This past weekend, my in-laws and our family went on our annual camping trip. It is a mini family reunion, and a way for all of us to get together. Between jobs, children, school, and one living in another state, it is impossible for us to get together on a regular basis. This is our one stop shop to talk, eat, and play. Everything was almost perfect this year.
I say this because, each year there is just one thing that is missing that would make it a perfect camping trip. Our first camping trip was in June. If you live in Texas, you know that this is not a good idea. Lets just say it was 150 degrees, and it was horrible. Plus, I could only take one day off of work. Camping trip #2 it rained. For this annual trip, there was a burn ban so no fires or cooking with charcoal. HELLO, camping with an electric stove is not roughing it people, not to mention that smores on a grill is sooooo not cool.
We made it work, and had a wonderful time.
My mother-in-law has 10 grandchildren between her three kids. They range in age from 3-13. They are all awesome!
This is a pic of all the grandchildren minus one.
She would not get in the picture with her cousins. I am going to have to find a pic and photoshop it in for my mother-in-law.
One thing I truly love about camping, is that you do not have to entertain the children. Our lots were on the lake and next to a park, so the kids could run free. Only a few scrapes and cuts, so thank goodness the nurse in the family had made a camping survival kit. I hang my dork flag high at our house.
We all had a great time. I wish we could add another day so we could hang out more. That would make it perfect.
The husband and I are already thinking of ways to make it more organized for us. Each year we buy something new. We plan to start doing more camping with the girls. I love being outdoors. There is nothing like sitting in a lawn chair with your cup of coffee, watching the waves crash against the shore. It is heaven.
These annual trips always remind me of all the fun I had camping with my parents and extended family when I was growing up. My parents have since traded in their camper for a rockin Harley. In fact, they are currently on their way to Louisiana to do a little gambling on a river boat. Now that sounds like fun!
I recommend taking time out of your busy schedule to spend time with your family. Even if it is just once a year like us. My girls are already excited about next year.
