Allyn, WA Round Two

We got the band back together! The Hurt&Payne households used to be pretty tight; neighbors, Community Group pals, playmates, bargain shoppers, babysitters and co-conspirators in just about everything else. A few years, an international move and a great job in the Air Force later and we were able to rekindle the old magic for a couple of days. What a sweet time reuniting with my dear friend and seeing our children forge friendships of their own. The Payne Crew did the hard work of getting to the West Coast so I suggested some time on the water in a house big enough to contain all our little ones. 

Using the Playground to it's maximum limits and making sure that even the wee one gets a turn.

 One of the highlights was finding a private beach on Mason lake, ignoring the Do Not Enter signs, and enjoying a morning of really great swimming. The only public access was the boat launch (boo) but thankfully you have yourself a  couple of moms who don't mind bending the rules to ensure their children are fully entertained.  The beautifully maintained grassy beach and warm water were definitely used to the fullest until the elderly caretaker evicted us. On the upside,  I made a new friend  who just so happens to have the keys to a great private lake (thanks Earl!) and the kids got a few good hours of great swimming, so I would say it was all worth it. And I discovered that my sweet, law abiding friend has a little proletariat streak. (Down with the man!)

The low tides meant that several boats near our house would become beached thus inviting small people to come and explore. The muddy trip back and forth proved to be....well, muddy, but it didn't deter our stout hearted boys from making the most of their imaginations.

 Big Bubba's got a round two as well! Milk Shakes and Onion Rings to fuel the long drives ahead.