In July we attended our local rodeo and so enjoyed the evening. The view of the mountains as the sun set was a beautiful backdrop. Following the rodeo, we enjoyed watching James’s drum teacher play for the live music and dancing. And, Kenny taught Anna how to two-step!
The Fourth of July was a nice evening of staying home with friends and family. Amy was here visiting, Mary Jo came, and we had our neighbors over as well. We grilled, ate outside in the nice weather, and had our own fireworks display in the backyard. One more holiday in our new house! We’re still working through our first year of holidays and birthday celebrations in this house, and with each one, it feels more like home. 
Over the July 4th weekend while Amy was here visiting, we drove up to the top of Pike’s Peak. The kids had never been before, and it had been years since Kenny and I visited. A few years ago the summit house and visitor’s center were remodeled so we thought it was a good time to drive up.
The weather cooperated and we had a beautiful day. We left fairly early in the morning and had an 8:00-10:00 am gate arrival time. Typically you want to summit before noon to avoid any afternoon thunderstorms moving in. We began the drive up and it was spectacular.
There are many places to stop along the way and explore. This was one of two stops we made on the way up.
Back on the road for more beautiful views.
Colorado Springs in the distance
Our second stop was to see mama and baby bighorn sheep. In many of the photos, they blend into the landscape and are difficult to spot.
On the road again, nearing the summit.
Our first spotting of the Cog Railway – another means of transportation to the top
We made it!
Psalm 19:1 – The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.
The words to America the Beautiful were penned at the top of Pike’s Peak by Katherine Lee Bates
Looking out at Colorado Springs, zoomed in, you can spot Garden of the Gods
The views from the top were simply breathtaking. God’s majesty is certainly displayed from the highest mountain to the smallest flower.
Psalm 97:1-6
The Lord Reigns
The Lord reigns, let the earth rejoice;
let the many coastlands be glad!
2 Clouds and thick darkness are all around him;
righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne.
3 Fire goes before him
and burns up his adversaries all around.
4 His lightnings light up the world;
the earth sees and trembles.
5 The mountains melt like wax before the Lord,
before the Lord of all the earth.
6 The heavens proclaim his righteousness,
and all the peoples see his glory.