our first camping trip

For Toby's birthday we decided to go camping for a couple of nights.

Vacationing with a family of 7 can get a bit tricky and expensive,

so the pastor and I have been hoping that this might be a tradition

that our family would enjoy doing....

We have just been waiting for the right time,

....you know, no diapers or crawling little ones. 

There were a number of families at the campground with babies,

but we have never been brave enough until now :)

It was a wonderful first experience, though it was quite a learning curve for us.

We took notes the whole trip, about what we needed for next time! 

I never camped much growing up, but the pastor has sweet memories of it.

We went to a campground near Deception Pass,

and it was just LOVELY! Definitely a place we want to return to.

Hiking opportunities were in every direction, as well as beaches

and areas to swim....if it were warm enough! 

The first night it was raining as we set up camp.

We did okay though, got our picnic table somewhat covered

and had a nice meal together. 

 I brought cupcakes for Toby's birthday which the children got to decorate. 

Trader Joe's box mix and icing mix is DELICIOUS!! 

 Got through the night, and were up bright and early Monday morning.

Toby had received some Legos for his b-day,

so of course that is the first thing he begged to do upon waking.

Eggs, bacon, cinnamon bread,

coffee, and orange juice 

were on the breakfast menu. 

Loved, loved, loved the opportunity to un-plug,

be still, talk, do nothing, read,

hike and play... 

I will NOT say I came home rested physically, 

BUT, I do believe mentally it was a great rest! 

The Lord blessed us with a BEAUTIFUL, sunny day on Monday,

and I have some sweet beach pictures that I will be sharing soon

...so stay tuned!!