DeSoto State Park 2011 Part 1

We arrived at the DeSoto State Park on Monday afternoon.  After setting up camp we went for a family bike ride around the campground.  The first part of the ride was all uphill, it didn’t seem like much, but you (maybe I should say I) could sure feel it.  The children assured me the rest would be all downhill and it would be lots of fun.  Sure enough, we got to the downward slope and the children took off at break neck speed with me yelling “BE CAREFUL!!!!” 

Next thing I knew, Jolene got going too fast, panicked, slammed her breaks which caused her to skid, which caused her to lose control.  Her handle bars were wobbling uncontrollably and I was scared to death fearing the worst.  She hit the ditch, which was lined with rocks, got thrown from the bike and somersaulted.  She sat up right away and we were quickly assured that there was no serious damage.  She had a pretty scraped up arm, a sore on her hand, and a few bruises; nothing compared to what could have happened.

Tuesday Chad took Jesse, Javan, and Jared for a lesson in rock climbing.  Jolene went along to watch and of course, Chad got a free lesson but not the experience of climbing the rock.  Chad purchased (and borrowed) equipment before our trip so we all hope to go Thursday, now that they know how to use the safety equipment.

A word to Mom from Jesse (paraphrased)!  Mom, the man said it is usually easier for women to climb than men, but I think you will be the exception to the rule!  ~ Thanks for your confidence Jesse!  We’ll see what Thursday brings.

 

Jesse

Javan

Jared – the ride down!

Goofin’ around

Jesse

Holdin’ the safety rope.

Javan

Jared – at the top!

 

One of the boys said he didn’t think he would be afraid of heights till he was up the wall some, then he got a little nervous.  I told him I didn’t think I would be afraid either (for me); it might be a different story watching my children.  Although, I must admit that age has changed how I manage adventure.  I do recall feeling a little queasy looking out over a high ridge we were hiking and I can’t swing on a playground without getting motion sickness.  In fact, I can’t handle being in the camper without the stabilizer jacks down without feeling sick.  Boy, I am getting old.  Maybe I should stay back at the camper and take a nap instead of trying to climb a rock wall!  Stay tuned…