Our annual trip to Lake Almanor was different this year, because we had to fly. Typically we drive down from Oregon, packing all our stuff in the van (clothes, tennis rackets, the boys' bikes, water rafts and toys, sand toys, golf clubs, etc. etc.). We had to limit the toys to one bag this year, but it was fine -- there is plenty to do anyway, and John's parents and brother helped out by bringing some playthings for us too.
It was also different because we finally rented a boat. This is something we've wanted to do every year, but most years we never actually got around to calling for a reservation. The last year or two, we did manage to call, but no boats were available. This year, John called a couple months in advance, and we were all set up.
We had an 8-person ski boat for four hours on Monday morning, and it was a beautiful day. The sky was sunny and clear blue; Lassen Peak still had snow on parts of it and was gorgeous in the background; the water was still and good for our skiing and kneeboarding attempts, and warm enough for a few good swims.
Here is the lake with Lassen Peak in the background:
Lucas was very skeptical of boating, especially once we left the No Wake area. He held on tightly to me and said, "This is not fun." Which is really funny coming from a 3-year-old. But after the first two hours, once we stopped trying to ski and just cruised and swam, he warmed up to it.
Josh, on the other hand, loved it from the start.
The sun was in our eyes. We took 6 versions of this photo, none good.
One of John's attempts to ski. He got up a few times, but never managed enough distance to really make the arm pain worthwhile. Both the skier and the boat driver need more practice for a successful run, but we didn't have the time. Maybe next year.
Josh was never more happy than when he was "driving":
Uncle Curtis:
Aunt Jeni:
Three generations of Markley swimmers:
Josh's flip:
Daddy's back flip:
Gail, Gene, and Curtis enjoying the ride:
Enjoying one of our swimming holes:
Finally, a smile!
