Camping {Day 3 & tips}

Saturday night we all slept like a rock and woke up refreshed on Sunday.  We started the day by packing up our gear.

Sawyer eating breakfast

Nora playing in her pack'n'play while we packed up the van

 Then we had an outdoor church service complete with songs and actions :)  We learned some of the songs that the children's ministry uses.  The songs and message were a great way to end our time of fellowship.

Then we ate a quick lunch and headed home.  We had a great weekend roughing it.  I told Kyle on the way home that I could do that once a year :)  It was a lot of work to pack and unpack, but it was so much fun hanging out with our friends in such a relaxed environment.  No distractions just plenty of time to focus on friends and family.  It was such a blessing!

I am no expert on camping, but for those of you out there like me who are afraid to take the leap here are some things I learned through experience or the advice of others:

• Bring a variety of clothes for layering.  You never know what the weather might be like.
• Simple is easier.  If camping intimidates you like it did me then don't bother with the camping grill, pots and pans, elaborate meals, etc.  Just pack for sandwiches and bring paper plates.
• Bring riding toys for the kids.  We didn't do this but next time we will as all the older kids had a blast riding around on their bikes and scooters.
• Pack a small broom and dustpan
• Use a big plastic tote for your food and keep all food in your vehicle.  A couple of our friends found out just how smart raccoons are.
• If your children are having a difficult time sleeping drive them around in the car until they drift off and then transfer them to their camping beds.
• If you have small children you want to keep contained bring an extra small tent as a play area for their toys.
• Bring a doormat, rug, or towel and use it to wipe off feet before entering the tent
• Bring a rope for a clothesline.  You can hang wet rags, clothes, etc.