Camping 2010

Our last two family camping trips have been cancelled due to unexpected events, so everyone was excited to finally make our recent excursion. Well, excited may not have been the word for all of us. I reluctantly prepared and packed for half of our family and even considered staying home several times. Papa Bear dealt with a few minor setbacks, as well. And M2 didn't know where we were going but he absolutely, positively hated the car ride and protested by screaming for most of it. But the other boys were excited.

We went with my mom and step-father, who have a pull-behind camper with mini-kitchen, A/C, heat, TV, and a bathroom. That's my kind of camping. My wonderful husband brought his latest "deal", a pop-up camper in need of some (expensive) TLC. I won't go into details, but suffice it to say, by the second night there were 10 of us staying in my parents' camper and the pop-up will have to find a new home.

The destination was in a beautiful state park with a historic village and the timing was perfect for fall foliage. There were the typical camp activities including bike riding, walking in the woods, cooking breakfast outside, and roasting marshmallows, along with a tour of the village and late-night movies. There were some bumps along the way, but mostly, it was an enjoyable, relaxing experience.

Our Family Camping Rules 

Rule #1: Get dirty.

Rule #2: Eat outside (and eat lots of junk food).

Rule #3: Take naps outside.

Rule #4: Try something new.

Rule #5: Take the shortcut.

Rule #6: Observe the wildlife.

Rule #7: Pose by landmarks and interesting trees.

Rule #8: Wear your baby (not your make-up).

Rule #9: Play outdoor games (like Cornhole).

Rule #10: Wear comfortable shoes.