My Extra-ordinary Park - My Family Travels
wilsonsign_0

Up until I was ten years old, my father had been my hero. Despite my father working long and tiresome hours, he never neglected my sister and me. Every Saturday morning at Wilson Park, in the quiet streets of Torrance, California there would be a farmers’ market. My father would always take us there as a simple getaway from our less than perfect lives. This somehow became a tradition between my father and me. It was an event that at as child, I would count down the days waiting for. However, after my parents’ bitter divorced when I was ten, the tradition suddenly came to an abrupt end. I never saw my father after the night he stormed from our broken home and sped down the street.

â–º  QUARTER FINALIST 2012 TEEN TRAVEL WRITING SCHOLARSHIP

For the next five years, I never saw him again nor did I did I ever revisit to the park. Although it was only a walking distance from my house, I could not bare the thought of returning to the park without my father by my side. Despite my extensive effort to evade the park, it was evitable for me to drive past it. Every time I was forced take a glimpse of the shadows in the park, I would reminisce about the way the chilly air hung over the park on the early mornings, and how the trees surrounded the perimeter of the park engendering a sense of assurance. My memories would flash back to the same set of swings that my father would always push his baby girls in. My mind would wander to the tennis courts next to the swings, where I used to gaze at my father play his favorite sport. On the other side of the swings, there was a full-size basketball court. It was on this exact court that my father taught me to dribble a basketball. I can still remember the proud smile on his face that day. These recollections brought a shooting pain to my heart and throbbing pound in my stomach. So for years, I never stepped foot onto the park again…

It was an unpleasantly cold summer morning in Southern California when my sister and I decided to take a jog to this park. For the first time in five years, I decided to face my haunting childhood. It was a long and torturous ten minute jog to the park. As I approached the crowded tents at the memorable farmers’ market, I heard a familiar voice call my name. The voice belonged to a man. I whipped my head around to see who was shouting my name, and I was staggered. I couldn’t believe my eyes as the man walked towards me. This was the man who I revered as my superman, whom I loved with all my innocent heart, and was the same man that abandoned my mother and me.

Thousands of other people may have their own superfluous vacation where they have traveled to. However, after this particular incident, I can humbly pronounce Charles H. Wilson Park as the most beautiful place in this vast universe. This seemingly mundane recreational area is available to the public regardless of financial circumstances. It has the capability to unite the entire community. In my case, it reunited my father and I. Wilson Park was my boundless playground when I was a child, and my greatest source of fear and pain as a young adult. This park has not only given me the opportunity to reconcile with my father, but it has also taught me to triumph my tribulations.

Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.

1 Reply to “My Extra-ordinary Park”

  • tibetour

    Harbin Ice Festival seems exciting. I want to join.

  • dam

    Hello! I’ve been following your web site
    for some tme now and finally got the bravry to go
    ahead and give you a shout out from Austin Texas!
    Just wanted to mention keep up the fantastic job!

  • Best

    wow ..enjoyed.looking forward for next blog..

  • UW STEPHEN

    Choosing the Best Travel Backpack is essential for a pleasant experience. Pick based on your travel needs, style, and interests. You may confidently and easily plan for your next vacation with the best travel backpack.

  • Sagar

    I want to do this type of ski , because I want to do this activity one time in our life

  • praca

    Thanks for finally talking about >Family Cruise Vacations Directory: Setting Sail for a Fun Adventure <Liked it!

  • Turkeytravel

    Thank you so much for your great article..This is giving us clues for our future tourism perspective and keeping us updated.. Thanks a lot.

  • pendik

    Hello! I could have sworn I’ve visited your blog before but after going through many of the posts I realized it’s new to me. Anyways, I’m definitely delighted I came across it and I’ll be bookmarking it and checking back often!

  • livro

    Thank you for providing these details.

  • irlandzkie

    My brother recommended I might like this website. He was totaly right.
    This post actually made my day. You cann’t imagine just how much time I
    had spent for this information! Thanks!

  • oferty

    whoah this weblog is wonderful i like studying your articles.
    Keep up the great work! You understand, many people are searching round for
    this information, you could hellp them greatly.

  • web

    Have you ever thought about writing an ebook or guest authoring on other blogs?
    I have a blog based upon on the same topics you discuss and would love to have you share some stories/information. I know my subscribers would
    value your work. If you are even remotely interested, feel free to shoot me an e-mail.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    Planning a bucket-list adventure? Let’s dive in! From secret flight deals to off-peak gems, these hacks are our compass. Picture sunrise hikes, hidden cafes, and maps scribbled with dreams. So pack light, dream big, and let the world unfold, one hack at a time!

