Aspen

Maroon Bells, 2013

We spent a few days in the heat of July on a trip to Aspen, CO.  Dave and I camped here when Amanda was very young, and we loved it, and have always wanted to go back.  We stayed in the same campground, and it didn't disappoint, it was very lush and beautiful.   Thunderclouds rolled through every day, although we managed to stay dry, by being in the right place at the right time. 

Patty drove over from St George to join us, which made the trip that much more fun.  We hiked, biked, played games, hung around the campground, and celebrated Jacobs 4th birthday with a visit to the beautiful Maroon Bells area, then pizza and ice cream in down town Aspen.   

 Jacob is learning to split logs with his dad, a valuable four year old boy skill I am told.  And I love this one below, of Spencer, who claimed he was bored constantly and wanted to go home to his legos.

On the last day we visited a place mentioned in a few guide books as being great for kids called the Grottos. I somehow didn't get pictures of this area, but it was such a great place to hike and climb around.  There was this cave system that reminds me of the hiking in a slot canyon, with ice inside still from winter snows.  And beautiful water falls with pools to dip your feet in.  It was one of my favorite days. A new favorite place.