The Great Outdoors!

This past weekend we set out on our first family camping trip. We have camped in tents in the back yard before, but that is WAY different than camping  away from the comforts of my home. :)

To start with, the kids were OVERLY excited (to put it mildly) when we told them what we were doing this weekend. We weren't sure if they would be able to actually concentrate on their school work on Friday due to the pent-up excitement!  We hit the road about noon Friday and made our way to Paul B. Johnson camp ground in Mississippi. Once we were checked in, it was obvious that we were the minority in the camp ground. EVERY camp site was an RV except for maybe 3! We couldn't believe that there were so many people RV camping and not as many tent camping. Personally, I don't blame them though! RV camping is actually appealing to me. 

Our campsite before we start the fire. 

Glen took this opportunity to teach the kids how to build a fire. Needless to say, pine straw and pine cones were the main ingredient to the fire as soon as they learned how quickly they burn!

We enjoyed a few rounds of Uno before bed. 

This fire was great for roasting hot dogs and marshmallows Friday night! The kids quickly learned how to appreciate their hard work and how the fire helped provide us dinner. 

Saturday morning was quite chilly when we woke up. We heard the kids get out of their tents so we started to get dressed. When we got out of our tent, we saw them building the fire so  Glen could light it. We were impressed by their willingness to get it started. 

Glen helped cook the pancakes and sausage over our propane stove. This little stove was great for cooking breakfast and lunch.

Our little Pyro's! 

On one of our walks, we came across this mama goose who had made a nest in a tree. She did not like us being there, so I quickly snapped a picture and we got out of her way.

Needless to say, these pictures do not do it justice. It was beautiful there!

When we went on the nature hike we found some animal prints. We tried to track them but they disappeared into the woods. 

To help make the nature hike fun, I gave the kids a list of items they had to find on the hike. They love scavenger hunts so this helped make the hike a little more exciting for them. 

A little friend we found near the end of the hike.

We had a great and relaxing weekend. I did survive and I even told Glen that I would go again under 1 condition- I must have an air mattress or cot to sleep on next time :)