Echo Lake

We didn't waste any time and headed to Echo Lake the day after school was out! Unfortunately it started out pretty rainy and cold for the first few days. I've never felt Echo Lake so cold before, but then it went from one extreme to another. We had a solid 2 or 3 weeks of +30 and above weather! The water quickly warmed up and it became smoking hot, to the point where we would go boating and have to jump in the water in between surfers. We had a lot of fun surfing this year and were able to get Bentley and Deacon up on a surf board on their own, and later, surfing without the rope for a little while. They loved it! Jeff took Leo on the surf board with him, and he loved it. Boston was very happy to stay in the boat and watch. He became even more obsessed with boats and fish, or should I say, "Big Bad Barry!" This came from an episode of Ben and Holly, but has quickly become his favorite thing to talk about and play with. 

We were able to be at the cabin with Jeff's parents and all of his brothers at one point, and it was great. Justin brought a bunch of his friends and hosted them in the cabin next door. He planned some activities like watching a play at the playhouse, and going to the rodeo, which Jeff and I were both able to join in on! I also enjoyed my yearly solo shopping trip in Kalispell. I especially had a blast at Target this year, picking out bedspreads and different things for our new bedrooms that we've been renovating at home. 

The biggest highlight, though, was probably all the activities for the 4th of July. We always love going to the parade and then celebrating by joining with their neighbors for a dance and amazing fireworks display! I couldn't get over Leo's reactions to the fireworks as he said, "That's incredible, I can't believe it! This is the best day of my life." I had to hold in tears as he sat on my lap and brought so much joy to our night. I just love his pure happiness and positivity in life. Boston went to sleep before the fireworks, which was just what he wanted to do that night! We all had a fun and late night. 

Other things we did this trip were buying and setting up a basketball hoop, lots of fishing by Deacon of course, Bentley and Emri's nail and spa salon, swimming over and over, duck pond Sunday, and going on daily walks and runs. Leo also lost his very first tooth on the dock and Bentley and Emri made up a dance. We made some yummy meals as well and had such a good time together! I think this was one of my favorite years because I didn't have a baby to feed and nap, and felt a lot less stressed without that.