Today was one of those perfect, low-key kind of days. I had some time off, the weather was cooperating, and Larkin and I decided to make the most of it. We packed up and headed out for some geocaching and a little riverside adventure.

First stop was Moundsville. If you’ve never been, it’s a small town with some serious history—and a giant burial mound smack in the middle of it all. I had my eye on a brand new cache that just popped up, and sure enough, we nailed it—first to find! That fresh logbook smell? Chef’s kiss. There’s just something about beating everyone else to it that makes me feel like I’ve still got a little edge left in me.

After that little victory, we decided to keep the day rolling. We drove up to Wheeling for a quick hike—nothing major, just a chance to stretch the legs and enjoy some green space. Larkin, of course, was all in. That girl doesn’t walk, she charges like she’s got places to be and squirrels to chase.

Once we got close to the Ohio River, her ears perked up like she knew what was coming. As soon as I unclipped her leash, she bolted straight into the water, splashing around like a maniac. She was living her best life—diving after sticks, wading in up to her chest, and barking at the waves like she was in charge of them.

We hung out there for a bit. I skipped some rocks (poorly), sat on the bank, and just watched her go nuts. There’s something about seeing your dog so happy and free—it kinda resets your brain in the best way.

By the time we made it back to the car, we were both covered in mud and soaked, but damn if that wasn’t the most peaceful kind of tired. Scored a first to find, got a little hike in, and let Larkin splash around to her heart’s content.