First climbing trip!

Rye spent his first night en plein air with the Rats in Joshua Tree. He seemed to like the outdoors, and slept soundly in the cool air. He was mesmerized by the campfire! Mama's hands were full, and daddy was setting anchors, so some moments were missed by the camera—here are the highlights....

California dude.

His mittens didn't fit, so Rye wore socks since he can't manage to keep his hands under the covers. The Christmas fuzzy sleeper is a hand-me-down...too bad he'll probably grow out of it before Christmas!

Channeling James Dean.

Daddy's down jacket makes an excellent sleeping bag.

Future rope gun, perched on the rope.

Indian Cove campsite in the early morning.