Sunday, July 31, 2011

Coeur d' Alene

We set off on a road trip last week to my mom's hometown Magrath, Alberta to spend a much-loved holiday with my extended family. Since the drive was 12+ hours and we would be going straight through Coeur d' Alene, we decided to split up the trip and spend a few nights there. Eric and I have always wanted to see the beautiful Coeur d' Alene and we were not disappointed! It was very beautiful and serene. We spent a full day exploring the area. We spent some time on Tubbs Hill hiking, enjoyed the views from a sandy lake beach, and strolled around a lovely park next to the water. It was a lot of fun and has tempted us to return for a longer trip so we have time to swim and lay around on the beach... and maybe even bring our bikes to explore that way!

In this first pic the boys hiked out onto a little peninsula/rock and I took a picture from where they started!


I have to comment here that Nyah is thrashing around trying to escape my arms! She was determined to run around on top of that rock...and would have probably jumped right off into the ocean below! Seriously, that little girl is fearless. She keeps us on our toes, alright!



I just love the way this last picture captured Nyah! We sure know that body language and facial expression... Nyah in one of her super silly moods! :) She was being so hyper and letting out loud squeals of happiness! It was pretty darn cute!



There was a moment this day that I want to remember... We had just finished our little hike/walk along the mountainous coast on Tubbs Hill and decided to hang out for a bit on the nice grassy lawn at the base of the trail. I remember Eric was sitting up with his legs stretched out, I was laying down with my shoes off and my head on his leg. The kids were barefoot too and climbing over and around us and having the time of their lives! The sun was out, we were all feeling so warm and happy and relaxed. It was a wonderful feeling. And you know what really made me stop and notice? Every time people walked by, they would stare and smile really big. It made me really happy because it made me realize what a beautiful family I have and what a blessing it was to be living in that moment - to be a part of it. Anyway, I don't think I'll ever forget that snapshot in time.

4 comments:

Mindy said...

That sounded great! I've always heard how beautiful and fun Coeur d' Alene is, and now you've confirmed it. It makes me laugh that Nyah was trying to run around the rock. What a different child from careful Gabe! Speaking of Gabe, that picture of him getting a shoulder ride from Eric was so cute. He looks like he might be choking daddy. But ERic has a big grin on his face, so I guess he isn't suffering too much. hahaha. I love the picture of you lifting Nyah above your head, too. Those little curls... love them. And I especially loved your description of the moment at the end of the day. I was smiling imagining it, so I could totally imagine everyone walking past and feeling happy watching a moment of family bliss. I'm glad you recorded that. Those are the best memories to remember. Having a family is so fun! (Although I don't imagine I'll have many - okay ANY- moments of quiet bliss with my Jack. Maybe people will smile at some kind of crazy fun we're having together? Then they'll stop and take a rest since it will wear them out just watching him.)

Melanie Anne said...

Oh what a magical day! The pictures are beautiful--you do have a beautiful family! Your children are so darling and precious and I wish so much i could see them more! Thank you so much for posting all these pictures--I LOVE to see them! I love you! xo

Lori said...

I'm loving all of your pics and documenting your fun times! Between this and your canada trip, you have three summers worth of memories. I'm happy for you that you've been able to take part in such great activities!

Jan S said...

I loved reading about your trip and seeing the pictures. I especially loved the one of you holding Nyah kind of face to face and then hearing about your feelings at the end of the day. You ARE blessed!