JR - Summer Camp

Day 1
Today once I woke up my whole cabin went to the Royal dining hall for breakfast. After that we got ready for my first skill, I had the Kracken Waterslide which was awesome because I had 3 people in my class. The timer's were not working because they were having technical issues. After that I had Badminton which taught me how to properly play Badminton. My next skill was Swim Beach I didn't have a lot of fun because the lines were too big. After that we went to midday madness where they say how many points you got for cabin clean up. They also put on some little skits before heading to lunch. After lunch we had free time to go to tuck and hangout at your cabin. Once free time was up I went to my next activity which was skateboards and scooters. I long boarded during the class and the ramps were big for scootering. My second last event was digital photography. In that class we learned how to use cameras. I learned a lot from that class. Finally, my last activity was tennis. In that class you learned how to play and the rules of the game. After that we had free time for half an hour and then we had to go to dinner. We then had evening programs. For the first night we did animal races. I was a "Firefly". We painted a bunch of paint on us and had to race like a certain animal (like a walrus) and then slide across the tarp.  The tarp was covered in soap and water. Once we finished animal races we then went back to our cabins before going to convo cafe. We learned about being "Heard" and making sure that your family hears you and you speak your mind.


Day 2
Today once our whole cabin got up we went to breakfast. The counsellor "Pretzel" prayed before we could all eat. After breakfast we had an hour of free time before our first skill. We had four new people join our group for the Kracken but two of them did not go in the water. No one new joined in our badminton class, so the class instructor set up a tournament to be played. Swim beach was busy as usual but I went on the big inflatable slide. We went to midday madness where they were lip singing to songs. We had lunch before we had free time where I went to tuck shop and then went back to the cabin. During my fourth skill they opened up the halfpipe and I rode it on my scooter.  In digital photography we learned how to take close-up shots. We went outside to take some close up shots of nature.  In tennis they taught us how to forehand return a ball today. After tennis we went back to the cabin before going to dinner. Our evening program for that night was a scavenger hunt. You had to run all over the camp to find certain clues. If you got found by a counsellor with a camera you would lose points. I almost got caught by one. He chased me through the basketball court. We then went to convo cafe to learn about "I Am Known". I learned that family doesn't leave each other and that family is important.  During convo cafe we had a water bottle flipping challenge. The boys won that against the girls. After convo cafe we went back to the cabin to go to sleep.

Day3
Once our whole cabin got up we heard that all of our skills were cancelled because it was pouring rain, which sucks because I was really looking forward to the Kracken. So all the Junior High's went to the Hangar for the day. We played heads and tails, rock, paper, scissors before going for lunch we watched two movies, we watched Inside Out and Zootopia. I enjoyed them even though I've seen them before. Then we had dinner but we didn't have evening programs but we still had convo cafe where we learned about fear and how to overcome it.  When your scared sometimes you should just do it and try something new.  We had ice cream for an evening snack then we went to sleep.

Day 4
Today once our whole cabin got up we went to breakfast before going to our first skill. The Kracken timers were still not working so we had to time ourselves, I got 8 seconds.  For badminton we did a tournament I came in third place. Swim beach was still super busy so I did not go on anything.  Mid day madness was the same today.  After lunch I went to tuck, to get some chips. After skateboards and scooters it started to rain so I had to go to the hanger again to finish up Zootopia. We went to dinner before playing 4 corners I was a yeti so I had to wear a white shirt, it got covered in mud because I was running through the mud. Today was the last day for convo cafe we just played games before going to bed.

Day 5
Today once our cabin got up and went to breakfast and we had eggs and bacon, but you were only allowed three bacon strips.  During the Kracken the timers were finally working so I got timed and I got 7.18 seconds.  The camp record is 6 seconds!! In badminton we did a doubles tournament and my team came in third. For swim beach there weren't as many people in the water so I went on the big inflatable slide three times.  For mid day madness we sang along to songs again.  For lunch we had pizza and Miss Vickie's salt and vinegar chips.  For skateboards and scooters I long boarded around the loop 3-4 times.  It was fun and I want to get a long board for Christmas.  Hint! Hint! In digital photography we did light photos.  We used our phone flashlight to draw something and then I used the camera to film it.  In tennis, we had a doubles game with two other people.  After tennis we had dinner, it was mashed potatoes, steak and I had a salad. Our night activity was "Stock Tickets" where you had to collect certain animals (not real ones) to get points.  My team got 69 points but we didn't win, the best team had around 500 points. After that we went back to the cabin and went to bed.

Day 6
Today we woke up and had eggs and sausage mcmuffin for breakfast. The Kracken timers were still working the best I got was 8.35 seconds.  For Badminton we just played for fun. It was busier then the last day at Swim Beach so I just talked to Noah my friend from skateboards and scooters. In skateboards and scooters I long boarded it was fun. In digital photography I edited some photos of mine and finally for tennis we just played for fun.

AR's Post on Thursday, August 11, 2016

Manitoulin Island - Today I woke up and had some Fruit loops and we also had eggs, hashbrown's and bacon yummy 🍎. Then I went swimming on the magic mat with J E and B it was fun I guess. Then I went to the frog pond with E and B and we caught 8 frogs. JACKPOT!! Then John Beck L and B arrived and everyone went back to the frog pond but I got bored so I left and when I came back they were playing "Frog hospital" so I left AGAIN 🙄. Then we all went swimming and played "Safety Patrol" and me and L were on a team and B E and B were on another team and one person from the team was the motor so they pushed the back of the kayak and I was a motor 🚤🚤. Then we got out of the water and played Cops and Robbers and me and L were the Cops and the boys were the Robbers and we caught all the boys GIRL POWER 💃🏼💃🏼💃🏼. Then we went in "The Bunkie" and played House and I was the sister and B was the older brother and other B was the baby then we went back to the frog pond and they played frog hospital again so I left AGAIN. Then we went swimming again and played GREASED WATERMELON FOOTBALL!!!!! How it works is you have a watermelon and you cover it in grease and then you toss it around in the water and the tricky part about it is it's super slippery so you tackle one another to get it. After that we had a camp fire and had SMORES YUMMY 🍫🍫. Then we all went to........zzzzzzzzz BYES BYES

