Panther Creek Backpacking Trip

So, I took Jennifer and Winston on a short backpacking trip to Panther Creek Falls about a week ago. It was Jennifer's first overnight backpacking trip, and Winston's second. I had rented a tent for us to sleep in, but REI (I love this store) had a sale on hammocks. So we decided to leave the tent and try hammocks. I loved it!!! SOOOOO much lighter than a tent, and I got to look right up and check out the stars. The only drawback was that it took me a while to get use to sleeping in it as opposed to being flat on the ground. Jennifer and Winston were both scared they would be easy bear snacks. No matter how many times I tried to reassure them nothing would get them they still were nervous. I was very porud of both of them for doing it though. We had a great time, but are totally worn out after having hiked for three straight weekends. This weekend we shall just be resting, and looking forward to going again.

That silvery mass in the orange hammock is the wifey sawing logs. She said she couldn't fall asleep until it was daylight because of her fear that she would be a bear snack.

Winston in his little cocoon. He actually loves the hammock so much we have set it up at home under is bunkbed. He just chills in it and watches t.v.

We took Bolo our pet lab. He still hasn't really figured out he's supposed to be a water dog. I'm holding him here in this photo.

Here is Bolo right next to his very favorite human, mommy. He is never more than a few feet away from her if he can help it.

This is next to our campsite. It was very relaxing laying in the hammock listening to the waterfall.

Winston was trying to spearfish with a homemade spear. A typical 10 yo boy.

I bought this machette before we left for $15. Who knew Winston would have soooo much fun chopping everything in sight including a small pine tree about 20 ft. tall (see it behind him).

Bolo doing what he does best...nothing. He really is a great dog though. He just wants to be loved on.

Winston chillaxin'.