This year we’re finally getting around to signing up for a state parks pass so we can enjoy the lake beach, hiking, and camping that’s just 12 miles north of us. (Why have we not done this in the pass? I’m always pregnant or caring for a little one in the summers and didn’t want to worry about little ones in the lake.) But this year we’re going for it! Our littlest is a strong walker and now loves the water, our oldest is a strong swimmer, and we have friends getting passes so there will always be at least two adults to supervise if I go while Kit’s at work. I know, how crazy ambitious am I getting??

Yesterday I did a stock up trip for our summer gear, as this is partially a thank you to the kids for putting up with this crazy May with me working and being gone so much. (Not that they minded!) But I feel better knowing we’re getting in some concentrated Mommy attention after the busiest month I’ve had as a mother working outside the home.

What gear?

*New camping chair, as we use those at the park a lot, in the driveway while supervising them out front, and now at the beach

*A 6 foot umbrella for the beach, park, front yard (it has a nice little carrying case like the chairs) and it was only $10. I believe in sunshade!

*Sand toys, I found a great deal! Bucket, sifter, shovels, rakes, castles molds, boat, etc, etc. It was only $10 and enough to keep all the kids busy!

*Water toys: little rockets, noodle, beach ball, etc – all under $2

*floaties

*Life jacket for the 3 year old (we have one for the baby) – my biggest (and most important) purchase.

We’ve got our sun shirts and hats, flip flops, towels, waterproof blanket, and we’re ready to go! I’m really excited. Our plan is that every other week we’ll make an early morning (8am) trip to the beach and on alternate weeks we’ll have an evening beach trip. We’ve got a cooler and we’ll picnic for lunch or dinner when we head up. Fun!!!!