A Detour to the Grand Canyon

 Only 1200 miles to go. I am hoping we can make the drive home in a couple of days. The only issues will be the dogs and how wrestles Berk will be, given that our wonderful new puppy Dusty has just chewed through the power cord for the DVD player…for the second time. She is just lucky she’s cute…because if she weren’t, we might be coming home with one less dog.

We made very good time on day one, so much so that we thought we would make it home before noon on the second day. It always helps when the speed limit is 75 mph and most of the traffic is travelling at least 80. We were driving through a portion of Arizona when right before my little eyes was a huge sign that might as well have been SCREAMING “TURN HERE FOR THE GRAND CANYON”. I couldn’t resist. I had not been to the Grand Canyon in more than 20 years. I know it is the summer and its very HOT down in the Canyon, but I was hoping that the weather would be manageable for all of us if we remained at the top. Thankfully, that was the case. We took a quick 60 mile detour to the south entrance to the park. It was amazing! We also enjoyed a quick “drive-by” of the little Grand Canyon that is managed by the Navajo Indians. What a site to behold. It truly was breathtaking!

Note to self: I hope Berk remembers her first visit although I am not sure she will. She was much more concerned with looking in the gift shop and stopping at McDonalds for chicken nuggets. Oh well. I guess that’s a normal reaction for a six-year old.

Rain Rain Go Away

A Family Dinner

Our visit with my mom and dad is coming to an end. Little by little the time has just slipped away and now we are approaching our long drive home. But, before we all depart my mom has planned a big family dinner for everyone (my brothers’ family included). Without a doubt, this is the first extended family dinner we have had since my dad got sick almost ten years ago. We were told at that time that he may not make it, so we all travelled to Colorado Springs to visit him in the hospital. Thankfully, like a cat with nine lives, he pulled through and has gone on to surprise us all over the past decade. We had a feast! BBQ, roast beef, corn on the cob, several types of potatoes and desert, desert, desert! We also took some great pictures. Please allow me to share a few!

Ride-em Cowgirls!

It’s my brothers 41st birthday, it’s raining cats and dogs, I have sent my brother and his wife on a date…and I now have all three girls to entertain. Movies are out – they have seen everything, games are out – too “boring”, can’t go geo-cashing – we have already done that…so what is a mom to do. I know, how about horseback riding? Done deal, reservations have been made AND Grandma (don’t forget she is 82) is coming too! She does not want to be left behind in any way. (I hope that when I get older I am up for anything at any time, just as she is).

We booked a trail ride through Garden of the Gods – my newly discovered cool place and I have just been informed that Morgan and Sydney (10 and 13) have NEVER been riding before. No time like the present in my world, so off we go. As we check in, the clouds start to gather and in an instant we are in the middle of a steady rain. Thankfully the stable was prepared and they gave everyone a raincoat. Yeah, now we really look like cowgirls!! Morgan and Syd were the first to mount their amazing steeds, Grandma was next (she used the mounting platform), then Berk and finally me. We all made it in to the saddles without accident! We started the ride and all was going well, then out of the blue I hear a scream. Actually an ear-piercing, bone chilling screech that can only be belted out by a girl – its Morgy! Her horse has decided he has had enough (after only 10 minutes) and tried to dump her off by rubbing against a tree and bush. Poor thing, I am too far away to really help, but I try by giving her some instructions about horse “wrangling”. I did a pretty good job too, if only she were calm enough to listen. Thankfully the real wrangler quickly realized what was going on and he rode back to help her. All was good – except we now had a petrified, crying ten-year-old who was doing everything in her power to keep it together in front of her six-year-old cousin. Lord knows, you cannot show fear when every breath you take is being watch by your younger cousin who worships the ground you walk on.

I was so proud of Morgy! She did it! She made it through the ride no worse for wear. The horse tried several more time to toss her off of its back, but she was not going to let that happen! In the end, I think she was really proud of herself. As we walked through the obligatory gift shop after the ride, she and Berk were instantly drawn to these two almost identical Webkin stuffed horses. I could not resist. We bought them and they have been sleeping with them for the past three nights.

Mission Complete! The first ride is now under their belts!

The 5th Annual Allison / Jones Rafting Trip

Hi everyone, sorry for the long delay in posting. It’s been a busy couple weeks with limited access to the WWW. But, I will endeavor to catch you up on our activities...up first...the 5th Annual Allison / Jones Rafting trip! Yes, it had been five years running that we have been rafting with an outfit called Echo Canyon near Canon City, CO. Bottom line, we love this place...and the kids do too! All of the cousins are now old enough (Berk being the youngest) to participate and actually enjoy the ride. This year the attendees included all “kid” cousins, three 40+ Jones siblings (myself included) and one 82 year old Grandma. Yes, you heard me – Grandma! My mom is terrific. There is nothing that will keep her down, not even a fall with stitches.

