Rocky Mountain National Park

Over fall break my nephew, Kaesi, came to visit. 

He is 18 and joined the Marines. 

 He leaves for Basic in December. 

It was a fabulous visit.

We went for a hike while he was here.

The skill level was indicated as moderate-strenuous on the Pro Trails website.

I would just call it strenuous...when you have 3 kids with you.

I love that boy, and am so proud of him.

I remember changing his diapers.

I can't believe he is all grown up.

One of my most favorite pictures ever:

5 of us in one pic!
And no one is picking their nose!

Love this boy's adventurous spirit.

This was one of AJ's namesake's favorite places to hike.

And I can see why.

This boy is up for anything.

(As long as there are snacks involved anyway.)

Not sure we were actually on the trail the entire time....

And for a little while we were all wondering if this lake really existed.

But we finally found it.

And it was totally worth it.

So many of Kaesi's mannerisms reminded me of my brother, James.

It was almost like seeing him again.

Or maybe his legacy.  

Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. 

-Ralph Waldo Emerson