Spring Break

As spring break looms on the horizon, the whirlwind of a hectic week of teaching descends upon me like a summer storm, driving an insatiable urgency through my classroom. With looming deadlines and the weight of expectations, I find myself engrossed in the task of ensuring that each student finishes and turns in their essays—a culmination of their thoughts, creativity, and hard work. The classroom buzzes with a mix of lethargy and anxiety, as last-minute revisions are fervently scribbled and discussions about thesis statements are mostly one sided. My feet ache from pacing the room, navigating between the rows of desks, offering guidance and encouragement, while my mind races to keep track of grades and feedback. By the time the final essays are submitted, I find myself utterly exhausted, every ounce of energy poured into fostering a sense of accomplishment in my students. 

At last, the final bell rings, and a familiar wave of exhilaration sweeps through the hallways, marking not only the conclusion of another school day but the beginning of a week’s worth of spring break liberation. I quickly collect the essays from the turn-in baskets, each paper’s weight symbolizing the students' reflections, aspirations, and efforts. After stuffing them into my tote along with my grade book, I seize my jacket and purse before heading toward the exit. In the hallway, my fellow teachers and I share brief, knowing looks, energized by the collective victories and trials of the previous week. Together, we hasten to the doors, laughter escaping as we push through the double metal exits and step into the sunlight, trading the confines of the classroom for a week of family time and freedom.

On the drive home from school, the familiar route becomes a canvas painted with the vibrant hues of my imagination, where each city block brings me closer to the exciting prospect of spending spring break at Mahoney State Park. I envision a world where the rustling leaves dance to the rhythm of the gentle breeze, and the cheerful calls of birds weave a melodic background for our adventures. Our plans are abundant: climbing the overlook tower, hiking the winding trails that promise breathtaking views, and cozying up around the crackling campfire, sharing stories and laughter as the sun dips below the horizon. The anticipation of roasting marshmallows for s’mores, exploring the pristine natural beauty, and reconnecting with my family ignites a thrill within me, transforming the mundane drive into a delightful daydream. With each passing moment, I feel the weight of school pressures lift, replaced by the joyous promise of the great outdoors, where adventure and relaxation await just over the next hill.

After a weekend to rest and recuperate, Ericka and I begin packing for our week-long escapade at Mahoney State Park. Our excitement transforms the mundane act of packing into a fun adventure of its own. With a checklist in hand, we expertly navigate through our closets, picking out clothes designed for the unpredictable Nebraska weather: layers of cozy sweatshirts, breathable t-shirts, and durable jeans that can withstand a day of exploring. We also make sure not to forget our sturdy hiking boots, perfect for traversing the park’s scenic trails. Next, we go grocery shopping to buy essential snacks like trail mix, granola bars, and fresh fruit, ensuring our food selection includes plenty of energy-boosting options to power our hiking expeditions. We also plan out meals that can be easily prepared on the grill if the weather permits, or on the stove if we are stuck indoors. Finally, we gather a collection of board games, puzzles, and crafts—each promising nights filled with laughter and family fun. As we load the pickup with our gear, the thrill of the upcoming adventure lingers in the air, reminding us that the joys of cabin life, from morning hikes to campfire storytelling, await just beyond our doorstep.

Finally, I climb into the cab of our well-loved pickup, the familiar scent of worn leather and a hint of fresh air fills the space, signaling the start of our adventure. My family is already nestled in, laughter and chatter creating a comforting symphony that mingles with the rumble of the engine as we pull out of our driveway. We weave through the bustling streets of Omaha's suburban sprawl while the sun begins its ascent, painting the horizon in hues of orange and pink. As we merge onto the highway, the urban landscape gradually gives way to open fields kissed by the gentle spring breeze, and the anticipation builds within me. The landscape transforms, revealing the Platte River backed by trees along the brown bluffs, signaling our approach to Mahoney State Park. With each passing mile, the promise of adventure looms larger—the thrill of hiking trails lined with whispering trees, the chance to explore the 700-acre park, and, of course, the joy of experiencing it all together as a family. The pickup’s radio plays our favorite songs, harmonizing with our excitement, and as we drive deeper into nature, I can already feel the rejuvenating aura of the park beckoning us closer.

