In August we went camping. It was not only Z’s first time but also our dog K’s.  Nap and bed time routine was a bit rough. But Z loved spending so much time outside in the dirt, playing with sticks and climbing in and out of the tent. K enjoyed being outside with all of us but definitely fought the idea of sharing the campground with others.

We had a great campsite tucked away, plus it had a place we could set up my hammock. Thankfully our campground did not have a burn ban, so we were able to do hot dogs over the fire and Z tried his first bite of S’mores (he only shared one with Mom).

On one day, we drove up a long windy and bumping forest road to an amazing view of Mt. Rainer. At the top, we hiked along an old forestry road with amazing views.

On another day we took K home so we could explore Mt. Rainer National Park. We drove ALL of the southern end and around several campgrounds. That day we had a picnic lunch at Paradise, the top point with a lodge, visitor’s center, and great views of Mt. Rainer. While there we went on a short hike along the meadows to a small waterfall. It was a good first camping trip since moving back to the west coast.

We spent Labor Day weekend at NaiNai and Papa’s and went to the Portland Zoo. Z enjoyed the underwater view of the seals and sea otters and got a chance to pet rabbits, a tortoise and a few goats at the petting zoo. Later in the day we watched the Elephant show, the giraffes, and saw a few other safari animals. It was a great family outing

At the end of August, we attended the jump start for our church’s young family group. They had several inflatables up in the gym for the kids.  Z LOVED the bounce house and slide so much he barely ate dinner and went straight back to it! He is such and active little man.

Now fall activities are in full swing. This year I am helping out as a table leader at MOPs. So, Monday nights Z and I go to the church while L attends Forestry stewardship classes. And now starting in October every other Sunday we are apart of a young family ministry small group as well. We are happy to be settling in and getting involved in our local community.

Hope you all had a great summer and are enjoying the changing of seasons.