Sunday, June 28, 2009

Camping


We took our first family camping trip this weekend, and it was a great success. Alec loved everything about being outside in the wilderness. We discovered a great spot the last time we went camping with Abby and Ross - it is west of Loveland in the Camanche Peak Wilderness Area, and we were thrilled to visit it again. It is really secluded and hard to find, but people have been there before. There is a little picnic table built right near the fire pit, which is just Alec's size. The spot also has an amazing view of the surrounding mountains and it is w/i driving distance of several hikes and a beautiful river. We decided that we should go for only one night w/ Alec his first time, so we set off yesterday afternoon and stayed last night. Alec took his nap on the way up and was in heaven when we arrived. We set up camp and then headed down to the river for some rock throwing and exploring. As you can see, it was a hit. Alec also loved collecting firewood for dad at the camp site, collecting rocks, and digging in the dirt. He was in great spirits the entire afternoon. Unfortunately, he didn't sleep very well. He was really wound up and couldn't really get to sleep in the tent. Finally Matt and I gave in and joined him and that only led to more tomfoolery. Alec isn't used to sleeping outside of his crib and having mom and dad and Brody in bed with him was a little too much excitement. While Matt and I were trying to fall asleep Alec was screaming, "Hi mom, Hi Dad, Hi dog-dog." Anyway, he finally fell asleep, but woke up about half way through the night and couldn't get back to sleep. So - Alec and mom spent a few hours sleeping in the car, but did end up back in the tent eventually and when Alec finally fell into a deep sleep he was fine. All in all, we had a wonderful time and will be taking many more camping outings this summer!
In route
Setting up camp

Our daredevil dog


Alec had no idea had to handle the plentiful supply of rocks




Smashing wood like dad

Grilling dinner

Someone helped themselves to the trail mix
The view from our spot
Brody sporting his Halloween jacket - he gets cold w/ his summer do.

Alec at about 10:30p.m. - you people think I'm going to sleep?

4 comments:

Grammy G. said...

He's a Colorado boy, that's for sure.

Sweet Baby James said...

Looks like so much fun! Tim was just saying last night we need to take James camping, he would LOVE it just like Alec! Alec's awful night of sleep sounds like about an average night for James, so maybe he would be an awesome sleeper camping :-)

Abby said...

Looks like so much fun, I wish we could have joined you!

Jenny said...

I think it is fabulous and hilarious that rocks are his favorite toys! Kids are awesome.