Since Moab is a pretty popular destination, the nice campgrounds (Arches National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park) are always full. There are lots of RV parks, but they are ugly and expensive. There is also many BLM campgrounds along the Colorado River, but none has decent Internet signal. There is, however, a lot of BLM land around Moab and we found just the perfect spot a mere 5 minutes drive from awesome mountain biking trails and from the entrance of Arches NP.

The kids created their own mountain bike track around our bus and improved their skills. When Mara could not bring herself to do the big jump, her friends rallied around her to comfort her and boost her confidence. It was so very sweet to hear little Ellie tell her: I completely understand how you feel, but I know you can do it. You have to believe in yourself, Mara! These kids. They are seriously amazing. And the relationship they have build in the last 6 months is incredible.

Then, just after we lit our bonfire, the sky turned grey and thunder started to rumble... Storm skies in the desert are nothing short of spectacular...

We all ran inside to hide from the rain and watch the lightning show. That same morning, the kids spent over an hour looking at a mama jack rabbit and her two babies play nearby.

Our kids have such a simple childhood. The more they grow, the more their life is different from most 5th and 7th graders. Our girls couldn't care less what they wear, how their hair look or if they have the latest technology. There is no drama in their life, no stress, no pressure to perform.

We feel very fortunate to be able to offer them such an amazing childhood. And to enjoy all these amazing adventures with them!