Well we are off....seems like only yesterday when I was taking down the remnants of forgotten Christmas lights left on trees outside and now it is the official first weekend of the 'summer season". I spent a good time this morning working and preparing and packing to go off to our summer place....a small, modest camp near Warsaw. It seemed like I was packing more than usual. Could be because I need heavy, warm things in my travel sack....not the usual shorts and sandles. Let's see....if it gets down to 40 again tonight....How many pairs of socks will I need? All this and I LIKE camping.
I do admit that camping now is not like it used to be. The kids and I would rough it with three tents...two people in each, and sleeping bags. I still would enjoy that type of camping but I am not sure that my back, bum leg and sciatica would appreciate it. So, we are more gentile now. We have our home away from home....of course complete with all the electronics, TV, furnace, hot water, microwave, CD/VCR player and lets not forget the "garden tub". I did say "NO" when it came time to pay for the Jacuzzi Tub. Seemed to be the height of decadence at the time and it would mean I would have to remove my fantastic skylight.... Now I am not so sure......hmmm?
So today I go off for the first of several family rendevous of the summer. Bag packed, extra socks, sweatshirts and long johns......not a swimsuit to be seen... and a car full of stuff that is good to eat as well as the much needed chocolate, marshmallows and graham crackers. I do intend on eating well and often this weekend. I will need the calories to combat the cold. The rest of the family will drift in over the next two days....a few today, a few more tomorrow....and finally....just when I have cleaned my last corner of the camper, put out all the camper stuff and planted the last annual flower they all will appear. Oh... let's not forget the cord of firewood I ordered that needs to be stacked.
I declare when all is said and done...I still love to camp in my own little corner of paradise....I just wish this year paradise was going to be a bit warmer. Oh and the next time Jacuzzi Tub is mentioned with its18 pulsating jets....Hit me on the head if I say "no thanks". It is the least you can do..... It wouldn't be camping without it.
Have a safe and wonderful Memorial Day Weekend.....and remember.....it is important to reflect on those that have sacrificed so that we can have what we have..... Give thanks to them all.
