For Memorial Day weekend this year, we went campin'.
I'll admit that camping with toddlers is...harrowing, at times...but it is worth it to build the memories and the relationships. The DeLongs have a regular spot at Penland Lake near Heppner, Oregon. It's a patch of church property that was formerly used as a scout camp, and is now more or less in a state of neglect but still totally great for family glamping. It's a great secluded spot close to the lake - no reservations required, no neighbors too close by.
We went fishing! Quinn was absolutely fearless and wanted to touch every single fish we caught, and release them back into the lake by herself (of course. She is three years old). We caught frogs with Aunt Maddie and Uncle Will and played with their new black lab puppy Oliver. Lisa took me mushrooming! Less psychedelic than it sounds, but don't write it off yet. We searched for Morelles (pictured above). I am told that some seasons they are plentiful, and some seasons they are more scarce. This was a 'more scarce' type of season, which made it strangely addicting. Basically you just walk through the forest very slowly, scouring the ground for the Morelles. They blend in really well so you have to pay close attention. Once you find one, it's hard to want to stop looking. And fried up in olive oil and garlic salt...oh. My. GOSH. I can truly say that I have never before put anything like that into my mouth and I will be dreaming about it until next year.
There was, of course, all the usual glamping goodness: dutch oven meals, "big breakfast" (breakfast, DeLong style - potatoes with Montreal steak seasoning, fried eggs and lots and LOTS of pepper bacon), campfires, and freezing to death in 20-something degree weather at night (oh wait - that was just Spens & I in the tent. The girls were in the heated trailer, thankfully! The second night was much warmer).
Thanks DeLongs!
