Camping in Jemez

 We've talked about going camping many times, but have never actually made it happen. So this weekend was the time  The Haslams finally convinced us to go, and it was quite the adventure.  Brad and I were glad it was only one night, the kids would say they had the the time of their lives.  Overall it was such a fun experience and so many good memories were made!

Brad and Vince had helpers in setting up the tents.  Karly and Jude are the best kind of "helpers".  It was in setting up the tent that we realized we had a four man tent for our family of 6.  Cozy!

Shortly after the tents were put up, the rain began!  Oh boy!  Bentley continued his work digging a firepit, the rest of the kids were happy to go dance and play in the rain.

They were off in the distance, playing in the light rain, thinking all was well, but out of nowhere that little storm turned into a downpour and then into hail.  The kids came running and screaming for cover, but they were far.  So by the time they made it back to us, they were completely soaked.

We waited out the storm for a bit under our canopy, but then had to move into the vehicles because it was getting so intense.  Fortunately though, the sun came back out and the storm moved on.  The kids quickly got back out to enjoy the afternoon.  Molly and Bentley worked on the firepit, and the others discovered all the new mud to play in.

The rest of the day was beautiful and the kids played while we enjoyed a few good games of horseshoe.

Building a fire for the evening proved a little challenging since everything was soaked.  Fortunately for us, we had Vince who had more camping experience and could eventually get something going for us.  The evening was coming and it was starting to get a little chilly!

It's not camping without having s'mores!

That night in the tent was a memorable experience.  We were all squished in so tight, laying opposite from the people next to us, rotating which side of the tent our heads were on to try to make a little more sleeping room.  Poor Eden - she got squished into the side of the tent which resulted in getting pretty wet throughout the night.  Fortunately though, being extra cozy and close did help keep us nice and warm!

The next morning we ate a warm breakfast and tried to not be too jealous of the good sleep the Haslams got. ha ha  I guess that bad sleep is part of camping, right?

What a beautiful morning!  Come on sun - warm us up!

One very beautiful and special thing that has come about because of COVID is the permission authorized to have the sacrament outside of traditional church settings.  Today was one of those special experiences as we gathered around for a nice church meeting with the sacrament, some songs, and a spiritual thought.

I love that the kids were holding hands with their buddies all through "church".

Then we finished out the day exploring, building, chopping trees, and just enjoying nature with our friends. 

Thanks Haslams for a great time camping!  We wouldn't have wanted to be stuck in the hail or mud with any other friends!