beautiful montana.

what beautiful country Montana is!  I was able to enjoy a few days all to myself in remote northern Montana at the end of June for a training on holistic health.  breath taking scenery!

college "M" hike. me & the kids.

Brady had been begging me to hike the "M" every time we go to Montana so we finally did it!  I strapped Zach into the front carrier, packed some snacks and water, which Brady carried in a pack and away we went!  This momma was out of shape but we did extremely well given high heat, overhead sun, and three small children!  We took our time, sang songs, sat and had snacks, picked and admired wild flowers and petted friendly doggies.

about 1/4 mile before we turned the last corner and got to the top Olivia really wanted to go back.  Her little legs were starting to hurt and it was pretty hot.  I convinced her to go just a little further (not realizing that we really were almost there).  It was so awesome to make it to the top with my kids and to see the proud excitement on their faces!  It was a good learning opportunity for us to talk about not giving up and to do our very best, even when something gets difficult!

virginia city. montana.

when we were in Montana the kids and I went to Virginia City with mom, Aunt Linda and Megan for the day!  Brady enjoyed taking pictures of things he was interested in, as did my mom and I!  We all shared the camera, so I can't credit for all the pictures.  In fact, mom took most of the second half of them from the train ride and on.  I think we have the same "eye."...

Virginia City is an old abandoned mining town just west of Ennis, Montana. It is kept up beautifully and has some modern day conveniences like some small cafes and an ice cream parlor!  There are also guided tours like the stagecoach and train ride.

I just love the detail of everything...

We took some "old-time" photos.  One of the three kids and one with me and my mom.  The kids came out adorable! Me and my mom...well, I am glad that we have make-up and don't have to wear those clothes!  Thank goodness for digital and photo editing!  

I tried scanning and uploading the pics but it said the file was too big...may have to try again later

the candy shop is always a hit!  The kids each got to pick out a big lollipop and a few candies

                  

we all enjoyed some home-made ice cream at the ice cream parlor.  The fresh, warm waffle cones were amazing!

(yes, i have a thing with door knobs! or any hardware and detailing for that matter!)

when the kids were starting to get fidgety we sat down and made letters for their names out of small stones.

time to board the Hogwarts Express!

the train ride went for about 3 miles through the little canyon from Virginia City to Nevada City. 

                   

on the way home as we came down from the mountains there were beautiful, dark storm clouds all over the valley.  I have come to love the wide expanses in the west and how remarkable to views can be!