Maples New Sweater!

Ice Cream in the forest? Not Quite (post by Alyssa)

Mom decided to surprise us by taking us to a secret destination, and after quickly loading up we drove for about a hour getting deeper into the forest enjoying the scenery and singing to the radio.  upon reaching the mystery destination we found out that she has taken us to a Ice Cream shop in the mountains, but unfortunately the shop was closed for the winter. I drove back down slowly making several mistakes in the process. But we went over to the DQ and had waffle bowls and played in the playground. So the outing wasn't horrible, and we had lots of fun for the day. (Of course, I was naughty and didn't take any photos while we ate our ice cream)

pots and pans

Just had to post Jimmy empting the pots and pans AGAIN, this happens daily usually more then once.

Wazzle

My sister Michele gave me this recipe for Wazzle years ago. It is the best fall drink ever and it makes your home smell amazing. We have only made it a few times but with a real cold awesome fall happening all around us we just had make it!!

 Cloves and cinnamon sticks

 The steam made it hard to get a good shot of the oranges lemons and limes simmering in the pot

Beach

We wanted to take the kids to see the ocean and play on the beach. We drove about an hour out and found a really great beach area to explore and play... Of course it had to be the coldest day we have spent in Alaska so far nearly freezing and crazy windy. We had planned a picnic by the water but after a fun time of exploring we decided to eat our lunch in the warmth of our van. We still had a great time. We had the beach to ourselves... HMMMM wonder if everyone else is a little bit smarter and came during the summer.

 The very secret like path on our way to the beach... So pretty

 The lids liked tying to climb up the cliff side

 This looked like an old rotting peer

 Alyssa was on the cliff when she took this photo

 Jimmy loved it here but we had to hold him or his hand the whole time or he made a bee line for the icy water... silly boy

 I LOVE this black and white of David and Jimmy

 Maple looks cold

 Daniel is helping Carra up the cliff

 My big girls

 My little girls found a little cave and said oh it is so warm in here

 A walk on the seashore.... Love it