SISTERS AND COUSINS A-CAMPIN'

Few joys surpass the delight a grandpa experiences when he has all of his grandchildren together at once (Right, Ray?). On this family campout on the slopes of Mt. Ranier, the five girls were together with parents, Memaw Betty, and Papa John in a magnificent campground which featured giant trees of the primeval forest. It was a wonderful experience with lots of campfire time, good food, conversation, and relaxation.


Among the several activities we shared were a trip to Paradise, a lodge and Visitor Center area high on the south side of the volcano, almost above the timberline. Exhibits and displays, a gift shop and bookstore, and other attractions make this a popular destination in this National Park. Mountain climbing expeditions often begin here and the general decor reflects that theme in the building and its furnishings. Views of the Cascade Mountain Range are Grand.


Most of us hiked to the grove of the Patriarch Trees where some truly amazing giants stand majestically together in a sheltered valley. The girls joined me on an afternoon visit to the campground visitor center exhibits, and a slightly belated birthday party was the focus of Friday evening's campfire. Paige provided fixin's for her remarkable hobo dinner, Patty prepared lasagna in a dutch oven, I did sourdough pancakes for a breakfast.


The girls always get along well together, with the older ones looking out for the younger and including them (mostly), and the younger two found plenty of time to share alone exploring the trees and their own worlds of imagination. K.A. and the twins produced some impressive artworks, shared untold secrets, and kept showering welcome attention on this grandpa. I'm thankful for these precious christian families and the example they are of lovin' relationships and caring for one another. I'm proud of them for a host of special reasons: they are faithful parents and good children and a delight to their living ancestors.