The Joys of Camping

Every year, Devon and I venture out on a camping trip.  We try to make them eventful, restful and memorable.  This year was no exception.  First, we find a mascot.  Yea, sounds strange, but it helps to make them memorable..  One year there was a sign that was a little scary.  It is near the Tionesta River in Pennsylvania.  We had decided that day to venture farther out than just the deep woods and cliffs around Minister Creek.

Seems Devon had way to much fun and went swimming in a mud hole.  It was very cool outside, but we washed him down and then he proceeded to dance around the campfire to try and dry off and warm.  It was a memorable site and I'm sure his boys remember it fondly.

Another time, we spotted a Red-headed Woodpecker.  Biggest thing I ever did see.  Unfortunately, like the fish that got away, I did not get a picture, cuz it scared me as much as I scared it.  Till this very day, when we camp at Findley State Park, we are ever watchful for those big Woodpeckers.

One time, we dug up a princess.  Yes, she was buried deep in the ground, but Devon is a hawk for things that don't belong.  Sure nuff, he dug her out, cleaned her up and she become our mascot.  She continues to have a place in our lives, sitting on the top of Devon's computer.

Wow, she sure did clean up good, don't you think.  Devon has a better image of her here then she actually looks.  But, is that not true of most princesses!!

We do take her still on trips and give her a place of honor when she comes with us.

Then there was the shoes Devon designed just for me.  And I wore them, but had a bit of a problem traveling in them!!  I will be glad to share them with anyone who would like to try them out!  Unlike the princess though, we do not take them with us!  We simply get a new pair when we buy firewood at the State Park.

This year was no exception.  We have great memories of not only spending a great time together but also of our bikes.  Devon was gracious enough to get me a new bike for my birthday.  Now, it has been a few years since I road one, but "one never forgets". Actually, although Devon warned me of the suspension on the new bikes, it did not dawn on me how different it really could be. 

Ahhhh, you guessed it!  The first time I go on, I went directly to the ground!  I have not had skinned knees and elbows in at least 40 years.  But, as any adventure, we did get back up on them and I am gradually getting used to it again.

My hopes are that my children children will get outdoors as much as we enjoyed it and have as much memories.

Recently, I saw some camping pictures with our grandchildren.  The very thought that it is in their blood and they are enjoying it as much as we still do crossed my mind. 

Now I do realize some people just hate sleeping under the stars and seeing a bear or some bugs, but all God's creatures big and small are important.  Just learn about them and enjoy them.  We even got an education on bats this year.  I now have a healthy respect for them.

Hurry out and camp, summer is almost over.