(Side story –If you recall from a prior post, my mom fell a couple of weeks ago and had to go to the ER. She cut her elbow and ended up with stitches. While there, she continually asked the MD how long it would take to heal. I asked her WHY it was so important…and her response…”because I want to make sure I can go rafting with everyone”)

Given moms arm and little Berk in the raft I thought getting a guided raft (with them doing most of the work) would be a little bit safer. We still had plenty of chances to row, albeit at our discretion to some degree. It had been raining a great deal the prior few days so we became the lucky recipients of two class 4 rapids along the journey, which is normally NOT the case for the “family” joy ride. It’s usually quite tame, except for the day we decide to visit of course! Prior to starting the trip we had a long discussion about raft “seating strategies”. Believe it or not it really does matter… where you sit determines how likely it is you get dumped out of the raft, or how splashed you get, or if you will have an easy time getting back in after a quick swim, etc. My mom and my brother’s wife and I ended up in the back, while my brother was in front with all of the kids. I had a feeling he was in a better seat.

We had been rafting for an hour or so – got comfortable with the raft and enjoyed all of the surroundings. In fact, I think we also got a little cocky related to our new rafting skills. The guide told us the first class 4 (which was only a class 2 the day before) was coming up quickly. He told us all to row four times as quickly as we could to help get our speed up as we entered the rapids. As I started rowing, I looked around I noticed that only Brian and I (both on the right hand side of the boat) were rowing…NO ONE on the left was! Unequal rowing is a cardinal sin in rafting! All of the oarsman must be rowing together in order for the boat to move forward. If you only row on one side you end up putting the boat in to a circular spin – NOT what you want when entering a class 4 rapid!

The end result- the boat was kicking like a bucking bronco in the back (which is where I was watching over my sister in law and mom), the girls were all screaming with excitement in the front (with my brother trying to hold them in) when all of a sudden I saw this wall of rock coming right toward me. The guide made a quick move of the oar and we were able to swing around this gigantic bolder – but SMACKED right in to a smaller rock that made the back of the raft POP up like a cork in a Champaign bottle. Grandma, Jenny (my sister in law) and I bounced up and almost out of the boat. Thank goodness I had both of my feet lodged in to the foot straps. Mom and Jenny ended up grabbing a hold of me in hopes of staying in the boat! As the rapids slowed down I was finally landed in a hunched position over the guide, mom was literally hanging off the back of the boat – backwards, and Jenny was across moms legs trying to grab a hold of something. YAHOO! What fun! We made it through our first class 4 rapids and no one ended up swimming with rocks!

The Garden of the Gods

This is a magical place. My parents have lived in Colorado Springs for more than 15 years and this is the first time I remember visiting this place. It is famous for hiking, horseback riding and rock climbing, as well as Indian artistry made by several different tribes that have historically lived in this area. We spent the day exploring and photographing some of the well known sand-stone cliffs. We also spent some time in their visitor center where Berk was able to pan for gems and crystals. We are planning on going back to ride some horses when my bothers family arrives in a few days. I think the kids would really enjoy it, not to mention all of the parents.

Berk has her first job…as a gold miner

We did it! We finally found a gold mine! WOW I never knew how challenging it was to be a minor. Did you know that only 5% of the gold found is in nugget form? The rest is embedded in granite and it takes a very sophisticated smelting process to extract it. The process is / was so dangerous in the late 1800’s to the mid-1900’s that the average miner only lived to 38 years old. They died primarily from granite dust getting in to their lungs and causing numerous diseases. Terrible way to go!

We drove to a town called Cripple Creek, CO that is actually a gamblers paradise. Tour buses leave from ports all over the city every few hours and drive to Cripple Creek. Mainly full of retired people, they can spend the entire day gambling if they so desire. Go figure! My Dad has wanted to show me the town for years, but we just never seemed to get around to it until the other day. It was fun. We had lunch, toured an old fashioned jail (and got “booked”), and learned about wild donkeys that have free reign around the town. But, I think the most fun my Mom and Dad had was just sitting next to each other at the nickel slots. Every time they pulled the hammer down, they looked at each other and smiled. I guess they still kind-of like each other in some ways. Berk and I stayed outside as no children are allowed in, but it was fun for us knowing that they were having such a nice time.

The end result, they both lost about $1 in 45 minutes of adult play time.

