Keener Wedding: The Rehearsal Dinner

My mom and I had such a blast planning my little brothers rehearsal dinner. We wanted it to envelop Josh and Megan and it turned out perfect. We went for a Montana Camping theme. We lined the tables with "flannel", river rock, lanterns,  and wildflowers. Each table also came with a personalized camping mug which turned out awesome. We then placed pictures of Josh and Megan hiking and camping--one of their favorite things to do, on each table. And to top it all off we had good beer, which is very, very important. Thank goodness for IPA for we all needed it at the end of the day.

I don't think I have a future in wedding planning. But what I do know is that I had so much fun planning a surprise for them and I was incredibly pleased with the results. Today I'm still coming down off of the high of their wedding. I kind of wanna do it again! Maybe this weekend, no?

A Love for Nature

I don't consider myself an experienced camper but what I can tell you is I love the experience. I'll sit through hail storms just for them to pass so I can resume my camping. You just can't beat being gathered around a campfire with the sound of the creek rushing by in the background. Or seeing a moose. It is pure heaven.

I enjoy that no one can call me or text me. I take in all the fresh air I can. And I also eat a s'more for every meal because that's what awesome campers do.

I like how camping makes me feel. Out there under the open sky my thoughts run loose and wild. I feel inspired. I feel moved. It is so refreshing. I'm happier and less stressed. It is in nature that everything makes sense to me...everything is clear.

I love being alone in the wilderness, in the quietness, amidst its simple beauty. It is an escape from ordinary life. A chance to be bare foot and get a little dirty. A chance to gaze up at the stars and restore your spirit.

Our camping trips are becoming my fondest memories. It is good for my soul. Cheers to the great outdoors!

Harper & The Great Outdoors: Take One

Well yesterday we attempted camping and it was sadly ruined by rain and freezing temperatures. But for a few hours there was sunshine. We had the fire going and hot dogs were roasted. We took in the Mountain air. We saw critters. We marveled over the beauty of the Beartooth mountains. Even though the weather literally put a damper on things we will be back. We have decided we love camping. How blessed we are to live near the mountains. Thankful to call Montana home.

Gone Camping.

The car is packed and we are mountain bound for a weekend of camping....with an almost 11 month old. Fingers crossed she enjoys it and a bear doesn't eat us.

Happy Weekend!