We had an absolutely amazing trip to Gifford Pinchot National Forest, where we pretty much pulled off the side of the road and camped. So much fun!! The next morning we woke up and made the trip to Mt. Rainier. When we got there it was breath taking. The PNW is beautiful. We had a picnic lunch and then made our way through the Park to the base of Mt. Rainier. The elevation on Paradise Trail was about 1600' and I was terrified at first because I am still recovering from a knee surgery I had in May. The hike was just stunning the whole way up. We came across deer, marmots, and chipmunks. My little son was full of so much excitement! On the way up we saw multiple glaciers and of course went glasliding (glacier sliding). Most fun ever!!! When we got to the top of the trail I realized that all the pain and strain was indeed worth it. Pictures cannot capture the beauty that we were able to admire. The most beautiful outdoor scene I have ever seen. I will throw some pictures in just to give you a glimpse of what it was like. If you have never been to Mt. Rainier, it is a MUST!! I didn't even care if I could walk or not after the hike because it was so worth it.
Then we had a series of events happen when we got home. Sore knees on my end, little Stephen was wiped, David had a busy week of work, we had an ER visit (everything seems to be okay and follow ups are going well), I helped host a bridal shower for one of my best friends (friends for 19 years!) as well as go to her bachelorette dinner. Then I had some unfortunate hair mishaps this week....yes I braved it and used a box color, worst idea ever, had multiple toners used and help from Elite School of Beauty: only place I could get in on such short notice, it's cheaper, and I actually love going there, however the process does take a LONG time because it is a beauty school. So all in all this was a successful, fun, stressful, eventful, and amazing week. We are still going strong and that is all that matters!!
