exploring deschutes falls park

Happy Monday, friends! (And a happy short week, too!) We had a great weekend here exploring our new digs, yet again, and we really enjoyed spending some time together as a family before Ryan leaves again next week. I've mentioned before that we really want to get out and explore as much of the PNW as possible while we're stationed here, and we've been doing really well at that thus far, thankfully! We decided this weekend that Saturday would be spent close to home. We did another Wear Blue, Run to Remember 5k, which was so fun, yet again. Sunday, however, we decided to head down to Deschutes Falls Park in Yelm, WA.

This private park only recently reopened last year after being closed for many years due to accidental deaths, park damage, and inadequate management. Thurston County, however, reopened the park with a full-time live-in caretaker at the head of the trail so that visitors can, once again, enjoy the 400-foot gorge, easy hike, and views of the 27-foot waterfall. 

I'd read up on the hike enough before we headed out to know that this was a good starting point for the boys. We're by no means great hikers, but it's a big goal of ours to get out, hike, explore, and get the boys really interested in exploring all our natural world has to offer. The hike, itself, is only about three-quarters of a mile, but you can add or subtract distance, as well, based on where you want to explore. 

We took some time at the bottom of the trail to view the falls in all their glory, but it's fairly well blocked off. So, we decided to walk up a bit further on the trail to get above the falls, and I'm so glad we did! Above the falls (well above, mind you), there are some small chutes, natural swimming pools, and great places to do a few little cliff jumps if you're daring. We all brought our swimsuits, and the boys really wanted to get in, but the water was C O L D. I ended up being the only one who actually got in - if you saw my instagram stories, you probably saw a pic of my jump!

We did, however, make our way down one of the crevices to sit on the rocky little "beach" through the narrower section of the pools, and we all sat together to have a little snack and enjoy the view. Then, yours truly decided to jump in because...when in Rome and all that. So, I did a quick deck change (there weren't many people, so it was easy to change on the spot) and, after much fussing, jumped into the frigid water - twice! SO fun. I'm so glad I did it. If you're in the PNW, and you're up for a hike, here's what you need to know:

Trail Length: About 3/4 a mile each way

Level of Difficulty: Easy - the path is gravel though, and it can get steep. I wouldn't bring a stroller.

Cost - Free - display your Discover Pass in the windshield just in case

Parking - Free lot at the trail head

Bathrooms - There is one portable toilet at the trail head (I'd recommend bringing your own wipes)

Tips - Bring a towel & bathing suit if you're adventurous

All in all, we spent about two and a half hours on the trail, blew nap time, and had an absolute blast as a family. If there's one thing I'm grateful for here at Fort Lewis, it's the opportunity to get out and explore. We can't wait to see what adventures are next!

I'm linking up today with B Loved Boston for Weekending.

one day in kingston, ontario

Is there anything better than grandparents coming to visit? I'd have to argue that there isn't. My mom, my boys' Oma, came to visit this weekend, and it was (as always) the absolute best and most refreshing time. I find that when Ryan is gone, it can be very isolating. Though I love being social and getting time with friends, there aren't a lot of moments of adult interaction while he's gone. This weekend was fun because we completely skipped naptime both days, took a trip to Kingston, Ontario for the last time, and I treated my mom to Bombay Duck Pickle Cafe, which I knew she'd love.

Saturday was a rainy one. Rather than spend the day indoors, I did a quick run in the morning, we walked the dogs, and we drove the hour up to Canada. It was super simple, the boys watched Paw Patrol the whole way there, and we took the chariot stroller to keep them out of the rain. We had a quick lunch of poutine at The Works Gourmet Burger Bistro on Princess Street, then we walked all around Fort Henry and the battlefield in the rain. Nestled high above the Royal Military Academy, it was beautiful to view the St. Lawrence River and let the boys run around and explore as the rain tapered off.

We also took a little time for the boys to play at The Rockinghorse toy store in Kingston. They have a Thomas the Train setup, and the boys can't get enough of it. Since Porter's second birthday is fast-approaching and we needed to buy some gifts anyway, we let them play. They had a blast - and 90% of this activity was free!

