"Bentures" in Island Park

My parents recently treated us to a vacation in Island Park, Idaho.  There is something good for the soul in slowing down and being with family, not to mention actually seeing stars, watching the sun rise, sitting around a campfire, and being surrounded by open space.  We left feeling rejuvenated, although rather reluctant to jump back into the rush of life.

This is the view from the porch of the cabin.  Each morning the mist would rise from the lake and cover the surrounding area.  It was so beautiful.  Somehow 6 a.m. feedings weren't quite as painful with a view like that to take in.

Our swedish friends introduced us to a lawn game called Kubb.  My dad made a Kubb set to take to the cabin and we played multiple times a day.  It was a favorite with kids and adults alike.

Cousins and pile of dirt--life doesn't get much better than that!

I haven't seen my dad as relaxed as he was up in Island Park for a long time.  He even brought out the carving knives again. 

This is the whole crew about to embark on our canoeing adventure on the Snake River.

Kate the boat babe!

The Woodford Canoe

Floating the river was one of the highlights of the trip.  Jane was a huge fan.  She loves to be held and she loves to move, so she was as happy as could be.  Kate loved reaching over to touch the water and looking for wildlife as we would explore every inlet we could find.  

Kate and her cousin Grace, in the bow, are best friends!  They were inseparable during the week.  They would take each other by the hand and say, "Let's go on a benture (adventure)!" and take off running around the porch or up into the loft or down into the sparest of spare rooms. Cousins are the best! 

Jack was the only boy cousin on the trip, so this is his manly support.

Josh & Jane enjoying the outdoors at Mesa Falls.

Bapa teaching Kate how to fish.

Thank you, Mom & Dad, for an incredible vacation!

We love Island Park!