Farewell McCall

Our time in McCall has come to an end, and my heart is full. There’s something so therapeutic about being surrounded by nature, stepping away from the noise, and simply being together. This trip was beautiful in every way—from the stillness of the lake and the glow of the sunsets to the laughter echoing through the house and the quiet moments of reflection we shared.

We packed in so much fun—lake days full of kayaking, paddle boarding, and swimming, scenic hikes with incredible views, and bike rides that left us grinning and windblown. The kids had a blast and the grown-ups did too.

The most meaningful parts of the trip was taking time to honor Olivia. Being in a place so full of beauty and love made it feel like she was right there with us. We felt her in the sunset, in the quiet of the water, and in the closeness we all shared.

Leaving is always the hardest part, but I’m so grateful for this time we had together. McCall, you were good for the soul. 💛

Oh and Kat bought Logan these cigarette candy which he thought was hilarious. I guess every kid needs an aunt who will let them be naughty. 😈 

 

Sunset swim

One of the highlights of the trip for me—right up there with the lanterns for Olivia—was heading down to the docks with my sisters and jumping into the lake. The sun was setting, casting that golden glow over the water, and the temperature was just right. It felt freeing and cathartic. A few others joined us after and jumped in too, and it turned into this perfect, joy-filled moment. Such a beautiful way to end an already fun and full day.

 

The Last Day

Our last full day in McCall was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation! We split up into groups again so everyone could do something they enjoyed—Marilyn took a crew to hike to a beautiful waterfall, JP led Brad down the black diamond mountain bike trails at the ski resort (which Brad loved—he’s already dreaming about getting a mountain bike now), and the rest of the gang explored the town and soaked in the charm of McCall.

The kids and I really enjoyed the gorgeous hike— the wild huckleberries, trees, and fresh mountain air. That afternoon we all met back up at Marilyn’s work for some tasty snacky food and shared stories from the day. We all walked around the downtown area before it was back to the Airbnb for a cozy, delicious spaghetti dinner. A full day, in the best way. ❤️🌲🚴‍♂️🍝

In the evening, we rode our bikes down to the docks for an evening swim—but that’s a story for another post. 🛶🌅

 

Ice Cream Alley

After our kayaking crew missed the earlier ice cream run with everyone else, we weren’t about to go without—so we hopped on our bikes and rode over to Ice Cream Alley. Even a single scoop there is massive! I got Huckleberry (when in Idaho, right?). We found a spot by the lake to sit and enjoy our cones, and just when we thought the day couldn’t get any better, Aaron Paul (yes, Jesse from Breaking Bad) biked right by with his kids in a trailer! Apparently he has a second home here in McCall. It was such a fun, unexpected end to a great day.

Sisters 💕!

See! Look how massive it is! And that’s a single scoop!

Right after this picture was taken Marilyn was like Aaron Paul is about to ride his bike right in front of us!

The biker gang!

After we got back it was poker night!

 

Lake Day!

We had the best lake day! We brought the paddle boards and kayaks and spread out on the beach swimming, paddling, and soaking up the sun. The kids were in heaven—swimming nonstop and taking turns on the kayaks. It’s seriously so beautiful there, with the mountains in the distance and the water sparkling all day.

Cute sign by our morning coffee place

Loved this sign we saw on the way to the lake!

This butterfly stayed with us for a good long time! Landing on mostly Aaron, but even on Logan! Kat said it was Olivia wanting to be with us.

After most everyone packed up, Brad, Carson, Tanner, and I stayed a little longer with Kat. We took the paddle boards and kayaks and headed up the river about a mile while Marilyn kindly drove to meet us. Kat and I were in the kayak together, and at one point we got caught in a current that sent us spinning in circles, but we couldn’t stop laughing. Despite the rogue current, it was such a gorgeous, peaceful ride.

While we were paddling, Kat said that being out in nature like this, surrounded by family, was just what she needed to help heal. I think we all felt that. There’s something about water, trees, and quiet moments together that really stays with you.

While we were paddling, the rest of the group went into town to explore and grab some ice cream. It was the perfect way to wrap up the afternoon—everyone doing something fun and relaxing in their own way.