JR's Post on Wednesday, August 10, 2016

Manitoulin Island - Today once we woke up we had a swim before having breakfast, we had eggs, bacon and hashbrown's. Just before lunch time more people arrived it was John, Beck, B and L, that meant that there would be 6 kids on the magic mat, that's insane!! Zach, John, Paul, Dad and I went fishing and I caught 2 bass but one of them slipped off back into the water. Once we docked I went for another swim before playing baseball with dad. For dinner we had make your own pizza, I put cheese, pepperoni and bacon on mine it was good. After dinner we played football with a greasy watermelon, trust me it was so hard to catch and it took about 5-10 minutes just to get the grease off but it was fun!! Just a few minutes ago B, L, A, E, Paul and John went out fishing and B, Zach, Dad, Mom, Pippa, Beck and I stayed to start the fire. I had 4 s'mores but they were delicious, now I'm just about to go to bed so good night ✌🏽️👋🏽✌🏽👋🏽😜😜

AR's Post on Wednesday, August 10, 2016

Manitoulin Island - Today I woke up and J was still sleeping so we all just sat on the dock till J woke up. When J woke up we all had breakfast I had Corn Puffs they were yummy 🍲. Then we went swimming and played on the magic mat it was lots of fun after that we went fishing and J caught a Rock bass and I caught a Bass 🐟. Then we jumped off the boat and it was fun. We came back to the cottage and mom got stung by a wasp ouch 🤕🐝. Then we had dinner for dinner we had hamburgers and potatoes mmmmm. Then we went to Tina's and Claire's and Tina's a serious baker so there were lots of sweets there YAY 🍰🍰. When we were heading back I sat on the paddle board and Daddy paddled it and got my bum wet ewwww. When I got back I changed into my pj's and then had a cookie 🍪. Then we all went to bed zzzzzzzzz BYE BYES

Mom's Post on Tuesday, August 9, 2016

Manitoulin Island - After a chilly night sleeping in the trailer we woke up to a beautiful sunny day. The kids were in the water after breakfast and had a blast on the "magic mat", and played some baseball. A, E & B went frog hunting at the frog pond and caught a bunch of frogs. Then they were back in the water. After lunch we went fishing and both kids caught fish. They've also mastered casting the line - Papa would be proud of them. It was hot fishing so we stopped the boat and jumped in the lake a few times to cool off. Once we got back it was more swimming and frog hunting. Matt, J and Zach went fishing again. J got a lesson on life and death. They caught a fish that swallowed the hook and when thrown back in, was suffering so he was put out of his misery, as the rule is "you kill it, you eat it". The fish was brought back cleaned and put on the BBQ. Nothing beats fresh fish!! They got quite a science lesson dissecting the fish and seeing what he had in his stomach - lots of minnows and cray fish we learned!! At this point I got stung by a wasp on my back ... Major OUCH!!! Then the BB-gun came out and we practiced hitting cans hanging in the tree. Kids had a good safety lesson on guns and did pretty good. Unfortunately, no cans were injured in this activity. At this point it was already five o'clock!! Time flies when you're having fun!! After dinner we went to see Tina & Claire for dessert. The guys went over on the paddle boards and Pip & I and the kids drove over. We rode in the back of the truck so the kids were pretty excited for the two minute drive over. They had a zip line at their cottage and the kids had fun on that. Then Tina made slushies for the kids and had some delicious desserts laid out for us. Yum!!! When we left A & E rode on the paddle boards with Matt & Zach and J and B joined me in the back of the truck. Busy day = early night. Everyone was wiped out - night all!! More fishing, frogging, swimming, tubing tomorrow ...

JR's Post on Tuesday, August 9, 2016

JR Manitoulin Island - Today once we got up we had breakfast before going out for a swim, we had loads of fun on the magic mat. Then once we dried off, I played some baseball while A, E and B were having fun at the frog pond. After lunch we went out fishing and I caught a Rock Bass. After fishing we decided to jump off the end of the boat. Once we docked we went for another swim. After that A, E and B went back to the frog pond and Dad, Zach and I went fishing again the only person who caught a fish was Zach but sadly the fish swallowed the hook. The rule is if you kill it you eat it so Zach had to kill it. We brought it back and cleaned it and fillet it, it was was good. For dinner we had burgers and corn before heading over to Tina and Claire's house A, E and I rode in the back of the truck it was fun. Over at Tina and Claire's house they had Ziplining so I tried that and actually enjoyed it. Tina made slushies, Cookies, Blubbery and Peach crumble, Iced coffee and much more. On the way back B and I sat in the back of the truck with my mom. At one point we thought we saw the police and had to duck but it was just B's dad. Now I'm just about to go to sleep so good night 😋😋😝😝😜😜✌🏾✌🏾

AR's Post on Monday, August 8, 2016

Ottawa Trip - this is the Ottawa trip and I'm starting at day 1 hope you enjoy it. Day 1 That morning I woke up and we were getting ready to go, well everyone else was making breakfast, the night before we all had welcomed each other at Manitoulin Island. The kids played on the magic mat it was fun 🤗. Then we had dinner, hotdogs and fish then after E and B went to bed we all layed on the dock and watched the stars we saw a shooting star 💫. Then we all went to bed. Now where was I? For breakfast we had fruit salad, cinnamon buns, eggs and bacon. Then we started heading to Ottawa it was such a long drive! We stopped at Casey's, it was yummy then we hit the road again. When we got to Ottawa the whole team was in the lobby, but we don't know why? We asked and they were all going out for dinner so went too. We went to the Bier Market and we watched the Olympics opening Ceremony. We went back to the hotel and went swimming and after that we all went to the GAMES ROOM , 🎮 and me and dad played ping pong then we all went to bed. Day 2 Today the boys woke up early to go to the soccer game and me and mom stayed at the hotel at 10:00 the boys came and picked us up so we could see the next game. They won their first one. We set the shelter to sit in and me and M played in it and the boys won again GO STORM 🌩!! Then we went to the mall for about an hour, then we went to the next game. They won again that meant we got to sleep in!! Yay! We went back to the hotel and swam, we used the flutter boards as surf boards. We placed the board in the water then jumped on it. It was fun then we all went out to dinner to Tucker's and had dinner. After dinner we all went outside and watched the magic show, it was so cool! The guy blew a 10 foot fire bubble it was so cool 🔥🔥🔥. Then we went back to the hotel and went to the games room then went to bed. Day 3 Today I woke up and got dressed and watched Minecraft, then we went to the game if they won this game they would make it to the finals and they did easily. Then we went to the mall again and I bought back to school stuff and had lunch. I had A&W it was yummy 🍟🍹. Then we went back to the soccer field for the FINALS and guess what happens 😥... THEY WON 🎉🏅🎉🏅 Gold medal woo woo woo WOO!! Then we went to the Mint and looked around there, it was full of MONEY 🤑🤑🤑🤑 We started driving out of Ottawa, bye Ottawa see you soon and also BYE BYES!