In any case, we went to the Molly Kathleen Gold Mine. It has been in existence for more than 150 years and is the main gold mine shaft in the area. All of the other mines tie in to this one in order to facilitate cleaner air through cross ventilation. We travelled down the shaft more than 1000 feet in an open air double-decker elevator. It was really neat. The entire shaft is made of granite. There have been no cave-ins, nor have there been any floods. I guess granite really is meant to last. We explored several spurs and were able to see and touch many of the gold veins or ore. They no longer work this mine even though gold is readily seen. Berk was even able to operate some of the old air-driven drilling equipment and ride a mining “bike” that the miners used to travel to their work sites. At the end of the tour we were able to pick a piece of gold ore from a huge container filled with it. They believe this particular container holds about 10-15 ounces of gold, but have it under lock and key in the mine as part of the tour.


Needless to say, Berk was hired as a miner at the end of the tour, but she did not seem that thrilled. “It’s too dirty and loud”, she proclaimed. My wonderful girl!

What in the heck is this thing?

OK, for two weeks now, we have been mesmerized by this “humming bird” that has been feeding on the nectar of many of the plants at my parents’ house. We saw it the first time while at the Broadmoor and then every night since then. Generally at dusk, just before it really gets dark. They travel in small groups of 3-4. I spent some time in the front yard the other night in hopes of snapping a photo … and viola, here it is. Who anyone tell me what in the world this is? It’s NOT a bird as it has antenna.

My Mom and Dad

Oh, this has been an adventure. This is by far the longest time I have spent with my parents since I was in high school. Once college began I was OUT and GONE! I will preface this passage with the statement “I really do love my parents”.

I sent an email to my good friend Deanna the other day, and without realizing it I think I encapsulated my time here with them. Here you go: “Parents are driving me crazy (and visa versa I am sure). They both need hearing aids. Dad has them, but won’t use them. Mom needs them, but won’t get them. Anyone know sign language? So far the only language working is tequila”.

It’s been hot (no AC), loud (I have to yell when I speak to them) and sometimes frustrating, but I would not change anything about my time with them this summer. It’s actually been fun in some ways. They are a hoot. Besides, I am sure having both Berk and I AND the two dogs here has more than disrupted their routine and they have not complained, so I shouldn’t either.

Abra-Kadabra….The Rodeo is Coming

What a fun night! The rodeo is on town for a few days and to kick off the competition Colorado Springs holds an annual Cowboy Rodeo Parade. This is the first real parade Berk has ever seen. It was terrific! Amazing horses, clowns, cowboys and girls, trained pets of all types and lots of excitement. The highlight was two-fold. First an older man (who looked a little like my dad – very skinny and gray), probably pushing 70 years old, rode up STANDING on two horses! He was driving them with reins, just as you would on a single horse…it’s just that there was no saddle and he was standing with one foot on the back of each horse! My dad was amazed and thought…maybe I should try that. My suggestion was that he should keep his two feet planted firmly on the ground!

The second event that Berk was just tickled pink about was actually after the parade. We quickly ducked in to this Mexican restaurant just as the parade ended. We were hoping to beat the crowd and luckily we did. After dinner this man approached our table. We had been watching him “work” a table nearby. He was an illusionist. He was trying to hypnotize a young woman while using one of her table-mates to perform a trick. He actually tapped on the shoulder of the friend but the hypnotized woman felt all of the movements. It was really cool.

Well, it was soon our turn. He approached and started talking to Berk. He broke out a deck of cards, had her pick one and asked her to write her name on it…and that’s where the magic began, literally. He did some amazing things with that two of spades. The final trick was Berk placing her card back in to the deck and mere moments later it ended up zipped and snapped in to his wallet in his back pocket. Amazing! Now she wants to be a magician when she grows up.
FYI…the man’s name was Branden Darcel and has a web site. www.brandendercel.com

Geo-Caching 2010

We were introduced to the concept of Geo-Caching last summer when my sister and her group of hiking friends took us on a geo-cache hunt. So what is geo-cashing? Simply put, it is a treasure hunt (through the use of GPS devices) for small treasures (usually boxes) that are hidden all over the world by everyday people. We purchased a couple of kid-friendly GPS’s last year and have used them occasionally, but without a doubt packed them for this road trip. The first cache we found on this trip was in Convict Lake (with the Carew’s) and the second was earlier today. Berk and I drove to a town called Manitou Springs, CO. It is known for its granite cliff faces, amazing waterfalls and a cog railroad that climbs to more than 14 thousand feet up to the top of Pikes Peak.

