High Sierra

What can I say, really? It's hard to explain what it's like to melt together with another family so well. The kids had a blast together, the parents caught up and even partied a bit, people were in sync, enjoying each other, the music, the scenery (ok, not the weather so much on the first day!!). It's hard to emphasize the importance of these relationships and these settings. Our High Sierra trip was complemented by the presence of my sister, Sara, our friend Steve, and my brother Trent (and ALL his great friends!) and some awesome camp mates and friends (Jess, Jeanette, Jamie, Cara and Sharon).

Each day, we'd pack up and move to a shady field where we could hear the music but remain cool. Willow, Miles and Ella seemed to have the run of the field. They played frisbee (sometimes comandeering someone else's game!), jumped on a trampoline, made tons of friends with kids and adults alike, tried some hula hooping and danced and danced. One couple was sweet enough to let them paint with them.

At night, Alice brought some fun glowing items for them--rings, necklaces, bracelets. Both girls slept well from being outside all day long!

What a treat for Autumn to have Max--just a month younger than she. It was awesome to see them play together. Willow fell seamlessly back into her friendships with Miles and Ella. Kindred spirits for sure.

As a special bonus, we got to hang a bit with Claire, Drew, Nora and Val, and catch up with Valenti. We wish we could have hung out more, but it was hard to have it ALL!!!