20th Dark Valley anniversary

 We looked through the Dark Valley Journal and discovered it has been 20 years since we started all getting together at Dark Valley and Elk Horn each  Labor Day.     A few of the years newborns and health concerns kept us away but for the most part we always made it a priority and my kids look forward to it year after year. 

This year thanks to my older sisters and my adult nephews putting forth extra effort to haul all the toys up the mountain, we had enough side by sides and 4 wheelers to all go together on a couple of rides to and over the top of Boulder Mountain.    Riding at 11000 feet through the remote bumpy passes was spectacular.  The clouds felt so close it was almost as if we could touch them.   We rode pass Jacob's reservoir as well as a couple of natural lakes that were so blue  it was like looking into the eyes of Heaven.   The depth ness at the overlook near Rim Lake reminded us of the vastness of God's creations.  Recent storms left the mountain so green and the wildflowers and mushrooms were plentiful.  It also provided the trail full of mud puddles which added to the adventure.   

Everyone always enjoys hanging around the cabin.   The weather was a bit wet and chilly but it cleared enough for all the kids to enjoy playing in the huts in the woods,  toting around on the motorcycles and exploring the woods.   Raquel introduced us to the game Left, Right, Center.   My mom pitched in 20 bucks for the winner.  Spencer was mighty surprised and proud he won!   The last night all the cousins pitched in and helped the older nephews cut down a couple of trees to stock up on firewood for the cabin as well as wood for Sarah's wood stove in the winter.  Then we all went home with thoughtful gifts from my mom.  

Spencer's mentioned a few times how boring it is to look around and not see any dirt, trees, grass or mountains.   I think he misses the beauty of Dark Valley and Boulder Mountain.  Good thing it's not going anywhere and there's lots of next times to experience!