Memorial Weekend: Gorge Style

First and foremost, respect is due to all the men and women who have and continue to protect and defend our country. Reflections like these are hard for me to remember and, more importantly, act out. So, there you are.

With that gratitude for all those brave Americans, comes gratitude for an extra day of the week to be a whole family. This weekend is also about being together. We took full advantage (we always do). Hikes, bike rides (Adam), trail runs (me), hot tubbing/swimming (all of us) microbrew sampling (the grown ups), playing in the park (the littles).... I don't know about you all, but there's really nothing else I'd rather do. That pretty much sums up a perfect weekend to me.

These days, most of Noella's interests lie in picking flowers. So, there was a lot of that going on. We no longer are able to put her 'beautiful wildflower bouquets' inside, because Daddy's allergies were out of control! 

Did I mention wildflowers?

Speaking of wildflowers, Daddy accompanied us on this little hike every single day this weekend (friday-monday). Allergies and all! This little trail is just across the street from where we live. It ends at Mosier Creek Falls. I used to take Noella in the Ergo Carrier EVERY day when she was little. We haven't been for months, until she realized all the flowers there were up there. Now, she's hiked the whole length everyday since she's discovered it. She loves and knows the names of all of them (well, the ones we actually know the names of, that is): lupine, bachelor buttons, poppies, wild irises, ivy.... she's OBSESSED

Noella's new friend, Khaki the Lizard. We found him in the same spot two days in a row on our wildflower hikes. 

Noella's other friend, Liam. These two were playing so cute together! 

I mean, come on! Adorable!

Sunday morning brunch. Noella gave Bert sunglasses. 

We all rrrrrreeaaalllly needed our coffee this morning. 

Weekend complete with yet another amazing sunset. We are going to miss this view, that's for sure!