Nature and a Perfect Day

I loved today.  It was one of those perfect weather days, not too cold, not too hot.  We went up to the Stokes Nature Center in Logan Canyon to our Parent and tot class.  I was just basking in the green growing everywhere, the sound of the river and watching my boy throw rocks like a champ.  It was so peaceful.

We have to hike up a short trail to get to the center.  Over the past couple of months, I have watched the trees bud and then grow into leaves.  The world went from cold and brown to leafy green.  I don't think I ever paid attention to stuff like that before.  Now, Leo and I stop and examine the butterfly flying among purple flowers or to talk about dandelions. And meeting some new buddies to throw rocks in the river isn't too bad either.

I never thought I would be one of those people who signed up for a bunch of classes.  I'm more of a "let your child play and explore" kind of person but I have been so happy with this little class.  That and it was time that we met more people with kids Leo's age. 

Leo and his rainbow project.

We met up with Heber at Hydro Park (the one where we got engaged) to have lunch together.  I told him that I refused to go inside on such a perfect day.  After our long, cold winter, we have to appreciate this little window of good weather.

Rocks and Mountains

The weather has been incredible lately.  The humidity seems to have taken a short hiatus and we are left basking in the 70 degree sunshine.  We got a phone call on Saturday from the Blake's to join them on an outdoor adventure and we couldn't help ourselves. 

We made our way up to Great Falls.  Who knew there was a waterfall here?   

 

Living in this metropolis area, I find myself missing being in the mountains and trees.  I think I took it for granted when we lived in Logan.  Whenever we wanted we could run up one of several canyons for a cookout or hike.  

The Crimson Trail, 2010

2010, Logan Canyon

Logan Canyon with the Hawks, 2009

The Wind Caves, 2006

In our canyon, Green Canyon, 2006

Now, the opportunities are few and I crave a good fire in the mountains.  To be away from life and in the quiet.  This trip felt a bit like home though.  Our life here is pretty hectic and traffic ridden, it was so nice to take a minute away and be in nature (even though there was still quite a crowd).  We did some hiking on the bank of the river and I just really enjoyed being out among the rocks and water.  I think it was good for my soul.   It's in those places I seem to think more clearly and put some issues into a different perspective. 

We ended the day with a trip to the Container Store (wow, that place merits a post of it's own) and a pork salad from the newly opened Cafe Rio.  Oh yeah.

Hands down, my new favorite picture of my two favorite guys.

And our sweet boy.  Just look at those cheekers.