Rather than take the easy way, we decided to hike of part of Barr Trail which starts in Manitou (at about six thousand feet elevation) and hike a few miles toward the first cache identified by our GPS. It was quite a beautiful hike and tough as it was basically straight up hill. Thankfully this specific cache was hidden in a small cave-like structure close to a stream and water fall. Berk was very excited as we had actually remembered to bring some little trinket of our own to add to the hidden cache. We traded a nickel and a clover medallion for a butterfly shaped eraser. Berk thought that was a GREAT trade! After the trade was completed, and the cache re-hidden, we hiked down to the waterfalls and played and splashed for a while. What a refreshing mid-point break during our hike. The only other thing we still had to do…was hike back out.

If any of you think your kids would like this type of an incentive to get some exercise through hiking – try this. It’s fun. You never know what you might find.

The Allison’s Meet King Tut

Some might consider it the Luck of the Irish, but that would be hard for us to claim as we only have a small amount of Irish blood running through our veins – but, we were finally able to see the touring King Tut exhibit that is now in the US. It has not been on tour for more than 25 years, so when I found out it was scheduled for the Denver Art Museum (DAM for short) I booked the tickets ASAP. The last time it toured the US there were lines hours long. Not this time. The event started on a Tuesday and I was able to get tickets for the following Friday – “easy breezy lemon squeezy” – as Berk says. I am sorry to say that would not allow me to take any photos, but it was thrilling to see the items recovered and the condition they were in after being buried for more than 4000 years. Beds, shoes, toilet seats and other such items kept us all intrigued for more than four hours. Without blinking an eye were ushered in to the gift shop to spend untolled amounts on souvenirs. Berk picked out a book on the Egyptians and actually had more fun learning about them from the book than she did from the actual exhibit. Go figure.

We caulked this book up to one more on our summer reading goal of 20 books. Only 16 to go.

Red the Wonder Horse

We tried a new ranch this year - The BBB Ranch in Woodland Park, CO. It was a relatively short drive from Mom and Dad’s house in Colorado Springs, but it seemed like light years away. We ended up riding through some beautiful national forest lands – of all things – during a tornado watch! It was quite exciting and a little scary as Berk was allowed to ride on her own horse, Red (a girl of course), WITHOUT a guide rope. She really had to control her horse through some rough terrain, rain and thunder. My horse was of course was right behind Berk and Red. Red was the ring leader and elder stateswoman of the group of horses we were riding. My horse was the youngest male, so Red decided that she would do a little training of my horse while we were on the ride – during the lightening, thunder, rain and wind. We were riding down an incline near some old power poles when out of the blue Red decides to donkey kick my wonderful yearling – right in the FACE! My poor guy jumped about a mile in the air…with me on his back. It was all I could do to keep control over him and stay in the saddle. I felt like I was riding a bucking bronco! The wrangler almost had a heart attack as I think all she saw in front of her was a great big lawsuit after a huge emergency rescue attempt out in the middle of the woods. Bottom line, I surprised myself and everyone else in the group – no bodily harm to anyone or any thing! Yahoo!

Our First Full Round…as a Couple

We did it! Well, more specifically I did it! Bill and I actually spent the afternoon on July 4th playing golf TOGETHER on the Broadmoor’s West Course. I finished all 18 holes, I did not play his best –ball (as we normally would do), and I actually had a few terrific shots! I surprised myself and Bill. What a nice time on an amazing course! We finished just in time to swing over to Mom’s and pick everyone up for the fireworks display.

Broadmoor Here We Come…but without Grandma.

We love this place! If any of you have ever stayed here before than you undoubtedly understand why we feel this way. It’s a wonderful resort, very family (and dog) friendly, and they have three championship golf courses readily available to guests. They have a spa, gym, water park, amazing restaurants, movie theater, and a terrific fireworks display on July 4th. In other words it’s somewhere that you don’t ever want to leave.

Typically when we visit the Broadmoor it turns in to a whole family event. Mom, Dad, my sister and her husband join us for some fun in the sun. This trip started out in the same manner – that was until my Mom took a tumble in her bedroom while changing in to her bathing suit (she was planning on joining us at the water park). She tripped over a cable that was strung across the floor. Unfortunately she ended up with a little more than some bumps and bruises. She cut her left elbow and, after a trip to the emergency room, came home with nine stitches, a partial cast and a sling. We felt terrible and she was just plain MAD! She really was hoping to try the water slide again – at 82 years of age! Instead of frolicking in the pool we ended up taking her to dinner and feeding her several margarita’s…it all worked out fine in the end. She slept quite well that night, even in a cast.

