Hiking Delicate Arch [Family Edition]

The air was crisp and cool, requiring down vests and fleece jackets. But the sun was strong, promising warmth as we hiked into the day. For once, instead of refereeing an argument all the kids were geared up for our hike. We had one of those rare moments of bliss as parents where no one wants…

Hiking Utah’s Grandeur Peak… with kids.

Hiking in the Wasatch Range is… unique. It didn’t take me long after moving from Colorado to realize there aren’t many ‘easy kid hikes’ here. In fact, many of the lesser peaks have more technical trails and more elevation gain than some of Colorado’s 14er’s. It was Kai’s (our Golden Doodle) birthday and so the…

Through My Lens, 2013

One last look at a year full of a LOT of first for us as a family. First snowshoe trips. First time on cross-country skis. First half and full marathons. First triathlons. First all-family backpacking trips. Even the first time trying Kipper Snacks (basically sardines….) And a ton of beautiful moments in-between. Here is a…

“Are the rocks really red, mom?”

To all who are wondering…Yes, the rocks are really red in Red Rock Canyon, NV. My kids were thrilled. Chris once said, “Don’t ever ask me to go to Vegas, cause I won’t.” The flashy lights, questionable everything, and quantity of cement and people – all of it stressed him out. And to be honest,…

Silver Falls State Park, OR

Seven years ago, almost to the day, Chris whisked (or rather dragged) me under a thundering, wet, magnificent water fall and asked me to marry him.  I don’t remember much of what he said.  In fact I could barely hear him over the roar.  But I’ve never forgotten the waterfalls.  So naturally every time we…

City of Rocks National Reserve, ID

Location: Southern Idaho.  For more specific direction visit the link at the end of the page. Cost:  Day use is free!  A camping fee for one vehicle and one site is $12.72.  There is a $8.48 charge for an additional car with a max of 2 cars and 8 people per site. What to expect:  A…