JR's Post on Monday, August 8, 2016

Ottawa Trip - On Friday morning we woke up and had some breakfast before heading to Ottawa, the nations capital for a soccer tournament. It took about 7 hours, it was a long ride. We stopped at Casey's for lunch in North Bay, once we arrived in Ottawa we got into our room before heading to the Bier Market for dinner. I had poutine while watching the Olympic opening ceremony. By the time we got back to the hotel it was already 9:00 pm so we went for a swim, then we checked out the game room it was cool they had - Pool, Air Hockey, Ping Pong, two PS4's and even a basketball net. Our teams first game was at 8:00 am so we had to get up at 6:30 am and be there for 7:30 am. We won our first game 1-0 then went back to the hotel to pick up Mom and Ava for the second game we won that game 4-1. Between the third and second game we went to the mall for lunch Dad and I had Subway while Ava had Tim Hortons and Mom went to Jugo Juice. Finally our third game we won 3-0. We got back to the hotel and I went to the games room and played the PS4 before heading to Tucker's for a buffet dinner. After the dinner we went outside to watch a magic show at the end of the show he blew fire from a stick 10 feet it was cool. Then we went to the Parliament building for a team photo. We got back to the hotel and went to the game room. Most of my team played man hunt but some stayed back to play Pool. Once I went to sleep it was midnight. The first game we played the next day we won 2-0 so that meant that We are going to the finals 🎉🎉🎉😜 😜. The final game was intense but we pulled off the 2-0 win so that means that we won the tournament 🏅🏅. After that we went to the Royal Canadian Mint to get a collector coin. It was cool how they made the money, they also made the Olympic medals. Finally, we headed to Boston Pizza for dinner in Pembroke. We also stopped in Pembroke for the night sleeping in a Best Western. Well that's just about it talk soon bye 👋🏽👋🏽😉

Mom's Post on Wednesday, August 3, 2016

Long Point Provincial Park - mermaid spotted!!

Mom's Post on Wednesday, August 3, 2016

Long Point - Old Campground Site 222 - We LOVED Long Point!! This pretty much sums it up ... Beach Breakfast Beach Lunch Point Rowen for Ice Cream Beach Dinner Beach Campfire The kids met a friend named Joop (Yo-p) from Holland on the beach and they were like glue ... Happily played and imagined the days away. Pirates, mermaids, sharks - it was great. We were on an unpowered site which was steps from the beach. The bathrooms here - GROSS!! The old campsite has a gate and you need a pass to get in so its quiet and our part of the beach was very quiet with warm water and beautiful calm water surrounded by sand bars. Staying on a sand campsite means ... Sand everywhere, I mean absolutely everywhere!! Next time the powered sites a few down from us would also make good locations - a bit grassier. Definitely will return to Long Point!!

Mom's Post on Monday, August 1, 2016

Long Point - Well, we're on the road again - like gypsies!! We've spent more time in our trailer this summer than our own beds!! Livin the life!! Headed to Long Point Provincial Park today and again we have found another beautiful provincial park - thank you Martins for recommending this one. Our site is all sand and we are steps away from the beach. It was HOT when we arrived and we were all soaked from setting up the camp site. We had a late lunch and headed for the beach. The kids immediately went in the water and didn't come out!! This beach rivals beautiful Destin Beach and feels almost Florida like. Beautiful white sand, clear water and some sand bars. The water was calm and Matt spent some time skim boarding on the sand bar, A got her mermaid tail out and J met a friend from Holland and had fun making holes in the sand bar. The water was super warm so it was easy to go in and hang out, I even sat on the sand bar for awhile and took some nice pics. Matt and A had enough of the beach and headed back to our campsite. J and I stayed and enjoyed the sun. I think it was about 7:30 before we packed up and headed in. We had a late dinner of chicken skewers and fresh picked corn - delicious!! A little incident with some boiling water and Matt's foot but not to worry first aid training kicked in and we cooled it. It'll hurt a bit tomorrow but I think he's going to be alright - no amputation needed!! Then some rain blew in, which was a perfect time to blog!! It's stopped now and it has cooled things down a bit - time for some cards or Skipbo. Our plan for tomorrow ... Beach!!

JR's Post on Monday, August 1, 2016

JR Long Point - Today once we woke up we got ready to go to Long Point Provincial Park, the drive was 3 hours long but it went by fast. When we got to the park we saw that it was all sand even the campsites were sand so it was hard to back in. After we unpacked we had lunch then went to the beach, the water was so warm I didn't want to come out. Once we got back we realized that it was almost 7:30 so we made Chicken Skewers and corn, it was good but Dad had an incident, he burnt his foot with boiling hot water 🔥🔥🔥Now we're probably going to play cards because it is raining talk tomorrow bye ✌🏽️✌🏽✌🏽✌🏽✌🏽👌🏽🤘🏻

AR's Post on Monday, August 1, 2016

AR Long Point - Today we woke up and got ready to go to long point. Then we got in the car and me and JR watched movies and I took a long nap. Then when we got to long point it was sweating HOT, so we did everything as quick as we could so we could get to the beach 😎. We headed to the beach and we brought my Mermaid Tail, when we got there me and JR just jumped in quickly, followed by Daddy. We played and dad skim boarded it was so COOL! 😊 Me and Daddy headed back to the campsite while mom and JR stayed behind. I had sand everywhere and I mean everywhere... Well so after mom and Jack got back we started making dinner. Daddy spilled boiling hot water on his foot ouch 😡! Then it started to rain, that just made my day so now all of us are sitting in the trailer reading and doing Blogs well that's all today ... 4ROBERTSONS OUT ✌🏻

AR - Summer Camp

I just got back from summer camp and it was awesome so let's start at:

day 1

Today I started all my activities, first I had ropes course. We only did low ropes but tomorrow we will do high rope'.  Next I had swim beach which sounds fun - when I got there I met a girl named Emily, she's really nice so we played together on the toys.  We both went on the BLOB, it was awesome! After that I had the KRAKEN! It was so fun and scary, when you close your eyes. I went on at least 10 times. After that I had to go back to the cabin for lunch.  Oh, I almost forgot to tell you who my counsellor's are, their names are Swerve and Chirp and all my cabin mates names are Gabby.P,  Gabby.F, Abby, Merry, Amani, Ireland and Grace. At lunch they had pasta, mmmmm, after that we had Venture girls for two periods and I was probably the most well behaved! After I had arts and crafts we made bracelets it was fun.  Then I came back and ate some candy and then we all went to dinner.  After dinner we had program and in program we had teams and there were activities and if you got the record you would have you flag put up. 

