Happy Easter, Keester

I've been told that Keester was a bird that Michael's family had when he was growing up. All I know, is I wake up every Easter to that rhyming greeting.

So, "Happy Easter, Keester."

I decided that a family photo shoot was in order. When Moose saw me pull the bunny ears out from under the bed, he ran out of the room, tail-tucked. Moose is pretty patient as long as he has a parent touching him, but he becomes increasingly more embarrassed with his outfit the longer he wears the bunny ears.

He started out pretty agreeable. "Dad, I love hanging out with you."

"Aw, yes. Belly rubs make wearing these ears worth it. I like Easter." 

"Hmmm. I'm starting to feel ashamed. Don't leave me."

"Um, Dad? Where'd you go, Dad?"

"Daaaaaadddy!"

Since the photo shoot wasn't going so well, we relocated to Moose's grandparents' house.

He was feeling very loving. 

 Best block against slobber kisses? Tackle hugs.

 Depending on who you are, you'll find the above photo either adorable or disgusting. Michael needs to learn about the tackle hug.

We'll take it. 

We got it. Cover dog shot.

Happy Easter!

Jackson Hole Adventures

We were lucky enough to meet up with Pat and Erin and posse in Jackson Hole last weekend. Well, that was a pretty place. We spent exactly no time posing for pictures under arches of antlers and a lot of time rambling in the Tetons, playing games, and eating. That's the recipe for a great trip.

I told you they were pretty.

Our condo was only about five miles from the South entrance to the Tetons. We ended up with a blue bird day for our hike. 

Michael, Tomas, Mandy, Erin, and Pat prove that physical appearance is an important part of any hiking expedition--snow gear can be both practical and fashion forward. Here they are at the Taggart Lake trailhead.

Because I have been rather lazy lately, with my longest hiking expeditions being the .5 mile walk from our house to the park, I was happy to hang back and play photographer. I mean...I felt so strongly about my photographic goals that I boldly elected to bring up the rear. I also fought off the bears that were following us. You're welcome, team. 

 The Tetons are so steep and jagged that they feel more imposing than the Wasatch range. They rise from the valley at such a dramatic angle.

Can you spot the intrepid trio marching below? 

The views on our hike changed with each step. 

 Bradley Lake. Needless to say, there was no swimming. We did eat lunch though, during which Michael spent a full twenty minutes complimenting the sandwich I made him with such comments as, "I didn't know you could make sandwiches!" and "Sarah, what the hell? This sandwich is so good." After the third time he asked me why I've never made him a sandwich, I replied--"This conversation is not inspiring me to ever make you another sandwich. Ever." My secret?

Bread

PB

Potato Chips

J

Bread

I might make Michael another sandwich. In eight years or so.

 On the lake. I did have a Little Women moment, where I imagined Amy slipping under the ice, but the ski and boot tracks across the snow-covered surface made me feel better. Plus, Laurie would totally save me and then Jo would forgive me for the manuscript burning. So, win win.

Still talking about the sandwich. Seriously. "Really. I had no idea she could make a good sandwich."

We spent a highly-enjoyable night filled with too many enchiladas and lots of Settling. The next morning we headed to Jackson Lake. I've never seen ice that color. Despite the overcast skies, the frozen lake was bright and beautiful.

I couldn't quite capture the color with my wet lens and cold fingers, but you'll have to take my word for it. Turning the corner and seeing the lake open up was my favorite moment of the trip. So beautiful. Ok, new rule--the next time I say "beautiful" I have to do 20 push ups.

Checking the ice. 

Our buddies, Tanner and PK exploring,  Samurai style. 

Thanks for the invitation, Pat and Erin! Maybe someday you could convince us to come back (wink, wink, hint, nudge, eyebrow raise). It was really beautiful. (Aw, crap.)