September 18-20, 2009
Hoffmaster State Park

The past 2 years we have begun our camping season at Hoffmaster State Park in April when the park is mostly empty. However, this year we re-visited in the fall. It was a warm weekend and the kids were actually able to go into the water - which was one of the reasons we decided to go back there, as they don't go swimming in April.

We made our traditional visit to the Visitor's Center to see the animals and other displays they have about the Great Lakes. Then we went on a hike, taking a trail we have never taken before. At the end of the trail, we found this huge set of stairs to climb.

The climb was worth the view.

We spent some time running and goofing around in the play field and discovered that Allison is quite the little soccer player. Our little girl who is always "too tired" to walk on our hikes and doesn't seem very motivated about anything - ran and ran and kicked the ball for 5-10 minutes straight. She did really well and surprised us.

The kids loved playing in the creek area that feeds into the big lake. The shallow water allowed for much running and jumping. Nicholas found these big stumps that he was rolling to different places in the water and Sam soon joined him.
Here they are taking a rest on their newly placed log stools.

Sam loves the water.

Nicholas takes in the scenery right before sunset. We are hoping he is learning to enjoy the little things and notice the beauty of creation as we do. One of the reasons we love to camp. There are so many things in this world that we as a society don't take the time to stop and look at. We love to get away from the schedules, routines, TVs, computers and everything else that distracts us from the beauty God gave us and be able to enjoy it together as a family.

The kids take in the sunset.

The girls got a little creative while drying the dishes.

A hike on Black Creek Trail (first time we did this one too)

Allison was loving all the yellow flowers - as her favorite color is yellow.

Our beautiful bouquet.