The Bark Beetle

After leaving Dinosaurland in Utah, we had an eight hour drive to Colorado Springs. It was a long haul but we did finally make it. What a site it was driving through central Colorado! Beautiful country! What struck me though were the number of dead and dying evergreen trees. Several years ago the Bark Beetle made an appearance in Colorado and it has had a profound impact on evergreen populations. It’s terrible! Whole areas of forest have been decimated. You see beautiful stretches of green lush trees and BOOM the next ten miles of forest are completely dead! The state has been trying a number of natural defenses but nothing has really been able to stop the infestation. I hope this will come to a natural end at some point because it is very sad to see.

We travel to Colorado Springs several times a year to visit my mom and dad. They have lived there for the past 15 years or so. It’s a very nice Military town as the Air Force Academy is here. We arrived a couple of days before Bill was scheduled to join us for his first “road trip rendezvous” of the season. (Due to his travel schedule we typically only get to see him every other week while we are on our road trips…so we try to make the most of the time). Thankfully this weekend is also the Fourth of July, so it’s a three-day-weekend AND we are scheduled to stay at the Broadmoor (our favorite hotel anywhere).

Dinosaurland – Ever Heard of It?

You heard me…Dinosaurland. Well I hadn’t, not until we started researching Utah and its natural wonders. It’s is really quite interesting. The area around Northeast Utah was a dino-meca due to the abundance of food, water and temperatures that were conducive to reproduction. As a result more complete dinosaur fossils have been discovered here than in almost any part of the world. We stayed at a KOA so that Berk could ride the cool three-wheeled trikes that they have for the kids. It was quite fun and nice, although there were slim pickings for food except for a small grocery store. We ended up buying some food and having a very nice picnic in front of our KOA cozy cabin. Very cute.

The evening came and went quickly. We even had some rain last night which was very nice and helped bring the temperatures down, as it was over 90 degrees at 9:00 PM. Way too hot! In the morning we went to the dinosaur museum and have a close encounter with a woolly mammoth. Berk had fun. After the museum we drove off to find some Indian petro glyphs that are supposed to be the most significant Indian artistic find in the US. We had to hike for a ways up in to this canyon area…with the dogs in tow. It was quite a site once we found them and by this time Dusty was on her last little legs. I had brought some water for humans and dogs- thanks goodness. She got so tired and hot after only a short hike that she just dropped to the ground with all four legs stretched out flat as a pancake. It was very funny. We could not get her up for anything. We have now discovered her stubborn streak. So what do two dog lovers do when faced with a situation like this? We improvise and carry her of course. Thankfully I had some cold water with ice in my backpack. So I simply stuffed the little white ragdoll in the pack, let her stick her head out while she cooled off with the ice. It worked like a charm.

The Winner Is...Cave Diving

Although the polling dates have not yet ended for our Utah visit, we just could not wait! We did it – we went diving in a warm water cave!!! It was small, beautiful and exciting. The Homestead Resort has an incredible natural wonder on their hands. http://www.homesteadresort.com/Crater.

Here is a snapshot of our adventure:

Chocolate Anyone?

Park City is an incredible place. I really think I could live here, or at least spend some great winter vacations here. We visited for the first time a few years ago to ski with some colleagues from Deloitte. Berk was only four years old and Bill was delayed in arriving due to weather, but we made it and had a great time. Unfortunately, we really did not have the time to enjoy the summer post-2002 Olympic venues to their fullest. The old Olympic Village has been converted in to a summer vacationers haven…zip line rides, roller rides down the old luge tracks, etc. I wish we had more time to spend here, more specifically, I wish I had known this was available so I could have made arrangements for the dogs to go to doggy daycare. No dogs, means no Allison’s can visit – it’s just too hot to leave them in the car.

So what are two girls to do when in Park City with very little time…go to dinner and shop! Chocolate anyone?

Vroooomm – It must be Utah!

The border between Nevada and Utah was a fantastic sight for sore eyes - Firstly, because we were through Nevada and secondly, we entered in to Utah right at the starting point of the Great Salt Flats. Imagine a place so flat you seem to see the curvature of the planet and so barren that not even the simplest life forms can exist. The Flats is one of the most unique natural wonders in Utah – it’s over 30,000 acres of white, flat salt as far as the eye can see. The Flats are a fragile resource that is primarily only used in August for racing of both motorcycles and autos. Imagine the roar of engines hurtling passed you on this vast dazzling white plain. No, it’s not an alien world far from earth; it is Utah's famous Bonneville Salt Flats.

