Holiday Weekend

Last night we returned from our family's inaugaural camping trip. Our first trip by ourselves, with our own equipment as a family. It was a wonderful time. No babies in diapers, eating dirt, waking up every 2 hours in a tent. Instead we heard the baby in the neighboring campsite - but I was so relieved I was no longer at that stage.

Anyway, we went to Bar Harbor, Maine. About 3 1/2 hours away from us on the coast. Bar Harbor is on an island called Mount Desert Island. Most of the Island is a National Park called Acadia National Park. We camped outside of Bar Harbor, not in the park. We stayed 3 nights and enjoyed every minute. The campground had a pool and hosted special July 4th festivities. The kids would of been happy swimming at the pool all day. However we did take a couple trips to the park. Once to Sand Beach and another trip to Cadillac Mountain. Both days were cloudless with a warm ocean breeze. Our last day (July 4th) we spent a couple hours in Bar Harbor where we mostly relaxed on the green. Bar Harbor is right on the water and is very trendy and full of tourists - fun place. Lots of nature stuff right around that area too - beach walks etc.

We had such a fantastic time. I am so happy that we have reached this stage with our family. It was true vacation - even if it was only 3 days.

Cadillac Mountain Damien in Bar Harbor - on the green Eating Breakfast Hiking above Sand Beach
Laurent at Sand Beach, Acadia National Park Our campsite Pool at campground Mommy & Brienne on top Cadillac Mountain
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  • Karen

    Karen on July 6, 2005, 3:26 a.m.

    Those years of not being able to camp like you wanted to are over - in such a short time. Just think of all the years ahead of many great camping experiences. This Nana & Papa wish they had been camped in their van next door to these special campers - so glad you had such fun!

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  • becky

    becky on July 7, 2005, 3:46 a.m.

    Sounds and looks like you had a great vacation! The kids have grown so much, I'm sure camping was a blast for them. Are you planning to go a few more times this summer? It's true the older your kids are the more they interact and enjoy the experience of camping or any vacation. Christy says that anyways. I don't mind the diapers but maybe I'll change my mind after a few more years of it! But glad to hear you are enjoying diaper free days though. I brought a 'potty' home for Ja-ira today...I guess I'm hoping sooner than later...I'm kind of excited for the training stage. Oh and great pictures...love the hair Renee, it looks so cute like that!

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  • melanie

    melanie on July 7, 2005, 2:58 p.m.

    Looks like you guys had fun and great weather. I am so happy for you guys being able to start such an exciting phase in your family life. Looks like you guys are set up pretty nicely for camping, where did you say you bought all the equipment from? Thanks for posting pictures and notes about your trip, I always like to see what everyone else is up to.

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  • barbara

    barbara on July 10, 2005, 9:31 a.m.

    Congratulations on reaching Stage 2 "The Mobile Family". This is such a fun family time. I remember it so well. Ahhhh.... it is such an adventure! Exploring the world in a tent with the whole family. This stage ends when the oldest child gets a job and doesn't want to, or can't come on the summer trips. Enjoy it to the fullest. It lasts about 10 short years. That's all. But so much can be seen and done. Your pictures look lovely. Wish we were there to "explore" with you. Maybe when we sell our house and buy a camping unit, we will drive east and camp with you... With Damien's "work at home" kind of job, you could probably camp/live anywhere and he could do his computer job right at the camp site?

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