The Enchanted Forest

I can't help it. That's the first thing that comes to mind when I think of the mountains in the Northwest.  I mean, check out these pictures... knowing that pictures hardly do nature justice, I'm sure you can imagine how awe-inspiring it is here.

The kids were gutsy and wore their swim suits and swam in some deep water holes in the creek. The water was freezing! 

 

 This was just a simple, fairly busy hike that we took the kids on up by Snowqualmie Pass.  But it was exquisite!  I believe a lot of it had to do with the time of day we went. The lighting was beautiful with the setting sun's rays slanting through the branches. Wow. I can't describe how lovely it was.  Eric ended up turning around early with the 2 little ones but Gabe and I finished up the hike all the way to the falls. He was such a cute little hiking buddy, just chattering away the whole time! It was really fun to have that one-on-one time with him.  I know he felt very grown up that he could keep hiking all the way to the top! Usually he hikes with his dad so I think he thought this was extra special to be with me this time.  It felt special to me, too. :)