Leaf Compactors

Yes,  we have several leaf compactors in our family.

 First you start by raking some leaves...

Then you put the leaves in the bag...

At this point the bag holders stuff down the leaves as much as possible,

And then you compact...

Missed one?  No problem.

Everyone gets a turn.

Simple, effective, and best of all FUN!

Oh, and some duct tape might come in handy when over zealous compacting is involved!  It can do wonders!  

Happy raking!

Cousins In Colorado

I wanted to post some hiking pictures from this summer.  My cousin Stephen Fry, and his beautiful family moved to Colorado.  It has been so fun to get to know them better and we have enjoyed a couple fun get togethers with them.

Here we are getting ready to hike the Flatirons in Boulder.  What a good looking group!

This is the view from the back...the older boys....gone-out of sight... as usual.

Packing the kids.

Vilate was in Heaven, three girl cousins....woo hoo!

You can't tell from the picture, but this tree was full of apples, everyone went to pick their own.  A perfect snack for a hike.

We also saw a few friends on the way.

A rock slide with steps!

Thirsty little guy!

I am super happy Dana and Steve (that is hard for me to call him Steve, he has been Steven my whole life) hit things off!

Awwww!

 And headed back down....

At this point I was done taking pictures, and Vilate was done walking.  It is a good thing I have a super buff husband!

Too bad it is cold now!