Annual Pilgrimage to South Lake Tahoe

We had lots of different ideas for a summer vacation this year, but decided that heading back down to our cabin in Tahoe would be the most fun (and let's be honest the easiest). So, we packed up the dogs, the kids and all sorts of junk and headed south for what was a really long car ride (we planned on leaving at 6 in the morning to beat the heat, but Ella got sick and after debating for several hours - we finally left around 11).

As always the time spent at the cabin always brings back fond memories of my childhood - it is so nice to see it through the eyes of my own kids. We are at this weird age with them where hiking doesn't seem that fun (what?? - 50 yards seems to be as far as Ella wants to go, Miles can last maybe 1/2 mile) and they aren't the greatest swimmers, but we still were able to have a good time.

We headed up to Angora Lake, to the top of Heavenly, rode bikes, took a horseback ride and spent quality time at the lake. Overall a great trip (despite some stomach bugs, a trip to urgent care and a smallish fire in the kitchen).

Now, I am not going to lie, this trip wasn't as easy or carefree as last year - Ella has certainly hit her terrible 2's (I am fearful for the the threes) and the 12 hour car ride home yesterday was long, really, really long. But to be able to spend this time as a family, in such a beautiful place can't be beat. And honestly, the fireworks show is pretty spectacular.

4th of July

We spent the 4th of July at our house in Tahoe. The weather couldn't have been any better - especially since it will be around 100 here all week. We did several hikes and Miles was such a trooper, however, we almost always went 1/4 mile too long, so those last few steps were not happy ones. Pam and Brian came up for the last part of the week and it was so great to see them. I am so thankful Miles will be able to grow up going to Tahoe just like I did, I have such great memories up there.