Colorado

Packed up all the kids and drove to Grand Junction, CO for Kira's grandpa Tige's memorial. It was really great to see a lot of the family we don't get to see often. Tige's memorial was excellent. Kiras dad Jim spoke and did a great job. It was very interesting to learn a lot more about Tige and the great man that he was.

Kira's dad and step-mom

We had just enough time to visit the Colorado National Monument. I recommend it if you're in the area. 4 miles up an unbelievable canyon to some spectacular views. The road at times is right on a cliff face and I got a little white knuckled behind the wheel. Luckily I didn't notice one curve labeled "Dead mans curve" on the map until later. The road continues in a giant loop but we decided to use our time to take one short hike.

Kira and her sister on the trail with all the kids. This hike was only 1/2 mile roundtrip and the kids did great. I did have to carry Brooklyn (as well as Meghan in the front pack) towards the end.

The view point at the end of the hike. The railing is right on a cliff and we never let go of Brooklyn's hand while out there. Only one really scary section of the hike right at the end where the trail is 3 or 4 feet from a sheer drop. I would say 400-500 feet straight down. This is Alecia, Kira's sister, and her kids, 2 of which were very dedicated to becoming "Junior Rangers". I wasn't there when they took the oath but I hear they completed all requirments and in record time.

The whole family with nothing but a chainlink fence between us and certain death.



Way, way past due for a haircut.