Without question we had to stop and explore. We found a rest stop midway through the plain and pulled over. The place was desolate. Berk and I were very happy to see some other families stopping at the same rest stop, doing exactly what we had planned – “walking the white” (as I nicknamed it after the fact). Ally and Dusty were the first to hop out of the car and right out on to the Flats. From a distance it looked firm and stable to walk on, but as Berk and I approached, we saw the dogs slowing sinking in to a muddy stinky mess of water and salt with a horrible odor! We had to scoop them out as quickly as we could as I was afraid that it was going to start burning their feet as salt can in the winter when it’s sprinkled on pavement. Luckily they were not in the goop for very long AND they had a water faucet immediately available for the exact purpose of washing off the mess.

In mere moments Berk had decided she had had enough – especially since the smell was a bit overwhelming. So, off we drove – Park City, UT here we come.

Farewell Friends

It’s amazing, six days have flown by. The Carew’s have to begin the drive back today. Berk has been moping around all afternoon. To cheer the kids us Julie and I planned a wonderful breakfast - pancakes, sausage (maple flavored pork sausage to be specific), fried eggs and toasted sour dough bread – amazing and all of the kids were purring like kittens when done. It was the best camp meal thus far. I think Julie and I have become more competent at cooking over an open fire and camp stove as the week has progressed. The next trip we will have to get more adventurous and really plan some amazing meals, now that we have learned how to regulate temperatures, etc.

I digress; we packed the camp, played with the kids and tried to figure out where Julie and Cormac could catch the USA play in the World Cup one last time before the drive. Julie found a place, so Berk and I took Finnioula with us in search of a hotel for the night. The weather is fantastic, rain is gone, so we have to stay and enjoy it…in the comfort of a bed. Best Western here we come (they allow pets). Checked in, unpacked slightly, enjoyed a much needed shower and took Berk and Finnioula to the pool - all in about an hour. Ahhhhh!

Julie soon arrived and we unfortunately had to bid everyone a farewell and safe journey. She had hoped to get a few good hours of driving in before having to stop for the night. To cheer Berk up we went on a quick adventure right out the back sliding door of our hotel. I will let the video speak for itself.

Enjoy!

Team USA and the World Cup

Julie and I struck up a friendship over the past couple of years thanks in large part to the kids. She even trained and competed with me in the 2009 Redondo Beach Triathlon. We finished the race! I have happily been able to get to know her even more as a result of this trip. One of the things I learned was that she used to coach and referee soccer while in college. What a terrific way to make some extra cash! It also explains why she was so interested in the World Cup. On our first evening in Mammoth, while having dinner in the gourmet restaurant (with the kids), she was busy scoping out WHERE to go and watch the USA play at 7:00 AM the next morning. Luckily she found a pub in Mammoth that was open for breakfast. She and Cormac rose early to drive the 10 minutes in to town. Little Finnioula was still asleep, so Berk and I remained in camp until she woke up. When Julie and Cormac returned, we found out the USA won against Algeria. Happily they made it through to the next round, but now had to face Ghana, which was much a more difficult task. Ultimately they lost that game, but the level of excitement in our camp fun to see. Everyplace we went the World Cup games were on TV. Cormac was so enthusiastic about soccer that it rubbed off on Berk. So much so, that even after the Carew’s began their drive back home, Berk still wanted to watch the tournament – even without the USA playing. We may have a budding soccer lover on our hands.

Is There a Monkey in the House?

A smore induced sugar high requires some quick thinking on behalf of any parent, thus the need for a sunset hike and rock climb. Little Finnioula could not stay awake, so while Julie put her to bed, I took Cormac and Berk to climb the boulders near the camp. It was great fun for all, especially Cormac who announced to all he was a monkey – and boy did he prove that over the next thirty minutes. He shimmied up every rock and crevice, several times having to help Berk a bit. I, of course tried to follow (with a glass of wine in hand), just to make sure they did not break an ankle or something worse, but it really was not needed. They were amazingly agile and both seemed to stick to the rocks as if they had glue on their feet and hands.

It did not take long and the kids started to get a bit tired. We started the trek back to camp. The uphill climb sapped the last bit of energy left in their growing bodies. Luckily the restrooms were very close to the camp area, so it did not take long to get them to bed – which afforded the Mom’s some quiet time by the fire – thinking big thoughts and planning the next big adventures of the summer.

Wheat Thin Sandwiches?