While I check in at the front desk of the lodge and receive the keys to our delightful cabin tucked away among the towering pines, a thrilling sense of adventure envelops me. Ericka leads the kids into the lodge's charming shop, where they enthusiastically examine the vibrant displays. Josephine excitedly selects honey sticks, their sugary essence offering promises of natural energy for our day's adventures. Each stick becomes a delightful treat, ideal for a quick nibble during our hikes in nature. Meanwhile, Joannis, our aspiring Boy Scout, picks up a bird guide adorned with vivid illustrations and comprehensive descriptions. After making our purchases, we quickly hop back into the pickup for the short journey to our cabin located on Prairie Wolf Drive.

Our quaint two-story cabin is situated at the park’s edge, boasting a lovely view of the river. Transporting our belongings from the parking lot to the secluded cabin takes quite some time, but I know that the seclusion will yield its own rewards. Once we empty the vehicle, our excitement leads us to explore the downstairs area, which features a well-equipped kitchen seamlessly connected to a cozy dining space surrounded by windows on three sides. This floor houses two bedrooms, offering a peaceful retreat after a day filled with outdoor escapades. Climbing to the upper level, we discover a table ideal for engaging rounds of cards or board games, sparking laughter and camaraderie. In one corner, a black pot-bellied stove acts as the room's centerpiece. Additionally, the majestic wooden beams above and expansive windows showcase stunning views of the surrounding landscape, flooding the cabin with natural light. This enchanting two-story retreat, where nature and comfort beautifully merge, offers the perfect escape for spring break!

As dawn breaks on the first morning, soft light filters through the curtains, casting a warm glow of gold and amber throughout the room. I rise quietly, taking care not to disrupt Ericka’s peaceful sleep. The cabin embraces a rare tranquility, a precious time before the children awaken and we venture outdoors for exploration. I prepare a hot pot of coffee, its rich scent blending with the crisp morning air, and position myself at the dining table, ready to tackle a stack of essays that require my attention. Each paper represents a student's perspective, an individual journey brimming with hopes and challenges, and I am eager to immerse myself in their stories while the outside world remains still. The sound of my pen gliding across the paper is nearly meditative; as I discover both moments of brilliance and opportunities for growth, I relish the connection I forge with each young author through their unfiltered thoughts. This time isn't merely about grading; it’s a chance to finish part of my work before my family awakes to fill the cabin with the joyous chaos of laughter and plans for the day.

After ninety minutes and ten essays, I hear the kids moving in their bedroom. With a sense of anticipation, I put away my work, knowing that the real joy of Spring Break lies in spending time with my family. Once each member of the household stirs awake, we gather around the breakfast table, sharing conversation over steaming mugs of coffee and hearty plates of eggs, toast, and fruit. After the last crumbs are brushed away, we lace up our hiking boots, excitement bubbling within us as we prepare for our hike along the bluffs overlooking the Platte River. The crisp air fills our lungs as we make our way along the winding trails, surrounded by the vibrant hues of nature awakening to life. Eventually, we break through the tree cover and the breathtaking views unfurl before us, with the river winding gracefully below, a shimmering ribbon reflecting the morning sun. It’s a cherished ritual that we share every spring break when we return to Mahoney State Park to experience the pleasure of being together in nature.

Once we indulge in a delightful lunch of grilled hotdogs that sizzle and burst with flavor, the journey to the observation tower becomes the purpose of our afternoon. The inviting aroma of neighboring campers grilling various meats mingles with the fresh scent of pine as we meander down the paved trail, our anticipation growing with every step. The sound of laughter and chirping birds accompanies us, creating a symphony of nature's beauty. Finally reaching the observation tower, we climb the winding staircase, our hearts racing not just from the exertion but from the excitement of what lies ahead. As we step onto the viewing platform, we are greeted with an awe-inspiring panoramic view that stretches across budding trees, the shimmering water of the Platte River, and winding trails that seem to invite further exploration. The expansive vista captures the essence of the park, painting a picture of serenity and adventure, and we can’t help but take a moment to breathe it all in, cherishing the stunning views of the natural landscape.

