For Christmas in 2024 I gifted my dad 12 activities for us to do over the next couple of years. I hang out with my mom to either go for a run or watch a show at the theatre, so I wanted to create a gift where my dad and I could hang out more. (I’m an only child and absolutely LOVE my parents – they’re the best.)

We are halfway through the activities and I wanted to share what we’ve been up to. 🙂

Activity #1 – Breakfast

We had breakfast at a cafe in my town that’s unfortunately closed now. It was delicious!

Activity #2 – Lunch

This was a really fun outing! He suggested that we go to Beverly, to have the best steak and cheese subs at Super Sub. He grew up in Beverly and I went to college there so it was definitely a favorite of ours when we were (respectively) living there. We also stopped by Endicott to walk the grounds and I got a new alumni sticker for my car. And then to end the afternoon, ice cream at Captain Dusty’s!

Activity #3 – Dinner

Another delicious meal at a fun location: Cold Harbor Brewing in Westboro.

Activity #4 – Visiting a Brewery

Yes, I know dinner was at a brewery, but we had to make this a separate outing since we both love beer! My mom ended up getting an invite from the Woo Sox organization for an outing at Treehouse Brewing in Charlton, MA. The weather was rainy but thankfully it cleared up enough while we were there. We had some tasty sandwiches and delicious brews. We also walked the paths around the building. (And yes, we did end up wearing the same-colored shirt, ha-ha).

Activity #5 – Running (and finishing) a Race Together

Over the years, we’ve done plenty of races together but for this one, I wanted to us to cross the finish line together. We did the Westport Wine Run, although it ended up being more of a walk (it was hot and the terrain is uneven). We did run across the finish line together!

Activity #6 – Sporting Event

As much as I would have loved to see the Boston Bruins (we’re a big hockey family) I just couldn’t justify the cost of the tickets nowadays. But what’s just as fun and less expensive? The Providence Bruins! We had a late lunch at Track 15 and got to the arena just before the puck drop. Up until 18 minutes in the 3rd period they were tied 1-1 (against the Springfield Thunderbirds) and then in the last two minutes, they scored 2 goals! A Bruins win! We had a lot of fun.

What’s up next for Alaina and Dad fun? Level 99, hiking, ice skating and three more than I’m blanking on, ha-ha. Can’t wait for our next adventures!

What’s your favorite adventure/activity?