Day 2

Today at ropes course we did a little ropes course, it was hard but I did it.  Last night I switched swim beach to kayaking, so I went to kayaking and to my surprise Abby was there, Yay! One of my friends was in it and she forgot to change into a bathing suit so she had to go kayaking in her clothes. We went so far out and me and her crashed together so I pushed us apart and for some reason she held on to my kayak and fell into the water and got soaked then we kayaked back to shore and dried off and Abby left early to change. After that I went to the kraken and went down twice because I was BORED! After I went to lunch they had PUDDING YUMMY! We had Venture girls and we went cannoning and did archery then I went to arts and crafts and we made bracelets again then we went to dinner then had program, cabin chat, then Bed.

Day 3

Today I woke up and went to ropes course we were zip lining but unfortunately I could not do it because I was to light! Instead I went to the Kraken so that I could actually do something. Then I went to kayaking and we did sand castle competitions and we buried our instructor so that she looked like a mermaid in the sand. After that, I went back to the Kraken waterslide but hardly anyone wanted to go on because they just wanted to leave. So I raced younger kids down the slide and usually won. When we finished there we then went back to the cabin to get changed and then we went to lunch. They had spaghetti and veggies. When we finished eating we then went back to the cabin to get ready for Ranger to come for Venture girl's. We went to swim beach and arts and crafts. After doing these two activities I then did not have to go very far as my next activity was arts and crafts again. We made bracelets and I made a ring. From there I went back to the cabin and then to dinner. For dinner we had Pulled Pork sandwiches. I just ate the pulled pork without the bun. After dinner we had some time at the cabin and then headed to program. At program we had to find all the stamps but if someone with a noodle hit you with a noodle then you lost some of your stamps. To end the evening off, we went back to the cabin and fell asleep.

Day 4

Today, like every morning, I woke up and went to the bathroom to brush my teeth. Then we went to breakfast and they had pancakes and cinnamon rolls. The theme that morning was puddle jumping so we had to decorate our cabin to look like the theme. We put down a blue towel and put all of our rain boots on it to make it look like we were jumping in the puddle. We hung our coats up on our bunks and we headed to our activities. First I had ropes course and we did the Giant Swing. It was really fun and I went to the top! Next, I headed to kayaking and my friend Abby and her sister all played ninja. Then I went to the Kraken and it started to rain. I went on twice and then the people who run Kraken let us go to Tuck shop. After that we went back to the cabin and got changed and then went to lunch. For lunch we had hot dogs and fries. We then played gaga ball and went to Tuck for a few minutes once wild time was over. We went back to the cabin for about 15 minutes and waited for Ranger to come for venture girls. At venture girls today we did swim beach and then arts and crafts. We did body painting. First we had to make a flower with our nose. Then we made a rainbow with our elbow.  Lastly, we had free time to paint anything with our body parts. Dinner was next which was pizza and salad. After dinner it was off to program. At program we had a girls night and the boys had a boys night. It was really fun. Another fun day cam to an end so we were off to bed.

Day 5

Today I first did ropes and we did stacking which was fun then I went kayaking and I built a sandcastle.  After that I went to the kraken and Seirra was there yay! We had so much fun then I went back to the cabin to get changed and ready for lunch at lunch we had pudding.  After we went to venture girls and did ropes and archery then I went to arts and crafts and we had free time so just did drawings. After that I went back to the cabin and got ready for dinner at dinner they had CHICKEN BURGERS yummy! I didn't have a bun then we came back to the cabin had program then went to bed.

Thanks for listening to my adventures or should I say ... Ventures at camp 4ROBERTSONs OUT!!

Favourite things at camp are
1: ropes
2: kraken
3: Friday finale

Mom's Post on Wednesday, July 27, 2016

Muskoka - So today started out a bit cloudy and overcast so we decided to take a trip down memory lane. First we had to stop in Bala at Don's Bakery to place an order for the world's best brownies. I'll pick them up Saturday when we get A from camp. If I don't order them in advance then they'll be wiped out before I get there!! We went and wandered around Port Carling which was always one of my favourite places to visit when I was younger. It's pretty much the same, different store names, ridiculous prices but generally the same vibe. From there we headed to my happy place ... Dyson Lake. This is by far my favourite place in the world. I grew up here and spent the best summers of my life here. It was a super sad day when my parents decided to sell it. In fact it brings tears to my eyes just thinking about it. It all looked pretty much the same, not many changes up there. We parked at Paton's and headed down to the dock where were greeted by Mary Jane. It was really nice to see her and get caught up on how all the Paton's were doing. We ended up spending the afternoon there and reminiscing. This included taking J out to the rock to do some jumping. The broken collarbone does not slow him down. We jumped off the rock a few times then swam back to the dock to dry off. Dwayne returned from a golf game and we caught up with him as well. Then it was time to go, I walked the path past the old cottage and over to Neil & Dianne's. We stopped in there and again caught up and reminisced for a few minutes. After that we head d out and walked down to the docks at Cleveland's House. It still looks the same but is starting to show its age a bit. Stopped at the Corner Store in Minett for ice cream and then headed back to the cottage. I'm now having a glass of wine on the deck and realizing how much I miss the cottage life. On a brighter note, it's only three more days till I get to pick up A from camp and hear all about her adventures.

Mom's Post on Sunday, July 24, 2016

This is the snake skin from the snake we saw. I forgot to post it with last nights blog.

