We’d left the house in a state of disarray. Against my better judgment, we’d pedaled down the driveway with bikes packed full, my mind echoing, “You’re supposed to clean up before you leave!” We did not do so — just one of the rules we were breaking on our last-minute bike camping trip.
The logistics of daily life with young children can be overwhelming. To cope, we fall into a routine. We move through the house as passing ships, checking itineraries and taking inventory. But one Friday night found us up late, packing bags together, reminiscing about past trips, and loading up for a mini adventure.
We got an early start. Our toddler rode on the back of my bike. My husband, Dan, pulled our preschooler on a trailer-bike, as well as a trailer with all of our camping gear. Coasting down State Street and along the waterfront, we were feeling strong and on schedule to cover the 15 miles to Carpinteria before midday. Then the toddler fell asleep an hour early.