At least we think we were on Mount Rainier. At times the visibility was such that it was hard to tell. The Vedeckis, Wilhoit, Andrus, and Wheeler families spent a day hiking the Naches Peak Loop Trail in Mount Rainier National Park.
The weather was a bit chillier than originally expected, but we scrounged up enough blankets and jackets to keep everyone warm.
Brooklyn and Talia emerging through the mist.
Lunch time.
Liepa, what do you think of that American white bread?
Egle and Eli chilling together.
We expect the vistas from this point are often stunning, but we preferred to go for the spooky and mysterious ambiance.
Pausing at a fork in the trail.
We must have chosen the right path because all of a sudden the skies began to clear.
A handsome hubby?
A beautiful lake?
The lake's perfect for splashing and photos, but that's not the real surprise.
Horsies! These two women graciously allowed our entire crew to pet their horses following several days out on the trail.
Moreover, they offered to give each of the kids a ride!
This may have been the highlight of Annika's entire summer. According to her teacher Ms. Tanner, she draws a horse every day in kindergarten. She's hoping to find a stray pony wandering around our neighborhood. This morning she earnestly asked me if she'd ever find one. My heart sank as I told her that no, she probably never would, but there was a good chance she'd find a caterpillar. As luck would have it, she really did find a caterpillar at school today. Too bad it was dead.
Egle takes the next ride.
Liepa and Eila navigated all on their own.
Talia gave Eila the next ride.
Last but not least, a glimpse of all grown-ups marveling at this rare experience. Our Lithuanian friends bring the best of luck.
Back at the Wilhoit home, we created some delectable food memories. Hand-cranked ice cream.
Cheesecake.
And best of all, fresh blackberries. They wild blackberry bushes were everywhere, including directly behind the Wilhoit's home.
The blackberries made the perfect topping for our cheesecake and ice cream.
Other fun moments: dressing up. Vytis, you look great in your visor.
NomiAnn brought tiaras for the ladies.
Whether in Nebraska or Washington, Annika's favorite perch is on Papa Kay's lap.
Before long, it was time for the Vedeckis family to continue on their journey to California. We couldn't say goodbye without visiting the Wilhoit's old place at Pioneer Park in Puyallup.
It was the perfect spot to share some stories...
...and play a rousing game of duck, duck, goose.
Anders, hang on!
So, we drowned our sorrows at the splash pad.
And now, sweet dreams for all.
1 comment:
Great memories! Although misty, our hike also revealed magnificent wild flowers. Also, the Duck, Duck, Goose game will be forever memorable — but alas, I was as slow as molasses.
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