Have you ever been camping?

My greatest, most peaceful and happy memories growing up come from when we were camping. My dad introduced us to camping gradually. We tried out different campgrounds,  slept on wood platforms and then he eventually took the plunge and bought a Starcraft pop-up camper.

Over the years, we visited various campgrounds in different states and ended up settling at Camp Calumet, a faith-centered community campground. We returned every year for weeks.

I remember walking back from the beach one day. My Newfoundland dog had settled under the camper and, as I looked at my site, I remember thinking how fortunate I was. Our site was perfect! We had a camper, a covered outdoor kitchen area, a covered picnic area and hammock. I settled on the hammock with a good book and my dog, Max, by my side. Life was pure bliss.

At night by the campfire or under the stars filled me with such peace and happiness. And the community activities brought a real charge to the experience.

We visited this place for weeks every year. At times I remember thinking I’d rather be at the beach all day than climb this mountain. But the joy it brought my dad introducing us to a variety of activities enriched my experience. We climbed Mount Washington, Mount Chocorua, visited the Kancamagus highway, and swam in the gorge to name a few.

There is nothing like immersing yourself in nature. To this day, when I need to take a mindful moment, I go back to these experiences in my mind. When I go out in nature and sit among all life, I feel connected to a greater source.

When I had a child of my own we continued the tradition of camping but not as extensive like I’d had as a child as we had other traditions started as well.

Most of our experiences camping were at campgrounds. Camping in our neighbor’s backyard with the neighborhood kids had its own fun and challenge.

I am grateful to my dad for so much. Camping was one of them.