Desert sun

The Barker family has been craving some HOT desert sun, so they headed out to the eastern side of the Gorge this weekend, where trees are few, sun is plentiful, and the temperatures reached in to the 80s. It was also the first trip this spring for Der Kaiserhutte. Everyone was excited to go camping after a winter hiatus, especially Hazel, who promptly shed all of her clothes upon arrival.

On Saturday morning, Hazel made sure to examine every piece of dirt within a 500 meter radius of Der Kaiserhutte and then cover herself in it.

After covering herself in dirt, Hazel directed Mom and Dad on the short hike up to Tom McCall Point. Dad didn't think it was so short- he had to carry the increasingly heavy Hazel up a 1000 ft. elevation gain.

Dad wanted something easier after carrying Hazel on the hike, so everyone in the family loaded up their bikes for a short ride. Except that Dad drew the short end again and ended up pulling Hazel in the bike trailer.

It turned out to be an awesome ride. Everyone got ice cream in the middle and Hazel even dispensed some free advice. Tips were accepted.

Back at camp, Hazel enjoyed a little campfire...

And her first s'more! She was elated at the opportunity to consume so much sugar in one sitting.

Sunday morning arrived and Hazel was all, LET'S GO!

So, everyone packed up and headed to Horsethief Butte for some rock climbing with Ky and Joe, in the hot desert sun, of course.

Hazel offered her comments on rock climbing from the peanut gallery and spent her time covering herself in dirt and jumping off of rocks. The weekend was capped off with a milkshake and a nap during the car ride home. Everyone was tired, dirty, and so so happy to have spent the weekend in the desert.