Bear Lake

We were invited to go to Bear Lake last week, tricky part was with  Mike's new job we have NO PTO, like none for months still to come and all 4 kids had school. Some families went up Wednesday but we were not able to make it til Friday afternoon. Mike was able to get off work early and we left as soon as school was out Friday and hit the road. We arrived just over 2 hours later to set up our tent and camp site, go swim at the KOA pool and then join the group for dinner. One of the festivities at the KOA is a tractor ride. Can I just say how awesome it is to have a responsible, willing, older daughter? She didn't hesitate at all and took Lilly over to ride the tractor. Love her! Love this tradition and glad we came. We almost chickened out because one night and one day is a lot of work. 

 Friday night, kids played at the jumping pillow, the playground, played giant chess and checkers and horseshoes along with the arcade room and then night games and smores. Always plenty to do and of course eat! Saturday morning we did a big pot luck breakfast. Here's two of my fav's girls  Lexi and Abby.

 They did a lot of upgrades and improvements and new additions to the KOA since last August when we were up. These cute and giant chairs were one of them.

 After breakfast, games, playground and clean up along with check out we headed to the North shore of Bear Lake on the Idaho border to go to the beach. It was a little chilly still, and honestly wasn't supposed to be that warm but it turned out to be a perfect day. No wind, no rain, lots of sunshine and blue skies. Kara who had been up all week said that Saturday was the best day all week. So we lucked out!

Here's Maddy building sand castles with little Maddy and Lilly. And then lots of beach and water pictures to follow.

 Along with kayaking and paddle boards. We need to get some of these kayaks--they are so fun! We also insisted life jackets were a must if the kids were out in the water past their knees. Not too long ago a mother and her 11 year old daughter drowned. So sad, heartbreaking for their family. BUT we prayed and prayed and were blessed with safety and lots of good times.

 My almost 12 year old! Sniff, sniff.

 Lexi dug a hole and then sat in it:)

 This girl was playing non stop. I always forget sunscreen somewhere and honestly do not think about legs ever. Her thighs got a little burnt. BUT this smile, the sand, the water and the fun were all she could talk about all week long.

 We always have lots of treats and lunch at the beach, cute Henry was super proud of his new trick, Even ate the licorice after. His cute Mom was out in the boat all day, he fended pretty well for himself! He's Lilly's age and the two get a long quite well. He can be a hitter, he's the youngest of 4 boys and Lilly said he was even nice to me. LOL.

 Before we left for the day, I wanted a family photo. Mike was posing for his selfie shot. Maddy just happened to listen first and got in it. Thanks Clairesse for taking our pics.

 Pretty stinkin' cute bunch  I might add!

Not only did Kara drive the boat, she also snapped lots of pics so we could have some. Isn't that water amazing! Bear Lake is always so blue, I love driving up through the canyon and coming around the bend and seeing the blue!! 

 Lexi wasn't too sure about coming aboard the boat, I finally talked her into at least riding on the boat. She even got brave enough to ride on the tube.

 And ride again.

 and even so brave as to put her hands straight up. I'm sure she had to be tossed in the water in order to get off!

 Jack even got brave himself. That's Jack standing while tubing!

 After the boat ride, these two got in their towels but the beach was still calling. Kami and I wondered what they were out their talking about. Love these two!

 And more boat ride pictures. Big thanks to Kara for taking out the boat and giving the kids a great afternoon on the water.

About 5pm, we packed up camp and headed back into town to eat dinner at Zips. We enjoyed shakes and corn dogs and fries and then headed home. Long day, short trip but so worth it. We have a wonderful "hood" that we get a long well with, lots of kids, lots of fun always to be had and great friendships along the way. Until next year!!