Camping with the Cousins

July started with one of our favorite traditions, camping in Palisades with the cousins.

One of the best parts about it is our adventure up the creek.

Can you feel the excitement in the air.

We thought we were pretty tough, because the water was freaking cold!!

We are totally like Indiana Jones.

Even better than the creek adventures were the fun times at the lake.

The lake was great that day.  Even little Miss Maggie was enjoying things.

Sam, on the other hand became a butterfly whisperer.

The rest of the kids wanted to spend a little quality tube time together.

They might have regretted asking me to drive.

I may or may have not dumped a few of them in the lake.

Good times.

Serious business.

Following some very seriously strenuous work at the lake, it was time for some rest and relaxation back at the camp.

We had some great games.

And some very impressive bike rides.

Then things got a little weird.

Let’s just say that Taysa was very convincing.

Way too convincing…

What a bunch of manly men.

I think Max was the most color coordinated.

Papa might never forgive us for posting this.  Let’s just say that he was a very good sport.

At least there were a few actual cuties with painted nails.

Although, she got pretty pitiful, pretty quickly.

Bug bites and this little girl are not a good match.

Although, Benedryl seems to make everything better rather quickly.

She wasn’t the only one who had a moment to be pitiful.  Dang it.  Don’t worry, though.  Smores make everything better.

Last, but not least, several of the cousins got to spend some quality bonding time with the bows and arrows.

Good times with great people.