Mom's Post on Saturday, July 23, 2016

Sheardown Cottage So I'll admit, I made the kids write their blog last night and I skipped a night ... 😜. We headed up to the Sheardown cottage yesterday. We arrived and parked our portable cottage (aka the trailer). As soon as we were set up the kids were immediately in the water swimming and playing on the magic mat with C. Even J with his broken collar bone managed to have fun on it. We decided to head into Bracebridge for dinner and had a fantastic Mexican dinner at El Pueblito. When we got back to the cottage Laura and the girls had arrived. Of course this meant it was time to swim again ... All the kids were out in the water having a blast. We saw a large snake (what is it with me and snakes this summer?) It was actually kind of cool because it was shedding its skin and we took the skin and hung it in a tree to dry. Then they came in to watch Zootopia. This morning we got up and you'll never guess what we did ... Yup - we went swimming!! It was hot and all of us were in the water for quite some time. Yes, even me - multiple times!! The kids were finally water logged and got out and went back up to the cottage to hang out. Matt and Darren went for a tour on the seadoos and Laura and I enjoyed some peace and quiet in the water - kid free! We had lunch and then headed to camp. We stopped for ice cream in Port Sandfield and watched the boats and the ducks for a bit. We were a bit early so stopped in Rosseau and walked around for a bit. Then it was time ... We headed for camp to drop A off. There was lots of excitement and music when we arrived, they even had a free bbq for family. We took A to her cabin and met her counsellors and picked out her bunk bed and got her set up. We took a guided tour of the camp and A saw where all her activities were. Then it was time to say goodbye. It was teary (both her and me) and she had a hard time letting us go. I had to walk away while she cried and my heart was breaking. But I know she's going to have a blast and won't want to come home Saturday. I think it was hard for J too. He got to see the camp and the cabin he would've been in (he broke his collar bone on the weekend playing soccer) and all the excitement. But at least he knows what it looks like and he can expect for next year. Anyway, J and V are back in the water for their before bed swim. Night all ...

JR's Post on Saturday, July 23, 2016

Cottage Blog: Today we woke up and everyone was already up in the cottage so we joined them for some waffles. They were good. After that we went for a walk to the plastic moose. We took a picture of the moose and then we headed back and went for a long swim, it was refreshing. We had burgers for lunch with chips and cantaloupe, then we were all heading to camp to drop off A, C and S. We stopped for ice cream in Port Sandfield it was good. We arrived at Camp and were greeted by a lot of councillors, once we parked C and I went to find the cabin that C was staying in, then we found mom and dad so we could have dinner. I had a sausage it was ok, then a councillor took us for a tour around the camp. Finally it was time to say goodbye to A, C and S. A had a hard time saying goodbye. I'm going to miss her 😎😎 I think she'll do fine once she talks to people. Talk tomorrow. ✌🏽✌🏽✌🏽✌🏽✌🏽

AR's Post on Saturday, July 23, 2016

Sheardown Cottage: Today we woke up and had some "Lego my Egos" then we got ready to go to Laura's cottage. We got on the road and first me and J watched J's earth keepers video from school. Then we watched Barbie's The Princess and the Popstar. Then I chose to watch Cat in the Hat. After we watched that, we stopped for lunch at the En Route, we got Pizza Pizza. 🍕🍕 It was yummy, then we kept driving and me and J started making iMovie's. Then when got to the cottage, C was the only one there cause his dad was out sea-doing. While mom and dad were putting up the trailer, C showed me and J around the cottage. After mom and dad were all done we went SWIMMING. They have a mat that you can float on and the boys kept pushing me off and saying one way ticket. C says when he pushes me I don't yell like S does. Then after that we went for dinner at el Pueblito. The rice was good but that's the only thing!When we got back Laura and S and V were there, after they had dinner we went for another swim. It was fun! After that S and V had to go to bed so we watched Zootopia, but V kept getting out of bed while S slept peaceful. Oh yeah, tomorrow I'm going to Summer camp it gonna be fun and you guys are gonna hear about it. I'm doing ropes course, swim beach, Kraken waterslide and arts and crafts. That all today, PEACE OUT ✌!

JR's Post on Friday, July 22, 2016

Sheardown Cottage - Today once we woke up we had waffles for breakfast and headed off to see C, S and V's cottage. They have a magic mat, paddle board and even kayaks. Once we arrived we got settled and went swimming. The water is so warm! I just tanned on the magic mat. Then we took C and the whole family to La Pueblito in Bracebridge for some Mexican food - it was good!! We got back and noticed that C's mom arrived with S and V. We went for one more swim, then watched Zootopia. After that we called it a night - talk tomorrow, bye!

Mom's Post on Wednesday, July 13, 2016

Awenda Blog Tuesday Today I woke up and looked outside. It looked gloomy and overcast. We got up and had custom pancakes - chocolate chip, chocolate/peanut butter/butterscotch chip, blueberry and plain!! Then packed up for the beach. We went to the same spot as yesterday as the kids didn't want to try a different spot. They liked climbing on and jumping off the rocks and wanted to do it again. It was HOT and sunny at the beach!! I even went in 5-6 times (and by in, I mean past my ankles and actually swam). The water was chilly but but very refreshing. We swam out to the big rocks and the kids jumped off and played in the water. We took a break and sat on "Rectangle Rock" and enjoyed the sun. As we were sitting enjoying the scenery we saw a big water snake swim by. I'm really glad I saw him swim by from above because had I been in the water it would've been a very different story!! 😳 Don't worry, I calmly assured the kids that he was harmless and more afraid of us than we were of him!!! I could've stayed at the beach all day but we decided to come back to our campsite for a little siesta before dinner. I managed to snag the hammock and read my book for a bit. We made pizzas for dinner that were delicious!! Then we headed back to the beach for sunset. It was still pretty warm at the beach and again the kids were in the water like little fish. Matt went and checked out beaches 2-4 and when he came back reported that we were in fact on the best beach!! We took some nice sunset pics then returned to our campsite for a campfire, s'mores and bed. Sadly, it is time to return to the real world tomorrow and head home ... Till next time!! Awenda - stayed in Wolf Campsite, site 209 - not my favourite site. Biggest most densely populated campsite area in Awenda, lots of cars and people going by, not much privacy. Site was spacious, shady and did have two picnic tables which was handy. #256 looks like a good site for next time. Beach #1 was amazing and we loved it!!!

