Monday, July 2, 2012

Rainier

We spent 4 days camping, hiking and exploring at Mt. Rainier this past weekend.  It was overcast and cool most of the weekend but the rain held off until the last night.  We were definitely wet packing up and will be sealing our tent seams again before the next trip!  Our campsite was surrounded by forest, and the kids explored and found a "fort" which included a see-saw and other amenities.  It's awesome to see and hear them enjoying nature's playground and working together cooperatively.  We also took full advantage of the Vistor's Centers and the hands on learning for the kids.  Ava and I learned about a plant called Skunk Cabbage, and when we saw it on the hike, I asked her if she remembered what it was called. She said, "Yes, it's Skunk Kale!"  Lots of fun educational opportunities in addition to major eye candy scenery!  Here are a few photos...

Rainier is stunning and truly massive but it can be
quite elusive as well! 


Reading in the tent!  She loves to read and is an independent reader now!




Snowbanks near Paradise

Our first animal encounter....Mr. Fox


Second animal encounter...a very tame deer by one of the Vistor's Center


Third animal encounter...a marmot!


Campfire fun!  This guy never misses an opportunity for
S'mores!