Mamas, truly, is there anything better than watching your kiddos venture around and explore?

Travel Tips to Canada from Fort Drum:

1 // Parents, if traveling with minor children, make sure you have their real birth certificates or their passports. If only one parent is traveling across the border, make sure you have certified copies of their birth certificates, their passports, and a signed letter of consent from the other parent. More often than not, the border guard will let you cross with the passport only, but it's better safe than sorry.

2 // Get Travel Pass on your phone. You won't pay roaming or data charges while in Canada, which is extra helpful when looking up directions, or searching on Yelp for great places to eat. 

3 // Do not bring produce over the border, and make certain that you don't have any firearms in your car either. You'll need to declare both, have all measures of security on you, permits, etc. It's more hassle than it's worth, and you'll have to declare and furnish all papers both on the Canadian and US sides of the border.

4 // Make sure that your license and registration are in order and on hand. They can ask for them at any time, and it's important that you know exactly where they are - just in case.

This was my mom's last trip here to Black River prior to our PCS (in 17 days...what?!), so we soaked up all the time we possibly could. She'll be arriving back here on the 6th, and we leave the 7th, so big things are coming. Until then, we're gearing up, we're getting ready, and we're waiting on Daddy to get his butt back home!

I'm linking up today with B Loved Boston for Weekending.

sh*t spencer says

What better way is there to wrap up a week than to focus on the world according to Spencer? This boy, I swear. He is so insanely intuitive, and yet he's absolutely ridiculous, as well. He speaks a mile a minute - a far cry from where we were a year ago - and 90% of what he says cracks us up. Last night, for instance, we were talking to Oma on Facetime over dinner, and he was being particularly naughty. Oma asked if he wanted an ear flick, to which he replied, "No, I'm okay."

Three is such a funny year for us. He is so fun, and he is so challenging. He's turning into this tiny little human, and he's literally a sponge. He hears everything, and he just absorbs it all. It's fantastic and terrifying, and it makes for some of the funniest conversations. I've also learned that arguing with Spencer is like arguing with a tiny version of myself.

So, without further ado, here are some of our latest gems when conversing with Spencer...because I literally can't, and these need to be immortalized.

 // Regarding dinner: "It smells like cat food."

First off, what? Second, we don't even talk about cat food, so I'm not sure where he came up with this assertion.

// Also regarding dinner: "This is yummy cat food."

Hmmmm...thanks, I think? Also, how do you know what cat food tastes like?

// Picking him up from daycare: "Mommy! You came back for me!"

Of course I did, bud! I didn't realize there was another option.

// Unbuckling him from his car seat first: "Mommy! You picked me!"

When he says stuff like this, it makes me think I'm putting my kids through the Hunger Games or something. Like I've picked my tribute. 

// While Oma helps him use the bathroom: "Oma, Daddy's got a big weenie!"

If you could have seen my mother's face when he said this, you would have died. This isn't the first time he's discussed Daddy's bits either. Ask us about the time we were boarding our plane in London.

// Looking at my scars: "Mommy, you got four boo-boos? *Counts to fourteen*"

Exactly - I mean, minus 10 of those, but exactly.

// Picking songs at night: "I freeeeelyyyy want Mickey Mouse Craphouse."

One day we'll learn how to say Clubhouse properly. Until that day, we'll all sing about the craphouse together.

// Looking at the frog on the driveway: "Look! A f*cky!"

Personally, I hope this never stops. 

// Getting them up in the morning: "Hi Mommy! Happy to see you again!"

There's a funnier story behind this. When we went to South Africa for Christmas, we all shared a room, and Ryan and I did our best to sleep right up until 7. Each morning, I'd peek out of the corner of my eye to see Spencer watching me, waiting to see me open my eyes. The second he did, he'd say "Hi! Happy to see you again!" Again, I don't know where he learned this, but it's the best.