AR's Post on Wednesday, July 13, 2016

Awenda Blog Tuesday Today we woke up and had pancakes, they were yummy - mmmmm! Then we got packed to go to the beach and of course I lounged in the HAMMOCK! Then when we got to the beach are tunnel was GONE, 😞 someone destroyed IT. AHHHHH, then we went for ROUND 1! We got in the water and went to the big rock and jumped off a few times, then we came back and judges chilled then we went for ROUND 2! We went in with mom to the big rock and jumped off but of course mom didn't do it 🙄. Then we came back in and chilled then ROUND 3. We went out to anchor rock and jumped off it, mom got some nice pictures except dad blocked a very good one of me. Then I used the rocks to come back and J fell and hurt his foot, poor him. We came back to our camp site and chilled for about 1 hour 30 minutes. Went to the beach again and it was COLD 😰! When we came back we had a campfire and roasted marshmallows then went to bed that's all ROBERTSON #4 OUT!🤘🏻

JR's Post on Wednesday, July 13, 2016

Awenda Blog Tuesday. Today once we got up we had a delicious breakfast of pancakes and bacon then started to prepare for the beach. This time we only stayed for four and a half hours but it was still awesome. We swam out to the jumping rock and did some jumps then we found our way back to shore for some lunch. We had a peanut butter and Nutella sandwich with salt vinegar chips it was good. By the time we came back it was already dinner. We had make your own pizzas and I had pepperoni and cheese. We went back to the beach after dinner for a late swim now we're having a campfire talk tomorrow bye 😜👋🏽👋🏽👋🏽😜

Mom's Post on Wednesday, July 13, 2016

Mom Awenda Blog (Monday) Today we had a slow start. The kids slept in and A was the last one to wake up. She's usually our early bird but she's rivalling her brother for sleeping in on this trip. We had breakfast, then chilled for a bit and then we headed for the beach. The beach was really nice and had lots of rocks for the kids to climb on in the water. Although, it was a bit overcast the sun would pop out and it was HOT! Of course the kids were in the water immediately exploring the rocks. I managed to read a good chunk of my book - yay!! The water was beautiful and I even went in to explore the rocks. I got some great pics of the kids too. After the beach we came back to our site and relaxed for a bit, I even managed to finish my book. We lit the fire and made Pudgie Pies with the pie irons. We made two cheese and bacon pies and I had bacon, egg and cheese ... Yum! 'A' stuck with hotdogs and s'mores. We sat around the campfire and talked and listened to music while I "forced" the children to write their blog ... Meanest mom ever!! Mozzies are starting to come out so we'll sit a few more minutes then into the camper for some cards and games. It'll be back to the beach again tomorrow ...

AR's Post on Wednesday, July 13, 2016

Awenda Blog - Monday Today we got up and I was the last one UP, surprising right? We had breakfast then we got ready to go to the beach. We got all our stuff ready while I lounged in the hammock! 👍🏻 Then when we got to the beach, the water was mouth watering. We got in and we swam to this really big rock and that was only round one. 🦀🦀 Then for round 2 we went in and got to the rock pretty quick cause we knew our way. We got out and me and Jack started making a tunnel with the sand, we hope it's still there tomorrow if we're lucky. Then we had round 3 and I brought my goggles, it was so cool then we came back in to shore and packed up and went back to the trailer. We made Pudgie pies and I had a wiener then ate my chocolate bar and had a s'more 🍫. Then mom forced me to write my blog - ugh! So I'm writing it right now and later we're going to play games. That's all today! PEACE OUT ✌🏻️

JR's Post on Wednesday, July 13, 2016

Awenda Blog (Monday) Today we woke up and we read and had breakfast. Then we planned what we were going to do and we decided to go to the beach. We stayed at the beach for five and a half hours but it was fun. We were jumping off rocks into water that was seven and a half feet deep, so we could dive and do big jumps. We came back and just relaxed until we made Pudgie pies for dinner. I made a grilled cheese Pudgie pie with bacon it was delicious 👌🏽👌🏽. Now we're having a campfire with s'mores and later on we will play cards and maybe have Ju-jubes. When I talk to you tomorrow it will be only 13 days till my birthday! 🎉🎉🎉

Mom's Post on Monday, July 11, 2016

Awenda Provincial Park - Today we had to leave Lake Manitou and the wonderful hospitality if the Gammage family. Our plan was to get up and head out but we just couldn't pull ourselves away. It was a beautiful sunny morning and the lake was calm. The kids got up late and went for a swim. Again, they were out on the kayaks and paddle boards. They were also snorkelling and hunting for crayfish, clams and minnows. We had a great breakfast and Matt went for a paddle while I sat on the dock and enjoyed the scenery. Then finally we had to accept that it was time to go. We packed up the trailer, said goodbye to our friends and headed out around lunchtime. We made it past the swing bridge and we were off the island. We decided to drive through Sudbury and revisit some of our old stomping grounds. It has really changed and we had a hard time remembering which apartment building Matt had lived in. We drive through the Laurentian University campus and again there were a lot of changes. My beautiful view of Lake Ramsey and the UC parking lot was completely blocked by a new building they squeezed in. After that we stopped for groceries and had a picnic lunch in the parking lot of the grocery store. At this point we realized we hadn't made much progress towards our destination and got back in the car and headed to Awenda Provincial Park which is near Midland. We arrived around six o'clock and got set up. It was roasted weinies and pizza leftovers for dinner, some s'mores and then off to bed. Let's see what tomorrow brings ...

AR's Post on Monday, July 11, 2016

Today, first we woke up and I did my blog from yesterday then I went outside and played. We went swimming. I used a kayak and paddled around for awhile, then I got my snorkel and and looked for minnows, clams and crayfish. 🏊🏻 Then we got out and had breakfast, it was yummy. Then we played on the trampoline and then we all sat in the hammock and Mrs. Gammage took some photos of all of us sitting in the hammock. Then we put down the trailer and attached it to the car and that was our morning at Manitoulin Island.......... It took us 4 hours to drive to Awenda so we stopped to get groceries, then we got lunch. I got little Caesars, guess what they don't sell pieces of pizza, only pizzas so I bought a whole and actually ATE IT🍕! Then we drove and drove and drove till we finally got to Awenda, when we got all set up we had a fire and roasted weinies then we roasted s'mores yummy that's all today. PEACE OUT 🤘🏻

