#4 A break from work and city life

We had no planned activity during the Labor Day weekend of 2021. Luckily, we had a few family friends who invited us to join them for out-of-state camping to celebrate a birthday. We already tried camping several times with these families and other family friends before, and we enjoyed it a lot. Therefore, it was not a hard decision to join them, plus we thought it's another opportunity to recharge from work and city life. During our three-day encampment, we experienced different things for the first time.

Rustic cabin 82

We rented a rustic cabin. Previously, we always pitched our tent. If you have been into camping, you know how time-consuming to set up and dismantle a tent. As a result, my wife and I chose to pay for a cabin than spending our time and efforts setting up. Our cottage has a queen bed, bunk bed, and a sofa bed with mattresses to accommodate six persons. We brought our beddings and pillows. There were only three of us, so we had plenty of space. It also has a microwave, mini-refrigerator, air conditioning unit, and a two-person dining table. We loved the swing on the porch!

Last dinner Korean-style

We were also treated to all-day meals for free on Saturday! Our birthday celebrant, who had a catering business, indulged us with sumptuous breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In previous camping, we usually take turns with meals or bring potlucks to share. On Sunday, during our last night, another family also prepared a lavish dinner Korean-style! Food and snacks were abundant during the camping. We thought we gained weight after the camping. It was funny because one of the campers (not in our group) quipped, "So, you're cooking again." I replied with a smile, "Yes, we love cooking," then I moved on.

Movie night Moana

Since there were kids in our group, we went to the playground for the movie night. The experience was fun for the kids but also for us adults. Watching a movie was a different experience because we had it in a dark and quiet open space with crickets chirping and nocturnal birds cawing, hooting, and cackling. During the day, we also participated in the tie-dying of shirts activity and swimming at the water park.

Canoeing

Finally, one of the best experiences my wife and I had in this camping was the opportunity to be together canoeing. In the past, we canoed in groups and with our growing kids. But, for the first time, it was just the two of us in the canoe. At first, we forgot how to maneuver the boat, but after a few minutes, we mastered how to move forward, backward, make a turn, accelerate, decelerate and make a halt. The sounds of the waves and the splashing of the water as we paddle were relaxing. My wife would often close her eyes to appreciate the waves and the sounds of birds and people from a distance. The feeling was tranquil, being us in the middle of the open water as the waves swayed us back and forth. We will try canoeing again the next time.

Hammock in the woods

What I love about camping is the serenity it provides, allowing us to be closer to nature. Camping teaches us to appreciate the trees, lakes, and animals, the beauty of the night sky, and the mere silence of the surroundings due to the absence of work and city life. Camping also affords my wife and me the quality time for each other and the opportunities to reconnect with friends, both old and new alike.

 

Random tips if you would like to try camping:

Mother and son bonding

• Make reservations in advance especially during long holiday weekends.

• Try different accommodations - tent, cabin, or rent a recreational vehicle.

• Wear your shoes most of the time to protect your feet from minor injuries.

• Check the camp calendar and try as many activities as you can.

• If you love to cook, bring small electric appliances.

• Secure your food at night from unwanted animals.

• Have fun by taking advantage of the park's different amenities -  mini-golf course, waterpark, boating, playgrounds, events, and programs.