Aldous Lake

This Saturday we made our 3rd annual trip to Aldous Lake.  It was the first time the kids (except Lincoln of course) actually hiked the entire time and held their own packs.  We held their hands a few times but they never once asked for help.  I felt pretty proud of them all.

I think part of the hype for the little girls is that they get to carry their own backpacks.  It wasn't until we got there that we noticed how big Molly's was on her.  It cushioned a few falls on the way back down so it was ok.  :)

And can't beat having free access to all the wildflowers you want. 

I got to pack little Lincoln and he couldn't have been happier about that situation.  Beat swinging in the chair at home that's for sure.  :)  He snoozed most of the day. 

Dad and his sidekick Alissa. 

There is a picnic table at the lake so we stopped and ate our lunch and Dustin tried some fishing. 

We let the girls wade in the lake and they LOVED it! 

I think the highlight of the whole trip for Molly was her "Dr. Kit".  I gave each of the girls a little box with bandaids and alcohol wipes, etc.  Molly had about 15 owies throughout the day she needed to bandage and they thought it was great to come to the rescue for their sister with their very own bandaids.  

Ella started her first fire with a little coaching from her dad.   Good Job Ella!

Our attempt at taking a family picture while the camera was set on a rock. :)  Thanks to Alissa who pushed the button because I attempted and didn't make it to the log in time. :)  Ha!  Good times.

Molly and I had to take a selfie.   Lincoln is hanging with us too.  

And since we are making funny faces.. 

We pulled out Dustin's phone and had a little dance party.  So that's why dad has Ariel on his phone. :)  Molly was singing in a perfect little microphone.

Alissa found a log that rocked and it made for at least an hour of entertainment. 

They all found their perfect "wand" and we started back down the mountain. 

Dad got a little crazy listening to the music on the way down.  He started to fake guitar it. 

We made it!  We ran the last little bit because it started to rain but boy we had a fantastic time!  Everybody posing with their muscle shot! 

So thankful for opportunities like this to go build memories together.  Life get so hustle bustle around here especially with the end of the school year with all the different events going on and demands on our family.  It's really therapeutic to get out with just our little family and be the only ones at the lake, the only car in the parking lot and no service to our telephones.  Only .. us.  We get to laugh and hold hands and talk.  It's my favorite.   We have been so blessed to live in Idaho so close to the mountains and have a good job that allows us enough money to do some fun things and the time off to do them.  Feeling pretty thankful!