Family "Camp-Out"

Going camping with our church group has become a wonderful tradition for our family. Last weekend we made the one and a half hour journey out to "rough it." Our church owns land that is used for several events. It is out in the country away from civilization and the city noises. We gather around a campfire and have devotions, roast marshmallows, and listen to the cows in the distance as we make memories together. We truly slow down when we are out there. It gets cold in the night and warms up to perfect in the day. Our kids absolutely love "The Land." Since my parents were visiting, we took them along to be with us. We all really enjoyed ourselves. Here are a few pictures of our get-away.

Here is the group around the campfire as Pastor Loper shares with us.

The girls on the porch "sewing" wooden toys.

Joseph peeking out of the jumphouse.

When they found out that my step-dad likes to work, they took advandage of his skills. They are putting siding on the new cabin.

Doyle enjoyed playing volleyball. Here he is making sure the other team doesn't get ahead.

Joseph had quite a load as he pulled his cargo around.

Here is what they have been pulling around in the wagon. Candace brought her little dog, and I believe the critter got his share of attention from his admirers.

Joseph and Landon taking it easy.

Mom and I taking our turn working in the kitchen.

The four-wheelers were a big hit this year. Here is a picture of Doyle and me. This is his tame side. I am sorry I don't have a picture of him when he was by himself. I probably was praying instead of taking pictures. If anyone has one of him on two wheels with his body hanging off the side, let me know.

Samuel and Spencer found a spider in the woods. I thought it was pretty neat.

Mom and Dave "roughing" it.

Julianna takes her turn driving over the hill.

Samuel couldn't get enough of these machines.

We add the kids if Doyle is getting too wild. When he is carrying our children, he is careful.

Here are the boys coming back from the woods. They love exploring with their whittled palm branch swords.

Well, that gives you an idea of the fun we had. There were loads of laundry when we came back, and we began to wonder if the kids would actually come clean, but they did. We all have some more memories to cherish and I know we will do it all again next year.