Lake Mary

E got a Weber charcoal grill from me for his birthday and from everyone else he asked for money, because we really wanted a nice baby backpack for James to go on weekend hikes. These backpacks can get quite expensive, so everyone contributed money, and on Friday night we ran to REI to pick up the new pack.

We were a little worried that James wouldn't much care for the pack. He seemed to like the baby pack strapped on E's tummy, but when we put him on E's back he was not happy. So, we were beyond thrilled to see James smiling from ear to ear in the new back. Honestly, he smiled the entire trail, and it took us over an hour to complete.

Lake Mark is a short steep hike up near Brighton Ski Resort. It is a favorite because of the stunning lake at the conclusion. Plus you can continue on to Sunrise Peak, if you wish.

We decided to not continue on the trail, and instead stopped and relaxed at Lake Mary. James was so into everything. You could almost see his little baby mind figuring everything out. He had to touch and taste everything from the rocks to Daddy's hat. He happily chatted and looked around and snacked on some crackers.

We could not believe how wonderful he was being. Of course he is always wonderful, but he was so exceptionally happy, it was awesome.

And on the way back down the trail he finally conked out. Sleepy boy.

Another fun side note? Yesterday (the day we hiked to Lake Mary) was our FIVE year anniversary from the day we got engaged in Africa. Five years! Kind of fitting that James wore his little safari outfit, huh?

Can you get over this outfit? And this face? When I saw the African Safari outfit at Janie and Jack, I knew I had to have it.

And he really really loves the new pack. I kept asking him if his cheeks were hurting because he never stopped smiling.

The views were sure awesome.
The weather was fantastic, and not too hot!

Lake Mary!
1- Touching the rock seemed to keep him interested for over 15 minutes. He's really enjoying touching things lately.
2- Hanging with me near the water, and still smiling.

3- More rock touching
4- And he just had to taste Daddy's hiking hat

Soon he was hungry. And booby milk near the edge of a mountain lake, well in James's opinion, life doesn't get any better.
Two boys enjoying the view.
He's such a good stander, he loves it.
Hanging with Daddy. Hanging with Mama.

It was a very busy day for such a little man. He finally conked out on the way down. Heaven I tell you (notice how he's holding the straw for E's Camel Back? Yep, he had a hold of that the entire time, so cute it melts me).