Camping

This is our annual camping week at Cran-Hill. We've been going there every summer since I was 13 (the first year my parents owned a camper). You do the math. That's a lot of summers.

My boys are definitely growing up, and it's very obvious on our camping adventure this year. TJ is everywhere. He's been good about telling us where he is going. He loves having his bike along, and the freedom and independence it offers. He makes friends easily, and was thrilled to be reunited with his dear friend Annaliese, whom he met last year while camping (lots of us stick to the same week each year, so there are many familiar faces). TJ comes back to our lot when he is supposed to, and checks in on occasion. I have no issues with his independence as he is very careful to avoid all bodies of water unless an adult is present.

Sam is growing up. I don't know who gave him permission to do so, but he's growing up just the same. The little boy who was so afraid of everything now goes across the street to the bathroom by himself, and usually remembers to wash his hands when he is finished. He then brings the used paper towel back in case Grandma wants to put it in the firepit. He rode a pony like it was no big deal. He got in the lake up to his shoulders. He's socializing and making friends. I can't tell you how proud and relieved I am!

Nolan isn't quite sure what to make of our camping trip. He has no recollection of previous trips. He is having fun, but he keeps asking if it's time to go home yet. He loves the playground and even allowed Uncle John to push him on the big swings. He's been doing pretty good with pottying and limiting his accidents. Grandma told him he was not allowed to wet the bed (we have a rented pop-up camper we are using), so Nolan has been staying dry at night. He rode his pony and waved at the bystanders like he was English royalty. He tried a s'more (but couldn't finish it) and could eat banilla ice cream until the sun goes down. Oh, and in case you ever wondered, the definition of a twist ice cream cone (according to Nolan) is as follows:

"There's banilla ice cream, and there's chocwate ice cream. And you know what's INSIDE the chocwate ice cream? Banilla!!"