Expeditions

Okay, yes, I have been a terrible blogger this summer. I wish I could say it was because Ella and I were backpacking through Europe the last few weeks but then I'd be lying. We have been busy with my schooling and her dancing. We did manage a few fun excursions the last few weeks so I'd like to share what we did with you...

 Road Trip! Our first adventure was a trip to my old stomping grounds - Denver, and a new adventure to the Grand Canyon!  We started off on a friday afternoon - me, Ella, Mom and friend Lynda. Our first stop was the Mitchell Corn Palace - whatever. The next day we hit Denver!

Right away on Sunday morning we met up with some REF friends for brunch at a place called The Fainting Goat. Recent River Falls transplant, Bailey, met us there too. What a great group of people! It's probably been 12 years since I've seen them and it just felt like old times. 

The next day we checked out Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. The last time I was there was with Billy, so there were a few bittersweet memories. It was good to make a few new happy ones. Even though we sorta lost mom for a bit.

Rattlesnake!

After Garden of the Gods we took the Cog railway to the top of Pikes Peak.

 Last time I was there I drove to the top so it was nice to sit back and listen as our conductor pointed out rock formations, peak history and hoary marmots. This is a picture of Ella and I at the top.

After Denver we made our way through the mountains. We spent the day exploring Idaho Springs, Swimming in the pools at Glenwood Springs and having lunch in Vail. I really missed those mountains so it was great to be back!

We ended up staying overnight in Fuita where we met up with some Denver friends again and had dinner.

The next day we headed off to the Grand Canyon. It was an amazing drive through the Canyons of Utah. And the Grand Canyon surely did not disappoint! I did not know what to expect and I can truly say that my first glimpse was breathtaking. We stayed at the Grand Canyon North Rim Lodge and I can say I am ready to go back. Simply wonderful. Views, lodging, education, food, service - all perfect.

The Lodge

Enjoying the view and a Prickly Pear Margarita

Ella became a junior ranger while we were there. They make you work hard for that badge! We both learned a lot from the ranger at the park. There was lots of wildlife too!

Our next trip was a quick getaway to New Lisbon, Wisconsin where my cousin's family owns a cabin. I thought it was kinda funny to drive south to "go up North". We had a blast!

No measly sand castle's for us - we made a sand village with an evil princess and a good queen.

Ella tried tubing for the first time. Megan went along for moral support the first time. Megan is very serious about her tubing!

Ella got the hang of it pretty quickly. She had a lot of fun. Thank you Holtz family for having us there!

Our last trip was this past weekend to our annual golf outing in Sumner, Iowa. Yeah, we (Ella and I) don't really golf - but it's a great opportunity to catch up with family.

Representing the Mahnke's!

See what I mean about the not golfing?

My awesome team! Lots of laughter, little golf, too much fun. Hey - and no crashes this year!

Ella and I are blessed with a family that knows the importance of reconnecting every year. Thanks to those that do all the planning and work! Next year Amber and I are in charge of the hole challenges. Watch out family - we already have a theme!