Pictures From Camping

Camping At Dierks Lake!

The boys and I had a blast camping at Dierks Lake. I was really not sure how it would work out since it has been so hot. I guess being out on by the water really kept it very comfortable. There was a nice breeze and of course air condition in the camper. The lake was clean and not busy at all.

The boys had a blast. Garett was very brave and had fun playing with Rylee. They built sand castles and floated on their noodles out in the water. Zachary and Chase made friends with a group of boys and girls. They played in the water and hiked around at night with flash lights.

I enjoyed reading the book "The Shack". I had started it last year but never finished it. It caught my eye packing so I decided to take it and give it another try. I really enjoyed being out in the swing at the lake or in the water watching the boys and reading. It was VERY relaxing. The book was so different then the 1st time I remember reading it. It makes you look at God in a different way. There was something about waking up at 7:00 and see the beautiful scenery that God created. The splashing of the the waves, birds chirping, and ducks quacking. It really was relaxing. There is nothing like see God's creations with out the hussell of life getting in the way.

Each morning Lori and I got up and made the kids breakfast outside on the griddle. Pancakes, bacon, and eggs. Then headed out to the playground or lake. Both were just a few feet from our camper. We would spend a few hours soaking up sunshine and the kids laughter. Then head back for lunch, resting, and a movie in the camper. Then back out to the beach for more fun in the sun before dinner. It was WONDERFUL. The boys did not fight, Garett did not whine, and I really enjoyed the peace and relaxation.

The only part that was not fun were the bees. They were everywhere. Chase, Rylee, and Lori each were stung. I have never seen so many. The juice and coke kept them around. There was honey bees, wasp, and yellow jackets that were bothering everyone that was camping. They would swarm then disappear. Glad no one was really hurt though Lori was stung twice and that wasn't fun for her.

I defiantly want to go camping again. Next time maybe Chuck and go. It was nice to spend time with my friend and I was pretty proud of 2 mommas taking the kids camping. Of course her husband did come and set the camper up for us and take it down. I am glad the boys had a good time. They didn't miss the computer, TV, or video games. They wanted to be outside as much as possible and were up early each morning to head out exploring. Defiantly adding a camper of my own to the wish list. I would recommend Dierks Lake to anyone that likes to camp.

So now its back to reality with laundry, dishes, and setting my classroom up. Glad I had these few days just to enjoy time with the boys.

Summer is coming to an end!

I have to say this has been the best summer I have had with the boys. Even though we have not gone anywhere exciting or spent a lot of money. We have just spent time together. It has been GREAT! I am sad that the summer is coming to an end. The boys have not fought. They have not whined. They have helped around the house and yard. This is the first summer in a few years that I have not been in college working on my masters. I think since I was not stressed out things went smoother.

We started the summer with a broken foot and All star baseball. The cast did not slow Garett down. He still loved to bowl and play. But we were so glad to get it off so he could swim. Baseball ended for Chase. I am very proud of my 3rd baseman and the other Texarkana South All star team. They made to the final 4 of the state playoffs and played hard.

We spent time at the bowling alley, in the pool, riding the dirt bike at my dad's, playing cards, and watching movies. I am sad to see it ending. I really enjoyed focusing more on time together and not on going places. The boys and I are heading out tomorrow to the lake in Dierks. We are camping for a few nights and going to enjoy the lake with friends. I hope the heat isn't to bad. I am bring cards and computer for movies just in case. Its just 2 moms and the kids so this should be interesting. But I am up to the challenge.

I am putting off thinking about school for at least another week. I want to make new memories with the boys in the little time we have left before the rush of the school year starts. Enjoy a few pictures and I will update on how the camping trip goes. Wish us luck!