Our first Camping trip of the summer

Last weekend we went camping for the first time this summer. We have down graded from the camper to a big tent. In many ways the camper is easier, the biggest being once you stock it, you don't have to think of all the little things again. I forgot to bring plates, cups, silverware and all the important things like that. Thank God my sister-in-law was camping right next door and we scrounged off her all weekend.

In other ways the tent is easier, you don't have to worry about backing the camper just perfectly in to a tight area. You can fit everything you really need in the trunk of your car, if you pack carefully.

This past weekend was Christmas in July at the nearest state park. Santa came, with Mrs. Claus standing right beside him. There was a number of activities for the children: bike decorating for the big parade following Santa's sleigh, ornament making, stocking decorating and even a scavenger hunt.

The Claus couple enjoying the parade from the best seats in the house.

My two kids in the parade following Santa with the bikes decorated. You can barely see the balloons on the handle bars.

The two boys sitting on the Clauss' laps, Joel is getting as big as Santa.

This is our camping site, with our new tent. I have to say how much easier the newer tents are to put up then years ago. I put this tent up twice, with very little help. (and no bad words coming out of my mouth!!)

We had a wonderful time camping, we had loads of company. We held a surprise birthday party for a friend that had a near death experience a few weeks ago. She felt loved and we enjoyed her company.