Adventuring with my kids and taking them on memorable adventures is one of the greatest joys of being a mom. Six years ago, I found myself as a single parent of three kids, two of whom are special needs. I wanted to get back to the basics with my kids and give them a memorable childhood like I had when I was young.

My dad always took us out on the greatest adventures, and I wanted my kids to experience the same thing. Taking my kids out to explore nature became a high priority, especially after my oldest suffered a couple of traumatic brain injuries. Nature has a way of healing those injuries.

One of the most memorable trips we took was the "Second Annual Adventure Family Meet Up" hosted by @daytripsla this summer. This was our second trip to California for the Adventure Family Meet Up. My kids had the greatest time at the first one and wanted to continue to go every year.

We unplugged from electronics and from the world. We met new friends and continue to develop friendships with those who we had met at the meet up last year. Despite the meltdowns, the refocusing, and the difficulties faced with my autistic son, we managed to continue to have a good time meeting families with similar circumstances. It made me truly appreciate the meet ups and friendships.

From the mountains of the Los Padres National Forest to the shores of the Pacific Ocean, life is great, memories are made, friendships are formed, and the experiences will last a lifetime.

Every adventure trip we take as a family is a new discovery about ourselves as individuals and about our family. I'm still learning new methods of packing the car and making it work for all of us. The best thing we will always take away from our adventures as a family are the lessons learned. Lessons on how to improve the next adventure, lessons on what we have to do to prepare for it, and lessons on being wise and knowing what works and what doesn't work for us.