Two Nights Camping

Obvious by the title of this post, we took Ava camping this past weekend with our friends Donna and Nick, and their kids Hannah, Isaac and Caitlin (probably all spelled incorrectly). The weather was gorgeous, the views of the Mississippi were spectacular and the company and conversations were grand.

So, all went pretty well, even when considering the spats of general chaos mixed with endless food prep and the occasional three minute respite. Nah, it wasn't that bad.... We were featured guests at the mosquito carnival! And we enjoyed the constant anxiety that only a flaming pit and toddlers can conjure. Not only that, night spawned trains and horn blowing along the mighty Missipp' that echoed peacefully through the woods and slammed into our tents at regular intervals. Ah, sweet nature.

We did manage to take a short hike, however, which is a minor miracle when considering the logistics of backpacks, potty, bug spray, snacks, drinks, sunscreen, toddler schedules, etc. Dada carried Ava on his back, his shoulders burning with excitement as they hiked toward the lookout. We also stopped by a playground and the kids were able to play on the swings and things. Then it was home on Monday, refreshed as a dirty Kleenex, ready to tackle the new week.

Check out Ava's eye all puffed up from a mosquito bite. That's the second time that has happened to her in just a couple of months!