Summers are for the Great Outdoors, right? I swear I will get back to posting more arts and crafts soon, I’ve just been having too much fun outside to sit and knit. Anyways, this post is a little shoutout to all the family, friends, and counselors who have taken me camping and kept me alive.

When I was little, we used to go camping as a family. I don’t remember much, but I remember my sleeping bag had a print of lanterns on it, and I thought it was really cute. Most of my camping memories actually come from fellowship / youth group when I was in junior and senior high, as we would do a camping trip each summer. Our counselor would teach us how to do basic tasks, like cut wood, start a fire, and cook simple meals on the fire or portable range. I also remember sitting around the fire, playing games like Mafia and Big Two, and staying up for late night talks.

Since finishing school, my camping opportunities have been fewer, so it means a lot more when I do get to go out in nature with my friends. It’s a chance to reconnect and bond away from distractions, and just enjoy a slower pace for a day or two. Plus, when it comes to views, it’s hard to beat a sunrise over a lake.

I always forget how much prep work camping needs, and so I’m thankful for organized friends who make packing lists that includes reminders for everything from sleeping mats to extra ketchup packets for hot dogs. In hindsight, it’s really impressive that the adults in my life were willing to take us camping, and I definitely appreciate their hard work.

Nature is so beautiful, and camping is just one of many ways to enjoy it! Did you have chances to camp growing up? Did you love the simpler pace or did you count down the seconds until you could be back in your own bed? I know camping isn’t for everyone, but I feel lucky to have made such happy memories as a child so that now it’s full of nostalgia for me.

Until next time, happy crafting!