Palmetto Campout 2019

A while back, I started researching for another Spring Break camping trip. We had purchased a year pass for the South Carolina State Parks and thought that we could visit a few. Browsing their website, I saw an interesting event. An overnight campout with a park ranger who would teach you camping skills. They only chose a certain number of families, but I figured it would be exciting to try, since the weekend coincided with our Spring Break. Well, imagine our surprise when we were notified that our family was chosen to participate! That was not the only surprise. We got to keep the 4 man tent they were providing! We could stay a second night for free! As the weekend drew near, the weather forecast became not so pleasant. I could only think about last year's camping trip with not so great weather. But God provided perfect weather! It was a great weekend.

Seeing my kids' excitement as they got to kayak on the lake in their own boats filled me with a peace I have found so elusive lately. We quickly befriended the family in the campsite beside our own, and have plans to meet up later this summer at another park. This trip was just what we all needed in so many ways.

After instructions from our park ranger, we attempted to put up our tents.

Success!

Getting on the other side of the camera so I can see myself with my kids

mother and son

Helping prepare the turkey for cooking over the campfire

Our park ranger Robert showing the kids two dollar bills.

Turkeys are cooking. Now for some games while we wait.

Campsite number 4. Home sweet home for the weekend.

After kayaking first, Jack and Anna next try out a canoe.

The waterfall near the boat launch.

This reminded me of a photo of Jack from my sister's wedding.

The lake.

Peter is usually scared of dogs. But Murphy won his heart.

Peter was not so fond of posing for our family photo with our park ranger.

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