Recap of Time Away

So, I let the blog slip a little this past week, due to it being a little busier than my typical summer schedule (which is no schedule at all). We had several things planned, but Bryson had the coolest event, by far.

Back in the Spring, we signed Bryson up for Camp Invention - a camp for 1st-5th graders aimed at teaching creativity, engineering, and of course, inventing. Lindsay and I knew it would fit Bryson's talents and he couldn't contain his excitement before the first day. During the week we only got random hints about things he was making and doing, but on the final day we found out. They did some really cool things - i.e. tearing apart old electronics and making new things out of it, inventing something that solves a problem, and building shields to protect their team during water wars. Each day they worked on finishing the bigger projects and tested theories through fun activities. Bryson loved the entire experience and wished that he could go for another week!

Bryson and some of his inventions - the box is Moe's (our cat) home and the other is his "video game maze." Not pictured is his rocket that he made to be launched from an air bladder.

Bryson telling Parks how his maze works. It is composed of parts from things they tore apart and re-engineered to make something new!

Bryson's new smile sitting on his team's award winning sled. They had to build something that could be pushed or pulled through an obstacle and theirs won Most Innovative!

Other things that I missed telling you about was a fun day around our house and our trip to Cummins Falls. The fun day at our house involved swimming and enjoying our backyard, but resulted in some fun pictures below. Cummins Falls was a great day of hiking, swimming, and just enjoying being together. It is a fairly new Tennessee State Park where you hike down a short trail to a river and then hike up the river to an amazing set of waterfalls. Perfect for a hot summer day!

Parks like paddling mom's canoe!

Parker posing...his cuteness is becoming a problem.

Mom and Bryson just starting out on the hike up the river.

Not sure if he really enjoyed it or not... You can see the aforementioned waterfall in the background. The pool is a great swimming hole and you can climb all over the falls. 

Mom and Parks smiling for the camera and Bryson imitating his Uncle Greg. 

Best one of the bunch!

Boys having fun!

As you can see it was a great day. This park reminded me of the many amazing places Tennessee State Parks has to offer. I gripe and complain a bit when it comes to the distance that our house is from work, school, and other necessities, but I have no complaints when it comes to finding outdoor fun. Guess we'll be sticking around a little longer.