Camping trip '09

We have had so many fun camping trips this year. I like to camp, but it isn't so easy without my husband. I have gotten really good at putting up and taking down the tent by myself. Actually, I am kind of impressed at my ability to get us ready with everything we need and set up. Thank goodness I have other people to help me cook on the fire and things (that I'm not so good at.)

Our first outting was at a canyon in Tooele with some good friends. We had a lot of fun and saw some deer. The girls had never been so close to one. We had dutch oven dinner and a good bacon and egg breakfast. Kiana had a hard time going potty outside and she wanted to pee like the boys on the tree. It was funny. We had a fun time with friends and we are so happy they could come with us last minute.

Next we went to Strawberry Resevoir with my Dad and his wife and her parents. Some hot days and freezing nights. I was so worried about the girls freezing to death and we had so many blankets on. Steve wasn't with us, and me, Dondi, and the girls did everything to stay warm. The wind howled until I thought the tent would tear apart and we couldn't wait to get home. The food was good, and it was nice to get away. We went on a lot of walks and got to see the lake. Sadly, we didn't get any fishing done. Dondi bought Kiana a pole and we still need to take advantage of it, it was just to windy.

And our last camping trip was a family reunion. It was really pretty nice with the weather the complete opposite. It was so hot, and we had been worried and so we had packed up all the blankets and brought extra things. One night I didn't even sleep with blankets. Steve got to come with us for one night and I missed him the next. We went to Downey, ID, Downata Hot Springs. The Hot Springs were nice, but expensive. It was nice to stay up at night playing games and enjoying family and the campfire. We are blessed with such a great family and I am so glad that Dondi came with me on these trips to help me out. Kiana got to try out a new sleeping bag that we got at Cabella's and she was so excited. It was hers and she picked it out. It even came with a little flashlight, and she got to use it while sleeping in Grandpa and Grandma's tent. She felt so important. The last morning, we woke up and hurriedly packed everything up, closed the door on the van, just in time for a downpour, and all before 8:30.

Maile was trying to eat her way out of bed, and crying for not succeeding.Kiana so tired she can't keep her eyes open.Our sleeping accommadations.There is nothing better than having your food tray and seat in one.... I wish I was only so lucky. Maile doesn't think so.

It has been so nice to get away, even if it was only for a few days. We love our family and friends and love spending time with them. I am so grateful for the memories we are able to give our children and hope they can enjoy the good times we have together!