Camping

You mean in tents? That was the most common question that I got when I told people we were going camping. I have really fond memories of going camping as a child, both with the YMCA, and The American Red Cross in my teenage years (although we didn't sleep in tents with the Red Cross). It really gave me an appreciation for the world around me and attributed to some of the best summers of my life. I know its not for everyone so I'm not going to try to change your mind if you hate camping. I think it's one of those things that you either love it or hate it. Luckily for me I love it and couldn't wait to go with my own family. Its a nice getaway from the TV, cell phones and the internet. I'm not gonna lie that last one was not easy for me I felt really disconnected but was so glad we had no reception the entire time so I couldn't cheat.

This year we decided to go to Kings Canyon in the Sequoia National Forrest and one of the things i quickly realized was how much there was to do! They had a Junior Ranger program for kids so Alex was given a booklet that he had to complete to earn his Junior Ranger badge. He took this VERY seriously! We had a river close by so Alex spent a lot of time swimming in the river which he really enjoyed. There were tons and tons of trails and if you like to hike this is the place for you! Nick and Alex hiked up to Moro Rock and I was so proud of Alex for finishing it and making it to the top. I was suppose to go, I had every intention on going, and even went up a little ways but the second I looked down I nearly passed out. There are only railings on each side and when you look down on either end its a straight drop of rock. The Ranger at the visitors center assured me no one has ever fallen off but being as clumsy as I am i would surely be the first. I thought I was doing OK until Nick handed me the camera and asked me to take a picture when I felt the entire planet shift off its axis. NO THANKS! I turned the heck around and said have a great time. Apparently I have a fear of heights.  Good to know.

This was really a special trip and such a great family time. From our time at the river, to roasting marshmallows, and making smores around the campfire in the evening, it just couldn't have been better. Here are a few pictures from the weekend. 

Nick got this one of the visitors we had every morning.

At the top of Moro Rock. Clearly I did not take this picture

Getting his Junior Ranger Badge.

I cant leave out the ranger that took us for our twilight hike. Nick caught this picture of him and it really sums up the hike. Ill let you draw your own conclusions lol

We stayed with him to watch the stars into the evening and he was serious about his star gazing. He even brought a map, and a bat detector and a bat in a case. You cant make this stuff up.