Summer hikes to Rocky Mouth Waterfall and Cecret Lake

This summer we went on two hikes we'd done before. I like looking back at old pictures and seeing how much the kids have grown.

On May 21st, we went up Rocky Mouth Waterfall with our friends the Smith's. It's a reallt short and easy hike. It's good for little kids, but older kids might want a longer hike. The last time we went was in July of 2011. 

On July 21st we hiked to Cecret lake. We attempted this hike in 2009 when Sarah was 3 1/2 and Steven was 1 1/2 but they decided they'd rather play with the snow we'd found.

There were a lot of salimanders in the water and all three found were intent on catching one. It's a no swimming water shelter so they couldn't get it, but they're clothes got wet nonetheless. Next time we'll bring nets.

I know Utah doesn't have a monopoly on natural beauty, but I love all there is to do here.

Trial Lake Camping

In mid July we took the kids camping at Trial Lake. It's a favorite fishing/camping spot of Mike's family. Amelia came with us as well and the kids had a lot of fun enjoying nature. Although it was hot in the Salt Lake Valley it was surprisingly cold in the mountains. 

Our castle

Sarah recreating a picture from when she was three

I love this picture! Amelia asked me to take it, which is the best part.

Roating hot dogs

and marshmallows

My posing princess :)

It took them a LONG time to fall asleep

View from our campsite in the morning

The nearby meadow where the kids played

 The second day there we went fishing by the dam. Each kid found their special fishing rock. After a while Adam was the only one content to wait. Steven and Amelia played in a meadow and Sarah became the power bate mixing queen.

Steven got this fish from a neighbor that had better luck

Finally we caught a fish

Adam caught this little guy all by himself in front of
our camping spot.

The kids started playing store and established a
bartering system. Everything could be purchased with rocks.

Mike with his "G" look. He said the sun was in his eyes. ;)

Hike to Timpanogas Cave

On July 9th we made a spur of the moment decision to hike to Timpanogas cave. It's 1 1/2 miles each way and gains a little over 1000 ft in elevation. The kids did great on the way up. They'd ask how far we'd gone and how far we had left, but there was very little grumbling. Steven let us know that death was waiting over the edge and that if we weren't careful we could fall to our deaths! :)

Steven "trapped" in a box ;)

There are three caves that are part of the tour; Hansen, Middle and Timpanogas cave. It is a chilly 45 degrees inside, so we're all glad we happened to have jackets.

The "Heart" of the cave

Making friends with the natives

About half mile down Adam got tired and asked to be carried. Mike gave him a piggy back for 1/4-1/2 a mile and Adam walked the rest of the way. It was a fun family day.

Happy Birthday Adam!!!!

On July 10th and 11th we got to celebrate our little "Buddy Boy." Adam had been anticipating his birthday for MONTHS and was picking out presents and changing his theme on an almost daily basis. We didn't have enough money to buy everything he asked for, but he was still very happy with what he got.

On his birthday we started the day off with breakfast of his choice of breakfast, coffee cake, and presents. I love this age where they are grateful for everything. He asked for some cheap ninja's that cost $1 and was super excited when he unwrapped them among other things.

He chose Indian food for lunch. Love this kid!

My friend's mom threw her a surprise 30th birthday so we turned it into a mini birthday party. (That was completely catered and planned out by my friends mom.) ;)

He just had to sleep in our bed with his new Creeper

The next day we had his party at JL Sorenson Rec center. He invited some of his favorite people

Blue food coloring anyone? I added a little too much. :)

How he unwrapes presents

Adam is an absolute joy to have around. He is at a really fun age. He's learned humor and has started to make jokes. He's also very matter of fact. He will state his case with a straight face as if whatever he wants is completely natural and of course he should have it. He is also a big momma's boy. He's agreed to always be my baby and loves to cuddle while sucking his thumb. I know it's a habit we should get him to quit, but it's been a losing battle so far. We love our little buddy and are eternally grateful to have him in our family!