Day Trip

On Tuesday, we left early in the morning for a day trip to the mountains. The boys were so excited for our adventure!

We made it to Jasper National Park at 11 am. We stopped at a lake that I have always loved seeing as we drove by. It is a very shallow lake that allows you to walk out a great distance and it never gets deeper than mid calf. The water is so clear and clean. With the mountain views, it was a perfect place to stop and get out to wade in the water!

We went for lunch in the town of Jasper. We walked around and explored all the stores and sights. There were so many tourists because it's summer and peak season. I was impressed with how well my seven year old did with all the people.

We continued on to Maligne Canyon. A favorite place for me for many years. It is so peaceful and awe inspiring with the rushing water and awesome rock formations.

Scott had an interview. While he was in his interview, the boys and I hiked the canyon. I love how calming and therapeutic natural places are for the kids, especially for Chesney. The uneven footing, smells, sounds and textures are all great therapy for him. He covered his ears in some of the louder spots. He did so awesome though, with all the people and the rushing water and smells and different footings.

While I was sitting on a bench, admiring the water and view, the kids were playing on the rocks. There was a fence for people to view the water and canyon. Chesney went to stand at the fence to see the water. There was a line of people along the fence admiring the view. While standing next to an elderly man, he reached up, slipped his hand into the man's hand and calmly stood there. The man did not pull his hand away, he just smiled a giant smile and looked at me and his wife. When they went to leave, Chesney yelled, "Bye Grandpa! Bye Grandma!" The couple was smiling and laughing. My heart swelled because I was reminded how much joy this boy brings to everyone he meets!

Jasper, even for just one day, was therapeutic to us all. Today, there is laundry and cleaning up from camping last weekend and other things. Packing for our upcoming Mexico trip. For one day though, we cherished our time together and lived in the moment!