Emerald Bay BABY!

 We packed a lot of stuff into the car. Then wedged Alston in and headed to Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay specifically for Alston's second campout. This area of the lake is known for it's outrageously gorgeous views and ethereal clear blue water. We had a brief overnight a couple weeks ago to warm Alston up to the idea of sleeping in the tent but that was more like pitching our tent in our friends yard. The campsite accommodations that our friends lined up were pretty nice....it was a 50 person campsite(we were about 5 families - around 20 people-ish) with our own designated bathroom/shower block which included hot/cold water and coin-op showers. Whoa. And lots of bear boxes...did I mention the bear boxes? Yea, they come with bears too! But we did not have the pleasure of seeing them.

Here is Alston on the first day at the beach. The goof ball whined about putting his swim suit on until he finally saw that he could go swimming. The first romp in the water with his friend Isa was a good first taste. The water was crisp and delightful. Perfectly clear. Amazing.

We ate like the kings of summer. Here a box of beautiful heirloom tomatoes that our friends brought for dinner one night. Each family was responsible for one meal for the group, which made it easy to relax. Or fit in a lot of good playtime while waiting for dinner.

The kids made one of the old metal stoves at the site into a "steam train" and it was the focal point of their play at our campsite.

 Despite the inspiring meals, Alston still digs his sweet potato chips.

 Off for another day at the Emerald Bay Beach....

 The view was terrible.

I love how swimming and fresh air really make you feel exhausted.

 Alston had loads of fun playing with his friends at the campsite but inparticular he seems so happy to log more time with Isa (who also attends his playschool).

 What is it about boys and sticks??

 

Okay, now for quite possibly

the BEST photo 

taken on our trip. 

It's worth a thousand belly aching laughs.

(wait for it.....)

 See I wasn't kidding....so good right!

It don't think I've ever seen Alston looks so completely tired out as he did on the drive back home. 

It was a great long weekend and we can't wait to go back next year (assuming our friends can score the same spot...they had to book the campsite in January).

I love you fresh air, crisp water and sunshine...till next time.