Lake Blanche with Aunt Christy

At the very end of July, Aunt Christy came up to Salt Lake, curious about the gorgeous hike we'd taken last year up to Lake Blanche.  Even though we were headed to Omaha the very next day, we started up Big Cottonwood Canyon to show her our special place.

I wish I could say the kids had an awesome attitude about it, but apparently we traumatized them during our backpacking trip last year.  Even without packs, they were pretty whiny. I think Brooklyn's face pretty much sums it up.

Once we got to the bouldering, they perked up, excited by the technical challenge of the trail.

Here are Jason and Christy, nearly at the summit.  Grumpy kids or no, this is a trail worth hiking.  I'm so glad Christy gave us the push we needed to get ourselves back up the mountain.

Once we reached the top, all was forgiven.

Annika seemed to enjoy her rest (not that she really needed it, having been carried most of the way.)


Life's best moments.

Unspeakable beauty.

All too soon, it was time to head back.  We knew we were short on water and wanted to get home before we were short on daylight as well.

Already looking forward to hiking the trail again next year.