By the end of the trip, we had hiked the trail three times and couldn't wait to return and explore more.

 

Swallow Falls, MD

Hiking with my Kids

My oldest on the trail

Canoeing at Herrington Manor State Park Just a stone's throw away from Swallow Falls State Park is Herrington Manor State Park, where we discovered a serene lake perfect for swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boating. We decided to try our hand at canoeing and even let Michael take a spin on a kayak. The experience was both exhilarating and relaxing, and it served as a perfect way to cap off our unforgettable weekend.

canoeing with Michael

My Mini-Bucket List

How Starting Small Helped Me Build a Meaningful Life List

People often recommend creating a bucket list—but when you’re in a season of rediscovery, it’s not always easy to know where to begin. Should you dream big? Or start small?

For me, starting with a mini-bucket list was the key. It made my list achievable, personal, and meaningful—without filling it with unattainable goals that didn’t reflect who I really was. As I grew, so did my list.

👉 Related: How to Create a Bucket List

My 2013 Mini-Bucket List

Conquer my fear of jumping in a lake — Done! July 28, 2013. (It was terrifying… but empowering. Will I do it again? Maybe!)
Conquer my fear of heights — Still on my radar.
Off-roading in a Jeep — Not only did I try it, it became one of my greatest passions.
Hike Old Rag — Adventure goal still calling my name.
Run around Lake Courage (7 miles) — Made it halfway before rain stopped me.
Start a new hobby (biking) — Tried it, but knee issues taught me it wasn’t my thing.
Camping at Swallow Falls  — Family adventure pending.
Canoe with my Boys — A must-do memory in the making.
Take my boys hiking — Creating experiences that last a lifetime.
Make a new friend — Simple, but life-changing.

Jumping in a lake - Facing my Fears

New Goals (2014)

• Start a training regimen

• Compete in Warrior Dash

• Try a new Tex-Mex restaurant

New Goals Added (2019)

• Bowling night

• Karaoke 🎤

• See the band Reagan Years

• Escape Room with friends

• Try new restaurants (Pub Dog Pizza, Sanford Grill)

• Dance more (Nottingham’s Tavern)

• Find a good jazz bar

Reflection: 10 Years Later

Looking back, I see a clear theme:

• Adventure

• My kids

• My Jeep

• Facing fears

• Trying new things

Even after a decade, those remain at the heart of who I am and the goals I pursue today. My mini-list wasn’t just “small goals”—it was a blueprint for discovering myself.

This was just the beginning! Two years later, I wrote Starting My First Bucket List as my goals began to grow. Today, I’ve expanded even further—see my full journey on my Bucket List page  for the full journey of adventures, goals achieved, and how my list has grown.

FAQ: Starting a Bucket List

Q: How do I start a bucket list if I don’t know what I want?
A: Start small. Pick 3–5 things that scare you a little, excite you, or connect to what you loved as a kid. That’s what I did with my mini-list.

Q: Should a bucket list be big goals only?
A: No! The most meaningful lists are a mix of small, doable experiences and bigger dreams. My first bucket list had “canoe with my boys” right alongside “conquer my fear of heights.”

Q: What makes a bucket list meaningful?
A: It should reflect your values, not what sounds impressive. Mine revealed that adventure, family, and conquering fears were at the core of who I am.

Q: Can a bucket list change over time?
A: Absolutely. As you grow, your list will too. My mini-list evolved into bigger adventures, new friendships, and Jeep off-roading—something I never knew would become a passion.

Closing Thought

Your bucket list doesn’t need to be filled with skydiving or trips around the world to matter. Sometimes the most powerful step is starting small—with goals that reflect you right now. Over time, those small wins build a meaningful, personal life list that grows with you.

Start where you are. Dream a little. And most importantly—live it.