Indiana Dunes

Yesterday was fantastic and our first real break since Paul submitted his thesis to his committee on Friday. We took the train to Indiana Dunes State Park and spent the day exploring the behind the dunes. The timing was perfect - we had nice spring weather and all the wildflowers were in bloom. Plus we saw the largest woodpecker ever!
Taken on the southshore train line between Hyde Park and Indiana Dunes.Morgan showing Lena Jack-in-the-pulpit (or as Lena said the rest of the day, "puppit" as we searched for Jack around the woods).
Ramps were everywhere. They say it is an aquired taste, but lena took to them immediately.
Skunk cabbage in full glory.
Paul & Lena traming in the woods. Lena had a blast walking/running/hopping and only went into the carrier when flagging.

There were also tons of Trillium in bloom. Mostly white and variegated, though some maroon ones that had yet to flower.

May Apple flowering.

The evasive and hilarious Jack-in-the-pulpit.

Lena showing off her catkin.


Morgan and Lena climbing in a really cool tree.
Picnic in which Lena devoured brie and crackers like they were going out of style.
Lena ran back and for over these wooden planks until she made herself dizzy.


Part of a long boardwalk stretch through the swamps.
Devouring strawberries (a favorite past time).
Riding on a log.
Earlier this week Ramsey and Lena made cool cutouts in apple slices. Initiall we thought there were dough of some sort before we noticed the skins. Great idea!

Running in the woods is the best.