The Lodge

We got to go to the Bates Lodge in Idaho again this year.  Our kids really look forward to this trip, and we have a great time with family.  Here are some pictures. 

We also hit Yellowstone while we were there. Most of the Park was shut down due to a big fire, but we still got to see Old Faithful and some beautiful waterfalls.

Hunter earned his first scouting badge...the Junior Ranger at Yellowstone.  He was very proud.

This was where we saw elk and coyote.  We drove a little farther and spotted two bald eagles.  It was a fun trip. 

On the way back to the lodge, we saw a diesel trailer with a big sign that said, "Free Potatoes, Take 'em all!"  So the boys climbed in and we brought home some delicious Idaho spuds.  Here they are in the potato trailer.

 Back to the lodge, and time to use our good weather.  We were forcasted snow for the next day, so we spend the whole day outside.  Hiking...

Relaxing...

Playing on the four wheeler...

We even piled in the truck and drove down the dirt road to the creek.  Fun with water and rocks!

And over the bridge...

Back to the Lodge.

The cousins

Miss T playing kickball.  She kept dribbling the ball instead of kicking it.  I just wish she would have done that during soccer season!

Time for our campfire!  And s'mores.

Snowed In!  The weatherman was right (for once), and we had snow in September at the Lodge.  We were SO glad that we had so much fun outside the day before.  So we hung out inside.

Games, homework, toys, reading, and movies in the basement.  So much fun!

Yes, sweet girl.  That is snow.

The snow stopped, and we attempted one last hike and ATV ride.  But it was VERY cold.  The kids didn't want to do that again (and neither did we).

Goodbye until next year, Bates Lodge!

Decorating for Christmas

So we were concerned about having a Christmas tree with a little man who is learning to walk. He's cruising on everything now, and loves to pull up and lean on furniture. I could just imagine the crash and cry when the tree toppled over on him. So my friend, Lindsay, suggested putting the Christmas tree in the pack-n-play. So here it is... :)

Keeps baby out of the wires, tinsel, and balls, and lets big brother enjoy the tree.

We all had a great FHE setting up the Christmas tree, and listening to Johnny Mathis Christmas music. I'll never forget the Christmas we put the tree in the manger!

Baby's First Birthday

It was our baby boy's first birthday, and we were all sick. So we had a little cake at home...
Whose birthday is it? Mine!!

Seriously, Dad. You're giving me a candle. Are you sure?

It looks so fun.

Can I touch it?

Bummer. No more candle, but this cake looks interesting...I'll just poke it.

I wonder what Dad will do if I put some in my mouth...

Wait! I'm eating this, and no one is taking it out of my mouth.

Here Mom! Do you want a lick? It's chocolate!

Great cake, Dad! Thanks for the great birthday! And look, I'm still handsome even when my face is covered in frosting!