Camping

There is something so amazing that happens when you visit the mountains, smiles seem bigger, breaths seem deeper, food tastes better, and my spirit feels refreshed.  I love that our family starts our summer by camping!  This year was no exception...as soon as the kids were done with school, we packed the van and headed up the hill to our favorite campground, Azalea, in Kings Canyon National Park.  Three other families joined us this year!  Also, we visited Boyden Cavern, which we have never done before!

Our kids scored big with baseball cards the final week of school...mom got them each a pack and Uncle Aaron brought them each two!  Lots of sharing and trading going on!  

This wonderful girl took it in stride that she was the lone teenager of the group and was VERY helpful with all the little ones all weekend!

Warm sun and a sturdy log is a great place to read!

Ready for a hike to the Big Trees

Ooh, strong boy!

Isaiah and his friend, Nia...these two never cease to make me smile!

Grace, Violet and Charlotte 

GoGo and 'Saia, ready for the campfire

With only high 90s down in the valley, it was pretty cool in the evenings and early morning.  Most of our playtimes were spent basking in the warm sun!

Ready to explore the Cavern

A short but very steep climb to the entrance

In front of the oldest feature of the cavern, Boyden's "Christmas Tree"

The cavern entrance is at the edge of the Kings River, down near Cedar Grove.  The drive, and the picnic area near the Cavern were quite beautiful.  It has been almost 20 years since we've driven all the way down into the Grove.

Nia and her Papa

You think this boy had a good weekend?