Adventure's in Camping 2015

We went camping as a family of 5 for the first time last week and had a wonderful time. We definitely have a lot to learn, but we survived! Ha Ha!!! Here is a list of memories (good & bad):

• Spending time together as a family without the distractions of technology is wonderful!
• Watching my kids play together and bond was a treasure
• Not being allowed to have a campfire due to our drought and extreme fire danger is a huge bummer
• Preparing all of our food before leaving was a huge help
• Hearing Mama scream at having a Kangaroo Rat running thru camp is quite funny to the kids
• Sleeping on the hard, cold ground is not good for these old bones and muscles.  Will have to invest in a blow up mattress for future camping
• Having the zipper to the tent door break is not fun, but super thankful it happened on our last night
• Three nights of camping is more than enough
• Can't wait to vacation with my family again soon!

Not having a campfire didn't keep us from making smores, we just used our propane camp stove!

We even put the stove in the campfire pit and sat around it each night

Thankful to my brother for giving us their tent so we could make memories

Standing on the wildlife preservation bridge over looking what should be lake water.  Yup folks, the drought is BAD!

Love these fun girls!

Seth loves swimming, but wasn't so fond of the muddy ground beneath his feet

I could stare at this view all day long!

Celebrating Independence Day at the PBR

On July 4th my kids had the opportunity to participate in the PBR (Professional Bull Riding) event. It was a real treat for them and something I am sure they will always remember. I was able to be behind the chutes for the first time and I have to say that I definitely prefer the grandstands for the following reasons: There is a whole lot of testosterone back there, things move really quickly, the bulls are HUGE and most of all it is almost impossible to see the rides unless your up on the cowboy grate.

My lil cowfolks a bit before the rodeo began.

Behind the scenes picture.  I was amazed how all the professionals would stand and stare at the bull they chose for the longest time.  I guess they were trying to figure out the bulls temperament, but who really knows.

The three bull calf riders and one of the mutton busters and their cute cowboy butts!

Kya and my parents in the grandstands waiting for the fireworks to begin.

One of the best firework shows we have ever seen!

Love the excitement on her face

I loved how the American flag was lit up and could be seen in front of the fireworks

Gorgeous shot of the full moon, flag and the calm after the storm.  It was truly very peaceful.

And I just have to show off the new sticker I made for the back of my van window!