Memorial Day

 We made a spur of the moment decision to go to Antelope Island for Memorial Day this year, which is really quite easy to do since we're only 30 minutes away. The last time we went was when Emmett was only a couple of months old and it was a lot of fun to go back again. We decided that visiting in the spring is much preferred to the end of the summer. The weather was perfectly mild and breezy and we saw a lot of wildlife on our hike.

The scenery was beautiful.

Bethany had a blast riding in the backpack.

Emmett was fascinated by the wildlife. Here Casey is pointing out a grouse, but we also saw antelope, buffalo, lizards, grasshoppers, snakes, caterpillars, ants, and a few very large beetles. Next time we go for a walk in the mountains I think we'll need to bring a mason jar so that Emmett can collect all the bugs he sees. He was so excited about everything! When he touched one of the caterpillars it curled backwards onto his fingers and he's been squealing about it and talking about it for the last 24 hours.

Emmett insisted on being in front of everybody at all times and, as he ran along the trail, would shout continuous commentary such as, "We're having some FUN! We're so HAPPY! We're going on a walk! We're up HIGH! Oh, we're such a happy family! Mommy is a happy family, and Daddy is a happy family, and Bethany is a happy family TOO! Oh, do you see that bug?? He's so HAPPY!"

Trying to get a scenic photo. Emmett wouldn't stand on this rock unless Casey held onto him he help him feel secure.

We were hiking during the middle of Bethanhy's nap time, but that didn't stop her from getting her beauty rest.

Such a cutie. That backpack must be pretty comfortable if she can sleep in it so soundly. Strange to think that only a couple of summers ago and it was Emmett who was sleeping in it!

Emmett got tired about 2 miles into our hike and needed to be carried. I carried him for a while, but eventually we switched roles. It is much easier for me to carry Bethany in the backpack than to carry a gangly toddler. The only trouble was that I couldn't stop Bethany from pulling my hair all the way back to the car!

Emmett thought life was pretty good getting to ride on Dad's shoulders.

And of course, what would Memorial Day be without a little outdoor grilling at the end?