Who says you can't go home...

"Who says you can't go home,

these are my streets, the only life I've ever known"...

-Bon Jovi

Chris and I were lucky to be raised at Lake Powell, God's most unique work. Since moving to Colorado several years ago, we haven't been back to PLAY on the lake once! This was a complete change because as a little girl growing up until my adult life, I spent almost every single sunny weekend on this fresh water! I grew up with an extremely adventurous family, who was always seeking some thrill, usually on Lake Powell. I've shared this photo before, but it is a favorite of mine because it brings back those beautiful days of total bliss. This is my Dad and I water skiing together back when I was a teenager.

My Dad and I water skiing when I was a teenager

I have countless memories on Lake Powell that define who I am today and make me grateful for the yesterdays.

But fast forward to today! Our family was extremely blessed with an opportunity to return back to the water this year. It was an incredible vacation. The weather was made-to-order!

Titus excited to be at LAKE POWELL!

The always amazing Rainbow Bridge. Such a treat to take our boys there.

Before leaving on our vacation, the boys and I did some fun activities learning about boats and water safety.

learning about boats and water

We played a fun game to help us remember the sides of the boat: bow, stern, port, and starboard. In this game, Titus is in the middle of the "boat" in our living room and we had markers for the sides. The kids would rush to follow directions on what part of the "boat" they needed to move to.

Titus is ready to win

This was their first time to see a houseboat so I was curious to see how they imagined one looking. They each drew a picture of their image of a houseboat.

Their houseboats

I made them each treat bucket surprises for the trip which included snacks and water toys.

Finally ready to go...

Getting ready to walk down the docks and load up the houseboat!

We spent a few September days on the houseboat swimming, fishing, hiking, gathering around the camfire, and playing on big kid toys. ;)

Chris and Skyler

Then, Skyler with me...(he never got off these things)

Little hikes with our houseboat home nestled below

The boys exploring sandstone

Houseboat slide

Titus

All my boys!

Cozy in their houseboat beds

Searching for shells

Gathering shell collections was one of my favorite things to do on Lake Powell when I was little

Skyler at the camp fire as we sang some Jimmy Buffet with the guitar.

My favorite moment of the vacation was our night swim, using the moon as our lantern. We pushed through the sleeping water, barely breaking the serenity of the calm night. My friend swimming ahead of me said it was like swimming through black coffee under the night sky. I don't have any photos of it, but it was magic.

Vacation is over! Pulling back into the marina.

The boys watching with fascination as we pulled into the docks

Loading up to leave.

And Kotah asks, "Mom, why do the fun times always go by so fast?"

Spending some September days back at Lake Powell was a genuine blessing for our family.

What treasure spots do you have folded into your identity and heart?

Do you have a special place that helps define YOU?

How often do you go back?

This post is linked to Lovin It, Tickled Pink, Making the World Cuter, Market Yourself Mondays, Show and Tell,
Spotlight Yourself, Outdoor Wednesday and Chatting at the Sky