The Enchanted Forest

I can't help it. That's the first thing that comes to mind when I think of the mountains in the Northwest.  I mean, check out these pictures... knowing that pictures hardly do nature justice, I'm sure you can imagine how awe-inspiring it is here.

The kids were gutsy and wore their swim suits and swam in some deep water holes in the creek. The water was freezing! 

 

 This was just a simple, fairly busy hike that we took the kids on up by Snowqualmie Pass.  But it was exquisite!  I believe a lot of it had to do with the time of day we went. The lighting was beautiful with the setting sun's rays slanting through the branches. Wow. I can't describe how lovely it was.  Eric ended up turning around early with the 2 little ones but Gabe and I finished up the hike all the way to the falls. He was such a cute little hiking buddy, just chattering away the whole time! It was really fun to have that one-on-one time with him.  I know he felt very grown up that he could keep hiking all the way to the top! Usually he hikes with his dad so I think he thought this was extra special to be with me this time.  It felt special to me, too. :)

First day of school

Gabe is our big 1st grader now! I can barely believe it.  He looks so big and mature climbing onto the bus each morning with his backpack full of folders and lunch box.  And home feels really quiet without him.  We are definitely missing him.  (Luckily Nyah and Ian are turning out to be little pals that play great together - it's fun to see.)  It's more than a little strange for Gabe to be gone for most of the day.  I had no idea how weird it would feel.  I'm sure I'll get used to it eventually but right now it doesn't feel right that my little boy is away from me more than he is with me nowadays! :(  It's made me realize how important each interaction with him is.  I can't afford to be impatient or annoyed-acting with him because who knows what he experiences at school all day.  Who knows if kids or adults are being kind and positive and uplifting... or otherwise.  But if I'm going to be the kind of mother I always wanted to be, I've got to make sure I use this precious time I have with my little ones wisely.  I always dreamed of building a home of safety and order, laughter and comfort - where the Spirit is felt and everyone feels loved and important.  So I guess what I'm trying to say is, having Gabe start full day school has in a round-about way reminded me of all those goals and helped me to take a closer look at how I'm treating my family.  I'm committed to turning over a new leaf - to guarding my tongue and being conscious of every word I say. Unfortunately I have a lot of work ahead of me but I'm excited to be a better a mom, a better person.  So hurray for 1st grade and revelations! :)