Crater Lake 2013

One major thing that happened in the time that I wasn't actively blogging last year, was that one of my best friends returned home from a two year long missions trip.  Austin has been a great friend for most of my life (as long as I've lived in this state actually) and spending two years without him was tough. Jordan and Austin go back even farther, so when Austin came home, it was important that we all celebrated, and this celebration morphed into the form of a road trip. It's ironic how that happens, celebrating a homecoming, by leaving home... but Crater Lake was worth it!

Here's my picture-story of the trip:

 We stayed at Diamond Lake, the closest campground to Crater Lake that had what we needed. Obviously, upon arrival I had to explore a little bit and during this time I handed off my camera to Austin. He snapped this one - which is surprisingly unplanned. It's become a favorite of mine!

Here's another view of Diamond Lake from our campsite.

And here is Crater Lake. This was one of our first views, and my god was it breathtaking.

It was an overcast type of day, but the water still glowed.

 Austin, showing the dare-devil side of himself, jumped into the water.

What was funny about this is how long it took for him to decide to do it, then as we were packing up to go, a group of little girls (maybe 8-10 years old) came down and started jumping off like it was no big deal, one after the other. Regardless, I'm proud of Austin (and Trevor, he did it too.) Also notice I didn't do it. I was on the sidelines, busy taking pics. ;)

Here's a shot of the water. SO amazingly clear. Too bad it was so cold.

A fine group of brothers.

Jordan's grandmother told us this picture needs to be framed, and normally I'm opposed to putting so much effort into something that just hangs on a wall, especially since we live together now and I get to see him everyday, but I might be coming around. This was just so awesome that I want to have something to commemorate that forever.

Das boys taking in the view. What an incredible sight.

And finally, the whole gang. Smiling ear to ear.

I feel so lucky to know each of them the way I do. Individually they are all such sweet people, and together, we have so much fun. As I continue blogging and sharing parts of my life so openly I realize how privileged I truly am. I am blessed by great friends, a wonderful partner, and someday-to-be family members (brothers). If any of you guys take the time to look at this, know that I am thankful for y'all putting up with me for that weekend, and always. You guys rock.