Back to Colorado and separating our ways from the cousins. It was a sad moment! Jonas didn't understand why his cousins couldn't keep camping with us in Colorado.
We drove from Bryce to Mesa Verde National Park in one day so several stops were necessary. One was in the Capital Reef National Park. It was beautiful and unique.
A variety of activities were so wonderful to have for the boys. However, Jonas became car sick within 2 hours. He was fine just admiring the view outside. Silas needed stimulation every 20 mins with a different activity. But playdoh did last for over an hour. Wahoo!
We set up camp in the park and Jonas was so happy to help. Here he set up the kitchen table with tablecloth, stove, propane, pots and more. He didn't want any help and said, "mom, there is something else for you to do."
That night we had showers and did laundry! Yeah!
Next morning we signed up for a guided tour of the Balcony House in Mesa Verde. It was the most adventurous tour they had for people and they repeatedly warned us about how precarious it can be for families. We did it!
Here was our first obstacle to enter the cliff dwelling...a 32 foot ladder on the side of the cliff. Jonas climbed up like a monkey with mommy praying.
Silas was put in the backpack for this climb.
Crawled through a 12 foot long tunnel.
Admired the cliff dwellings with their unique rooms.
These rocks are for grinding corn, called Metate and Mano.
Jonas working diligently to finish his Junior Ranger workbook before we left this afternoon.
Yes, we all had to climb through this little tunnel. Our ranger guide warned people that were too portly or tall that you might have to turn back.
The most frightening part of the tour was the 60 foot open rock face climb with two 10 feet ladders to exit the dwelling. Jonas was determined and loved the adventure.
To receive Jonas' 3rd badge as a junior ranger, he had to be sworn in and repeated an oath after the ranger. He was so proud of himself. And to this day, we look at the badges and talk about how important it is to take care of our environment. One thing he learned the most is to pick up trash. I love how aware he is of his surroundings.
To end our trip in Mesa Verde, Jonas asked to go for a real hike. Instead, we hiked 1/2 mile down to another self-guided dwelling and explored.
Climbing down into the kivas was the highlight.
Drove from Mesa Verde to Durango, about an hour and set up camp near a lake/river.
This was our backyard of our campsite. Impeccable!
Even for Matt to fish for hours.
Brothers! Lifetime best friends!
After 2 nights here, we decided to head home. The fires in Colorado were(and still are) horrendous! With that, we couldn't have campfires. The best part about camping!
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