Labor Day Vacation

We planned a little family getaway for Labor Day weekend.

Since we were going to be in the car for hours we rigged up the iPads so the boys could play some games and watch movies. 

 Alex found the camera and loved making faces at himself.

 The first night we drove as far as we could down south and found a primitive camp spot and set up camp for the night.  We had a blast that night.  With no one around it was so peaceful.

 It was fun watching the boys enjoy the fire.

 We set up camp, yes the tesnt was on a hill but only for one night.

 We roasted marshmallows

 The next morning we made some breakfast and then broke down camp to head to our next destination that we would be staying at for a couple of nights.

 Such a cute little bum!

 The boys LOVE helping daddy with anything!

 We roasted little weenies in the morning because they were so good the night before.

 Helping daddy roll up the tent.

 Then we surprised the boys with hiking in Goblin Valley for a couple of hours.

 Yes, I am that mom that can't resist taking a cute bum picture!

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I love this picture because these two really do love each other so much!  They would do anything for each other.

 We found a good spot to eat lunch.  (and take pictures)

 This place is just so amazing and beautiful!

 What a little stud muffin!

 It was a perfect day to explore this wonderful part of Utah.

 After Goblin Valley we headed to Four Corners.

 It was fun seeing the boys get in all four states at one time.

 We got to Cortez, Colorado and found the tepee that we would be staying in.

Daddy made a great breakfast before our big adventure for the day.

 We headed out to Mesa Verde National Park.

 I have been looking froward to this vacation for awhile because it is such an amazing thought that these ancient people created these amazing houses that are still here today.

We stopped in the Museum first because we were told that the boys could become Jr. Rangers and that was a must!  Next to the museum is Spruce Tree House and it is self guided and a short walk.  We headed down to see it and it is just so impresive!

Spruce Tree House at a distance 

 After seeing our first ruins we were able to complete the Jr. Ranger requirements.  We headed back to the museum and the boys were officially sworn in as Jr. Rangers.

They got a pin that is now permanently on there water packs.

 We were able to go in a Kiva.

 It was fascinating being inside and experiencing more of their lives.

Can you believe they made a three story house?

 We went up to Balcony house.  This is so impressive!!!  There house is literally on the side of a mountain below a cliff.  We had to climb several ladders to get through the house.  What an experience! 

 The boys did amazing climbing all of the ladders!  This was a tiny one, the others were at least a story tall.

 Alex photo bombing DJ's picture.

 We had an amazing time on our trip and it was so great to spend some quality time together learning about people of the past.  I am so grateful for my little family!