our trip to Brown County

Every year we use the greatest holiday known to bankers (Columbus Day) to celebrate all things fall.

After stopping by my grandparents (sad- no picture this year), we stopped at a clearing for a picnic lunch. The kids were so excited to be on our way that they ate in a very timely manner.

Our first stop was at the fudge shop. We only have fudge once a year and this is our splurge. This little shop makes all the fudge right in front, so the kids get a kick out of peanut butter being spread all over the counter. :)

We were so worried that we were going to be rained out this year...but it turned out to be the nicest weather we've ever had! Not too hot and not too cold, we hardly needed jackets.

We hiked down a trail and made it to the horses. After forgetting our money, AJ graciously hiked all the way back just so the kids could ride.

Ari's horse was a little stubborn and wanted to stop to eat all the leaves along the way.

Evangeline's horse was calm and kept its head right by my hip the whole way around. This girl sure loves her animals.

Selah wasn't sure what to think. She kept acting like she wanted a turn so we let her sit on there. But for some reason decided it wasn't a good idea after all. Go figure!

We enjoyed more hiking and marveled at all the trees, animals, and nuts. (I am still finding acorns around the house from our trip-some little boy had a stash in his pocket.)

The kids loved running up and down these steps. We've never been here post-wedding, it was so neat!

This was our first year staying the night in Brown County, the lodge's swimming area did not disappoint! There were things to do for all ages.

Not sure why but this little one wanted to be serious. She was avoiding any smiles for the camera.

After dinner we ventured out one more time since it was supposed to rain all of the next day.

Ari and Evangeline loved "fishing" the most.

Or I guess they were really just stirring up the mud.

It was dark by the time we made it back to the car. It was getting a little tricky not tripping over the roots in the dark!

The next day it poured and poured. Since the pool didn't open up very early, we spent some time at the nature center. I w as so surprised to see how many birds were out in the rain, they were everywhere! The kids kept asking though when it was time for the pool...they were so excited to go again.

We finally made it back for a bit before we had to check out. 

The girls were happy playing in the shallow area, while Ari tried out the slide.

It took him a while to warm up to the idea, but once he finally did it, it was "THE BEST THING EVER!" The line was short so he was able to just go and go and go.

Happy. Camper.

I'm thinking staying the night at the lodge was a good choice. We normally try and cram everything in to one day but when you have several children everything takes longer. This made it a relaxing trip with nowhere to be at no particular time. Well...except the pool!