Memorial Day

Our Memorial day 2012 started with a hike up to Mt. Pisgah.  We did this last year and had such a great time that we decided to carry on the tradition.  Note to families with young kids:  this is a tough hike.  It's uphill the entire way.  Lydia barely made it...and she only did so by holding hands with her friend Lauryn and cousin Joel, or being carried on Casey's shoulders!  She had a great time though!

A quarter of the way up, the kids were already breathing hard and had to take a much needed rest on a rock pile.

We took several stops along the trail to get a drink, pose for pictures and just rest.  Originally, we were going to do this hike alone, with perhaps, Grandma Walburger.  But, as we were talking about it at church, others became interested and before we knew it, we were a huge group.  It made the hike that much more fun...and it kept the complaining from our kids to a minimum.  Peer pressure will do that for you!

Thank goodness for strategically placed benches.  We had to be careful because the sides of the trail were covered in poison oak.  Apparently, the forest service hadn't sprayed it yet.  

Here is our group at the top!  We were so relieved to make it...and very grateful for the cool weather!

The best part of the hike was the surprise birthday party that the Andersens gave Grandma Walburger.  Eric had lugged up a full cake, frosting, ice cream (packed in ice) and utensils!  What a stud!  Grandma was so surprised and the kids welcomed the energy from the cake and ice cream.  Grandma felt very loved!

After taking a few hours to rest, we all gathered at the Booren's house for a BBQ.  (and yes, the whole hiking group joined us!  It was quite the party)  Casey made these lovely kabobs.

And he brought out the giant slide.  After a strenuous hike, 2 hours of playing on a giant slide sounded exhausting to me but the kids loved it!.  Needless to say, sleep came very easy for them that night.

Charlotte spent her time holding baby Caleb.  She claims him the instant she goes to the Booren's house.

We had more cake and ice cream for Grandma Walburger after the BBQ.  We worked off all those calories earlier in the day right?  All in all, it was a great Memorial day.  We are so thankful to the men and women who serve our country so we can have the freedom to hike, play, and party.

Here is week 21