World of Wurdemans: Camping

Jonathan had the idea late January/February to have a family reunion at Lafayette (pronounce la-FAY-ette) Blue Springs Park. They had gone before and knew how nice it was. It was perfect because there are 5 cabins and 5 families (mom and dad, Jonathan's, Nick's, Lisa's and our family). Each cabin had 2 bedrooms and pull out couches if we needed them. I was impressed with how well stocked the kitchen was. We all chipped in bringing food for lunches and dinners (we were supposed to do our own breakfasts, but mom made everyone pancakes a couple of mornings).

Matt took a half day Thursday, so after we picked up Robbie from school and ate lunch we were on the road. We weren't there long when Jonathan, Chat and the kids pulled up. Jonathan filled the back of his van with firewood so we could roast marshmallows, have hot chocolate and just stay warm. Mom and Dad came a little while later, followed by Lisa, Erik and the kids. Nick had the farthest drive and I know they were as happy to be there as we were to see them! After dinner, Chat made everyone s'mores figuring it was easier to have 1 adult toasting marshmallows than 8 kids (we wouldn't let Elise do it)!

It rained most of the day Friday, but that didn't stop the kids from having fun. Luckily it was mostly a light drizzle and there wasn't any thunder or lightning to keep us inside. I had the idea to do Cousin Christmas while we were there since we wouldn't all be together for Christmas. I don't know if everyone was initially on board, but I'm glad we did it. Of course the kids loved opening gifts and I always like seeing what everyone got. I bought the kids a chef set which included an apron (that I got their names embroidered on), a hat (that was too small for almost everyone), a souffle pan, a muffin pan and some cookie cutters. It was too cute seeing them in their aprons and chef hats! The kids loved playing with each others gifts and they all did so well sharing together. Thursday was Dad's birthday and Friday was mine and Lisa's birthday, so we celebrated at lunch figuring it was better to give the kids a piece of cake after lunch than after breakfast!

The older kids have fishing poles, so we went fishing Saturday. Robbie enjoyed it for about 5 casts and then was off to play in the mud. I don't really think there were any fish where we were fishing, but the kids had fun trying! After very little prodding, Erik jumped into the springs and the kids had fun swimming and splashing in the water. It was pretty cold so I'm impressed that any of them went in! The current was very fast, so I'm glad they stuck close to Erik when they did go swim. Robbie sat and watched for a while before deciding that he wanted to join in the fun. Of course, he wanted to hold my hand when he first went in, so he didn't get too far! They all ended up getting pretty wet, even if they didn't swim.

Sunday morning was short morning as check out was at 11. We took our remaining half loaf of bread to feed the fish. They didn't seem to be too hungry, though, but that didn't stop anyone from tossing bread into the water. After we had been feeding the fish for a while, Taylor spotted a snake! I have no idea what kind it was or if it was even dangerous, but we quickly left and moved to a different spot just in case!

It was sad saying good-bye, but I'm so glad that everyone could make it and we all had a good time.

Now for lots of pictures!!

Playing in the field next to the cabins. The kids played baseball, soccer, football, and pretended to be different animals (I think cow was the favorite).

Friday morning. Robbie loved cabin 3!

Robbie helping me open my birthday cards and present.

Snuggles with Abuelo

Robbie modeling our family reunion shirt.

The grandkids from oldest to youngest (Mia, Kayleigh, Taylor, Nathan, Brian, Caroline, Robbie, Alex and Elise). I think my dad pointed out that Robbie and Alex are the only siblings sitting next to each other.