easing into summer

Between pandemic restrictions, ongoing pregnancy ailments (hello 39 yrs old!), cooler weather, and such, we've been easing slowly into summer over here. But we've managed to make it out for a couple of hikes and river play, which has been glorious. I live for summer in the PNW mountains and rivers. Between that, babies, and chocolate, I couldn't ask for much more. Here are a few highlights from our Twin Falls hike a couple of weeks ago.

Twin Falls was fun, but it was a big hike, way to crowded (my nightmare for forest time), and Jethro wouldn't nap on my back and was exhausted (i.e., miserable). Today, on the other hand, was an especially mellow and rejuvenating adventure. It was a relatively short, flat hike into a secret river spot with open-ended river play, zero other humans, and a yummy summer picnic dinner.

  

 Rock throwing contest. I won. ;) 

 Naomi, hauling big rocks to build her "home." 

Jethro, washing his hair in his "bubble bath" - i.e., sand pit. 

 Dipping sticks in the river to "test how many chemicals are in the water and maybe hurting the fish."

 And done. Time to head home.