Saturday, September 4, 2010

Operating Sunrise to Sunset

I have so much respect for the many friends of mine that camp with wee ones but I haven't felt quite up to the tent experience with our two rascals. But, I was longing for the woods. I grew up in Northern Minnesota and camping and hiking is like breathing up there. So, I was thrilled to discover that Pennsylvania has a dozen or so state parks with cabins for rent. We just returned from a short week in the wild woods of PA...ours was Cabin 6.
I love the family rhythm that is found in tranquil places when all you have is each other. Nothing distracts you from just settling in and paying close attention. I always feel a small shift occurs after any family vacation...you have been through something new together and return home with a sense of appreciation for your place and your fellow travellers. But, being outdoors all day with no computer or TV or phone (!) brought us so much closer that returning home brought with it a feeling of loss. Suddenly, dishes are mounting and clothes must be laundered, rules have to be imposed about where dirt can and can't be. We can't decide on a whim to take dip in the swimming hole or just start walking and end up on a hike inspecting mushrooms or looking for elves. It feels so complicated and busy. I'm back to trying to get too many things done in the little bit of time I can find for myself. The baby isn't sleeping well, maybe he isn't getting enough fresh air?. I'm fighting a really strong instinct to simply pack up and drive back. Invite everyone I know, get another campfire started, and read books while we wait for sunset at Cabin 6.

3 comments:

mary frances said...

this is such a beautiful post, M. I'm not sure what to do about that feeling, which I am well familiar with--but I think it's good to have it, so that we can re-evaluate our priorities even in the midst of the daily grind. It seems like you've been doing that this year, with your shift to natural cleaning (but still cleaning--oy!), etc. I've been finding photography is part of that process for me--of marking the time we are together as special and worthwhile. hope you have a great labor day weekend and that you DO get back to the cabin before long!

Julie said...

Well said, Meliss--beautiful thoughts.

Little C and Little J said...

Thanks so much ladies. Feeling a bit better after a few days back. But, you should both know you are on the invite list for next year...or sooner.