Yesterday we decided to take a Sunday afternoon drive to Lake Itasca, about an hour and a half east into Minnesota. We'd been there before because it's the headwaters of the Mississippi River, but we wanted to explore more of the State Park and surrounding area - we were in for such a pleasant surprise! We discovered sandy beaches, beautiful vistas, hiking trails, playgrounds, campgrounds, and wonderful visitor's centers. It was gorgeous and it felt so great to get out of town, if only for the day. We will definitely be going back ("every day!" says Jake) to camp, fish, hike and swim, and possibly to snowshoe in the winter. Some of the views reminded me so much of Seattle - I was very grateful for this little piece of "home" within day-trip distance.
Jake gets ready to "blast off" down the dock.
Rocket boy.
Notice Jake's feet - I can't believe he didn't fall in (this time, anyway).
We were lucky enough to be in the park while the lady slippers (MN state flower) were in bloom. They are pretty rare and bloom only for a short time.
Haley reached out and plucked one right as Rob and I both said "NO!" I guess we didn't explain the "rare" or "state park" aspect well enough. But she was enchanted with both the flower and its name.
Hiking from Peace Pipe Vista down toward Brower's campground. We turned around because we hadn't put on bug spray yet and Jake was about to get carried off by mosquitos.
Ah, the beach! We were so glad we'd thought to bring swimsuits. 
Jake's hair looked especially beachy that day.
I think he's showing off his "super-strong muscles" here...
The kids found a lot of rocks and shells and other treasures.
I just couldn't believe how much this felt like "home" - the sparkling water and emerald treeline reminded me so much of the lake beaches we swam in growing up.
We could NOT get Jake to give us a good smile...
