A Five Star Weekend

When asked how I'd rank this past weekend, I responded with a five out of five stars. Despite a few drizzles, clouds, and glitches, how could I not? Nothing compares to gourmet burgers, the outdoors, and two full days with my family!

After 12 days in a row, working anywhere from 12-15 hour shifts, David was beginning to waste away. Those weren't even my words, but those of his fellow residents. We had plans to camp Saturday night so when David returned home Friday we headed out to a burger joint. I always feel somewhat guilty eating beef in Seattle, but nothing can refuel you like a half pound cheeseburger topped with an egg. Especially when it's preceded with nachos and fries. (As much as David enjoys pondering a Baby Vs. Food episode, I have come to the conclusion that a Pregnant Woman Vs. Food episode would not be as cute, although the food intake my surpass that of Adam Richman.)

Once we were stuffed and well rested, the following morning began with a trip to the bank. This may seem like a petty errand, but for us it was huge. For the first time in 4 years, David was able to sign his name on the back of a real paycheck. I am happy to say, my husband finally has a job. Our new source of income was celebrated by purchasing a family size tent, followed by an hour and a half drive out of the city.

Most people don't spontaneously camp in the rain. But for us, this was actually a pleasant surprise. We didn't have reservations, and since sites typically are filled Saturday night, the rain allowed us to find spot and pitch our tent. Just down the hill from our campground we discovered a marina where Davey could have spent the entire weekend scooping and throwing rocks.

We even took our first family picture in months. (Notice Davey in the background)

In order to convince Davey to leave the water, we promised a fire, hot dogs, and smores. This is where David would have given our trip 4 1/2 stars out of five. We've never camped in the Northwest, and neglected to bring along an axe. Needless to say, our fire making abilities were not up to par. My husband is quite resourceful, so a few flames were sparked, and dinner was managed, however the real blaze wasn't discovered until the following morning.

No axe? Just make sure you have a good knife!

Throughout the weekend we adored watching Davey experience his first camping trip. When bed time approached, he repeatedly asked to, "go go". His entire sleeping has been spent in a crib, bed, or pack n play. However, having mom and dad next to him in our tent gave him enough security to sleep well. Probably the best out of all of us.

The next day was filled with new explorations. We discovered a snail on the hiking trail,

stomped our way through mud while tide-pooling,

and caught a wild crab, which was set free of course.

Davey's favorite part, and mine, was turning over rocks to look for crabs and other creatures. I kept giggling in amazement at the amount of life under one rock. It was definitely a moment to remember. Residency has taught us to treasure these times so when the 3:50 am alarm blares us awake we have something to smile about and carry with us during the day.