Seattle and Cascade Cup

It's been a little busy around here so I'm just now getting the chance to catch up on some of the fun I had in July. 

Last weekend, I took my summer team up to Snohomish, Washington to compete in the Cascade Cup.  Since Seattle is about a half hour away, we decided to go a day early and tour the city beforehand.

Like true tourists, we checked out the Pike's Place Market.

It was such a cool farmer's market. 

Apparently, the breweries out here like to tag different cities, so we also spent some time finding the perfect spot for Kate to add a little Boneyard flare to the city. 

Before we left the city, we picked up some lunch to eat on the beach. 

Not a bad view to enjoy a meal! 

Next stop: Snohomish! 

The Cascade Cup was a lot of fun. Especially, since we made it to the Championship! We finished the tourney as first runner-ups, which is pretty huge for our team considering teams from Bend usually aren't too successful in lacrosse tourneys. These girls certainly do have a lot to be proud of and a great stepping stone to bigger and better things next year! 

And then on the way home, we were reminded why Bend is the most beautiful place in the world. 

Can you believe that sunset? Central Oregon...constantly showing off! 

Tumalo Mountain

For the first time in my life, I hiked to the top of a mountain yesterday! 

The entire Tumalo Mountain hike was awesome. We didn't even have to wait 'til the top for good views. Mt. Bachelor was looking oh so pretty the whole way up.

We made it to the top in 58 minutes, beating our goal of an hour! 

It was pretty hot out and we hiked on a steady incline the entire way, so Henry was pooped. He found the first tree he could and rested in some shade. 

Luckily, Raylee was there to give her buddy some water.

The views were absolutely unbelievable. 

We were having so much fun at the top of the mountain, Raylee fell right asleep on the way down. 

In fact, the whole Sylvester family did! 

Happy Birthday, America!

One of the many reasons why I love Bend so much is because the town and its people go all out for America's Birthday! There are so many activities planned for July 4th, it's impossible to get to them all. 

I started the morning of the 4th riding around town and handing out hats for Boneyard Brewery at the Pet Parade. 

Since I was on a bike, I didn't take any pictures, but the Pet Parade is absolutely hilarious. People dress up their animals with red, white, and blue flare. And since it's Bend, the parade doesn't just include dogs and cats but also chickens, cows, horses, goats, llamas and I'm sure a few others that I missed. It was awesome! 

After the parade, we headed over to the Freedom Ride. This is where people (seems like everyone in town) ride their bikes around town singing 'I love America' songs. The ride is just a few miles long and ends in the park with a big ol' birthday party for America.  

Such a great day! Happy Birthday, America! 

Lake Tahoe Tourney

Last weekend, I took my summer select team down to Lake Tahoe to compete in their first tournament. 

The drive down was a pretty easy 7 hours. We saw the largest cowboy in America, snapped a picture of the Nevada and California state signs (crossed those off my bucket list), and pigged out at In N Out Burger! Yum!!

The first day of the tourney included 3 games of pool play. The girls played so awesome, had a great time, and earned a berth in the winners bracket for Sunday! 

On Sunday morning, Kate and I woke up early and headed down to enjoy breakfast on the lake. After a good breakfast, we had a few minutes to enjoy the scenery before we headed back to the lacrosse fields. 

Lake Tahoe is definitely gorgeous! 

Sunday was a long day of lacrosse, but after winning in sudden death, we ended up taking 3rd place in the tourney! 

It was such a fun weekend of lacrosse. I loved being surrounded by laxers, such a comfortable feeling. 

We have another month of practice, then we're on to Washington to compete in the Cascade Cup! 

Happiest of Birthdays to the Greatest of Dogs!

The Hen-Dog turns 6 today!!! 

I wasn't able to celebrate his birthday with him last year, which nearly broke my heart into a million pieces, so I'm so excited to spend today with my best boy! 

It's no secret that Henry is without a doubt my very best friend in this world. I never could have imagined just how much joy, laughter, and love he would bring to my life.

Over the last 6 years, he has been my hiking bud, 

my little snuggler, 

my snowtube chaser, 

my business partner,

my ball finder, 

my favorite lover of life, 

and my co-pilot, 

But most of all, he is my constant companion. 

My very favorite buddy. 

I thank my lucky stars every day that I hit the doggie jackpot. 

Love you best bud! 

Happy 6th birthday! 

Paulina Creek Waterfall Trail Hike

The Hen-dog and I spent much of yesterday hiking the Paulina Creek Waterfall Trail with our friends Kaila and Chaos. This roughly 10 mile hike (we explored far beyond the trail so we're not exactly sure how far) was filled with beautiful waterfalls and lagoons perfect for a quick dip. 

As always, Henry enjoyed the views as much as I did! 

Is this place beautiful or what?! 

It was awesome to be able to get so close to the falls.  

We were even able to dangle our feet over one of them! 

We stopped at one of the falls to eat a quick snack and dip our feet in to cool off a bit.

Oh, and to take some picture of course! 

I am so lucky to live here and sometimes I still can't believe this is how I get to spend my weekends.  All of this beauty is just a 25 minute drive away.