We're Going on a Bear Hunt

We decided to go to Yellowstone early this year. So, we went on Sunday. Yes, we skipped out on church and I felt guilty the entire time. I worried that there would be way too much traffic but I think it was just perfect. I'm sure the southern loop would have been crazy but we were on a bear hunt and heading to the North.

Our first adventure was a hike around the Norris Geyser Basin. We wanted to wait for Steamboat Geyser (the highest erupting geyser) but considering it hadn't erupted since 2005 we reconsidered and moved on.

Collin is always good for a great conversation. He is either trying to rid the world of zombies (and preparing for the battle) or explaining the origins of philosphy in molecular physics (whatever that is). He is funny. If his ipod isn't in his ears, he is talking. Sure love that boy.

Adri and Katy hate their pictures taken and so I have to take it whenever I get the chance - no matter what the face is. Katy is so funny. She is always making us laugh. Adri is much more serious and quiet. Do you think they look alike? I realized today that many of their friends can't tell them apart and adults rarely can. They are absolutely delightful and beautiful. McKenna, though not pictured, was off doing the "pony dance" down the trail. We love her too.

Right in the center of this picture is a rabbit. He was so cute! It was the first real wildlife that we had seen. We don't count bison because they are everywhere. Still, we were on a bear hunt and this rabbit was definitely not a bear so we kept hunting.

We got delayed by a couple lifeflight helicopters that landed at the intersection. We enjoyed a nice picnic on the road while the accident was cleared. After an hour and a half wait, we were back on the road.

We enjoyed the elk at Mammoth and the FIVE bears that we saw along the way. All of them were black bears and two of them were really close. One was so intent on eating its baby elk that it didn't even notice the 50 people watching him about 50 yards away. That was pretty cool to watch.

Our last stop was near Mount Washburn where there is still 6 feet of snow next to the road. The view was absolutely spectacular. The snow made us appreciate the green grass that needs to be mowed and the garden that will need to be weeded.

We had a great time, a ton of laughs, and lots of fun memories. Can't wait to go again. Maybe we'll go on a moose hunt next.