“The mountains are calling and I must go.”
John Muir
September 20 - We have “down sized” our camping equipment since selling our trailer in July. It’s so different experiencing the out-of-doors as a twosome now. No need for the giant three burner camp stove or dutch ovens made to feed an army. Gave away five sleeping bags and kept just two for ourselves. We are now tent dwellers and everything we need fits in our little Civic (barely). Can’t do without the hammocks, or double-high air bed, or five gallon water container with spigot, you know.
Packed up yesterday morning and made the journey (of 15 minutes) to the mountains and Tanners Flat. It is amazing to me how we can be SO close to home and yet so far away. Beautiful spot #16 right by the rushing water. I can hear my mother exclaim, “Smell the pine trees!” The aspens are just beginning to display their golden Autumn colors. One whole day with nothing pressing to do.
We chose to read The Giver by Lois Lowry in REAL touchable, page-turnable book form. We took turns reading aloud, chapter after chapter until we finished. Because of this compelling story, I find myself especially grateful for color and variety, for contrast, experience, emotion...
...and COLD -- which helps me appreciate warmth and sunshine. Yes, it got downright chilly last night. I forgot that tents don’t have heaters like trailers do. It was a challenge to keep my nose warm and still be able to breath!
Loved every minute.
Camping, even if it’s just for one night, rejuvenates the senses and renews the soul.