Honestly, these moments make mothering a three-year-old SO worth it. His funny, he's sweet, he's hilarious, and he's witty without even trying. Does it get better than that?!

pawleys island, south carolina

I'd say that I'm sorry about the sudden radio silence last week, but I'm really not! The boys and I were in Pawleys Island, South Carolina, soaking up some sun, sand, and sea with family. It was a fantastic time that was spent decompressing, connecting with family, and really enjoying the here and now. I was working from South Carolina, so the last thing I wanted to do was add another thing to my plate and force out a blog, as well. Plus, I think there's something to be said about being really intentional and just staying in the present, all of which we did.

You might remember that the boys and I went last year, as well, while Ryan was deployed. Sadly, Ryan missed our trip again this year since he's TDY right now, but we enjoyed being able to have the rest of the family there (minus Uncle Josh) at least for a little while. Last year, Porter was too little to really appreciate or enjoy our time there. This time, he was the happiest little boy in the land! We spent our days alternating between the pools (there are two), the hot tub, and the beach. Though I can't get in the ocean yet because of my knee, I was able to swim a little in the pool and hot tubs with my boys, and it was a blast.

We've been going to Pawleys Island since I was little - probably around three years old. We stopped when we all went to college, but we started up again last year, and I'm so glad we did. Things have changed a little around there - it's busier, the Piggly Wiggly is gone (sad face) and replaced with a Bi-Lo, and there are more visitors. At the same time though, so much of it is the same and familiar. It's still the opposite of Myrtle Beach. It has a down-home country vibe, and it has a heart of locals, which is so much better than the average tourist trap. We rent a condo each year at Shipyard Village at Litchfield by the Sea, and it's worth it by every stretch of the imagination.

I actually even managed to see a good friend from college while we were there! Lisa and I swam at the University of Utah together, and now she and her husband are stationed in South Carolina. She brought her three little boys (and her one on the way!), and they spent the day with us in the sun. It was too fun.

If you're ever in the area (and you totally should go), here are some things you need to check out:

Quigley's Pint & Plate - grab a burger and brew...you won't regret it

The Hammocks Shops - an eclectic mix of country decor and boutique clothing...great for a rainy day

Rustic Table - their cheesy grits and fried pickles are out of this world

The Local Grid - it's about an 8-mile drive from Pawleys Island, but the coffees are divine

Was flying with two boys solo the easiest? No. Was it worth it? Heck yes. I'm officially out of my knee brace (!!!), and we enjoyed the journey together, yet again. Here's the thing; these little trips are challenging, but I wouldn't trade them for the world. We see places, we meet people, we experience things, and we grow together. This trip back to South Carolina was so. damn. worth it.

I'm linking up today with B Loved Boston for Weekending.

5 on friday: welcome december

I seriously can't believe it's already December! It's officially been a whole month since Ryan got home from his deployment, and in less than a week, we're heading out of the country. This is going to be the busiest few days here, as we're leaving NY for NH on Tuesday, then we're heading to Boston on Thursday to head out of the country. But, we're hoping to accomplish a few more things here before we go, and it's gearing up to be a good weekend! I'm linking up today with Smidge of This for 5 on Friday and Meet at the Barre for Friday Favorites.

1 // Spencer is turning 3 on Monday, December 4th! How is that even possible?! Every day I watch this little boy grow more and more mature. He's so aware of everything around him. He's sweet and sensitive, thoughtful and kind, silly and rambunctious. This little man gives me such great joy, and I can't wait to share our celebrations!

2 // Speaking of Spencer's birthday, I'm going to attempt to make cake pops this weekend for him to take to daycare on Monday. He loves cake pops, and I think it'll be a fun and kid-friendly treat for everybody. I'm hoping to follow this site's tips/recipe, and offer a chocolate-free version for a child in his class with an allergy. Fingers crossed it goes well?! 

image via

3 // We are leaving for South Africa next Thursday! My mom's family is from there, and we'll be spending about 3 weeks enjoying their summer while winter hits home here in NY. We're going to head to Zebula straight from the airport for several days, and we'll be spending Christmas at Harbeespoort Resort, but I'm not sure what else we'll do while there. Either way, I can't wait! I took this picture during my last trip back, and I can't wait to share it with my family!

