The last time I went camping was atleast 8 years ago. Ya, I’ve camped in a cabin or a pop-up right next my in-laws, but that’s not camping. Camping is when you have to cook all the meals yourself and there’s no one to watch the kids for a bit while you go off with your husband to watch the river in silence. No, real camping is actual work.
Last week we, all 6 of us + 2 dogs, went real camping to Garner State Park (Tx). We recently bought a very nice pop-up camper and this was the maiden voyage. I was completely nervous about the first trip. There was no doubt in my mind I’d forget about 1/4 of the things that would be considered necessities.
Yes, I did forget bowls (plastic cups make great cereal bowls), pan to cook inside on the mini-stove if it rains and cooking on the fire is out (huge cast iron skillet will fit on a tiny stove) and flip flops. But, let’s look at the positives. I remembered tooth brushes, towels (which came in handy when dog #2 was sprayed by a skunk and needed a bath), change of underwear and a camera.
We’ve already got a list going of things we’ll need for the next trip. The first trip is out of the way, now we’re “experienced”.
While we were camping we made sure use the new environment as a classroom. While delicately stepping across stones in the Frio River, we pointed out the amazingly H.U.G.E. cypress trees. Unbelievable.
Haley also used the new bird book we bought for the trip to identify the “white water bird”. Not a tricky one but a lesson none-the-less. (whooping crane)
I think the biggest lessons the kids learned is that a) they don’t need toys, b) they don’t need snacks 12 times a day, c) you can “sleep” in a tiny pop-up with a skunk dog and winds that rock the camper incessantly.
We can’t wait to go on our next adventure! We are now Texas State Park pass owners and I tell ya, the brochure of state parks is overwhelming. I don’t think I have enough time to visit all of them!
Look how tiny Sterling is! My little munchkin just wanted to eat every stick he could get his hands on.
This picture of Paisley cracks me up! She’s such a toot. She LOVES the camera, except when she’s just not interested 
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Wow, what an amazing trip. My husband and I hope to purchase a trailer and start camping as well. Hope you write about each adventure!
You are my hero! Seriously. I’m soooo not willing until the whole family is on the same sleep pattern (I usually say everyone is out of diapers, but really my concern is the napping and sleeping gig). It sure is pretty though! Great photos!
Absolutely beautiful!!!!