White Sands National Monument is stunning, surreal, and a photographer's dream! We had so much fun exploring there. The kids and Steven sledded down the hills while I wandered around shooting. We arrived in the evening (good thing because it was still 100 degrees at 7 pm) and stayed through sunset. Sunset over the white dunes was a sight to behold.

The light slowly changed over the course of our evening there and it was amazing to see how it changed the colors and look of everything.

Even the flats were beautiful

One of my favorite shots of Finnian

On the White Sands website, there's a section that talks about safety and people getting lost in the dunes. It didn't surprise me that two of the main stories they mentioned were of photographers getting lost looking for the perfect shot. I can definitely see that happening without the wandering photographer realizing how far in they had gone or from what direction they came.

The boys had the best time sledding!

It was dark and the boys were still begging for "just one more turn!". They were completely exhausted when we left (at nearly 10 pm). I did manage to pry them away from the dunes for a moment to actually watch the sunset.

and, although there are many others, I think these are my two favorite shots of the day...

Oh I love this image...my guys. These 3 guys are like the sun to my little life galaxy. Everything I do, even the things that seemingly have nothing to do with them, revolves around them.

As we poured our tired little guys into their hotel beds at the (very late) end of the day, I was reminded why we make this trip every year. I hope they remember these days and that their lives are richer for it. I know it is true for Steven and I. Hopefully, these pictures will help bring the memories back for them too.

Next stop, Tucson and Sedona!