Camping and Buddy Walking

Took the boys to the father and sons campout.  We got off a little late, as we got to share in the exciting announcement of "it's a girl" to the kids.  We did get up to the campground just before dark and were able to get our tent set up and get our meals (tin foil dinners) in the fire.  We had a little bit of rain, but not as much as we had on the campout with the girls.  Unfortunately, I forgot to take pictures of the boys setting up the tent and of the boys eating their s'mores.

Gathering around for the fireside

The boys

After the fireside, the boys took some time to run around with their friends, and I was able to chat with some of the other fathers for a bit.  Eventually, Chase came up to me, obviously dead tired, stating he just needed to get to bed.  He sat on my lap for a couple of minutes and starting falling asleep.  At this point, I realized 2.5 hours after usual bedtime is long enough.  We said goodnight and went to our tent.

The boys all tucked in

The boys, the next morning

Caden spent his time playing with his friend Owen

Sticks and logs were essential as the boys built their fort

Chase liked to stay near the fire

Caden biting into the breakfast sausage

After breakfast, we broke camp.  We didn't have time to play with the friends very long because we needed to get to Wyoming for the Down Syndrome Buddy Walk.  We did it last year with our good friends from medical school and decided to try to make it a tradition.  It was great to see the Wildes again.  Our kids get along so well.

Brynn, Kailyn, and Jordan.  Ben (with Preston), Shelly, and Bryony in the background.

Ava found a dandelion . . .

. . . and blew

Kailyn helped Chase when he got tired

The girls.  Elle did not want to be in the picture, but I got her anyway

Jordan on the inflatables

Kailyn helped Ava down

At one point the kids got too hot and just laid down in the shade. It wasn't very convenient for everyone else who wanted to jump around.

Sneak picture of Shelly in profile at about 19 weeks pregnant

The whole clan at the football game

Thought it was cute

After the game we went to a park, then to a clubhouse at an apartment complex where some friends lived.

Climbing to the top

Delicious salads, fruit, and rolls

Ava and Tyler.  Ava loved hanging out with Tyler.  She tried to keep him warm when it rained and at one point even leaned over and said, "I'm kissing him" and kissed him on the cheek.

The kids ended their time together playing "Sardines."