Although it rained most of the day, the weather cooperated for our last night with the Carew’s. Julie and I had planned a special dinner for the kids – all of their favorites, plus some veggies – just because we try to be good Mom’s. We also splurged on some Mommy Juice (a good bottle of Cab), to go along with the meal. Burgers, chicken tenders (grilled), asparagus, fruit, Brie…and Wheat Thins. Yes, I said Wheat Thins! They turned out to be the most fun item on the menu. As we began cooking and eating in shifts (due to the limited size of the grill and cook top), Cormac (who really is a Chef in training) decided to make “mini-burgers”. He had his hamburger and chicken cut in to small pieces and then sandwiched them between two Wheat Thins - adding ingredients to the sandwiches as the meal progressed. Each one had a different combination of foods. I was so amazed to see a seven year old mixing foods together, as Berk usually practices the “separate but equal” approach. Cormac was having so much fun that the other two (Berk and Finnioula) had to join in. What a HUGE treat! We all laughed and really enjoyed our last camp side dinner together. We ended the night with smores for all – and a sugar high that set the stage for some much needed pre bed time rock climbing.

Rain Rain Go Away

Our first night’s sleep in Lake Tahoe was blissful. It was quiet, scattered clouds made the sunset magical, and the kids were exhausted. Perfect sleeping conditions for any parent. In the middle of the night I was awakened by a slight rapping sound. I had to stop for a moment to figure out what it was when I took a deep breath in and realized – RAIN! Wonderfully quiet, pine scented, and deliciously soothing. I fell back asleep and did not reawaken until after 8:00 AM (again thanks t to the sleeping bag brim and the cloud cover). Julie and I did not think much of the rain as the morning progressed. We really expected it to disappear shortly…it just never did. Unfortunately it rained almost all day. We had planned several adventures with the kids, everything from white water rafting to jet skis – none of which we could do due to the colder (60 degree) temps and showers. We ended up taking them to see Toy Story 3 and Miniature Golf in South Lake Tahoe. Most of them did not really know the difference, all of them except Cormac. He was fixated on fishing. That was his only wish for the whole trip, but sadly we just could not get it accomplished. Maybe next year Big Guy!

Let’s go to Lake Tahoe

It is hard to imagine, but it has been exactly one year ago this weekend that Berk and I visited Lake Tahoe for the first time with our very good friends, the Steele’s (see last year’s Blog). We had so much fun that we decided to do it again, although this time we were camping vs. staying in a beautiful four-bedroom home. Lake Tahoe is the perfect launch pad for travel either East or North – and since we are trying to get to Grandma and Grandpa’s in Colorado Springs by July 2, this is the perfect spot to transition out of California.

We booked two nights at a camp site / resort called Zephyr Cove. It is beautiful! There are quite a number of RV spots, but we selected a walk in site that we thought would suit our tastes better. We did not realize that “walk- in” really meant “hike-in”. It’s not easy carrying all of the camping equipment, plus food, two dogs and three kids – all up a half mile hike from where the cars are parked. BUT – WE DID IT! We did solicit the help of a couple of Zephyr employees (our Sherpa’s) who had a golf cart. They carried the cooking box which weighed a TON! All I can say is thank Heaven for David and Roman!! They were life savers! Our site was located up on a slope that slightly overlooked the lake. Sunset on the first night was incredible. Dinner was good too, especially since we decided to go out.  We just ran out of time end energy to cook in camp.  

You Dirty Dogs

The kids were very excited to pick up the pups at their doggy daycare outside of Mammoth. They stayed with a wonderful lady by the name of Donna who has an amazing property that had streams and ponds woven through it. She is also an artist who designs and builds furniture. Ally and Dusty made some friends while they were there, but they are basically worry warts, so they spent the majority of the time worrying that they had been abandoned.

We picked them up a day early because everyone missed them so much. But when we pulled up I really had to look around for them as we would have never recognized them if they had not come running to us. Dusty was no longer white! She was various shades of gray and black. Ally on the other hand was no longer black either…she was full of mud and grass clippings. Something tells me they had a better time that they would lead us to believe.

Needless to say they needed some TLC that night in the form of pets, hugs and some fresh water! After dinner the kids decided that the dogs needed a bath, so that’s what we all did. We hiked down to a stream that ran right behind our camp – it flowed with wonderful fresh water that not only called to the dogs, but all of the kids as well. We had a terrific time and it was a great way to release that last little bit of energy in both human’s and canine’s. Needless to say we all slept very well that night, even if we were only slightly cleaner.

We Have a New Pet

Yes, we do have a new pet – sort of. Her name is Slither. Our camping neighbors (a family on vacation from the LA area) had a little visitor in their camp ground – a terrifically friendly Gardner snake that the kids named Slither. Everyone got the chance to hold and play with her.  All of the girls decided she was a she - and they outnumbered the boys - so that simplified the decision making process.  Even the dogs got in to the act. Ally was only slightly interested until she took a big sniff and than began a sneezing fit. Dusty, on the other hand was a bit more daring. She decided to welcome the new addition with a little kiss…right on the head. 

