We’ve been doing more hiking lately. Three hikes in three weeks. Last week’s hike was a grueling seven-mile hike that included a fair amount of climbing. Today’s hike, in theory, seemed like it would be easier: 5.5 miles with only 1,000 feet of elevation gain.

In actuality, it was easier than even we anticipated. Much of the beginning of the hike was downhill, and then a substantial, flat portion around a lake.

Once we were halfway around the lake, we stopped for lunch and to let the dog romp about in the water and cool off.

And then the heat got to everyone. And the elevation got to E especially.

And the kids were just ready for the whole thing to be over.