Cloquet.

Since Ryan was on call, the kids and I decided to take a trip to Cloquet for the weekend.  There is really nothing better than a northern Minnesota summer.  The sun is hot, the air is dry, the beautiful abundant trees are full and gorgeous against the blue sky, the air smells fresh, and it cools off just enough at night to enjoy a fire in the back yard.  We were blessed with great weather the whole weekend and were able to do a lot of fun things and catch up with friends and family.

On Friday we headed out to Jay Cooke to check out the St. Louis River.  With all the rain they have had over the past couple weeks the river was the highest it has been in 4 years and rushing over the dam like mad.  It's fun to look at and so loud!  The kids had a great time just watching the water, even Kenzie was excited and kept pointing to the water and yelling, "WA!"

 After awhile climbing around and under the bridge and throwing rocks in, we headed to the Munger bike trail for a walk.  Growing up, I spent a lot of time on this trail rollerblading, running, and walking.  I had meant to bring my rollerblades but forgot them, so a nice walk had to do this time.

On Saturday morning, we met Kym, Jennie, Morgan, Henry, Casey, and the Skowlund's at the Black Bear Hotel for some fun in the pool.  Kym and her family had rented a room there and it was fun to hang out and let the kids swim.

 Kadence, Annabelle, and Aunty Casey in the hot tub.

 AJ with his princess life jacket.  So pretty.

 Landon Gary taking a break.

 Aunty Casey and Henry swimming.

 Henry posing for a picture.

 Pretty Annabelle.

 AJ having a snack.

 Jackie, Piper, and Rocco joined us at the pool, too.  It was fun to see them and great to catch up.  Landon and Kadence swam for a good couple hours and had a blast.  Kenzie was napping and hanging out at my mom and dad's so I felt like I was in heaven with just the 2 older kids.  It is amazing how much more difficult it is when you add a busy 18 month old to a 4 and 5 year old.  She had a blast at Grandma and Grandpa's house and I had a blast with a little break!

As it turns out, I quit taking pictures after the first day and a half!  At least I captured the ones I did and did not forget!  Saturday we went to my cousin Arletta's graduation party and then had a fun fire at my mom and dad's house.  Sunday we hung out, the kids played outside a lot and I was able to spend a few hours with Grandma June, without kids.  I had a lovely visit with her and Casey was there awhile, too which was nice.  The weekend went by fast as usual and it never seems as though I get everything done and everyone seen that I wanted to when I go back home.  Thanks everyone for a wonderful weekend and a great way to kick off June!