Friday, July 23, 2004
Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks
Hello everyone!
Our vacation to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks was wonderful! According to Nicolaus, "It was the best vacation yet!" The beauty of the parks and of Wyoming in general is spectacular. Now we understand why Bryan never came back!
Jeff hiked us through 48.8 miles (the kids kept track) of grizzly-free trails and canyons. Our favorite area was the Tetons where their snow-capped peaks and green valleys stood boldly in contrast to the bright blue skies. Sometimes it felt as if we were in Switzerland! We did manage to see several moose and bird species on our hikes, but the bison, elk, deer and single bear we saw were viewed safely from our vehicle. I was thankful for that!
Among the kids' favorite highlights were almost hitting a bison -- it nonchalantly entered the roadway from behind a tree -- which we were able to avoid with good brakes and a last moment turnaround by the animal. God was surely looking out for us as we came to within a yard of making contact. The kids also enjoyed a chuckwagon dinner with cowboy entertainment at Bar-J Ranch in Jackson, speed boating on Jackson Lake, and taking a water sample from the Great Salt Lake. The later was the boys' idea.
After a long desert drive home, we're happy to be back safely. Hope all is well with your families, too!
Lori
