Shades of blue

We spent a lot of time driving around when we stayed in Puerto Varas.

We went to Lago Todos Los Santos which is very emerald or turquoise depending upon the day.

Lago Todos Los Santos

It is surrounded by mountains and volcanos.  On the other side of the lake is Argentina!  A lot of people cross using ferries and it's fun to watch them come in.  Some carry people and cars, and others carry commercial delivery trucks.  At the end of this lake, a beautiful river starts.  It is called the Rio Petrohue and is spectacular!

The spectacularly colored Rio Petrohue

I really, really wanted to raft it.  But I didn't want to wear a wetsuit.  And will have to save it for another time - either next year or when Tristan is big enough to go with me.  I am also going to want to do more research on which company to raft with.  I did think of some old rafting buddies I would LOVE to raft this with!!!

We had some chill time in the cabana with Tristan and Tanner playing a lot in the playground at the property and a lot of training and discipline issues with Tanner.  Kiko got to go riding his dirt bike with a guy that worked in the local Yamaha shop.  He was trying to find a way to ride on one of the volcanoes but all the land is private.  Someday!

One day we went to Puerto Montt.  We were going to attempt to go to Chiloe so the boys could ride a ferry with the truck but we were too late in the afternoon to finish the trip.  We ended up going to McDonalds for a treat for the boys and Tristan discovered a new calling:  street performer!  There was a group of guys break dancing for tips outside on the street and Tristan joined them!

Break it down Tristan.  IN the street, no less.

We decided to spend two nights in Puerto Varas and then move to a hotel just outside of Frutillar that I saw on Groupon.  We visited the hotel (because you just never know with Groupon and professional photos can do a lot to make a place look great.)  The kids loved it because it had an indoor and outdoor pool and I loved the views and flowers!  It was really pretty.

The view from the hotel

The flower garden we accidentally discovered!

Turns out that Tanner DOES love the water - only warm water!  He was a fish in the pool.

Our view at breakfast on an overcast morning.

There was a little sanctuary right below our room.

Exploring the secret garden.

He did love the hot tub.

The boys and I in the secret garden - I felt like it was a little bonus love from God!