4 // Ryan and I have his unit's Dining Out tonight at the RiverEdge Resort in Alexandria Bay. I used Rent the Runway again, and I stepped way out of my comfort zone with my dress this time. I'm really hoping the look comes together because I'm a little bit worried it won't! I'm doing my own hair tonight, so I'm not sure how that's going to go, but here's hoping it doesn't suck?!

5 // Totally unrelated to all the things, but I've been feeling like the worst cat mom lately because Stella and Jasper are going to be here in NY alone while we're in South Africa. Obviously, yes, we have a pet sitter, but I feel so bad! Danny is at least spending the month with my parents in NH. I've had my eye on this wall shelf for them from Meowingtons for a while now, and I keep hesitating to pull the trigger. Someone tell me that it's worth it and that I should just do it!

image via

That was a seriously random assortment of Friday thoughts, but that's clearly where my head is today. I hope you all have fantastic weekends and great plans ahead. Happy December, sweet friends!

what's up wednesday

I can't believe it's been a week since Ryan finally got home after a 9-month tour in the Middle East! We're settling back in, finally getting healthy, and we're kicking things into overdrive with the holidays getting closer. We officially leave in less than a month for South Africa, so Ryan's hard at work on his leave paperwork, and I'm knocking out all the work I possibly can before a 3 week break - I can't wait! This Wednesday though, I'm loving the little things. 

For example, we're doing a Christmas mini shoot with our favorite photographer, Julie, from Kindred Hearts Photography on Saturday. We'll use our pictures for our Christmas cards, and I'm thinking we'll choose a design from Minted this year. Here's my current front runner:

Card from Minted // Here

I love the mini photo cards because they're not annoyingly large, and I'm obsessed with the foil press. Here's hoping my boys take a cute picture in which maybe Porter will smile?!

Also, while we're on the topic of Christmas cards, can we just talk about my new favorite discovery?! If you're anything like me, you lose your addresses (and address books) in no time at all, and you're left scrambling for addresses each year. Just me? Okay, whoops. Well, this year, I discovered Postable. Did you know that you can build your own online address book here and save it forever? I'm obsessed. 

And, because I love Christmas and holiday cards, I'd love to send to everyone who wants one! If you'd love a card with the cutest little redhead and most emotional towhead around (and no, I don't mean Ryan and I), leave us your address here!

We also recently decided that we'll stay here in New York for Thanksgiving, and I'm super excited to make a feast for us and any single soldiers who want to join in on the chaos. For those who didn't know, I'm a huge fan of the Cooking Light magazine, and I've been devouring their holiday issue lately. I think I might need to try their turkey recipe because it looks positively amazing! 

Please tell me I'm not the only person who gets over-excited about the holiday season. I'm less excited about the gifts and monetary aspect of Christmas, and I'm much more excited about time with family, traveling together and making memories. That's the good stuff, folks!

our final fall in black river

I know I've mentioned it quite a few times, but this is our final fall here in Black River (assuming the Army doesn't throw us any curveballs), and what a fall it has been! This fall hasn't been a real fall by any stretch of the imagination. The weather has felt more like summer than summer did. Missing my husband has kept me super busy, and the fact that we have to start house-hunting soon has dominated my thoughts pretty much nonstop lately - along with the fact that we have a lot of semi-little things that need to be done around the house here before we rent it when we move.

