Although the Alaskan summer is quickly fading, we are determined to continue our outdoor adventures that have kept us busy this summer... as well as add some new ones (while the daylight lasts & the temps are still warm)!
Up until recently, we have been limited with our bike riding to just places that are close to us on base. Not anymore peeps - Brian found the deal of the century last weekend at REI... this Yakima Bike Trailer in the Member's Only bargain basement section for almost 70% off. On top of that, it also came with the extension piece allowing room for 2 additional bikes. Heck ya (no pun intended)! For now, we just put Thomas' bike & the trailer for one of the girls in the back of the truck & off we go!
We didn't wait long at all to hit up a new bike path further away from our house.
For this excursion, Abby convinced Daddy {and I guess Marilyn too} to let her ride in the trailer while Marilyn took my backseat to check out all the scenery.
We went armed with the necessities... bug spray & bear spray. But thankfully, the ride was beautiful and quiet.
It was only a 2.2 mile bike ride, but it certainly had some hilly parts. For Thomas, some of the hills were just too much for him to peddle up... but he did great hustling while pushing his bike to the top to catch up. Of course, when we hit the down hill parts he was a speed racer & enjoyed the wind in his face as he cruised along the path.
the lazy rider
On Tuesday afternoon, we brought the kids up to one of the most popular lakes on JBER, Otter Lake Park. The park has boat rentals (all kinds), cabins, cottages & picnic pavilions rentals, RV camping, a playground, and plenty of BBQ grills to enjoy. With just an hour or two to spare, we rented a paddle boat and took to the lake to explore & enjoy the beauty.
We couldn't believe that the girls made absolutely NO FUSS about the life jackets. Not one word was said at all. *Shock* Why hadn't things been that easy back in Florida when we owned our boat & wanted to take the kids out on the water?
I'd like to tell you that it was quiet & serene out on the lake... but I would be lying to you.
I'd like to tell you that my 3 children took in all the learning opportunities about nature that surrounded us... but I would be lying to you.
I'd like to tell you that it was a peaceful ride for Brian & I as we peddled the kids around the lake... but I would be lying to you.
Nope - they talked the whole time.
"When are we turning around?"
"Can you go faster?"
"Why did you stop?"
"Where are all the animals?"
"I can't see the bottom of the lake."
"She/He's on my side of the boat."
"Why does Marilyn get to sit up front with you guys?"
"Can I sit up front with you guys?"
Non-stop.
But their smiles were precious.
Their curiosity was so innocent.
And they loved being out on the water.
There are several lake side cabins & cottages nestled right up on the banks of the lake for rent. They are inexpensive ($25-$55/night depending on rank) and sleep between 4-6 people. Because I'm too afraid to tent camp with 3 small children...moose & bears lurking about... I think this might be our option next summer {or possibly early next month if the weather holds up}. The bonus is we are only 20 minutes away from the house for showers & coffee and we never even have to leave JBER.
When we got off the boat, the kids found some new friends...
... who were just as interested in the kids, as the kids were in them.
Another good time enjoying what Alaska has to offer!
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