  • Celeste Hedequist

    In the quiet of night, meteors streak across the sky, a celestial dance choreographed by the universe. And then there are fairy rings, circles of mushrooms, whispered secrets from the forest floor. But amidst these wonders, there’s another magic: fatherhood. It’s like RVing through life, a journey of discovery, laughter, and love. So let’s embrace the art of wonder, both cosmic and familial.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    As a family, we’re not just travelers; we’re stewards of the planet. From reusable water bottles to supporting local artisans, our journey leaves a gentle footprint. Let’s explore, learn, and protect—because sustainable travel isn’t just a trend; it’s our legacy.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    Picture this: wheels rolling, laptop humming, and the open road as our office. For a year, our family worked remotely from our cozy camper. It wasn’t just about Wi-Fi signals; it was about sunrises over mountains, campfire brainstorming, and shared laughter. We learned that work isn’t confined to cubicles, it’s wherever our hearts roam.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    In Salem, MA, October casts a bewitching spell. Amid historic streets, the Witches of Salem weave magic—psychic fairs, spirited soirees, and sacred rites. It’s a season where history whispers, and the veil between worlds thins.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    As a family, we’re not just travelers; we’re stewards of the planet. From reusable water bottles to supporting local artisans, our journey leaves a gentle footprint. Let’s explore, learn, and protect—because sustainable travel isn’t just a trendk, it’s our legacy.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    When wanderlust calls, these sites answer. From Expedia to Kayak, they weave magic into your getaways. Picture flights, hotels, and car rental. All bundled up like a gift waiting to be unwrapped. So go ahead, chase sunsets and collect memories. Your dream vacation awaits!

  • Celeste Hedequist

    Picture this: snow-capped peaks, crisp air, and the thrill of gliding down pristine slopes. That’s what awaits at South America’s ski resorts. From Chile’s Portillo to Argentina’s Cerro Catedral, these resorts weave magic for snow enthusiasts. So grab your gear, chase the powder, and let the Andes embrace you!

  • Celeste Hedequist

    Legoland California isn’t just a theme park; it’s a canvas where kids paint their dreams with Lego bricks. From the Technic Coaster’s gentle thrill to the Dragon Coaster’s whimsical castle ride, every moment is a memory etched in joy. And as parents? We pedal, laugh, and become part of the magic. Legoland, you’ve got our hearts, one brick at a time!

  • Celeste Hedequist

    Summer vacations are a canvas for unforgettable family adventures. From exploring Alaska’s glaciers to savoring Parisian cuisine the possibilities are endless.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    Watching rocket launches is an exhilarating experience that fuels our curiosity about the cosmos. ? Whether you’re at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida or gazing from afar the thrill of liftoff transcends age and ignites wonder.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    Celestyal Cruises offers an unforgettable journey to the heart of Greece and the Mediterranean. With warm hospitality, authentic experiences, and award-winning service, they make every moment aboard a heavenly escape.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    Awesome places to go to

  • Horace

    This post iis priceless. How can I find out more?

  • o poder

    Excellent site. Plenty of useful information here. 68971741

  • Sarah Samith

    Love travelling with my family as well! Thank you for sharing your stories!

  • Bail

    Insightful and useful – that’s what I admire about
    your posts. This one on this subject is no different.
    The tips and recommendations you offer are practical and create
    a real impact.

  • Heya

    Heya i’m forr the firsxt time here. I came across this board and I find It
    really usefu & it helped me out much. I hope to give something back and aid
    others like you aided me.

  • sklep

    Very nice article, totally what I was looking for.

  • Lorenzo

    check out this best tours in Canada for you or for your family https://seasonalholidaysinn.com/

  • Lorenzo

    A very helpful website! A good article to share the beautiful places suitable for all types of vacations.

  • AnthonyEloff

    La meilleure facon de s’enrichir rapidement !

  • greattibet

    A good website! A good article to share the beautiful places suitable for Spring Break. I think Tibet China, is also a good place for Spring Break.

  • ash

    Greetings! Very useful advice in this particular article!
    It’s the little changes that make the biggest changes. Thanks
    a lot for sharing!

  • Pretty

    Thank you for posting this.

  • Hiker31

    For family travel I would advise to go to Switzerland. For example, the Berner Oberland is perfect also for kids. Best place I’ve ever been.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    They have made significant investments in technology upgrades, port and destination projects, and more to achieve net carbon-neutral operations. They have committed to using innovative solutions to reduce their carbon footprint, including using new propulsion fuels and special hull paint to reduce friction. They are also working with ports to support their shore power development efforts.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    Planning an Alaska adventure can be a daunting task but it sounds like you’re looking for some fun activities for kids in Alaska. The trip is guaranteed to be one for the memory books. Carnival cruise passengers get an up-close view of glaciers on an Alaska adventure aboard Native American canoes.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    Galveston is a great place for family reunions. If you’re looking for a fun and affordable place to host your family reunion, Galveston is definitely worth considering!

  • Celeste Hedequist

    This trip is designed to provide a fun and engaging experience for the whole family, with activities that cater to both kids and adults. If you’re looking for a unique and memorable family vacation, a family magic rafting trip is definitely worth considering!

  • Celeste Hedequist

    If you’re looking for a unique and indulgent way to explore Halong Bay, the Ambassador Overnight Cruise is definitely worth considering!

  • Celeste Hedequist

    If you’re looking for a unique and sustainable adventure that your family will never forget, UnCruise Adventures is definitely worth considering!

  • Celeste Hedequist

    It sounds like you’re looking for a last-minute summer vacation deal. You can find some great deals on destinations across the USA, from California to Florida, New York, Las Vegas, and more. If you’re flexible with your travel dates and plan around 6 weeks ahead of departure. You may even find incredible deals on last-minute vacations up to 1 week before you plan to travel if you are flexible with your destination. From budget-friendly breaks to vacations that are all about pure indulgence.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    It sounds like San Diego is offering some great deals and fun festivals for kids. Some of the attractions that are offering free admission for kids include the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld San Diego. Additionally, there are other fun activities such as axe throwing and film festivals that are sure to keep kids entertained. If you’re looking for a fun family outing, San Diego is definitely worth considering!

Comment on this article

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.