We got more use out of our camper this past weekend. Thanksgiving Camping is a tradition that I grew up with, and am happy to carry on with our family. Growing up, we visited Pinery Park on Thanksgiving weekend--camping in whatever weather came our way, snow included. This weekend we were blessed with incredible weather, this time at MacGregor Point Provincial Park.
There are certain things that I appreciate about camping in the Fall that are different from summer camping. For instance, the cold nights make a fire much more cozy, and necessary, and make those sleeping bags useful! We discovered that the furnace in our trailer works very well! We also discovered that it runs on propane, after we disconnected the propane because our lantern tank ran out.
The shorter days mean the kids get in bed earlier too, closer to their real bedtimes. We have been quite relaxed with bedtime when we've been camping, until a few weeks ago. One evening, after supper, Caleb was exhausted after a series of very busy days and late bedtimes, and stated that his head was spinning. Knowing that he was just completely worn out, I got him up into bed. While laying in bed, he said to me: "Mom, this is how I feel when we're camping too." Hmm. Tim and I resolved to make sure our kids get in bed on time. This camping trip we had much happier, more patient and agreeable children, and thus an even better time as a family.
I value the time with just our family even more so now that I'm working full-time. Because I'm not with the kids full days anymore, the opportunity to explore and play together as a family are all the more important to me. I want to live in to each day even more than before; it's precious time together. We had a lot of that time together, experiencing sun-rises, sun-sets, geese preparing to fly south, feeding chickadees, 'smores by the fire, and bike hikes to explore places we've never been before. It was an adventurous vacation. And yes, we enjoyed having turkey dinner as well--ground turkey with stuffing, and turkey bacon in our hobo-pies cooked over the fire.
It was a weekend of Thankfulness. For health that we enjoy and appreciate. For time together that is ever more special. For a camping trailer that makes camping more simple. For extended family who texts with us as they gathered without us. For a new baby expected out in Victoria B.C. (Hurray, Laura and Rhodes!) For opportunities to teach our kids about Creation and how we can care for it. For celebrating Life.
Our campsite
The updated version of the old tire swing
Sitting in the front seat to "help" Dad paddle
Riding on the many bike trails in the park
Conquering fears of "slippery rocks!"
Feeding Chickadees--it's pretty cool
But it can be scary if you're 3.
Peace for your week.
2 comments:
Just wanted to leave a note saying that we still think of you and pray for you often. It's been and still is a long haul and you've not been forgotten.
~Elly
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