flint hills picnic {2012}

 It is becoming a family tradition to drive out to the Flint Hills every year for a family picnic. The Flint Hills are beautiful this time of year.

We drive on a winding dirt road through miles of green pasture. There are cattle grazing everywhere you look. Levi thinks that is awesome.

 And before we get to the picnic spot we always have to stop at this old sycamore tree for a picture. The same tree Joel had his picture taken under as a kid.

There are two more cousins added this year. It is getting a little tricky to take a picture while everyone is smiling and before the big babies get dropped...don't worry the big babies survived.

 One more picture.

 We jump back in the car and head a little further down the dirt road until we get to our picnic location.

Blankets are spread and the picnic begins. Joel's mom always makes fried chicken. Best picnic food ever.

 And then the fun begins. The kids spend hours playing in the creek. The babies are stuck on the blankets. Maybe next year, Griffin.

 Instead of playing in the water, we have a little photo shoot instead. This is Griffin's cousin Leo. They are three weeks apart.

 Collecting rocks.

Throwing rocks.

 Trying to catch baby minnows.

 No luck for Levi, but he sure had fun trying.

 Time exploring with Papa.

 And by the end of the afternoon everyone is worn out...

...and very dirty.

See you next year Flint Hills!