Summer Tradition

A long family tradition (more than 30 years!) of camping at Carpinteria.  Everybody loves it!  That's why we keep coming back.  The kids did so great and didn't want to come home.  Ashlyn was in her element and loved every minute . . . a whole world to explore and getting dirty is expected.  I wish we could have stayed longer and am so grateful for Chris and Tommie to allow us to crash their site!   Good friends, good family, good weather, good food  . . . what could be better?  

Here is a brief look into our fun little camping vacation to Carpinteria and why we love it:

click on any picture to enlarge

We were there for the 4th of July. 

They have a morning parade where everybody decorates their 'ride' to parade around the campgrounds

and meet Smokey the Bear, followed by fire trucks.

(ranger lady), Brooke, Smokey, Renee, Madison, Ashlyn

The beginning of the parade

Long walks on the beach to the tide pools

Getting buried in the sand!

Staying on the beach until the shadows grow long.

Having fun Boogie Boarding with cousins.

Playing a little game of beach soccer.

Hanging at the Tar Pits with cousins - when the tide comes in.

Julie, Madison, Amber, Brooke

Early morning walks to the tide pools when the tide is low, the beach is quiet, the seals are out, and lots of marine life to explore - even still in pajamas. 

Late afternoon naps - wherever you can get comfortable, even if it's on the back of your sister's legs!

Playing in the sand and building sand castles.

Having daddy dig a big pit - even with stairs - so Ashlyn can easily climb in and out.

Loving the "big water". 

Unfortunately we had to come home.  Christian is still not happy with me over it.  He wanted to stay forever.  It's funny how dirty feet and sand and living in a tent and public restrooms don't phase the kids.  I, on the other hand, as much as I enjoy camping, probably enjoy even more coming home (even to my ugly 70's bathroom - but it's MINE!).