My Grand Teton Birthday

My birthday celebration this year was magnificent.  Heavy on the outdoors, light on cake--my dream combination.  On Friday morning, Jason and I drove with our friends Stephen and Julie to the Grand Tetons for a weekend adventure.  What a delightful get-away with the best of friends!

At the James's suggestion, we brought our inflatable paddleboards and explored String Lake and Leigh Lake (near Jenny Lake.)  From the crystal clear waters of the lake, you can experience the mountains like never before.

It was so beautiful that I found myself plotting how to come back with our whole family.

The passage from String Lake to Leigh Lake required a short portage.  Good thing our stake president's strong!

Our own secluded beach.

Best birthday ever.

Once again, too many photos, but I just want to save every moment.

We stayed in a cute AirBnb in Driggs, Idaho.  It's a bit of a drive, but far more affordable than Jackson Hole.  Plus, the toilet paper holder was adorable.

 

In the morning we headed into Jackson so that Stephen and Julie could share their favorite breakfast spot, a delicious pastry shop named Persephone.

Then it was off on a bike ride from Jackson Hole into the National Park.  25 miles each way, it was the perfect distance to challenge my untrained legs without killing them.

To quote Oscar Hammerstein, can't stop lovin' dat man of mine.

I took off my shoes and put my feet in at the turn around point.  Now I'm even more convinced we need to come back.  Canoe camping, anyone?

We ran into another couple from Sandy who told us a bit about their children.  They mentioned that their youngest was 47, then stopped and gasped, saying heavens that's old!  Having just turned 47 the day before, it was a bit of a laugh, but growing old has never felt so good.

Plus, we certainly earned our pizza that night!

Thank you amor for organizing the best birthday!