I started tent camping when my kids were little because it was inexpensive- $11 a night at Vermont State Parks. We could spend a week camping for what a hotel would cost for one night, back then. Eventually, my camping experience was upgraded to a pop-up and then a real camper with all the bells and whistles.
Five years ago, I went back to tent camping, only this time, with my grandson. It has been the greatest gift to be able to share this experience with him. Oh, it’s a lot of work, especially those years when my knees were worn out or a storm took down our canopy on the first night or the air mattress failed at 2am. Traditionally, there is some sort of calamity on our first night. But these are the memories that stick and the ones we laugh about in the years to follow. The first day or two will usually find me saying, “This is the last time. I am too old for this.” But then we settle in and have a great day – swimming, beachcombing for sea glass and building sandcastles. What usually follows is chowder & clam cakes, a visit to the lighthouse, ice cream, climbing the tower for sunset and a leisurely campfire. Finding the Big Dipper, listening to the crickets, lighting sparklers, making s’mores….. even the sound of gentle rain on the tent as we sleep. Yes. This. All of it. This is why I do it. And this is why I’ve already made next year’s camping reservation.❤️
Blog by Babs 
What wonderful memories you will both have from these special times. ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m not a big fan of camping out on the ground, although I did so a few times with my ex-husband. We did a lot of sailing, though, which is very similar to camping, in a way! Your memories sound idyllic!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Loved reading your blog Barb! Your time camping with your grandson are BLESSINGS you both will treasure for a LONG time! ❤ Wishing you another month or more sharing these moments outdoors ! ❤ Congratulations on surviving another camping week!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I was thinking about how I miss your blogs! What a treat! I’ve been hearing you say “this is the last year” for awhile now, but you always get up and do it again! You are an amazing woman to so many Barbara! What great memories you are making! Keep on camping !!! Love you! ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Another great blog! What special memories you are making with your grandson.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Well, I for one am grateful that you wrote another blog! They are always inspiring no matter what the topic. I read a LONG time ago when my kids were little that “a family who camps and sets up together, stays together.” How true that is! The joys and tribulations of camping! It is not always an easy task. But in the end the joys outweigh the work, and the blown away canopy, the worn out knees, the air deprived mattress and the “I am too old for this!” Great memories for years to come! Thanks for writing and putting things in perspective!
LikeLiked by 1 person