A Birthday Hike

When I got up this morning I had all intentions of spending my birthday just like every other day. Amongst other things I had some vacuuming I was hoping to get to, and wanted to give the desk in the kitchen a good tidy since it's piled a mile high with papers and junk. Mr. Stannix had other plans for today! After showering me with gifts, and homemade cards in bed he announced that we were heading to the mountains for the day! Camilla became hesitant and didn't want to miss her swimming, so we let her stick to the routine. Shortly after she got on the bus, we made the quick trip to the lovely Kananaskis mountains for a hike.

The mountains are one of my favorite places on earth, and my dear Mr. Stannix knows that.

Seconds after arriving all three of the boys had found some sticks to play with.

It was a nice, easy hike so we took our time and let the boys explore. Finley loved walking (and would not let go of that stick). Part of the time he even skipped on his tippy-toes he was so full of joy!

I love all of my handsome boys!

When the trail became muddy and rocky I popped Finley onto my back in my new wrap (notice he still didn't give up his stick)! This was a gift from Mr. Stannix and something I've had my eye on for a while. Knowing that I get to use it on another little Stannix makes it worth the cost. It's a beautiful wrap and I am in love with it! The ergo was getting harder to wear while pregnant and this is much more versatile!

About half way up we came across this little stream.

The boys checked the bridge for trolls and ventured up the edge of the stream a little ways. I loved watching them explore.

We took a little break in the warm sunshine before tackling the last bit of the trail. We could hear the water in the distance.

Hyrum took his brotherly duties very serious and my heart melted when I saw these two holding hands ahead of me on the trail. They walked that way until the path got too rocky and wet.

The falls looked pretty cool, half melted. 

Hyrum thought it was fun to climb part way up and then slide down like a penguin. Then his bum got too cold!

Sure love that handsome guy checking out the waterfall.

After a while we were all ready to head back to the sunshine for warmth and a snack. 

This guy bounced and bobbed on my back, full of giggles. 

We took the longer trail back to the car since we still had a lot of time. The boys did awesome and only complained of tired legs at the end. I'm so looking forward to many more family hikes this Summer. I love living in such close proximity to these beautiful mountains!

Once we got back to the car we enjoyed some juice boxes and snacks. The boys fell asleep before we got back on the highway.

Hyrum stayed awake just long enough to see this cute little guy. He was pretty excited! Joe loved hiking and told me more than once that it was the best part of his day because of all the "fwesh air". They all fell asleep happy and content.