Rock Climbing

My sister Sarah came home this weekend for her birthday. Happy Birthday, Sarah! While she was here we decided to do a little rock climbing with the boys. Ardie had taken me for the FIRST TIME just this past week. It's really fun! I don't know why I haven't done it before. 

The only problem was I had all three kids, it was a difficult climb carrying Greta  just to get to where the ropes were and nowhere to put Greta down. 

Saturday we left Greta with Ryan (thank you, honey) and set out to Cougar Canyon.

There is nothing better than spending time with my sisters, my boys and nature.

The boys had a good time on the hike in.

Joseph gives me a pose as he gets his harness on.

Good thing Ardie is a safety nut. 

Edwin had tried climbing earlier in the week.... the more difficult climb... and decided he just wanted to do some free climbing.

Joseph did so well!  

Here he is rappelling back down. 

Then it was my turn.... like the crazed look in my eyes!?!

It looks like I'm totally relying on the rope here but I promise I wasn't. I'll show you the nasty sore on my knee to prove it.

I love this picture. (but not the size of my butt)
Thank you Ardie and Sarah for teaching us to climb!

Armstrong Fair

I remember going to the IPE as a young child with all my siblings. Mom would tow us around the fairgrounds to look at the prize winning zucchini and blue ribbon heifer.  I looked longingly at the other children enjoying the rides and playing all the games.  I promised myself that when I was a mother, my children would get to know what it was like to really enjoy the fair. 

Thursday I hauled Joseph, Edwin and Greta to the fair. I took them to the petting zoo. Then dragged them through all the exhibits to see the animals, poultry and baked goods. I just couldn't understand all the whining.  We still hadn't found the produce and my kids just wanted to play the games and go on the rides. I learned that fairs are good for throwing money away. I caved under the pressure (incessant whining) and let the boys play one game and go on TWO rides. I know, the extravagance! See, I didn't turn out like my mother :)

Edwin and Greta enjoying the Wallaby.  

These bunnies were frisky and I just barely took this photo before it jumped off Edwin's lap.

Greta was in good humour although she spent most of her time in the stroller. The only way to stay sane with 3 children by myself in a crowd.

Ride #1
Ride #2

We spent a bit of time and "Kids World" enjoying the live entertainment. Edwin was so excited to participate in every song.   He wasn't so sure after they dressed him up in what they said was an African warrior.

Then they gave him a tambourine and it was all good.

Thank you IPE for all the memories... zucchini, Esmerelda, cotton candy, getting lost in the crowd, animal droppings  and the good ole fairway.