Frozen rivers and big diggers!

This post was written a long while back, while we were still in Illinois in February, but never got published. Ooops! So here out of order is a little bit of Peoria. 

The Illinois River had a thick layer of ice that stretched well over 50 feet into the center.

The theater at the Caterpillar Visitor's Center is in the box of a gigantic dump truck.

In the command seat!

Even the big boys like playing with these diggers.

The front of the theater truck ;)

Simulators, which the kids were sooo bad at. HAHA.

The CAT gift shop. Toys, clothes, hats, bags, everything CAT.

Gotta represent!

Resurrection Sunday

      I failed this year to do anything traditional. Looking back I wished I had tried to make a nice dinner in our little kitchen, but I thought we'd grab something somewhere. I did find a church to visit, but it was a disappointment. Maybe I missed something, but starting the sermon with "I'm going sum up the gospel in a single tweet" set my teeth on edge, and I personally just like good music no flashing lights required. So after a rather uninspiring sermon and anything but majestic music we hit the taco bell drive through. Next year, no matter where we're at, I'm going to do better! We went for a hike that afternoon, which was just what the day needed. No matter how stressed or discouraged life is, I always feel better if we get outdoors. If you ever need to be reminded of the greatness of our God the sheer majesty of the Colorado landscape is the best! A little hiking and everyone's spirits were lifted and I sang hymns in my head to myself while we hiked. ;)
         

Trying out our life straw from REI.....a water filter gadget that requires mama to carry less bottles of water in her backpack.

Mama's Llist

    I did lots of internet searching, brochure perusing, and planning ahead of our trip and I had a list. I love a good list! I actually had a list of activities to do with the kids, day trips to take, trails to hike, nature centers, and one for just Denver attractions. I"m proud to say we did about 90% of the list. This particular Saturday we checked off three stops. The REI flagship store in Denver, Hammond's Candies in Denver, and a visit to the town of Boulder. Boulder is just so fun and funky!

I love the old building that houses REI....here's what the internet says about its history.  "

The 90,000-square-foot building was built in 1901 to house boilers and engines used to generate electricity for the Denver Tramway Co. rail system." 

The exposed beams and large skylights are so cool!

Kids play area for the little climbers.

Free Saturday climbs for members....which we are, which makes me feel so outdoorsy. LOL

Rebecca was a bit fearful, but we cheered her on.

Coming down was her favorite part. Kicking off and coating down.

Isaiah wanted to buy a board......someday buddy, someday.

Hammond's Candies was a repeat from last trip too, but this time we brought Daddy with us. Aren't they all so sweet?

Isaiah popped a caramel in his mouth before we made it to the register.

All their goodies.

They all got free suckers after the tour and a famous Hammonds Candy Cane. Our van will never not be sticky again!

Next up, Celestial Seasonings in Boulder. Their tea tasting cafe is wonderful! 

This tea set is so cheerful!

Thought of Grandma Maryann when we found the biking jersey's on a rack. Do you have one like this, Maryann?

Pearl Street Mall, Boulder

Rebecca remembered this bookshop from 2014 and requested we visit again. 

New Nancy Drew book held close. 

Spring is trying so hard to come, and the snow just beats it up!

Goodies to enjoy later.