tales from a far-land

One weekend mid-June, we decided to go camping with Josh's parents.  With the virus still affecting Arizona, we felt this was a very low risk activity for all of us to enjoy.  We selected a dispersed camping spot near Knoll Lake.  It was a very remote camping spot.  We had to travel for about an hour on some pretty rocky, dirt roads.  And that was after traveling for about three hours already.  But the weather and the lake were well worth it.  The weekend was spent playing Skip-Bo, canoeing and swimming in Knoll Lake, whittling sticks, long walks with the dogs, and lively conversations.  The kids even created some fun carnival-like games for us to enjoy.  Loved that we were able to make some fun family memories even during a pandemic. Our little camping spot My little campers Whittling Madi helping with dinner Camping selfies Aiden with Petey and Harley Madi with Sadie Group Photo Family Selfie

To celebrate the start of summer vacation, we decided to take a family day trip to explore Arizona.  We realized there are so many beautiful destinations that we have never even traversed or visited.  This time, we decided to undertake a hike near Happy Jack called Point Trail and West Clear Creek.  Getting to the trail head was an adventure in itself.  From the highway turnoff, it was about a forty-five minute drive on a very bumpy, dirt road.  The kids and dogs were definitely ready to get out of the car by the time we arrived to the starting point.  The hike was challenging and gorgeous.  The first mile of the hike was a very steep and rugged downward trek.  At several points on our way down, we had to assist the dogs and kids through tree branches and boulders.  It made it an adventure!  The kids quickly learned how to scale the mountain so as not to fall.   After you complete the downward portion of the hike, we were rewarded with cool, clear water rushing through the canyon.  It