Embracing Camping {Living the Width}

Our children shape and mold us whether we are aware of it or not.  They have plenty to teach us if we take the time to pay attention.  Every once in awhile I wise up and listen.

On paper, camping just doesn't appeal to me.

First, there's the preparation.  Shopping.  Packing.  Both easier said than done.

There's the dirt.  Constant grime between toes and under small fingernails.

Then, there's the sleep deprivation.  I feel like I've fulfilled my quota in this department; having recently emerged from that dark tunnel of restless-pregnancy-sleep and frequently-interrupted-sleep that comes with (our) babies, I really have no desire to return.  Sleeping in a small confined area with children who toss, mumble and grind their teeth....um, do I have to?

And then there's the afterparty.  The unpacking.  The laundry.  Oh, the laundry.

So when my dear husband offered to take the kids on his own, I gladly agreed to skip the first night.

All week, the kids had been counting down the days til they could sleep in a tent, and as Daddy packed up the van, our two year old's voice could not have gotten any higher-pitched with excitement.  Cheeks flushed, eye aglow, they waved as they headed off for their adventure.

The next morning, as the forecast called for record highs, I psyched myself up to deal with the unpleasantries and headed out to Hoffmaster State Park, where the kids were already playing in this beautiful creek alongside our campsite:

Creating dams, catching frogs, using logs for balance beams, the kids were immersed in play.  No toys needed.  (Save a bucket or two.)

Then there was the beach:

Here the kids ran up and down the dunes, caught tadpoles, and dug in the sand to their hearts' content.

The weather was perfect.  The kids were dirty, but happy.  For once, we had no agenda, and we could spend time just being together.  They loved every minute. And my heart was full.  Sleep deprivation and all, I'm so glad I joined in this beautiful adventure.  Thanks, kids, for showing me how to live the width of life.

 

(and thanks to the deJongs for the great pics)