Days 326 & 327 Camping

It's been a really, really wet spring here in Montana. In fact, it's been so wet that the rivers and streams have been swollen or flooded.

But now, in July, the waters have receded, and we will make our maiden voyage to a nearby campsite at Park Lake.

We will take our family-sized Coleman tent, as well as our 1960s pull-along trailer. The photo to the left is a similar photo of our own camper. Aluminum siding, small box of a camper. But it contains a propane stove and oven, a sink, as well as a refrigerator/freezer area. As well, it has a table and seating area that convert into a queen-sized bed. There's a loft area that will store our camping gear...or hold one child for sleeping quarters.

The mosquitos are awful this year due to all of the rain, so we'll also take a gallon of all-natural mosquito repellent. My middle daughter is allergic to Deet, the chemical found in most sprays, so we pay the extra price and get all-natural. It works alright, so long as you keep reapplying.

My husband is anxious to set out for a weekend away from all of the chores and busyness of life in town. He is looking forward to kayaking in the large, natural, freezing cold lake at the top of the mountain and next to the campsites. He is looking forward to relaxing in the lounge chairs and sitting next to a fire. He is looking forward to sleeping in the fresh Montana mountains and waking to the sound of birds and not cars.

I, however, am only seeing the extensive packing and shopping that needs to be done before we go, as well as the endless washing and drying and cleaning of our camping supplies/equipment when we return home. Ah.....to be a guy! So clueless as to all of the intricacies of such a family-fun event! As usual, I will set about my tasks tonight of making a list of necessary items, and then begin packing. I will set out to the local grocery store and fill a cart full of items that will please the family, like marshmallows for campfire and all-natural hot dogs for dinner. (If hot dogs can actually BE all-natural?)

I will gather all of the bedding, the towels and washcloths, the clothing for the children, the medical supplies - just in case, the food, the games/books for the children, and the pets and their food, pack everyone up into our SUV and head off for the hills.

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Lord, I pray that You might give us a peaceful, enjoyable time in the beautiful mountains of Montana. May everyone stay safe, and may we all enjoy one another's company. May we bond and make lasting memories. Amen.

Ecclesiastes 3:11: "He hath made all things beautiful."

"For the beauty of the earth, for the glory of the skies,

For the love which from our birth over and around us lies;

Lord of all to Thee we raise, this our hymn of grateful praise."