Busy First Week of July

Well, summer couldn't have gotten off to a better start. We made a goal to get outside more this summer than we did last, and I am happy to report that we are meeting that goal! On a sunny morning early in July we decided to see if Luna could handle the hike up to Fragrance Lake. Knowing she might not be able to make it, we agreed to take it slow, take it easy, and withhold expectations. Luckily, she had it in her. We sang some songs and did a little coaxing, but the girl did it.

Finding out she could get in the water at the top of the hike was pretty good incentive. That's Gus to the left of her head in the distance. He wasted no time splashing into the lake and checking things out. 

Caterpillars! 

Look daddy! It's a mommy and a baby!

Still talking to the caterpillars.

Finally agreeing that it was better to leave them in their home where they belonged. Mommy and baby were placed gently on the log and bade farewell.

An owl! Almost at the half way point in the large tree in the center of the picture there is an owl perched on a branch much to the chagrin of several robins. We first heard the commotion and then after careful inspection saw the intruder. Pretty cool experience for all of us, especially for Luna, of course.

Gracie was pooped. 

Luna was too, but she made it to the end. 

Ahhh. Leavenworth. We'll be seeing a lot more of you now. Thanks Grandpa and Oma for inviting us to stay  with you. We had a marvelous time. 

Back home now. Gus is a little worn out. 

Playing with the iPad from school. So fun. 

Daddy went on a hike to Cascade Pass. By far one of the most beautiful places he's been. 

Avery's Birthday! Happy First Birthday, Avery!

I thought there was going to be cake.

Inseparable, these two.

There IS a cake! Woohoo! And fire!

Take that piece.

About 2 days after we returned from Leavenworth, Grace's eye swelled up. I thought she looked like Mike Tyson. Upon closer inspection, we discovered the dots. She must have been bitten during the Icicle River hike, but we had no idea. Poor thing. 

Return to Fragrance Lake with Jenny and the Munchkins

Avery is all set.

Cuteness.

Nothing like a little pool time to recover from a hike. We figured between Tofino, Leavenworth, and the two Fragrance Lake hikes, our girl walked/hiked almost 20 miles in two weeks. Not bad for a 3 year old.