That evening, as the sun dips below the horizon and a chill settles in, everyone gathers around the table for game night. Laughter echoes through the air, as we pull out our beloved board games, each box infused with memories of friendly competition and camaraderie. The soft rustle of game pieces being set up accompanies the faint crackle of the first logs being stacked in the stove, the anticipation of a cozy fire flickering in the background. With every roll of the dice or turn of a card, the outside world fades away, and our focus narrows to strategic moves and playful banter. As the games draw to a close, the air becomes richer with the tantalizing scent of wood smoke and the promise of toasted marshmallows. We eagerly prepare to roast those fluffy white delights, skewering them onto long sticks, watching as they transform from delicate mounds to golden, gooey treasures over the flames. It's a harmonious blend of competition, warmth, and sweet indulgence—a perfect prelude to a night spent nestled in one another's company savoring the simple joy of life by the fire.

The next day, excitement builds as we plan a delightful day full of miniature golf, fishing, and climbing through the indoor playground at the Activity Center. Our first stop is at the lodge to pick up clubs and balls for a round of miniature golf. The course is filled with whimsical obstacles and vibrant landscaping that tickles our imaginations with every swing. Laughter resonates as we aim for the elusive hole-in-one, and cheers erupt after particularly impressive shots. After our friendly competition, we transition to the tranquil shores of the lake, armed with fishing poles and an eagerness to see what the waters hold. With the gentle lapping of waves and the soothing sounds of nature as our backdrop, we cast our lines, savoring the anticipation of a catch during our animated conversations. Around three, we head to the Activity Center which includes climbing towers full of tunnels and ball pits. Once the kids are exhausted, we order a pizza to go and head back to our cabin for another evening of board games next to a cozy fire.

During the rest of our stay at Mahoney State Park, downtime offers a delightful opportunity to engage in crafts, assemble intricate puzzles, and unleash creativity with LEGO building. Sometimes we spread our colorful craft supplies across the picnic table on the attached deck. We placidly paint vivid scenes attempting to capture the essence of the park's beauty. When the spring air proves too chilly for outdoor painting, we move inside to tackle challenging puzzles, the satisfying click of each piece symbolizing a small triumph as the larger picture slowly takes form. Meanwhile, the iconic LEGO bricks beckon, each colorful piece presenting endless possibilities; together, we construct elaborate castles, imaginative vehicles, or fantastical landscapes, fostering teamwork and sparking inventive ideas. The simple joy found in each creative endeavor fosters not just relaxation, but also strengthens our family bond, building lasting memories of our yearly stay at the park.

As our time at Mahoney draws to a close, there's a gentle nostalgia that settles in, reminding us of the joy woven into each day here. The final morning arrives too quickly, yet it’s embraced with a grateful heart. We linger over breakfast, savoring the last sizzles of bacon and the fresh aroma of brewed coffee. With bags reluctantly packed and the cabin tidied, we embark on one final stroll through the trails, bidding farewell to the pine-scented air and the whispering trees that have become familiar friends.

Below the bluffs, a train whistles as if wishing us well on our journey homeward. Our conversations meander back over the laughter shared, the wide-eyed wonder of panoramic vistas, and the soothing calm of fireside evenings. As we pull away from the park, the world outside the window transforms, yet the warmth of our memories remains, a glowing ember promising to keep the spirit of adventure alive until we find our way back.

Driving away, we each carry more than just the souvenirs picked up along the way; there’s an unspoken pledge among us to return, to once again revel in the magic of Mahoney State Park. And as the park fades into the distance, a shared understanding brightens the car—a part of this place has intertwined with who we are, and its stories will continue to shape our own. Until next time, Mahoney, until we meet again.