JR's Post on Sunday, July 10, 2016

Today once we got up we realized that it was our last day on Manitoulin Island so we had to make it work. We had a giant breakfast and went for an early swim, the water was brisk & chilly. E, B and I caught two crayfish but no minnows. Then I decided to go snorkelling to try and catch some minnows, so I chose to bring a frog net but I didn't have any luck catching one, maybe next time? Before you know it it's time to leave. So we waved out the window and said goodbye, maybe we will go to see them again in August. We stopped in Sudbury for groceries and lunch but we were still two and a half hours away from the camp site so Ava and I watched a movie. Finally, we arrived and we got all set up with the trailer and now we're going to have a campfire 🔥🔥. Talk to you tomorrow, bye! 👋🏽👋🏽👋🏽

AR's Post on Sunday, July 10, 2016

Today, well first we ate breakfast then we went Kagawan and walked to Bridal Veil Falls and some kid caught a crayfish and it was COOL 😎. Then we went in the maze and tried to find our way, there's no ENDING then we played giant chess. Then we went to the chocolate shop, it was yummy but don't ask me cause I didn't get anything! Then we drove to the boats and looked at them they were pretty Awesome! Then we went and got ice cream, I got rolo ice cream it was yummy 🍦. We came back and went swimming. I had a kayak, I had a HUMAN MOTOR! B was my human motor, it was cool then it started to rain so we all went inside then we had a campfire and that's all today BYE BYES 😋😛

Mom's Post on Saturday, July 9, 2016

Manitoulin Island - It really doesn't get better than this. Another beautiful day on Lake Manitou. The weather was very undecided today ... Sun, rain, hot, cold but we made the best of it. The kids were in the water as soon as they got up. Kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkelling... The they blew bubbles and drove Wellie mad. I'm not sure what she thinks the bubbles might do but she protected us from every last one! After that we headed to Kegawan and went for a hike to Bridal Veil Falls which was beautiful. We stopped to play a giant game of chess and then hit the chocolate shop for a sweet treat. From there we drove to Little Current and walked along the docks watching the swing bridge and all the big boats coming in. Our reward was a stop at the ice cream shop for a treat/lunch. Ice cream cones count as lunch - right? When we got back to the cottage the sun was out and it was back in the water again. This time they threw some snorkelling in as well. Then it rained, then the sun came out and then it rained and then the sun came out ... 🙄 Come on Mother Nature make up your mind!! We made mini pizzas on the bbq for dinner which was a big hit all around. Then it was Wellington time again ... Poor dog will be exhausted!! Ball throwing, bubble blowing and lots of ear scratching. Of course the kids went back in the water again!! Then it was time for a camp fire and s'more cones, some trampoline wrestling and then bed. It's going to be really hard to leave tomorrow but we're off on our next adventure to Awenda Provincial Park. Night all!

JR's Post on Saturday, July 9, 2016

Today once we woke up we had breakfast and went for an early swim, the water was cool but it didn't stop us from going in. We dried of just as it started to rain so we decided to take a tour around the island we stopped at Bridal Veil falls in Kagawan after that we stopped at a chocolate shoppe for a yummy treat, I got rock candy. When we got back to the cottage we went swimming 🏊🏽🏊🏽because it was Blazing hot and it cooled us right off. Once dinner time arrived we had a make your own pizza 🍕. I put pepperoni, cheese and chicken on my pizza it was delicious 👌🏽. After dinner we went for another trip to the water for a swim I went on the kayak and went far out and when I docked that I took a turn on the paddle board and I followed daddy around the shoreline. We came back and dried off so we could have a campfire we had s'mores cones they we fantastic, so gooey and mushy. I hope tomorrow will be just as good as today 👋🏽👋🏽👋🏽😜😜😜😊😊😊

Mom's Post on Friday, July 8, 2016

Manitoulin Island - Another great day on Lake Manitou. We started the day in the water, swimming and kayaking (by we I mean the kids). We saw a big raccoon hunting along the shoreline. After breakfast Matt and J went out on the boat with the wake boarders. Matt gave it a try and was doing pretty good until ... the big wipeout - ouch! After that more swimming, kayaking and paddle boarding. For lunch we enjoyed a smorgasbord of munchies. Then the kids and I went fishing with Pip, Paul and the kids. Both kids caught some big fish and thoroughly enjoyed fishing. They are looking forward to going again tomorrow. After fishing we jumped off the boat and went for a swim (again by we I mean the kids swam and the adults supervised). I got some great action shots of the kids doing some pretty fancy jumps. When we got back the kids jumped on the trampoline and then the water guns came out. It all started innocently enough until Paul took a direct hit ... This is when it went "sideways"! The war had begun pitting Paul and Zach against the little people. Innocents were used as shields but in the end I have to say the little people were victorious as two of the four were soaked and both adults were totally soaked. Then the rain came, we hid out under the trees for as long as possible then finally went inside. The kids had dinner and then Matt decided that puddle surfing was a great idea and showed off his mad skills. The kids of course followed suit and even in the rain we found some fun. The rain stopped and the sun came out and after trampolining the kids were back in the water again. The boys went fishing and the rest of us enjoyed the peace and serenity of the evening. Until tomorrow ...

AR's Post on Friday, July 8, 2016

So first we had breakfast, then I had a nap cause my throat was hurting 🤒. Then we saw a FLUFFY RACOON. I went swimming and did stuff. Then we went fishing and I caught 1 and almost 2 fish. My first fish was a rock bass and my other one got away. Then when we came back and actually I can't remember then we had an awesome water fight. We were fighting Paul it was AWESOME 😜😜, then the big storm HIT and we sat inside. Dad belly slided in a puddle it was Funny and awesome and had dinner and then just sat down and Chilled and that's fun BYE BYES.

