Yosemite, made possible by REI

Amy, Paul, and James spent the Thanksgiving holiday experiencing the wonders of Yosemite National Park and using (and thus justifying) our plethora of pricey camping equipment. Definitely worth the trip: breath-taking waterfalls, majestic mountains, treacherous stairs, icy granite paths, and scenic vistas around every corner. Most importantly, we claim bragging rights for hiking 15 miles and 3000 vertical feet and camping in below-freezing weather, all with an 8-month-old. (Maybe that last one isn't something we should publish--here's hoping CPS doesn't scan blogs.) When we were planning the trip and saw the forecast for 28 degress farenheit, Amy asked, "Is this safe for our child?" Paul responded, "The pioneers did it. But then most of their kids died." Very comforting. Fortunately for us--but not helpful for the pioneers--REI carries sweet down suits for babies that made James impervious to the cold and unable to use his hands. He handled it like a champ, and we'll absolutely be visiting this park again, once Amy and Paul have recovered from their sore muscles.