Summer Camping

Our summer camping consisted of ONE trip this year. That makes us incredibly sad, but life is hectic sometimes, so we take what we can get. And I have to say I think this particular trip was one of our absolute favorites!

We parked it at one of our all-time favorite spots, Canyon Point, up on the Arizona Rim. We love it for many reasons, some of which include, the paved roads for bicycles, the wooded spots that aren't so secluded that you feel like the Boogie Monster will get you, and of course, the showers. Although, let's be honest, if you're camping for two or less days, who really needs a shower? Not us! BUT... it's nice knowing the convenience is there if you want it.

This picture made us laugh when we arrived because we just recently had a conversation with Uncle Rick that they should let us take the kiddos with us, and he mentioned something about Livvy being a little concerned about bears. We've never had an issue, but this sign made us a giggle a little. And we sent it to Uncle Rick telling him not to share with Livvy. Livvy, if you're reading this, fear not! There were no bears anywhere that we could see!

There was a lot of rain predicted for the weekend, and honestly we were kind of looking forward to that. We figured it would be a nice reprieve from the 110 degree heat.

We were excited that the storm held until we were finished setting everything up outside. The timing truly was perfect. We got every last thing set up, enjoyed some dinner, and then, just when we were finishing up, the big storm hit! And boy did it hit hard!

We were prepared though... we ran straight for the tent, where we had lots of fun things to do... board games, books, and movies. We were set for the long storm that lasted well into the night. And honestly, it was some of our favorite family bonding times to date!

On Saturday morning, the clouds hadn't quite rolled back in yet, so we decide to drive south 5 miles to Woods Canyon Lake. It's such a beautiful lake, and we were excited to take Madelyn out on her first boat ride.

Chris decided to buy Madelyn a "Barbie" fishing pole, thinking it might spark the fishing bug. Little did he know, there was apparently already a spark inside her because she was super excited to give this fishing thing a try. Now, we decided to make it a practice round, and didn't bother with lures or bait. We wanted her to get the hang of casting her line, etc. (The fishing pole had a heavy plastic "fish" on it that helped her get the idea of it.)

Fishing is "THUMBS UP!"

We were so impressed with her natural ability at casting her line! I don't have the best video because I was pretty awe-struck while she was casting, so I grabbed a video far after she got started. You won't see the super long distance she could throw, but you'll get the idea. :)

We started out our adventure without Chloe, but Daddy couldn't resist going back to the truck to get her. I was a little concerned she'd jump overboard (as she's done in the past), but she was a good little sailor.

 I really enjoyed kicking my feet up, relaxing as Chris led the boat around the lake. 

When we got back from the lake, Chris cooked up some hot dogs over the grill, and boy were they tasty! That's about the only time I really enjoy hot dogs... right over the grill, and a little on the burnt side. Madelyn on the other hand, thought they looked "disgusting" (insert whiny voice with a scrunched up face here). I'm pretty sure she was looking for a microwave, but when she realized this was her only option for dinner, she gave in, and tried them. (And by the way, she LIKED them, contrary to how she might describe them to you.)

After dinner, we decided we should use all the resources in the forest to build a fairy cottage. Madelyn was convinced that a woodland fairy was sure to pop in while we were sleeping! I think it turned out so cute, and we all really had a great time collecting the "construction materials" and assembling them. Seriously awesome time!

Our Fairy Cottage 

The front yard, with flower garden and sitting stone

The side yard, with firepit  and benches

Close up of entrance (inside is a bench to sit and watch the rain)

Back of fairy cottage with secret passageways

When all the pieces were together, Madelyn decided she wanted to go for a walk. It was starting to sprinkle a bit again, but we thought it might be a fun time to take a hike around the property.

We had a great time, especially Madelyn, who pretty much danced her way around the street! This is a small clip (after-thought) of her dancing to Daddy's music (and Chloe's panting)...