Lessons From Camp, 2008

Bring a friend.

Our boy has loved this boy like a brother for as long as he can remember. This was our third year of having JT & his mama "along for the ride," and both the boys and the mamas wouldn't have had it any other way. Bringing a friend along means having someone to say, "Remember when..." to.

Bring books.

Books are perfect travel companions. They're quiet and compact. And no matter where you go, they can take you to yet another wondrous place. (Disclaimer: books shown here are being read at the Hilltop Inn in Niantic, CT, en route to camp. Reading in camp is also eminently possible.)

Share the work.

This year, more than any, the jobs we gave D to do before, during, and after our trip were real jobs. Turns out he is a terrific rope untangler, kayak stuffer, water fetcher, ice purchaser, tent cleaner, and even sandwich maker. That last one was his idea. Lucky moms, we are.

Define civilization on your own terms.

When we tell people that our idea of heaven is two weeks of tent camping in North Truro, MA, the reactions are interesting. Some people seem a little envious, while others shake their heads, saying, "I could never do that." But really, what could be more civilized than a morning bike ride to the local cafe? The way we see it, coffee + today's NYT = civilization. Birdsong and ocean breezes provided at no extra charge.

Turn the treats into traditions.

At home, we are a relatively low-sugar family, at least as far as breakfast goes. In camp, I take orders each morning before I head off to the village cafe. When I almost balked at buying elephant ears two days in a row, my partner wisely said, "It's not a treat. It's a tradition." His bliss proves the point. (We used to get special food while on vacation, too, now that I think about it. Thanks, Mom!)

Make something special
with your own two hands.

(We made ourselves all manner of bracelets
and felt quite fancy!)

Cherish the earth.

Make friends with the ocean.


Enjoy whatever weather comes your way.

It's hard to feel trapped in the tent when you're playing endless rounds of Underpants Uno! He was the champion, of course. And was even a tiny bit disappointed when the rain let up.

(Until he discovered the joys of deep puddle riding!)

And leave some sand
for the next camper.

(Thank you so much to Grammy & Grampy,
Aunt Chelle, Nancy Bea, Wendy Cook, Van,
and others for helping to bring a little special delivery joy
to our lives at camp this year.
Only 332 days until Camping 2009!)