Brown Family Blog

This is the online journal of the Dale and Rita Brown Family.

Friday, August 21, 2009

Happy Birthday, Olivia!

12-YEAR OLD TRIP PICTURES

I know this is way too many, but you should see what is left on the "cutting floor." No one should feel obligated to go through it, but the kids will at least have it to show anyone if they choose. We had a ball with them. I thank God daily for every one of them and for the parents who have made them a joy to be with. They are all exceptional, and we loved getting the compliments on them everywhere we went. We were so proud of them. Thank you kids and parents for letting Grandma and Grandpa "borrow" you for this "cold and bold" adventure. We hope you will always remember the "love notes" you have received from God during this special time and the many ways He blessed us and provided for us. He was faithful to us every step of the way. We love you all. Grandma and Grandpa

JUNEAU--ZIPLINING

We got up early to be able to zipline through the rain forest in the morning. Some were excited. Some were nervous. Some were putting on a brave front (me). We donned the heavy equipment and made our way to the first zipline.
Posted by Picasa


Helmets adjusted. Straps fastened. It is time to face this challenge.
Posted by Picasa


Ashley can't wait. Reagan is confident. Let's go!!!
Posted by Picasa


McKenna and Annie were trying to smile. They were not at all sure they wanted to be in the "cousin's club" at this point.
Posted by Picasa


Of course, Ashley volunteered to go first. Note the smile on her face.
No problem for this little one.
Posted by Picasa

McKenna hangs on for dear life. Later she told me that she didn't think she could make herself do it. Note the name of this particular zipline--"Leap of Faith".
Posted by Picasa

McKenna smiles for the camera. Later, as she described her fear, I decided she was quite a brave little girl.
Posted by Picasa


Here goes McKenna. The second picture gives some perspective of how far and how high it is. It does take some courage the first time for sure.
Posted by Picasa

Annie gives me her best and bravest smile for the camera. She said she was "terrified." But she did it. Yea, Annie!!!
Posted by Picasa

And Annie's off with a "leap of faith."
Posted by Picasa

Reagan was like a pro from the beginning.
Posted by Picasa


McKenna and Annie, who had both declared that they were terrified--scared to death before their "leap of faith", gave me a big thumbs up after their first zipline. No problem. I was proud of them both.
Posted by Picasa


Thumbs up and ready to go again.
Posted by Picasa

McKenna looks like she is downright cocky about the situation now.
Posted by Picasa

One of the challenges the guide gave the brave ones was to look down and step off. Reagan had no problem.
Posted by Picasa

This expansion bridge was a bit of a challenge--maybe more than the zipline.
Posted by Picasa

Whenever the guide wanted someone to try something daring, she always called on Ashley.
Posted by Picasa


McKenna, who was "terrified" as we started, shows off with no hands in "starfish" position. She quite enjoyed herself. We were proud of her for "facing her fear".
Posted by Picasa

OK, this is Grandpa showing off for everyone. Last but not least.
Posted by Picasa

JUNEAU--HELICOPTER AND DOGSLEDDING on GLACIER

We are ready to get in the helicopter. Life vests and glacier shoes for the adventure.
Posted by Picasa




The helicopter ride was a big surprise. The scenery took my breath away. The blues of the glaciers were brilliant. The crevices that are hundreds of feet deep look like wrinkles in the landscape. The glaciers spread in every direction.
Posted by Picasa