This holiday season we hope you find yourself in the company of friends and family, enjoying this Park or some other slice of heaven in the great outdoors.  The James River Park System staff shared memories and experiences with family in thanks to our region’s crown jewel:

Jym Coleman, JRPS Maintenance Technician

Where the sidewalks end, the park begins.
In the park, you can discover the wonders of nature,
Or wander into a state of wonder!

 

 

Penelope Davenport Gorman, JRPS Outdoor Education Supervisor

I lean on the Park as a refuge, an outlet, and as a third parent for my girls. Time on my bike on the trails stills my brain and challenges my body, and I love that. Much more often though, I’m in the Park turning over logs and examining acorns with my toddler. The joy that she’s getting from discovering the Park System is a whole other kind of delight for me – it’s just the best to watch her thrive because of the JRPS. Also, a raft makes an awesome playpen.

 

 

Laura Greenleaf, JRPS Invasive Plant Coordinator

When he was three weeks old, my son, Leland, had his first outing to Pony Pasture. I knew that if we were to stay in Richmond, I had to live near the river. Leland is about to turn 15 and has grown up with the Park–and the river–as his backyard, for which we are thankful.

 

 

Kitt West, JRPS Trails Technician

One of my favorite things in the world is taking the girls to our secret river spot on a hot summer Sunday.

 

 

 

Giles Garrison, JRPS Superintendent

I love climbing at Manchester Wall with my spouse, my sister, or with co-workers. Every route is a puzzle and I love to scramble on Richmond ruins. This photo of me and Skye is a few years old now but it remains a classic holiday memory. We still love adventuring whenever we get together!

We hope that you “wander into a state of wonder,” (to quote Jym), in good company!  Thank you for adventuring with us and have a happy Holiday Season!