But, I put those things aside this past weekend, and the boys and I decided to take advantage of the last two warm days of the season. I don't know how it is where you all live, but since Saturday night, it's been raining cats and dogs nonstop. The leaves are gone, and frankly, it feels like the end of days with these torrential downpours! However, we had a simple weekend with friends, days at the playground and enjoyed our last few days as just the three of us because some exciting things are happening this week, guys! You'll see ;)

On Saturday, we spent our morning visiting Loralee on post, getting lunch at the PX (something we never do, seriously), and just having fun outside. We visited the playground in Black River after naptime, then we decided to hit up Primos de Ticos in Great Bend for dinner. Funny story about that restaurant - it used to be two separate places. There was a place called Primos, which was a locally-owned Italian joint, and there was a place called Ticos, a locally-owned Mexican restaurant. Both are by Wheeler Sack Army Airfield. Both were struggling. And so, the two combined forces, moved into Primos location and became a Mexitalian joint. Loralee and I had queso and margaritas for appetizers, and then chicken parm for dinner. Best of both worlds? I think so! (The boys loved it, too!)

On Sunday, the rain had been going for about 10 hours already, and though we'd wanted to do the playground, we decided to let the kiddos roam the mall instead. We met up with Mareike, Marie and Ava, and the littles ran around like little mad people, and then we had lunch at the food court before nap time. It wasn't the most exciting weekend, but I'm honestly just passing the days right now, waiting for Ryan to get home. I can't wait to start doing all the fun things with my entire family back together again! SOON.

I'm linking up today with B Loved Boston for Weekending.

we went to chicago

We got back from a whirlwind trip to Chicago late last night around 11:15, and I'm just starting to process everything that we did, saw, tasted, and experienced. When I say it was a jam-packed few days, I mean it. We arrived in Chicago on Friday morning, and we were there until yesterday morning. You probably remember that we'd planned the trip a long time ago when I got an entry into the 2017 Chicago Marathon on October 8, 2017. From the second we arrived, to the second we left, we were on the go, and it was a blast.

We stayed at the La Quinta Inns & Suites Chicago Downtown on S. Franklin, and I can't say enough amazing things about the hotel. We realized while we were on our way that I'd booked the wrong hotel (actually out of the city), and this hotel was more than happy to accommodate our last-minute request for a room. Only a few hundred more, it was in prime viewing for the marathon, had a breakfast included, and it was perfectly positioned downtown (and kid-friendly!). I highly recommend it.

On Friday afternoon, we spent a good few hours at the Chicago Marathon Expo, and it was pure chaos. Honestly, I don't think we were prepared for just how busy it was going to be. The boys were troopers though, and I picked up my packet, and we headed back to the hotel so they could have a (very late) nap. It started raining that evening, so we decided to do dinner out at the Revival Food Hall, and we tasted the treats at Danke - so worth it! Oma and the boys had the Knockwurst, and I had the Ham & Gruyere grilled cheese. It was divine, and the boys had a blast exploring the trendy spot filled with great food and fantastic people.

Saturday was the day before the marathon, and we decided that while the weather was beautiful in the morning and afternoon, we were going to play tourist. We meandered our way towards Millennium Park downtown (a mere 12-15 minute walk from the hotel), and we visited Cloud Gate, which I clearly enjoyed more than the boys, then made our way to Crown Fountain, which mesmerized the boys. We explored the whole area, and we made time to overlook Columbus Drive to see where the starting line for the marathon would be the next day.

When it was time for lunch, we decided to do a quick trip to the DuSable Bridge so the boys could see the water, drink a milkshake, and then headed to Nutella Cafe for a decadent treat. The boys loved it so much, but I think my mom and I really liked it even more!

The marathon, itself, deserves its own post, so this one is just dedicated to Chicago, which didn't disappoint. I've only ever flown through the city, as has my mother, so this was a real treat. I think that it was also great for the boys. They're learning how to travel a little better each time, and it makes it that much more enjoyable. They got to experience city life, and they had their first taxi rides, which was totally wow-worthy for both of them. Spencer was in awe of all the sights and sounds, and he just loved seeing the fire trucks and the police cars everywhere.

I kept saying that I can't wait to go back with Ryan someday. Honestly, it's so different from New York City - and I think I love it more. There's a vibe in Chicago that's much more real and comfortable...and let's be honest...you can eat your way through that city. Does it get better than that?!

But stay tuned...I'll recap my very first marathon experience tomorrow!