Hiking & Camping

Had a blast with my boys going camping and hiking. Every fall we take a litte trip out to Shenendoah National Park. We always camp at Yogi Bear's Jelleystone Park, drive down Skyline Drive, and do some hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains. This year we hiked one of our favorite trails, the Dark Hallow Falls Trail. It's a fun trail because there is a 70 foot waterfall along the way. The only down side is it's a really steep hike! I was definitely huffin-and-puffin.

We definitely do this trip at least once a year, and try do to it twice. It's one of my favorite times with my boys b/c all the normal distractions of home, technology, etc. are all gone and we just hang. My absolute favorite thing in the world is sitting around the fire at the end of the day and just talking. I honestly never feel closer to my boys than in these moments. We talk about funny stuff, silly stuff, and life stuff. And every year I realize how my little boys are growing closer to becoming young men. I can begin to see their character, values, personalities, and heart in a new way, and I sit there amazed. I am amazed because I am so impressed. Both Noah and Sammy express themselves and these traits in ways that make me so proud!!!

I could not be more proud of any other 8 and 10 year old in the world!!! I definitely want to prioritze more times like these. Noah and Sammy - you are my pride and my joy!!! I love you!