Yosemite Visit

This was the first visit for the kids to Yosemite National Park. With the long Memorial Day weekend, we decided to take a day trip there. We haven't done many road trips with them up until the last year to year and a half because they would get so carsick on even the shortest drives. That didn't make for the types of memories we were shooting for and they were miserable the rest of the day when we did make attempts. Now that they are older and know how to control getting themselves from being carsick (1/2 a pill of Dramamine before we head out helps too), we are slowly getting a little more adventersome. The drive to and inside to get to Yosemite Valley is pretty curvy but thankfully, no one got sick or even complained of not feeling well. It was GREAT!

As we got closer to Yosemite, I was touched when Ethan said from the backseat "You're right Mommy. The drive here is beautiful." It is actually getting to the point now where we are excited to travel with the kids and love that they are really appreciating the trips too.

It was overcast and raining pretty much the entire time we were at Yosemite but that didn't stop any of us from having a fun time. Being 25 weeks pregnant I wasn't sure how well I would do with all the walking but suprisingly I didn't start feeling uncomfortable until the very end of the day after lots and lots of walking. I think the cool weather was a bonus in that regard. The kids absolutely LOVED it and can't wait to go back for another visit when it isn't raining so they can explore and hike a little more without the ground being so soggy and wet.

Kids first view of Yosemite after passing thru the tunnel. It was cold after being in a cozy car for over 2 hours and they were anxious to get back in the car and eat their lunches we packed.

Photo Op

Absolutely beautiful!

Finally able to get out of the car and start exploring the park.

Russ and Rebecca - Ethan took the picture

Ethan on the way up to Yosemite Falls.

Very wet - at the bottom of the lower Yosemite Falls.

Russ took Rebecca & Ethan on the rock climb to get to the bottom of the waterfall. Kendall and I stayed at the bottom. I was glad Rebecca wore her bright pink sweater. It made it easy to spot her along their hike.

Kendall waiting patiently in the jogger while the others hiked down from the waterfall.

The kids hands were ice cold from the wet, slippery climb but they still had smiles!

We got a kick out of Rebecca with her camera. She is a naturally talented photographer and really enjoyed capturing God's creation. It was cute to see what caught her attention and then to see her photos at the end of the day. She took some really great photos.

Rebecca loved all the trees. I thought this pic she took was great - looks like the two trees are shaking hands.

For most of the day, Half Dome was covered with clouds. As we were getting ready to leave, it finally cleared enough for the kids to see and take a few pictures.

Kendall begged to take some pictures too. This is one she took of Ethan and I enjoying some hot chocolate after a long day of walking.

Even when she's getting in trouble she's cute!

Just about back to the car to head home - Rebecca caught this picture of Kendall unzipping my jacket and kissing my belly. She gives the baby loves every day.

The only photo we got all together.

We stopped one last time on the way out so Rebecca could snap a few more pictures. Me waving to Russ - thankful to be off my feet in a warm car.

Kendall all tuckered out!