When I was growing up my parents took us tent camping every summer. Actually, I’ve seen a picture of my family in the snow when I was less than a year old, so we may have gone during winter too. Now that I have small children I am pretty amazed at the tenacity of my parents. The thought of going camping right now pretty much terrifies me.
Simply going hiking for us is a huge project. We purchased a baby backpack to make it easier, but when your 11-month-old is 29 pounds it can hurt after a while. My 2-year-old is not prone to stick to the trail either. For this summer, I think our outdoor excursions are limited to paved trails wide enough to fit a double stroller.
It’s a bit of a disappointment, especially when hiking and camping are among my favorite hobbies. There is something therapeutic for me to be in nature, away from noise, TV, and schedules. Unfortunately, it’s also away from running water and air-conditioning. I can rough it, but I can’t rough it with two squawking little ones I guess. I don’t know how the pioneer moms did it.
No matter what my limitations are, however, I can still find ways to be in nature and stay active. I have found places to go that work…for now. But someday I can’t wait to get out and rough it again.
You might be surprised at how your family could adapt to camping and love it, even when the kids are so little! It may seem like more work, but your kids will be entertained and happy and peaceful in a way that makes it not so difficult after all. You might try it to see! :)
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