Justin wishing he had his gun

It was amazing to see so many animals up close. I can't even count how many Buffalo and Elk we saw. Justin was drooling over these huge bucks. Addie was having fun doing her elk calls ...even Sam tried a few times. We also saw Swans, Geese, Squirels, Chipmunks, and 4 Coyotes.

Last Stop..Norris Geyser Basin

Tons to see at this area...we opted for a short 1/2 mile hike..as #2 was starting to show more and more of his tired crankiness as refusing to do much of anything.

Loved the amazing colors in these pools.

Poutfest 2011

What can I say...that's my girl.

This little guy was a total trooper...So tired, but not too fussy. It was so cute to hear him say "Whoow, Whooow"..everytime he saw something cool.

The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

Upper Falls...easy two minute walk from the parking lot.

Uncle Tom's trail...steep downhill terrain and then 328 stairs straight down. This was one butt busting, thigh shaping work out. Then add a 3yr old to your back and you totally deserve those oreo cookies you ate afterwards. Addie beat us all to the top...this hike has nothin' on her.

Almost to the bottom...

Your reward for all the stairs...this amazing view of the lower falls and canyon. Totally worth it!!

Earth Toots

The kids loved the mud pots in all their stinkiness...we dubbed them Earth Toots...giggles never ceased over this one.

Jake is having one of his meltdown and refusing to look up for the camera.

Miss Sassy Pants

Jake loved the aptly named Dragon's Mouth...the roar and accompanying steam from this cavern really made him wonder if a dragon was about to awake and come for a visit. We had a hard time dragging him away.

Steamy

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cooler tempatures = that much more amazing steam...the kids were loving its mystical beauty. Ode to Sam...I can't get enough of your super cute, squishy, lovable face.

Old Faithful...Right on Time

 

 

 

 

We made it to Old Faithful with perfect timing on our part...lunch kept our little geyser's busy until the big one captured their attention a few mins after our munch feast began. They were much impressed with the spewing steam and water.

The Mighty Buffalo

 

 

 

Aks us what happens when you pet a Buffalo....

Yellowstone

 

 

 

 

Look at those beautiful animals....in front of the Elk.

 

I love this picture...not just because it is an unflattering view of wet bottoms...but because I love what is says about Jake...holding his own among all those larger bottoms...making his path threw the crowd to reach the prize at the end of the struggle...a glorious ride down a fantastic slide. Keep this determination with you always Jake...for there certainly is a glorious prize at the end of every struggle.