starved rock

So, today we decided to go hiking at Starved Rock. Jason and I have been there a few times, but we wanted to go with the kids. It's one of those things that was on my "things to do this summer" list.

It was fun...lots of walking and sweating...but what a great day with my family.

It's so funny, because we saw so many beautiful things, walked hundreds of stairs, yet, the kids' most favorite part was going off of the wide trail and into the real hiking part where there was a bit of "danger." Danger as in slipping and getting dirty or falling a couple of feet.

Jason, however, was up for more of a challenge. As the kids and I watched safely below, he took on some rocks...and succeeded.

We totally made sure the kids knew about the place we visited, so we paused to read about the significance of each landmark. We learned that a group of Indians called the Illinois had killed another tribe's chief, Chief Pontiac. The killing caused Chief Pontiac's tribe to chase after the Illinois tribe who climbed up Starved Rock to avoid being killed by Chief Pontiac's tribe. They were surrounded and weren't able to escape. The tribe eventually starved to death.

Sad story, but such beautiful creation by God. It's when I really take time out to enjoy what God has made that I am reminded of His hugeness and beauty and creativity.