Colorado in July

Family photo op in over the Arkansas river in Buena Vista, Co.

We were lucky enough to go to Colorado again this year in July, which was over Quinn's birthday and right before Sam's 6th birthday. The last time we were there was in 2015 and we were so glad to go back to the Johnson Cabin and spend time with Jan, Ken, Debbie, Grandpa and Grandma Pauline. Quinn was super glad to get to celebrate his birthday on a mountain top, actually he climbed two 14er's, so it was a big deal for him.

Our trip out there was easy-peasy and we had a direct flight. The trip home was not so easy and we had multiple delays and had to switch planes three times! But a cool and relaxing week in Colorado was worth the effort. We went canoeing at Twin Lakes with Grandpa and Grandma Pauline, fed the chipmunks at St. Elmo, swam at Mt. Princeton hot springs, hiked, had a date night for Quinn's birthday while Jan and Ken so wonderfully watched the kids.

First day of vacation. After leaving 100+ heat in Texas, it was so nice to sit outside and not sweat to death and enjoy the outside. Why don't we live in Colorado?

Surrounded by mountains all around while canoeing at Twin Lakes.

Lunch time after some good paddeling

Grandpa and Grandma Pauline

Spending the morning in Buena Vista playing at on the boulder play ground and checking out the cute down town shops.

Isla working on her rope climbing skills

Some pretty funny Trump bumper stickers. Colorado is not a fan.

Isla had to wade in every body of water we came to. And despite the fridge mountain

water temperature, she didn't seem to mind.

Always climbing, he was in rock climbing heaven.

First hike at Hecla Junction. Despite the higher altitude and being 7 months pregnant,  it was a beautiful hike.

Isla needed some Daddy help at the end, but Sam was a trooper and kept right up.

Pizza and root beer floats for all after the hike.

Downtown Salida, looking at all the interesting stores.

Cuddled up reading bedtime stories under Great Aunt Verda's quilt. Pretty special.

Morning coffee and PBS Wild Kratts with cousin Debbie.

Quinn getting in on the boulder action.

The kids loved this boulder park, we went there at least 3 times.

Playing at the river again, watching the kayakers and river surfers.

Isla....back in the water, this time she's "washing rocks"

Handsome fella totally in his element

Isla found her people and was happy to have help with her puzzles.

Isla decided she just HAD to go up this mini mountain, but needed Daddy's help.

Sandbox time with Grandpa 

Birthday boy with strawberry rhubarb pie.....the best!

Playing giant Jinga. Watch out for your toes!

Getting help from Grandpa. I think this is technically cheating.

Moving on to pine cone races with Jan.

Get it Grandpa!!

Feeding chipmunks at St. Elmo. Sam loved it, but Isla was still a little dubious.

She really just wanted to pet them. Grandpa was having a hard time explaining

that they don't want her love and attention.

Boy-boy's got it figured out.

Mama and her girl selfie.

Hammock by the stream was super fun and kept them entertained for a nice long time.

Stories with Grandma Pauline.

Sam wowing Grandpa with his reading skills as Grandpa kept falling asleep.

Making humming bird food (sugar water) with Jan.

Getting it all filled up.

Back to the bridge and river

Daddy's birthday-day. Why not have ice cream and a 2nd cup of coffee at 11am before lunch.

It's your birthday, do what you want! The kids totally agreed.

Baby belly!

It was a hot day that day and a long hike.

Back at the cabin floating boats on the stream, always the best past time.

How Isla and Mama were feeling at 12+ hours of travel back to Texas, we were DONE!

Quinn's solo hike up Mount Shavano 14,182 ft

And while he was at it, he decided to head up the neighboring mounting Mt. Tabaguache. He was feeling it the next day, but was very glad he did both.

Such a great view from all around!.