La Carolina Lodge

La Carolina Lodge is a little slice of heaven just two hours away from the daily paradise we have to endure!  The change from the blazing hot sun, to the cool and cloudy temperate weather, with a drizzle here and there, made for a much needed getaway.  The drive there transitions from arid to jungle, the road seemingly leading us into a scene from Jurassic park.  The landscape is so different, more hill-ish (it would go to far to say mountainous,) and definitely more lush.  The property of La Carolina has a river running right through it, where they have simply detoured small sections to make fire heated hot tubs both shared and private.  It's self sustainable, with all the food that is served having been bread or grown on the property.  The cabins are quaint, a slight upgrade to camping, but after a day of hiking, swimming, and hoarse back riding, the extra amenities such as linens and a hot shower are a welcomed indulgence.  This is a place I will return to time and time again to truly unplug and reconnect, whether with my husband, family, or just to enjoy some time alone.

Enjoying a large hot tub with fresh water straight from the river.  We could hang our hand off the edge and into the rushing water.

Brody went on an adventure with the camera and came back with this pretty little number.

We got to milk the cows bright and early.  The same milk we enjoyed with our dessert later that night.  That's fresh.

'Canned' creatures that had been previously found on the blue river hike.  Welcome visitors!

The Blue River and Water Falls

Elliot hiked the whole way in except the last few steps down the steep, steep hill.  That's one tough 3 year old!!!

Brooklyn and Devin after enjoying the hike to the falls.  It was long and intense at times, but well worth it.

Brody was the only boy of 17 girls that were on the trip with us over the weekend.  Sometimes being the only boy pays off ;)

You can see Brody swimming to the side of the rock after his plunge.  The water was ccccccold.

Horseback riding included in the adventure.

Brooklyn and Sibley on their ride.

We went fishing and rowing on the boat the ranch owners built in their little private lake.

On the ride home the kids are enjoying an ice pop as we try to keep them from falling to pieces after our car had broken down.  Good thing we were so zenned out from our weekend at La Carolina Lodge!