maquoketa

One more adventure for the month had us heading to the Maquoketa caves. I went several times growing up and we even went in the early days of our marriage but somehow we have managed to never go with our kids so we were way passed due. It was another gorgeous fall day and we had a great time. 

Emry started out in the carrier on my back. She was insanely grumpy so I took her out and discovered she had totally pooped. We had, of course, left all supplies in the car. So I got to hang out in the cave with the kids while Brennan ran back to the car to get the diaper stuff. We were off to a great start, haha.

With a clean diaper, a ride on the front and a steady supply of veggie straws, Emry managed to stay happy for most of the time after that.

Mother Nature showing off.

Declan had a bit of an emotional go of it there in the middle. He got his feet wet and he was hysterical about that for awhile and then he hit his head several times. Sad for him, but kind of funny when I look at this picture I just happened to take at just the right time. Poor kid.

Another fall of Declan's captured on camera. This kid isn't exactly coordinated.

After a few hours in the caves, and a few wrong turns, we headed to nearby Bluff Lake. All you can eat deep fat fried catfish? Don't mind if I do. :)

We had a bit of a wait, both for a table and my parents who were meeting up with us for dinner. We entertained ourselves by watching the ducks and playing What time is it Mr. Fox? and Red Light, Green Light.

Hahaha.

Declan didn't eat a bite of his meal. He laid his head on the table before the food even came and zoned out looking out the window. It was only a matter of time. Kind of made for a peaceful meal.

The catfish was delicious of course and it was a fun way to end a really memorable day as a family.