We went camping this weekend near Bonfante Gardens with the Jarvinens, the Yeos, and the Weber family. There were 8 kids total, and they definitely had a hoot galavanting around the camp. This trip was preceded by the last day of school for all the kids so it was nice being able to unwind after a hectic week of end of school activities. Unfortunately for everyone, that hecticness resulted in us forgetting to pack all the deli meats and fixings for Saturday’s lunch so all four familes trekked to the nearby town of Watsonville for a nice warm meal. Another justification for the excursion was to avoid the overcast skies looming over the camp. Last year we camped in the exact same spot and it was hot hot hot except when under the nice shady confines of our camp, but the weather was not as cooperative with us this time. The kids went to feed the local deers in their pens and experienced the fun of playing tug-a-war with the carrot sticks. The little princesses got along beautifully and enjoyed each other’s company in the privacy of their own play tent. The boys also had their share of fun playing with the outdoor play sets. Nicholas even hosted a drawing class for a brief period of time, but there was not enough clip boards to go around so some of the boys had to use their log bench as makeshift tables instead. Wesley would typically play a game of catch by himself or designate Kyle as the catch target as he chases him down in and around the camp. Nathan had his cool Nintendo DS Lite with him at camp so for brief periods of time during the day, the kids would withdraw to watching him demo the latest in gaming adventures. Nate also had his share of fun with the rest of the kids and along with Nathan were worthy opponents for Kyle in the game of badminton.

We enjoyed a lovely meal of Sandra’s Teriyaki Chicken special along with Rose’s pre-marinated tri tips on the grill, and Saturday evening we had Alex’s version of marinated chicken thighs and hamburger patties. Sandra’s chicken recipe won out… here’s the secret formula. Marinate in Teriyaki Sauce, add Sesame Oil to seal in flavors, and let it sit for at least half a day then it’s ready to go. Rose also brought along a bottle of Chardonnay and Merlot (both bottled by Clos du Bois). Mmmm… nothing tops off a meal like a glass of fine wine.

We went through at least 6 or more boxes of wood this camping trip cause it was so cold, and Alex actually survived the weekend rather well without a jacket or a long-sleeved shirt. On this trip, 3 out of the 4 families resorted to the comfort of an inflatable aerobed. The Jarvinens slept the traditional way, close to mother earth but had an annex suite next door (a.k.a. junior tent) for the kids. By Sunday noon after all the tents were broken down, each family went their separate ways to celebrate the remainder of Father’s day. What a fantastic way to start the summer eh? Thank you Sandra for organizing the camping trip again this year!