Max Patch

First family backpacking trip this weekend!  It's something Jamie and I have been dreaming about and we are so joyful that we did it and it went so well!  We crossed just over the border into NC and went to an area called Max Patch.  Beautiful bald with amazing views.  We hiked a little over a mile in and about the same out via a different route.  Saturday's weather was perfect but the clouds gathered in the evening so no star-gazing and it drizzled on us through most of the hike out.  

You can't quite tell in this picture, but they are holding hands.  Benjamin wanted to hold his daddy's hand for much of the hiking.

 The white blaze on the tree shows we were on the Appalachian Trail.

 Our friend Wren hiked in with us.  It was a treat to get to spend some time with her.

I am thankful that all of our gear is still in good condition even after many years of non-use.  Stove started right up, water filter was good.  We did borrow a tent from a friend.  We need to figure out the best way to shelter all 5 of us.

 Doing a little marshmallow roasting on the stove!

 Ben, thinking it's hilarious to close his eyes in the picture after Jamie accidentally had his closed in the first shot I took.

 Morning views.

 Jackson was pouncing around in the grass like some sort of lion hunting for prey.  He was hunting for bugs. He is saying here "I've got one!"

 Helping Daddy pack up.

 Kate by a very official AT trail marker.

 Steep set of stairs up to the top of the bald.

This looks back to where we had camped.

 Checking out a birdhouse up on top.

 Looking at the marker on top.

 Cozy in the car, ready for the ride home!