Down by the river

One of the things we love about Chattanooga is its proximity to national forests and rivers. I mean, it's not called the Scenic City for nothing! We camped in these woods during college, got engaged in front of one of its waterfalls, took trips to the river to fly fish/read and lay out (guess who did what) in our prechildren days, and even went down in a kayak once (my first and last time!). So we've been anxious to get back and share it with Ben.

Saturday's trip did not disappoint.

Brrr! It didn't bother Ben too much, but the water was fuh-reezing.

Tyler and his mini-me

Hat - check

fishing vest - check

felt-bottomed sandals - check

net for catching fish and/or rocks- check

Let's go!

We ladies opted to nap and supervise.

Daddy the Crocodile Hunter looking for river creatures for Ben to meet

"No way!"

Fortunately there was a less-slimey method, courtesy of a cool critter magnifier holder from his cousins.

Ben stayed eyeballs-to-plastic with this thing!

This picture is for you Caleb. We can't to come back with you sometime!

Once we finally bribed Ben out of the water, we had a nice little picnic while KB snoozed.

River folk

Couldn't get Zoe or KB to cooperate, but that's to be expected.

After the boys did a little hiking/exploring, we headed back to town.
Ben headed to Dreamland in about two minutes of departure.

You've got to love a fun, fun day with the fam!