Just got back from a two night camping trip to the Redwoods. Camped on the beach and had a great time. Dw had to work and the Boys are on their Easter break, so us guys took off on our own.

We had a great time...going on lots of "explores", walking up creeks, flying a kite, throwing the baseball around, marshmellows over the campfire, telling ghost stories in the tent along with tales of Dad's youth, and generally having lots of fun.

This is definitely a great age! Well, the kids' anyway...I would not mind being on the younger side of 50 instead, but it beats the alternative!

Vaughn and the ABC Boys
Alex, Bryce, & Calder
3-31-97 @ 28.5 weeks

Hi Vaughn

Sounds like you guys had a great time. Just shows you that the best things in life are generally free. I hope we will be out there doing the same thing when our kids get a bit older.

Regards

NZDad

5 yr old B
3 yr old BBG

Reminds me of the old saying... "The best things in life are free -- and they are worth every penny you pay for them!"

Camping was US$14 a night and gas costs are way up (but not near your costs yet). But if you add the camping fees, the gas (about US$18 for the 100mi/160k round trip) and the food (which one has to eat if we'd stayed at home instead), the cost would be about the same as a family night out at the movies.

Took the boys to the beach yesterday morning for a minus tide -- collected sand-dollars and other shells, jumped off sand dunes, drew large designs in the sand, played in the waves (we always have at least an extra set of clothes each and towels in the van). I could tell we had lots of fun by the amount of sand left in the bottom of the bath tub!

Too early in the year for the mossies, and thankfully we don't have sandflies here!!!! Just had to remind myself that you are in Fall -- we finally are having Spring weather, after a good amount of rain (150% of normal -- needed, but it delayed Spring a bit).

Vaughn and the ABC Boys
Alex, Bryce, & Calder
3-31-97 @ 28.5 weeks