Shelly Caskey’s daughter, Maya, began Kindergarten this week, and as all of us mamas have experienced when life gets hectic, dates got mixed up. Shelley will be joining us next weekend for the Artist at Work series, and I look forward to welcoming her then.
As for today, well you just get me 
Our family has been plagued with an end of summer cold, and my poor husband sounds like an animal choking, rather then a 34 year old man. Last night we decided that we needed to get everyone out of the house, and into the fresh air. The boys were beginning to feel a bit better, and they chose that they wanted a picnic on the river.
There is this small spot, right up the canyon, that is quiet, peaceful and perfect for family outings. Nestled right along the Poudre River, Picnic Rock is full of hidden coves, small sandy shores, and beautiful rock formations (perfect for 5 year old legs to crawl all over).
Late into the evening, we packed our car up with a small meal, all the sand toys that they boys could find, and our new blankets and bags, and headed out. There was a small sense of sadness, seeing that the light was fading behind the mountains a little earlier, the nights needing jackets and the leaves turning a slight golden hue.
It was a night for new achievements. Jacob swam the width of the river, alone, and much to my serious panic. He was determined, and my husband encouraged me to let him try. It would have taken us all of 6 micro seconds to reach him, and the river really isn’t running much at all this time of year, but I was still freaked out. Jacob learned to swim on his own last year, and it is still hard for me to realize that he is capable of such things.
The river in this area was rather wide (and too cold for my blood), but he seemed to enjoy it. On his last time across, he climbed the rocks on the other side, and sat for quite a long time watching a fly fisherman nearby (seriously, he had to have been freezing). It was not exactly the best time to only be carrying my 50mm lens with me, but if you look close enough, you can make him out
We read books and relaxed
Threw A LOT of rocks (or danced like Elvis, whichever one you see you in this photo)
And got a great evening hike in
I love these moments, where we are together, outdoors, full of food, and filled with fun.
I wish you all a perfect weekend, much rest, and lots of fun
{ 11 comments… read them below or add one }
What a wonderful evening, to relax beside the water and you certainly found a great spot. Congratulations to Jacob for his river swim and I expect it was freezing cold, just like the river water in Scotland.
Enjoy your weekened.
What a beautiful evening. Its been a long long while since I've ventured out in nature like that (I really can't bear the heat), but this has me yearning for it…
I love getting out in nature, as you know. What a lovely spot to breathe in the fresh air and swim. It looks like you had a perfect time! It's always scary for me to watch my kids try something new. I hold my breath for a moment until I know that they're alright. Happy Weekend!
Lovely post. I got a lump in my throat thinking of my own boys growing up and summer coming to an end. Time to look forward to the beauty of Autumn…
Such beautiful pictures! We have been to that river once before. What a wonderful family evening. Wishing you all much health and happiness for these last weeks of summer!
What a perfect evening! We are not so great about getting out in nature. For one, hubby always ends up sneezing and congested from his allergies. We need to work on more restful times together. I have been finding it hard lately when I am so weary and my three year old can't sit still.
glad you're all feeling better and having such precious moments together. Have a great start to your week.
I love these moments between seasons, when you can still see the one your in but hints of the one that is coming. What a wonderful cusp!
-genny
So amazing to have THAT right around the corner.
It's nice to see the bag in action and I'm sure that the fresh air did you all a world of good.
Feel better soon.
Love these pictures.
hi That sounds wonderful. How hard it can be to trust in the development of our children! I found you through soulemama, and like what i've read. We are contemplating homeschooling soon, we have three children and the eldest is at a waldorf kindy at present. I have added you to my reading list if thats okay?
what a beautiful spot to spend an evening together. looks like everyone had so much fun! i love the photo of your big guy swimming in the river – how proud you must have been!