Take a hike.

We signed on for a leisurely 1 mile hike on Monday. We didn't go on it. Somehow we ended up on a journey to the end of the earth. Correction: a hilly journey to the end of the earth. I hung out at the back of the pack "to take photos". In reality, I was pooped! But I did manage to get a few shots of the rest of the family making the best of it - Richards are amazing at that. 

We spent some time at a park within the National Park and hung around on monkey bars, ate some lunch and jumped in the lake...not part of the plan, but again, we went with it. We got all suited up with 3 babies in backpacks and enjoyed our surroundings...I took my time taking in nature. We made it to a beautiful waterfall which made the effort more than worth it. Brenda is still recovering from knee surgery (among the million other things she's busy doing) so joined us part way through the hike, which was an inspired decision. So we met up with Mom & Pops at the waterfall and since we all seemed to be out of steam, we sent most of the men back with Pops to fetch all the vehicles. There were plenty of snacks on hand, so the women and children "rested" (how much can you rest with 15 children around?). Bless Uncle Mat's heart, he entertained Teagan over at the giant map, singing Dora's Map Song. Brilliant.

What's the perfect end to a day of hiking? Climbing hundreds of stairs to the highest point on the island, since apparently we're gluttons for punishment.

But the view was priceless, especially for those of us who don't see much greenery in our everyday lives.

Buddy asked me the other day if we jump too much for photos. He may be on to something...