This was our first hike as the FOUR of us!! The weather was so nice in the 60's, and I knew we wouldn't have another cool day like this for a while. So we packed up and Brad carried Caroline (29 months) and I carried George (5 weeks). This is my first real hike since last August, and I am totally out of shape. I'm thrilled to have clearance to exercise, and now I can reclaim some semblance of my old physical existence. It will take a while but at least I'm finished growing humans! Two kids and I'm 38 - we're done done done.

Caroline chirped and sang the whole time, and she enjoyed exploring at the saddle while I nursed George. He was quiet as usual and I had the most precious view of his little face when I peaked under the cover to check on him (see picture #4). I packed too much water and felt like a camel hauling George on the front of me and a backpack on my back. I'm glad Caroline is still small enough for Brad to carry her. Not sure what we'll do when she needs to ambulate on her own . . . hikes will likely be under 2 miles for a while!

Pathetic wildflowers this year. Even with the rain recently it seems only the palo verde are having any fun right now. Few hedgehogs in bloom but not much else. I guess it is late in the usual season.