Camping with Nate

Earlier in June I took Sam camping in the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, and now it was Nate's turn to escape the city. We got to spend three days at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, and if you have never been it is definitely worth the trip. I have been wanting to go here for a while, and it was a great experience. Just like my camping trip with Sam a couple of weeks ago, this one had its share of adventures and misadventures. This included sweeping views of Texas Hill Country from the top of Enchanted Rock, meeting new friends, and being raided by raccoons.

The experience of getting to spend so much quality time with each boy one-on-one has been really great for me. I have always known their unique personality traits, but it is hard to see when each boy is constantly interacting with his brother. There is something special and sacred about sitting by the campfire late into the night, answering questions that seem to come out of nowhere, and experiencing the unique insight into life that can only come from an 8-year old. I don't think I would have seen this side of Sam or Nate had we not dropped everything and spent some in the wilderness. I hope this is the beginning of a tradition that continues for many years.