“It’s a bighorn!” she yelled, excitedly pointing out the window of the car.  To the sound of squealing brakes, Dad quickly stopped the car so they can get a closer look.  My sister and I buried in the toys that were on the back ledge of the car, barely able to dig ourselves out before it runs off into the woods.

That is an excerpt from my childhood family vacation memories of traveling to the Black Hills with my family when I was a kid.  My parents were both all about the wildlife and this was the best place to see it.   This particular Bighorn was found in a much calmer manner with my husband tapping my shoulder and saying “honey, look up there.”  But it was still a wonderful experience to see and photograph this magnificent animal.

I made my family go to the Black Hills, SD and surrounding areas this year partly because I wanted to photograph wild horses at the Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary and partly out of nostalgia for childhood vacations with my family.  Having lost my father just over a year ago to cancer, I needed to reconnect with that part of my life.  We did the trip in our own family style and it was everything I’d hoped for and more.

What vacations from your childhood stand out in your memories?  Please share in the comments.

2013 Bighorn