FCC Campout 2012

Satisfaction of a Home Builder, a photo by Chris & Kelly on Flickr.

The annual FCC picnic happened just in time for Helen to practice her tent building skills (something she would need later in the summer for her sleep away camp). After many years of being in the Point Reyes area, we switched venues to the Russian River, which seemed to work out well for everyone. The warmer temperatures were especially nice.

Campground Bikers

Campground Bikers, a photo by Chris & Kelly on Flickr.

One thing that didn’t change was the ability for the girls to explore the area by bike. Five minutes after arrival, Helen was pedaling around -- scouting out the other campsites and looking for old friends.

Russian River Dogs

Russian River Dogs, a photo by Chris & Kelly on Flickr.

River access was just paces away from our campsites, and much of Saturday was spent on the shore.

With school ending for Helen the day before, this was a great way for her summer to officially begin.

Bleacher Diving

Diving Board with no Water, a photo by Chris & Kelly on Flickr.

The biggest challenge of every camping trip is herding all of the families into one place for a group picture -- especially when there are so many potential distractions!

FCC Campers 2012

FCC Campers 2012, a photo by Chris & Kelly on Flickr.

But eventually, after several attempts, the self-timers on the cameras fired on cue to capture another great gathering.

FCC Roasters

2012 FCC Roasters, a photo by Chris & Kelly on Flickr.

Of course, the best part is not the barbecue, but the subsequent s’mores showdown by the campfire.

Bonfire at Sunset

Bonfire at Sunset, a photo by Chris & Kelly on Flickr.

A new tradition was the bonfire on the beach which was quite impressive.

Kayak #5

Kayak #5 on the River Beach, a photo by Chris & Kelly on Flickr.

Sunday left plenty of time for a Russian River kayak adventure.

1 Dad Equals 1 Free Float

1 Dad Equals 1 Free Float, a photo by Chris & Kelly on Flickr.

And speaking of floats, we had a lovely trip home via Sebastapol where we found the perfect Father’s Day reward for our favorite dads.

CMT Under the Sea Camp 2012

Junior Talents on Stage, a photo by Chris & Kelly on Flickr.

Helen kicked off summer camp with two weeks with the Children’s Musical Theater. The “Under the Sea” theme has provided an ongoing summer soundtrack complete with the Beach Boys and The Beatles.

Junior Talents; Long-Time Friends

CMT Under the Sea Camp 2012, a photo by Chris & Kelly on Flickr.

Here are our three favorite “junior talents” and long-time friends -- Helen, Claire and Naomi.