Family Time: Bass Lake, CA July 2016

Rob Family

Last month we took some much needed family time and traveled to Bass Lake, California. This is a special spot for the Appell Family. My parents started taking me and a few buddies to Bass Lake every summer for a few weeks as teenagers. Most of us have kept the tradition alive by bringing our own families to Bass Lake. My kids started at 6 weeks old. We use it as a time for relaxing, camping, boating, swimming and enjoying the lake.

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This year we had some big accomplishments. Here’s my daughter Ruby, who likes to go really fast on the tube, all by herself.

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My son Brayden has learned to pop up and ride a wake board.

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I can even still get a bit of air!

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My wife was on the mend from surgery, so luckily I don’t have to post the usual photos of her showing us up… just her being cute and eating watermelon this time.

It was such a fun family trip and it brought back so many memories of my younger days. I’m glad I’m able to give my kids memories at Bass Lake as well! What vacation spots are nostalgic for you? Let me know what they are in the comments!

P.S. – So I made it all the way to the lake for the family camp without my propane line for my stove. I am in charge of all the meals, so I quickly converted my BBQ into a range. I can now say I’ve BBQ’d eggs, pancakes, and refried beans (and they weren’t too bad)!

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Rob on the Road

We can’t believe it’s already the middle of March! Time sure has zipped right by! You know what they say though, time flies when you’re having fun and that’s exactly how Rob has felt! He has been a busy guy, traveling and teaching his passion of quilting! So far this year, he has been up and down the California coast doing what he does best, having fun with his fans!!! If you’ve ever had the chance to meet Rob, then you understand how passionate he is about quilting! No matter where he goes, he’s bringing it up in conversation! At the grocery store, on the beach, on the plane to Hamilton, MO to film new tutorials, he really wants the world to know how great sewing is! Thank you for following along with Man Sewing and helping Rob to share his passion for quilting with you!! Check out these fun photos from the last few months of Rob’s travels!

Shawn from trends
Shawn said, It was great meeting you in person during Trends at EE Schenck here in Portland today. I have been quilting for 2 years now and it’s a blast. Thanks for sharing your enthusiasm for quilting, your journey and your faith today. It was awesome!

 

Missy from Sacramento said, "Thank you for sharing your quilts and your story Rob!"
Missy from Sacramento said, “Thank you for sharing your quilts and your story Rob!”

 

Judy said, "I attended Rob's event at Meissner's Sewing and Learning Center in Sacramento yesterday. WOW! I came home so inspired, both by his amazing art quilts but most of all by him. Incredible man with a wonderful story!"
Judy said, “I attended Rob’s event at Meissner’s Sewing and Learning Center in Sacramento yesterday. WOW! I came home so inspired, both by his amazing art quilts but most of all by him. Incredible man with a wonderful story!”

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Check out all of Rob’s upcoming events HERE!

4 Year Anniversary!

February 20th is my 4 year anniversary. For the past few years I have been celebrating my recovery from alcohol addiction by hiking deep into the wilderness and enjoying nature with my newest coin. This year was the 4 year marker without a drink, so my 12 year old son and I did a three day backpack trip in Bug Sur, CA. The destination was Sykes Hot Springs and it was an enjoyable 21 mile hike! My son was a fantastic hiking partner and one of the major reasons I quit drinking. What a blessing to have this time together, a time both of us will always remember. I’m so thankful for the wonderful life I now have and the opportunities I have to improve myself to be a better me every single day. Life is good, friends! Thanks for supporting me in this journey!

Here are some photos I took from our trip!

To thine own self be true. Unity, Service and Recovery. Happy 4 years to me!

 

The necessities! Our packs with food and water for 3 days and all of the tools we would need to be safe!

 

My son is such a great role model for his little sister. I sure am proud of this boy and all of his goals!
4 Years!!!
Me and my coin after a soak in the Hot Springs!

 

I’ve loved being able to share this special time with him!

Last year’s token was also a special one for me. I’m proud of who I am today because of the changes I’ve made in my life.

Celebrate with me today, 3 years without a drink. Amazing how my life and art have improved!!

A photo posted by Man Sewing with Rob Appell (@mansewing) on

Bonus Video: Sea Otters

Here’s another short video for ya! It’s always a cool site to see so many otters swimming around in the bay! Watch this video to get a glimpse of where I live and why I love it!