July 4TH!!

We took a different approach to Independence Day this year. Rather than join all the crowds at the parade in Blanding we decided to head up the mountain. We took a picnic lunch and drove up to the saddle. We hiked up the trail (Cooley Pass Trailhead) a ways til it got really steep and the boys declared they were hungry. After lunch we played a bit of football, looked at wild flowers, and just enjoyed the peace and quiet. I thought we might have to search to find  a place where no one else was, but we didn't see anyone else. We are very blessed to live in such a beautiful place where God's handiwork is so evident and we can easily get away from 'civilization' to enjoy nature. Happy Birthday, America!

(Edited to add some shots of fireworks from Blanding's show)

Heading south on the Cooley Pass Trailhead

It was so nice to get up in the cool pines...TALL pines.

Trail got really steep so we turned around and went back.

James posing for pictures...

Having a cool drink in the shade. James stole my chair.

Cambria and James enjoying the peace and quiet and Shasta and CapriSun.

A drink is much needed after hiking.

Playing a little football on the top of the mountain. Careful not to let it go over the hill!
You'll have to chase it a long ways.

North Creek Pass, aka 'the Saddle' (what Grandpa B called it)

BOOM!!

BOOM, BOOM, BOOM!!!