Day 4 of Ranch Camp... my Birthday!

Day 4 of Ranch Camp, June 18, was also my birthday!  The activities of the day included horseback riding in the morning, fence mending for the guys over 6 years of age, party decorating, hula hooping, leather working, and rock hunting.  Whitney's family arrived early afternoon.  Brian grilled burgers and chicken for dinner while the little ones had a communal bubble bath on the patio.  We ate outside at sunset with Clean Plate Club Metals given after dinner.  Everyone opened gifts as we celebrated with a family birthday party.  The kids ran around the house with bubble wands and glow sticks in the dark, and looked at the moon and stars.  It was the best birthday I've ever had!

 

Ranch Camp Dinner

Some of the best moments of Ranch Camp this week have taken place while having dinner together. 

Ranch Camp, Day 3

Some of us hiked this morning, while Brian and David drove to Tucson to pick up Audrey, Lauren, and Taylor.  We painted, made beaded necklaces and bracelets, and Emily and Sarah worked in Papa's workshop tooling leather.  I picked Audrey and the girls up at the gate.  Late in the day, the kids had fun with big bubble wands, hula hoops, and feeding the horses.  We had lots of "hanging out" time too and we ended the day with Papa reading stories as the sun was setting.

 

Day Two of Ranch Camp

Papa and I hiked to the "Indian cave" this morning with Claire and Emerson.  Emerson was particularly enthralled with the idea of how Indians had lived there before.  We looked for crystals on the hike home.  Papa later worked on a leather Christmas ornament project with Emerson, in his workshop.  Brian and Amy, Emily, and Sarah arrived after lunch.  They were greeted with hugs!  We invited Carly and Colter and the kids for dinner.  The kids all played until after dark. 

First Camp Arrivals

Claire and her family arrived late this afternoon.  I picked them up in the ranger, at the first gate, and drove the 2.5 miles home.  Emerson and Colby wasted no time, getting their roping gloves and bandanas on, then checking on the horses.

Winchester Ranch Camp

Papa and I are hosting Winchester Ranch Camp this week for all four of our children and their families, including our eight grandchildren.  They will arrive over the next three days.  We have lots of ranch activities planned and are hopeful everyone will be happy and stay healthy. 

Photos of Lulu

With Claire visiting over the past week, and often carrying a camera, it is a treat that she took a few photos of me with Emerson and Colby.  I was enjoying every moment!

 

Tucson Children's Museum

We have been in Tucson for a couple of days.  Papa and I spent yesterday afternoon with Emerson and Colby at the Tucson Children's Museum.  We enjoyed the hands on activities, with Colby stuffing large yarn balls and scarves into a big vacuum wall, over and over, and then chasing them as they flew out the top.  Emerson enjoyed crafts, building things, and seeing her shadow.

 

Fun on the Ranch!

Building a bird house, feeding the horses, riding in the ranger, painting... all so fun!