Which is Faster – a Canoe or a Kayak?

The race was on almost from the inception. The Carew’s against the Allison’s – each in separate water craft. The lake was amazing – crystal clear and frigid. There are beautiful snow capped mountains that surround us, so naturally the lake is full of snow melt. There are also a HUGE number of fishermen. This lake is continually stocked with some very large fish consequently; there have quite a few fishing tournaments here. We will attempt to catch a few of the whoppers in the morning.  

In case you were wondering, even with a change of crew and oars, the kayak is a bit faster. 

The Hot and the Cold of It

Yes, it was “officially” summer yesterday, but you would not know it here. It is about 10 PM and 45 degrees out, and it’s expected to get even colder as the night wares on. The kids have almost every piece of warm clothing on that we brought with us, plus we have broken out an extra sleeping bag, just in case. Tonight could be very interesting!

The Next Day…

We FROZE last night!!!

30 degrees was the coldest it got according to the folks in the resort. That was definitely the coldest I have ever slept in a tent. Thanks to the extra sleeping bag, and three layers of clothing – we survived! An interesting fact that I never knew about “mummy-style” sleeping bags…they have a hood. You put your head in it and you use it like a hat, standard camping info here, but what I did not know was that the brim area of the hood also acts like a blindfold, so when the sun rises at oh dark thirty, you can still sleep! Berk and I both slept until about 7:30 and we only woke up because the sun had warmed the tent so much we were actually HOT! After a night of freezing temps, the warmth was a pleasant surprise. By 9:00 AM it was an amazing 75 degrees out. You have to admit those are some pretty huge temperature swings!

Convict Lake – A Foodie Haven!

Yes, you heard correctly. If you don’t yet know, the word will be out shortly. Convict Lake, near Mammoth Lakes, CA., is a fantastic campground just minutes away from Mammoth and all of its wonders. This place is a little slice of heaven for the new and / or not-so-keen campers. Not only does it have swimming, boating, fishing etc, it also has an award winning gourmet restaurant.

Needless to say after such an “interesting” drive up, we got here a bit late. It took some time for Julie and I to get the camp set up and the kids comfortable with sleeping in tents for the first night. It was 7:00 PM in a flash and we had very little food – we actually forgot most of what we had planned to eat at home in the refrigerator. So what do two mom’s of hard working husbands do…we go to dinner…with kids in tow. Spaghetti for the kids, but the moms had martinis, duck, and salmon! You can’t ask for a better camping night than that. A great meal, followed by very tired kids and a glass (or two) of wine by an open fire. Truly amazing!

Day 1 – POP Goes the…Roof Rack

Well, DAY 1 STARTED OUT WITH A BANG- actually a blow up. No, we did not lose a tire, thank goodness, but we pop our lid, so to speak. We were actually only about 30 minutes from the house before we had our first brush with danger. We were driving on Interstate 10 near the wind farms in Riverside County when the “locked” roof rack on the top of the car blew open. I had it packed with all of the necessities – tent, sleeping bags, back packs, etc. When I realized what had happened I immediately made my way to the shoulder. As I looked back in my rear view mirror all I remember seeing were helmets bouncing along the highway and towels flying in the wind. IT WAS AMAZING NO DRIVER BEHIND ME WAS HIT BY THE DEBRIS! We were very lucky, as was anyone who happened to be behind me. I quickly bungeed up the canopy and we continued on our way to Mammoth – with hearts pounding. All the while Berk was so engrossed in singing her new camp songs that she did not even realize we had stopped, nor that I had pulled everything out of the rack and literally thrown it in to the back seat with her and the dogs. I love her so much!

The countdown has begun...But where shall we go? Can you Help?

• Tent - Check
• Sleeping Bags - Check
• Camp stove - Check
• Fire wood - Check
• Crazy new puppy - Check

We are slowing packing, but the issue now is really related to itinerary. We are very excited to be travelling with another family from Manhattan Beach for the first few days of our journey. The first stop will be Mammoth Lakes, CA and Yosemite National Park. From there we drive to Lake Tahoe for some white water rafting...but after that we are basically following the wind. Can you help? If anyone has any suggestions PLEASE let us know!!! We could turn this trip in to a Family and Friends real-time road trip. Our goal would be to stay in the Northern Rockies due to the much warmer temps in the South. Ultimately we will need to end up in Colorado by mid-July in order to spend some time with Grandma and Grandpa.

Please post your suggestions on my Facebook account or send me an email when you have an idea. We are up for an adventure.