It's Fall!!

I went to San Diego over Labor Day weekend and when I got back to Jackson I noticed that the air was crisp. It's getting down into the 30's at night and I had to scrape ice off of my windshield one day this week. That can only mean one thing...It's fall! I am coincidentally writing this on the first day of fall too, officially. The aspen trees in my backyard are starting to look quite striking with their stark white trunks and changing leaves.

Fall is my favorite time of year for many reasons. First of all, I really didn't think the Tetons could get any more beautiful but yep, they do. The colors only add to the stunning beauty of this place. Second, the food. I mean, who can resist a slice of warm apple pie or a pumpkin spice latte?? Third, football season. Sounds weird, but it's not really when you consider the fact that I spend every waking hour of college training and performing at football games. I never missed a home game in Husky Stadium for five seasons. This year, the huskies are 2-1 so we aren't off to a bad start. Also, I am writing this the day before I run my first marathon. Wow, I've trained all summer for this. It hasn't always been easy, but at this point I'm only feeling excitement and anticipating the rush I'll get when I pass the finish line tomorrow. I always love a challenge and this is nothing short of one. Anyway, my mom and dad were here last week and I got to play tourist for a few days (which I secretly love). Between hiking to Jenny Lake's Inspiration Point and rafting down the Snake River, I'd say we had a great time. Enjoy!

I finally jumped off the rock!!

Hidden Falls at Jenny Lake.

I call these "fall flowers".

Checking out the sunset from Curtis Canyon.

Cascade Canyon.

Oxbow Bend.

Playing in the Park...Grand Teton, that is...

This week I've tried to get up into Grand Teton National Park as much as possible. On Thursday I went searching for grizzlies and didn't see anything but got some great scenics up at Jenny Lake and Coulter Bay. I'm sure I'll see one of those impressive animals one of these days. Today we spent the afternoon up at Phelps Lake at the sweet jumping rock. With the amount of snow this year I was too scared to jump into that frigid water but I definitely documented the debauchery! Oh and on a side note, I ran 12 miles on Friday. I decided I'm going to train for the first ever Jackson Hole Marathon that takes place on September 24th this year. I did a half marathon three years ago so I know it will be tough but the training is going fantastic so far. And besides, what better scenery could you find for a marathon than our beautiful town of Jackson??

Coulter Bay.

Beautiful whispy clouds.

More Coulter Bay. I mean seriously...am I on Lake Washington??

It's so beautiful here!

Oxbow Bend.

Jackson Lake Dam.

Mount Moran and those pretty yellow flowers that are so abundant right now.

Jenny Lake.

David hucking meat at Phelps Lake today.

Our new friend Jeb swan diving into the icy waters of Phelps Lake.

Fourth of July Weekend

With the unfortunate knowledge that I had to work at 5pm on the Fourth of July, I decided to get an early celebration in with some friends on the 3rd. I had heard about what a fun day trip it can be going up to Phelps Lake in Grand Teton National Park, and I hoped that it would cure my need for a day at the lake like we used to have in Washington.

Death Canyon Trailhead

A few miles down the worst dirt road ever and a quick hike in led us to some spectacular views of Phelps Lake from the Death Canyon trailhead. If you're not much of a hiker, this one's for you. The trail is easy, there are lots of people around, and you still get rewarded with an amazing view.

Phelps Lake & Death Canyon.

We hiked down to the water's edge and over to a large boulder on the north side of the lake. This is the perfect jumping rock. The water was ice cold, so Julie & I opted to watch the boys. Alex took the plunge first and the rest followed suit.

Alex taking the plunge.

Robin's stoked.

Since it was super cold and windy on the top of the rock, we moved over to a sandy area on the west side of the lake. We spent the rest of the day soaking up some rays, playing horseshoes, and taking pictures. Not a bad way to spend a beautiful summer day.

Late afternoon on Phelps Lake.

That night, David and I headed over to Teton Village to catch the fireworks. Yes, they were on the 3rd and the 4th. Highly beneficial for locals like me who are keeping this town alive on the holiday. Thanks Jackson Hole!

Teton Village fireworks.

On a side note, I took all of my photos this weekend with my film camera. I'm anxiously waiting for the results. More photos to come...