Banks Lake 2019 Trip 2

We have such a great time on this annual tradition of camping with family. (We spent part of the week arguing about how many times we’d all been there… just kidding.) This year, due to booking circumstances, both sides of the crew were there together. We tried to explain to our kids just how special it is that all four grandparents would be camping with them – and at their parties and holidays and school functions and sporting events – and they just can’t comprehend life any other way. We are beyond blessed.

I loved the view from our spot this trip!


We didn’t waste any time getting matching shirts on to hike the rock.

This year, Grandma Keene hiked with us and we are so proud of her!

We also enjoyed two trips to the marina for ice cream.

And lots of time in the water!

Ali and I paddleboarded one afternoon – it was super fun and we went all the way across the lake. Jim followed along in the boat to pick us up at the end of our rental time – and took photos too.

Jumping the Rock is always a pleasure. This year, only the ladies climbed on board.

Name that creature! These fuzzy little guys were found on the beach and in the water one day. We think it’s a lake weasel. Any other guesses welcome.

The traditional badminton tournament saw four teams entered… and three teams losing. Double elimanation bracket was maintained by Grandpa Cole, who had to resign his participation due to foot injury.

The winners were Uncle Jeff and JT!

Jim and I made our own tradition and played cards together in the camper every night. We both felt it was a highlight of the trip!

Two nights we had bad storms. The kids piled in the camper for two nights and proclaimed it the best sleep they’d had in weeks. 🙂

Probably because they are 100% BFFs who never argue and always hug their smiles out.

Meanwhile, Jim and I celebrated 18 years of marriage on the day we left!

You can tell we’re sad to leave the beach, especially after a storm and everything was wet and sandy!

The drive home was quiet and long. But we can’t wait to go back next summer!

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