schoolhouse canyon on the russian river

maya and emi spent their first camping trip on the gorgeous schoolhouse canyon campsite. we were surrounded by redwoods and a stone's throw away from the russian river. joining us were hiroshi, junko, kaio, danny, renee, ruru, nina and mary.

the weather was perfect. the entire trip was amazing. we can't wait for round 2!

setting up camp


emi loved the great outdoors




the girls tuckered out after setting up


quick jaunt down to russian river

























back to camp for dinner and s'mores, which was the most highly anticipated event for the kiddies






a huge thing on maya's to-do list was to tell scary stories around the campfire. here's one of many, many told.


one time... and he was roasting marshmallows. and somebody stepped on the fire and burned themselves. and then a log hit somebody. and then the camera was moving by itself. and then the trees were big and the birds were still in them and some robot was grabbing them and eating them.

good morning! we took a morning walk in armstrong woods followed by a day at the shore at johnson's beach. it was a throwback to early americana with its authentic boardwalk and boathouse. the kids played for about 5 hours in the water, paddle boats and canoe. maya even caught a live clam!









final morning included a quick breakfast, packing up and a final game of hide and seek.