Climbing Mountains

Literally. As in fingers on rock. Toes wedged. Only looking up. Hanging by a rope.

We drove up into the mountains with some friends who were familiar with Chimney Rock. It was only a 20 minute hike in once we drove to the spot. For some strange reason, we brought along a one year old. And even more surprising, it all worked out, barely.

We all took turns trying to keep Alexis entertained far enough away from the cliffs. There wasn't much space to move around, but somehow we kept her entertained enough for all four of us to climb. Most know Mr Smith as a climber, but since we moved from DC we haven't challenged the cliffs. So Mr Smith was disappointed to see how he's not in the climbing shape that he was used to. The girls only went up once. I'm all about ending things while I'm ahead. I go to say I tried. And so I'm always successful.

More than anything it's a mind game. I don't like looking to see how far I'm up. And even though some spots are easier than others when it comes to "where to go next" the fact that I climbed basically to the top means anyone can do it. However, long legs do help.

My cute little family. We want a fancy hiking carrier, but since we didn't really hike that long our infant one worked out. I told Mr Smith we can only splurge when we can actually commit to hiking. More than twice a year doesn't cut it.

I was excited to see these awesome views Mr Smith got of me. #1 - I was slow enough where he could run back and forth for different angles. I could not do this for him. #2 - I realized the angles he had to put himself in to get the shot below and all of a sudden, although excited by the picture, I freaked at the concept of him standing on the edge and as he says it "with my camera extended out, hoping to get me in focus" - I mean really? Don't ever risk the life of my camera again. E.V.E.R.A.G.A.I.N.

Happy Father's Day Activity!