JR's Post on Friday, July 8, 2016

Today once we woke up we had breakfast then we went for an early swim. When we were kayaking we spotted a big fluffy racoon, it was hunting. We dried off and bounced on the trampoline for a while and after that it was already lunch!!! We had kielbasa and cheese and fruits and vegetables. We went swimming again before it poured rain for a while. The power went out twice and I went through a puddle by belly sliding. I hope tomorrow is just as good talk tomorrow bye 👋🏽👋🏽👋🏽✌🏽️😊

JR's Post on Thursday, July 7, 2016

Today we woke up had breakfast and then hit the road 🛣to Manitoulin island to visit the Gammage's. It took SIX HOURS!!!! It was so long I felt like I was going to puke. We unpacked and I went to watch E and B go tubing. Ewan was fine but Ben almost fell off it was kinda scary 😥😥. Once we docked the boat, Ava and I got our bathing suits on so did mom and dad. Mom and I went first. It was fun but it really hurt my neck. Then Ava and dad went, Ava almost fell off once. We docked again we used the kayaks and paddle boards and played on them until dinner. We had chicken and chips with salad it was good. We went back to the water and jumped off the raft until we started to have a fire. I'll talk to you tomorrow bye👋🏽👋🏽✌🏽✌🏽

AR's Post on Thursday, July 7, 2016

Today we woke up at 7:00 and left at nine. We got to Zach's at 4:00 it's a 5 hour 30 minute drive plus we got lunch 🌭. I'm sick with a sore throat so it really hurts, so I have to have a lot more Vitamin C so my throat will feel better. When we got there we went water tubing its was awesome 😂. Mom did it too 😱!! Then we swam a bit more and played on the trampoline. It was fun then we had a camp fire the..... Wait I'm writing this right when we are starting the campfire, I don't know what's gonna happen next so I guess that's all BYE BYES 😜.

Mom's Post on Thursday, July 7, 2016

Manitoulin Island - After a long drive we arrived at the Gammage cottage. Once we set up the trailer we were off tubing. J and I went first and, although I thought I lost him once, we had a blast getting bounced around. Then Matt and A went next and at one point all I saw were her feet in the air. She loved it too!! After that the kids quickly learned how to kayak and use the paddle boards and they were on the water the rest of the day with E & B. I even tried out a paddle board and took Wellie🐶 for a little ride till she dumped me in the drink!! When the kids weren't in the water, they were jumping on the trampoline or catching frogs. A quick dinner then the kids were back in the water, a camp fire with s'mores and then it was off to bed. No problems falling asleep tonight. Night all!

Mom's Post on Sunday, June 19, 2016

The Pinery - Dunes Area 4 #295: Another beautiful day at the Pinery. We got up and had pancakes & bacon for breakfast. The kids each got a special pancake ... One with chocolate chips and the other with peanut butter and chocolate chips. Then we we relaxed around the campsite. The kids played the washer toss game and I read my book in the hammock. Gramma & Grandpa arrived and we relaxed and enjoyed our campsite. It was a hot one so we packed up and headed for the beach. The kids swam and learned how to use the mask and snorkel. The made boats out of the logs washed up on shore and played football with us. They made a game up of trying to knock the "tree" over with rocks. After the beach we came back for "Lupper" and had burgers with Gramma & Grandpa. We all headed over to Grand Bend for a walk and some ice cream. Gramma & Grandpa headed home and we headed back to the Pinery. After a bit of relaxation we headed back to the beach to cool off and then it was time to chill by the campfire and roast marshmallows. I love it here, I just want to stay for another two weeks!!

AR's Post on Sunday, June 19, 2016

So today first off we had yum yum pancakes for breakfast. Then grandma and grandpa came 🎉. Then me and Jack did a washer ball game but Jack totally won ugh 🙄. Then we went to the beach with grandma, grandpa, Jack, dad, mom and me. I tried my snorkel there it's really fun 🏊🏻. After we went to the beach we started making "Lupper" and mom said to me if you fall asleep in the hammock I'll give you $2.00. So I said ok and I fell asleep, so mom owes me $2.00 💵. Then we went back to Grand Bend and walked around with grandpa and grandma. We also got ice cream, I got a milkshake, Jack and dad got root beer floats. Then grandma and grandpa left and we went back to the beach SUPER REFRESHING ! 😃 Then we came back to our campsite and roasted marshmallows over the fire then went to bed that's all BYE BYES 🤑🤗🤑!

JR's Post on Sunday, June 19, 2016

Today when we woke up we had pancakes and bacon. Then we had Gramma and Grandpa visit us. We went to the beach and swam and had fun then we came back and had Lupper ( lunch and dinner combined) now off to Grand Bend for a tour, got ice cream floats, checked out some of the stores and then came back here for a swim and fire another great day 😋😋😉😉😉‼️

Mom's Post on Saturday, June 18, 2016

The Pinery We arrived yesterday around 7pm. We got our campsite set-up and then relaxed around the campfire. We made banana boats and then it was off to bed. Today we got up, had some bacon and eggs for breakfast, gave Daddy his Father's Day gifts early. The hammock & washer game was a big hit!! We went to the beach, the water was pretty cold but it was a super hot day so it was refreshing. Even I went in to cool off and play some football. After the beach we came back, relaxed and played some bocce ball. J was so tired he fell asleep in the hammock. We had Dorito nachos for dinner then went into Grand Bend. We checked out the beach and according to everyone (not me), the water was colder there!?! We walked down the Main Street and had an ice cream cone, then headed back to our camp site. We spent the evening relaxing by the fire, made campfire popcorn and now it's time for bed. It's supposed to be another hot day tomorrow and we are looking forward to another beach day with Gramma & Grandpa. Night all!

AR's Post on Saturday, June 18, 2016

Yesterday we arrived at the Pinery and made banana boats over the camp fire. Then we went to bed, I was FREEZING. In the morning (today) we had eggs and bacon🍽. Then went to the beach at our campsite. It was chilly! Also mom got in 😱 and stayed in for awhile. Then we came back from the beach... Hold rewind for a second, go back to the morning dad got his Father's Day gifts early. 🎉 Now back again, when we got back from the beach we had a family game of bocce ball, then had Dorito's thing for dinner. Then went to the town of Grand Bend and went swimming there. That was more chilly then other times, mom just chilled in her chair. 🤗 Then we walked around Grand Bend and got ice cream then went back to the trailer had fire popcorn. Then went to bed. (P.S. Grandma and grandpa are coming tomorrow) That's all BYE BYES!

JR's Post on Saturday, June 18, 2016

Today once we woke in the Pinery Provincial Park we had eggs and bacon for breakfast. We got dressed and drove around to get use to the park then once we got back we put on our bathing suits and went to the beach. The water was chilly but even Mommy got in 😱😱. We came back and played bocce ball then I took a nap in the hammock. We had dinner and then went to Grand Bend where we went to another beach but that water was freezing. We got out and dried off then got some ice cream to top it off. Now we're having a campfire with some popcorn what a day, what a day👍🏽.