I think we made a mistake by calling our annual family gathering Puddle Huddle because we jinxed ourselves for good. It has rained every year (this being the 4th), but this year it POURED!!! (although from the pictures it looks like it was a sunny weekend, well that's because it was the only time I could bring my camera out, trust me it wasn't the majority of the weekend) Rain was in the forecast so we prepared for it, but I think we were overly optimistic and didn't think it was going to be as bad as it was. We had a tarp over our tents and thanks to my father who found two canopies on Craig's List the week before, we managed to stay fairly dry. None of us slept because of the sound of the rain on the tarps, but even with the bad weather and lack of sleep we all had a good time and no one complained. There has been talk, though, on the Lewis side of cabins or a pop up next year and the demise of tent camping. Of course Brian's parents have there pop up and rubbed it in how cozy, dry and warm they were all weekend, we'll see what our family decides next year with two kids. No matter how everyone gets to sleep we will continue the tradition of "camping" every year. We went back to the same place and sites as last year with an addition of a water site that we were going to use to store the boat and have easy access to the many water sports that were going to happen. Yeah, that didn't happen and luckily we got a refund. You can also guess that a lot of other people got refunds as well, so it was very quiet around the campground for a Labor Day weekend. We did a lot of eating and sitting by the fire for warmth. We did go to Mount St. Helen's visitor Center one day for some relief from the rain and that was really fun. Brian's parents and mine got together for a surprise graduation gift for the both of us, which was extremely generous of them. Brian got a new set of golf clubs that he's still talking about. We went to the driving range this weekend and he LOVES them! Then I got very generous gift certificate and a voucher to bring whomever I want for a nights stay at the Mariott. Ashley got some new jammies, a book and a stroller for her baby. They were all very nice gifts and we appreciate them very much. Can't wait for Fam Jam next year, we're going to try July and see what our luck brings us for weather.
This was camp for the weekend. It took awhile to set up and take down (thankfully it was dry for both), but it was well appreciated!!! Thanks Dad and Bri.
Ashley tipping one back...
and then passing out
The boys lounging...
while the girls are cleaning.
The parents posing with Brian and his new set of golf clubs
Ashley practicing pushing around her little brother when he arrives. She loved her new stroller and wanted to go for walks any chance she could get even in the rain and mom chasing after her to keep her hood on.
3 comments:
What we missed?!?!?! Hopefully, next year we'll be able to make it. She's changed so much and how she's grown. I can't wait to see you guys in a couple of weeks.
Yep, that was one fine refugee camp we set up! I commend our hardy group on our staying power in face of the elements and for our uncanny ability to pick camping weekends that rain!! Sure, sunny weather would be a plus but we accomplished once again what we set out to do and that was to get the fam jamming!
It's always great spending time with Steph and Steve, especially after Steve's ordeal this summer (good to see that you're getting through it OK 'ol buddy!). Hangin' out with Team Timm is always fun and we had no trouble finding ways to make the weekend another enjoyable and memorable one.
Looking forward to next year and having additional little and grown family members joining us!
Ashley pushing the stroller at full speed kept me warm with laugher during a cold, rainy camping trip. Despite the weather we had a memorable time, as usual, but next year dad and I are definately retiring the tent for a concrete floor and four solid walls that don't leak if it rains.:)
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