A hiking we will go!

 I absolutely LOVE, LOVE, LOVE long weekends. 

And not only did Shane and the kids have Monday off from school/work, but the kids have Tuesday, AND Wednesday off as well!

 S-W-E-E-T!!!!

And speaking of sweet, our weekend started out just that way.

We had my entire family over on Saturday evening to celebrate my mom's upcoming birthday. 

We enjoyed dinner together, and then for dessert my sister and I broke out our new chocolate fountains my grandma had given us for Christmas. 

Everyone had a blast dipping all sorts of delicious goodies into the fountain, but I think my nephew, Parker was the MOST excited about his yummy dessert.

On Monday, we decided to take advantage of some glorious Carolina weather. With temps in the mid 60's, we spent our day off exploring the great out doors.

We headed out just about an hour away for an afternoon of hiking fun at Crowders Mountain.

The kids were so excited and couldn't wait to start our climb up the mountain. Last year, we did this exact hike and ended up carrying little ones on and off as we walked. 

 Wow, what a difference a year makes! This time up, the littles required little assistance, and only Addy-Kate needed some help on the way back down;) 

Of course, the best part of the day is the breathtaking view that awaits you at the top. 

It makes the climb totally worth it;)

The kids thought it was so cool that way off in the distance we could see Shane's office building in uptown Charlotte.

After a rest and a little water/snack break, it was time to head back down. 

A picnic was waiting for us in the van, and after our three mile trek, we all had worked up quite the appetite. 

 After lunch, and a game of what was supposed to be NO TACKLE football-HA! we headed home.

What a fun day spent in the great outdoors 

AND 

with the people I love most!!