Island Park

It was a cool and cloudy day here in Island Park but we still went out and enjoyed a float down Big Springs. It was beautiful as always! Tenley was the only one brave enough to jump in the freezing cold river. We warmed up in the hot tub when we got back and then enjoyed a fun walk in the woods. We’ve been enjoying our time here!

17 Years

Brad and I celebrated 17 years together today! I was happy that our anniversary fell on a Friday so we could have a full day together. We decided to go enjoy the snow in the mountains with Luke and Keena. It was gorgeous and the snow was deep! I was glad we had snowshoes. Then Brad and I went out for a yummy steak dinner tonight. It was delicious. 

I love my life with Brad and our four kids and I’m so grateful for Brad and all we’ve been able to do together to create this beautiful life.

Lone Peak

Lone Peak is an incredible mountain and we were able to get a little bit closer to it today. We got to ride up a fancy ski lift with heated seats to get a better view of the resort. It was the highlight of the trip for me. It was a gorgeous day! I was sad to have to check out today, but Kade had a soccer game early tomorrow morning in Helena so we drove down and checked in at a different hotel here in Helena. The kids were happy to do more swimming! And we got to see the progress on the temple. 

Big Sky

Every time we visit the mountains I’m reminded just how much I love them. Big Sky is so gorgeous. We drove in late last night and couldn’t see the beautiful scenery but when we woke up this morning we couldn’t get enough of our beautiful view. The snow isn’t great though so we opted not to bring our skis. So while Brad was at his meetings we went swimming! They only have outdoor pools here though but they’re heated and the sun was shining so it actually felt really nice. We even got some sun on our faces. We walked around the resort later and I’m hoping that one of these winters we can make it back to ski!

Huckleberries

We drove out toward Lincoln today to pick huckleberries. We found a great patch and picked a lot! Luke was eating them out of the bag in handfuls. He loves them! We also got to play in a lake for a little bit. It was a fun day in the mountains and we even made it back in time for dinner at home.

Newlan Creek Reservoir

We found another beautiful mountain lake today a few hours from our home. The drive was beautiful as well. We drove tight past the ski hill and on further into the mountains. We found a great picnic spot by the lake and ate lunch. Then we all took turns in the kayak. Ryder was trying so hard to learn and do his best at paddling. He enjoyed kayaking with Brad more than with me because “Dad is stronger!” Haha.

Even Luke loved the kayak! Although, while he was playing in it on shore he got too close to the water and fell in. Poor guy. Luckily it was warm enough for him to hang out in his diaper. 

It was so warm, calm, and peaceful there with no cell coverage to distract us. I took a nap on the blanket to the sounds of my kids playing. It was the best day. We miss our extended families and traditions, but we enjoyed our Memorial Day making memories together.

Belt Creek

We found a new hike to Belt Creek today. We had to drive for eight miles on a pretty rough and muddy dirt road, but it was worth it. It was a beautiful four mile hike which we’ve found is a good distance for Ryder. When we made it to the Creek we found a fire pit. Tenley wanted to try and make a fire without a match. Brad taught her all the possible ways, but with all the wet bark we were unable to actually get one started. She is determined to try again so next time we’ll make sure to have a pocket knife, or better yet, flint and steel! She is an adventurous little girl and wants a pocket knife of her own now!

We loved getting out of the house and exploring together.