Family Camp

This summer was our first time taking the whole family for overnight Family Camp with our church at Triangle Lake.  It was extremely laid back, but pretty fun.  It was good to talk to my sister-in-law who came with her family.  I spent most of my time walking back and forth between the tents and waterfront.  Next year I think I will plan more activities for my kids at least.  When we first arrived it was very hot so we went swimming- though Lucy didn't REALLY want to go in.  Even I went swimming.  I can't even remember the last time I went swimming.  I miss it.  I don't even own a bathing suit so I just picked some dark modest clothes to swim in.  Hermione loves the water as long as she is wearing a life jacket- she still needs swimming lessons.  Ariana is adventurous, but loves the safety of being with someone or wearing a life jacket.  Lucy refused to go in without screaming.  My husband lead the devotions which I really wanted to hear but alas two children (should I claim them as my own?) were very cranky and refused to sit still.  I may need to take drastic measures.  When it was time to sleep- it was anything but quiet and comfortable.  Although there were cots provided I knew without a crib of any kind she was just going to crawl in with me so we set ourselves on the ground with a sleeping bag.  Between Lucy shouting, "Mama! Mama!" every few seconds and Emerson shouting, "Poopy!"  there was no sleep to be had.  Neil sternly told Lucy to be quiet and she cried but drifted off while I just tossed and turned till it was light enough to be called morning.

On Saturday, thanks to all the family volunteers and Mike, especially, for the coffee and breakfast.  I had a great conversation with Pastor Dwight and Luke about our old school (Western Baptist College).  It was over cast all day but the kids were insistent on swimming.  So we spent the day chatting and watching the kids.  Right after lunch it started pouring down rain.  Thankfully the camera was wrapped in plastic and Lucy actually was taking a nap.  I caught up on some reading- Wonderland Creek by Lynn Austin and listened to the beautiful sound of raindrops on the canvas of the tent.  The sun broke out for only a few minutes after the rain.  ALL but one towel was completely soaked.  After dinner was worship and devotions while I chased kids or told them to be quiet.  Ariana and Lily danced to the music.  We all had s'mores on the beach and Lucy fell asleep in daddy's arms.  It was a long beautiful day.  I should have brought my own flashlight because I spent a lot of wasted time looking for my kid's flashlights with only the light of a glow stick.  But that night I slept a little warmer thanks to my husband though still not very comfortable or very deep. 

On Sunday morning we had breakfast and listened to my husband give a short message.  He taught everyone the "Hippo Song"  which the girls now absolutely love- especially Hermione.  We had lunch and left for home.  It was a good weekend.  Our church is really blessed and everyone is like family to me.  I want to thank Jill and Matthew for all the hard work putting to together volunteers and meals.  Thank you to both Sarahs, Aja, and all those who watched my girls when I couldn't be in three places at once.  Thank you to the worship team for leading us in an uplifting praise to Our God and Savior Jesus Christ.  

Packing up and ready to go!

 "I don't want to get in the water!"

 Ariana with water gun.

 Friends at sunset

Hermione in the sand at Triangle Lake

 Dock at Triangle Lake

 Sandy bottom

Uncle Mack and Malachi ready to fish