It was a weekend of first time experiences for our fam:) I bought Gabe a family size tent a few years ago and we finally got the chance to break it in over Labor Day weekend. We met my sister Tricia and her family in the Smoky Mountains for two nights of fending for ourselves;)

Despite some crazy experiences with storms, leaky tents, stubborn campfires, and squirrely little ones, we managed to come out of the weekend with some good memories. The little ones were having the time of their lives, and that made every challenge worth it. Wide open wilderness to run and explore. We gave them hookless fishing poles “to go fishing” in the streams with. Worked like a charm. I see how good it is for them when we loosen our grip a little and let them experience the world around them. They gain so much confidence from it. I am so grateful my children have their cousins to grow up with. They make for the best kinds of friends:) Thank goodness we camped with experts;) My brother-in-law is in the military so he had all the gear we needed that made me sit in wonder and awe as my eyes were opened to survival methods without running water. Most of the world deals with this on a daily basis so I say it is good for everyone to go without showers and a bed for a few days. Empathy, compassion, and understanding sprout good seeds when camping! Have never had to work so hard for breakfast. That bacon and eggs took about an hour and half to make between the four of us adults! Truth. I highly recommend staying at a campsite. Leveled spots, campfires, and restrooms are good solutions for young families! Everyone you meet is so kind too! The end of the trip we drove through the Smokies and my eyes felt like I was viewing a piece of paradise. God’s majesty in all of its breathtaking glory! I simply must go back in the fall one day. Have you all been before??

Max’s Fleece // Veronica’s Jacket // Gabriel’s shirt and Jacket // Gabe’s vest, hoodie, and rain jacket // my jacket and cap