Tahoe

Besides playing with dad, in the rocks, dropping them off the pier, building castles, and memories on the beach, there were a few other highlights to the trip... like: playing pool, Hula Pie, Susie teaching us how to pick a deadbolt, and Ella jumping the gun and blowing out the birthday candles, and of course, just being together.

As Ella says, "it's how a family should be."

Boating Tahoe

While the Kershaws celebrated Heidi turning 30, Ella and Anne got in a few great tube runs.

All Anne really wanted to do was get in - never mind the near freezing water temperature.

Benj and I also took turns on the tube. Truth is, I'm not very adventurous when it comes to water sports ... wake boarding, water skiing, etc. Maybe it's because we never did it growing up? I love the water and being on a boat - I'm just not big on the "pull me behind the boat" sports.

Emerald Bay

We took the girls on a hike down to Emerald Bay.

I say "we," but we all know who carried both girls when Ella got jealous that Anne got to ride in the backpack; allegedly Ella's legs "stopped working."

Most of the tourist were just as impressed with Benj packing our family in and out as they were with Vikingsholm and Fannette Island.

We skipped the tour and opted for free-time in the water - Anne and Ella's choice. It was basically non-negotiable.

Overall, we enjoyed the outing so much that we've committed to go back - next time by boat, and we'll have a picnic lunch.

Kings Beach

Did you know there is enough water in Lake Tahoe to cover the entire state of California with a foot of water? And that is what we love about Tahoe: the water... and Kings Beach to be precise.

It's crystal clear, shallow for yards, and perfect for little people to wade and play in.