Bear Creek Lake Park

My friends, Kelly and Alysa, met up with us one afternoon at Bear Creek Lake Park for some socially distancing paddle boarding and picnicking. I admit, the social distancing was difficult to maintain with the kids (and moms), but the mental health benefits outweighed the physical risks to all of us. It was such a wonderful day that brought normalcy and a literal and figurative breath of fresh air. 

Lair o' the Bear

We explored Lair o' the Bear one weekend when the quarantine restrictions had started to lift. There were biking and hiking trails alongside a stream that Bryan fished in the past. We couldn't believe the amount of people out and about. Evidently, everyone was suffering from "cabin fever." Bryan even packed our lunch of ramen noodles and fruit punch. He cooked our ramen over a backpacking stove and it was fine dining. A little Sunshine and dose of vitamin D does wonders for the soul!

Myles is ready in case the creek rises quickly and we have a flood on our hands. :)

Backyard Shenanigans

 We were so grateful for a backyard with a trampoline, swing set and fire pit during our quarantine. We do not have a large backyard, but we do cram a lot of fun into the space we do have. :) The kids were outside playing in the yard everyday we had good weather. Lots of trampoline bouncing, monkey bar crossing, golf-ball washing (it's a thing/business around here), fairy garden building, playhouse picnicking, sidewalk chalking, football/baseball catching happening, and more happening around here. It was fun to see the kids play more together when all other options were removed due to the quarantine. That was a true blessing and silver lining. Don't misunderstand, we still had our realities and disagreements, but there did seem to be more love amongst the siblings and it was not wasted on their mother's heart.

This picture was taken April 27th. I guarantee it was not warmer than 70 degrees. Brrrr! 

True Coloradoan children.

Easter 2020

We have deal with the Easter Bunny--He can have Saturday for the candy and eggs, but Sunday is for the remembering the resurrection of our Savior. This year, I took limited pictures. However, it was a very special Easter for our family as we continued to hold our Sacrament meeting in our home. I felt less concern with matching outfits, or the previous day's treasures making their way to church with us. We were able to really focus on our Savior. As we sang, He is Risen, Bryan and I both felt the spirit strongly testify that He truly is risen. It was a feeling and moment I hope to never forget!

I asked my friend for her roll recipe and look what showed up on my doorstep later that day...

Birthday flowers also doubled as our Easter dinner table decor. We dined on one of our family's favorite meals, New England Boiled Dinner.

~Happy Easter~

It's My Birthday!

 We headed for the mountains to celebrate my 37th birthday. It was such a great, safe getaway considering the crazy "social distancing, mask-wearing, toilet paper hoarding" time. We went to a place called Grape Creek. The fishing was a little disappointing, but the family time together was spectacular. So good for my soul and aging soul!!

Little football by the creek.

Blowing out the birthday candle...Bryan thought of it all. 

I'm not even cold, not one bit.

I came home from our hiking adventure to a porch full of birthday notes and gifts. I felt so loved.  I loved the unique gifts and cards. We were asked to only do essential shopping by our government to help "flatten the curve" for COVID transmission. That meant we were getting by with what was around the home and these cards made me laugh, as well as some of the gifts.

With so much changing and restrictions being placed, I have to admit that I'm glad we got this getaway in before something like the following happened...    :)