Howes Life: Christmas (Meadows) in July

Over the 24th of July weekend we went camping with the Howes family. We have been going to a campground in the Uintah's called Christmas Meadows for many years now, but for the 3 years that Ralph and Edy were living in the Philippines we didn't go. It was great to get back there this summer and experience the beautiful Uintah mountains. It's such a wonderful place that some of my family decided to come along too. We had a great time with lots of cousins and grandparents to play with.

On the way we decided to stop and fish.

Owen had all the luck. He caught 2 fish and the rest of us were skunked.

We usually have the same sites every year with trees near the table and the men are easily able to put up a tarp over the table. This year we had 3 different sites and the trees weren't quite close enough to tie the ropes to. So most of the first day was filled with creating this elaborate system to keep up the tarp. It involved a lot of time, ropes, branches, bungee cords and clip ons. The men finally succeeded and we were very happy because it kept the sun and rain off of us.

Working in the axe yard is the most popular activity while camping, but this year is was extra fun because Papa brought his jungle bolo from the Philippines. The kids loved it. Of course, the little kids needed closer supervision. There were a few cuts, and 2 people needed stitches, but those cuts came from pocket knives.

Who knew a knife could be so much fun?

Near our campsites was a large pile of twigs and pine needles which happened to be the home of many a chipmunk. Another favorite activity was to catch those chipmunks, (they really like trail mix).

Aunt Mimi helped the kids go on a nature walk and find the many colors found in the mountains. They painted each hole of an egg carton a different color and then walked around to find things in nature that matched the different colors.