3rd time's a charm

I am so proud of Sam and myself! Last weekend we finally accomplished something that had been alluding us for years...

In 2017, the boys and I were all curious about this very visible hike in Palisade and attempted to get to the end but only made it about a quarter of the way up.

Great views, whiny 13-year old, and a plan to try again. 

So in 2018 we made our second attempt and managed to get half way up before running out of time. 

More great views, not as much whining, and disappointment at not getting any further.

So last weekend, with the whole day full of big blue skies and mild temps and nothing else to do, I literally drug Sam out of bed for one, last try. We were determined - and I have Sam to thank for keeping us on track and persevering and encouraging me when I doubted our goal. It was no easy task - 2,000 feet elevation in 2 miles - but totally worth it.

Amazing views, only a little whining (yeah, that would be me!) and the satisfaction of making it to the top!

Just missing our 3rd hiking partner this time - sorry Hamp, you'll have to attempt this one when you get back from Norway!!!

Homecoming pictures

Sam had the very best date for Homecoming this year - these two are fun together and complement each other so well! 

And I love to see his big, genuine smile and how he enjoys being with all his friends...

 

Homecoming preparations

 Sam had a wonderful sophomore homecoming experience - partly because as class president he was highly involved in the planning and organizing of the dance and some of the week's activities, and mostly because he did all the fun activities with good friends and a great Homecoming date!

There were dress-up days at school and (his favorite!) the Peach Fuzz volleyball game in the evening. And of course, he represented the golf team in the Homecoming parade!

my red boat

 Summer 2022 recap:

White River

Colorado River

Kenny Reservoir

Lake Avery

Trapper's Lake

Golf!

 Sam just closed out another fantastic sports season at Meeker High! He chose to continue working out this summer on the golf course and went out for the team again this August. His perseverance paid off as the 'most improved' golfer on the team... and his scores this year were testament to his hard work.

Although, he seemed to be equally inclined to focus on the friendships and partnerships on the links...

first day of (folk) school

 The newest adventure begins...

Hamp's decision to do a gap study year at a Norwegian Folk School didn't exactly take me by surprise, although his choice to follow a photography program caught me off guard a little! Regardless, I have never been more confident that he is on his right path and thriving... already making friends and jumping in fjords and trying new foods and taking beautiful photos of the countryside and its inhabitants (goats!), all in the first few days of the semester!

first day of school

 Oh my heart - this guy is a sophomore now:

He took his first ever solo first day of school photo...since pre-school he has been going off to school with his big brother. But now it is his time for the spotlight and he couldn't be more ready. He is having a great Varsity Golf season so far, is being acknowledged by the School Board of Education for a 2nd place finish at Nationals in FCCLA this summer, and generally is excited about his classes and his friends. I love watching him grow into his own sense of style and self and am so proud of the choices he makes and look forward to watching him shine...