tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770763416798021032024-02-08T01:49:18.937-08:00Family CampingAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-32423041949915324512014-07-21T08:46:00.000-07:002014-07-21T08:46:00.142-07:00Fire Pit, Build your own<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial; font-size: 14.399999618530273px; line-height: 20px;">Making a large fire pit for our family campground was essential, for cooking and relaxing around. We were fortunate enough to have plenty of strong men in the family who carried large rocks from the creek and surrounding woods to form a huge 5-foot wide by 10-foot fire pit that is perfect for us. It should be noted that fire pits should only be built on privately owned land.</span><br />
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Items needed</div>
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Large rocks (number depends on size of pit desired)</div>
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Naturally formed dip in the campsite 5 foot wide by 10 foot long</div>
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Wheelbarrow, truck and perhaps a pick axe or shovel</div>
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Find a natural depression in the middle of the campsite, which Mother Nature herself has created. This area needs to be free of trees, roots and small stones, which could become projectiles when heated. Make sure there is no brush or tree branches that over hang this area.</div>
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Locate the rocks to line the pit; you need several huge flat rocks to line the bottom of the fire pit. By large I mean rocks, which are at least a foot long, and flat, the creek is the perfect place to find these rocks. You may need the truck to transport these large rocks.</div>
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The sides of the pit are lined with smaller flat rocks, which are at least half a foot wide. These can be found in the creek as well but also around the camp site its self. Once all rocks are in place the fire pit is ready to use. There is no need to concrete these rocks together as that would take away from the natural look of the fire pit.</div>
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In this one photo, you can see how we can place a grate on the fire pit for cooking, but this is a great place to roast hot dogs or marshmallows. In another photo, you can see how we all gather around the fire pit at night in the campsite so that we can enjoy each other's company. The bonfire in the fire pit was so relaxing, and with all types of chairs and benches around it was the perfect close to many days on our family vacation.</div>
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What types of food can you create in a fire pit this size? How about camp fire home fries, in a large amount to feed a huge family or group. Simply grab tinfoil, a few five-pound bags of potatoes, chopped peppers, and onions. Tear of a piece of tin foil place a raw potato, peppers, onions, and seasonings and wrap it up in the tin foil, so that you have an odd shaped ball. Toss it in the fire pit near the fire, but not in it. Allow the potatoes to cook in the tinfoil packets until they can easily be poked with a fork.</div>
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What would a bonfire be without campfire smores? For a twist use chocolate grams crackers and skip, the chocolate candy bar.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-11411044083660810072014-07-14T08:44:00.000-07:002014-07-14T08:44:00.286-07:00Baked Beans Camfire<div class="acDialogBody clearfix" style="background-color: white; height: 400px; margin: 0px; max-height: none; max-width: 900px; min-width: 300px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: auto; padding: 0px; width: 700px;">
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Here is a great recipe for baked beans that is sure to please a crowd, and it can be cooked on a campfire. This large recipe will feed up to 62 people with leftovers for the next day.<div style="margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;">
One number 10 can pound of Grandma Brown's baked beans</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;">
1 pound bags each of frozen peppers onions</div>
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2 pounds of sausage</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;">
1 pound of Kraft shredded cheese</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;">
One large canning pan</div>
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One cinder block campfire enclosure with grates</div>
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I gathered my supplies before I left home the night before the big picnic placing the bags of peppers and onions in a cooler along with the bag of shredded cheese. The frozen peppers and onions were chopped to ease my work at the campsite, and frozen to help keep the cheese cold in the cooler with minimal ice.</div>
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My sister had made fresh sausage to have with the pancakes that morning at the campsite, so we used the left over sausage along with some sausage from the store. The sausage my sister cooked was fresh made sausage from a pig she had slaughtered a few weeks ago.</div>
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Once the fire in the pit was going good I placed the pan on the grates at least a foot above the flames, and added the cooked chopped sausage into the pan. I added in the peppers and onions and let them simmer for about half an hour before dumping in the huge can of beans and the entire package of shredded cheese.</div>
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I allowed this to cook for 4 hours over an open fire stirring every half hour. Wood was added as needed to keep it going so our baked beans would be done by the 2 pm lunch time.</div>
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All around the campsite food was being cooked; brother in law Willie was making brisket on his grill. While brother, Scott used the smoker to make Hawaiian chicken, as mom made chili dogs on her camp stove. Brother Trace made a wonderful pasta salad, which he brought up in the saddlebags of his Indian motorcycle, and Sister Diane made marinated chicken and brought it over when it was time to eat. The smell of all this food cooking made us, hungry and lunchtime could not come soon enough for any of us.</div>
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Of course, we had vegetables and desserts on the table and the food looked so inviting! The spread of food covered three tables placed end to end underneath a tarp. Now you know how too cook the baked beans for 62 people, go ahead, and make your own. Remember it was all cooked at the campsite over an open fire; it was easy to create and fed many people. After dinner, the pan of baked beans fit in a cooler of ice, and it was reheated the next morning for breakfast, along with plenty of fresh fruit.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-71675817897257307772014-07-07T08:26:00.001-07:002014-07-07T08:26:49.227-07:00Recycled Bathtub Cooler<div class="acDialogBody clearfix" style="background-color: white; height: 400px; margin: 0px; max-height: none; max-width: 900px; min-width: 300px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: auto; padding: 0px; width: 700px;">
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<span style="font-size: 14.399999618530273px;">Keeping soda, and other drinks cold when you are camping can be quite mystifying. You can fill multiple coolers and keep filling them with ice, which limits the amount of drinks you can keep cool or you can adopt the way that we do. Here is an exceptional idea that allows you to reuse a used fiberglass bathtub into a huge cooler, which is large enough to handle drinks for an entire extensive family while camping. A bathtub can hold many drinks, and it is something that we needed as an extended family of 62, we grow over the past summer.</span><div style="font-size: 14.399999618530273px; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;">
Obtain a used fiberglass bathtub, from a dwelling, which is being remodeled. This needs to be a full size tub, and it does not need to be perfect. I would stay away from tubs, which come from homes, which have been condemned, as you never know the health risks.</div>
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Take the tub home, and put it atop a table so that you can work upon it. Remove everything from the fiberglass bathtub, the drain, and the screws, which go with it. Use an electric or hand drill to put random holes in the bathtub, for water flow. You want water to circulate through the recycled bathtub naturally.</div>
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Make sure you put some holes high and low so if one is blocked by something in the water there are more areas for the water to flow into the tub. You will also need to drill a few holes on the end if there are not holes high and low. The water needs to go through the tub and come out on the other side so that it is not stagnating.</div>
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Load the bathtub in the truck, this is a job for the men of the family and, drive it to the campsite. Drive the truck as close to the water as you can get without going in it. Carry the bathtub to the creek and submerge it in the water. You want the water level at least partly up the bathtub and the water to flow inside, move if needed if the water does not flow inside the tub.</div>
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Place drinks into zip lock plastic bags and put them in the bathtub to get cold. The bag will keep your bottles and cans clean and allow for a quick pick up at the end of camping. With zip lock bags, you can keep condiments in this bathtub cooler and reserve your portable coolers for salads and food items.</div>
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This is a perfect camping fresh water cooler for when the extended family or a large group of people go camping together at the waterside.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-60831877297629374422012-08-23T06:14:00.000-07:002012-08-23T06:14:13.200-07:00Camping and a Wedding<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I miss camping with my family a whole bunch. I used to go
camping with my extended family quite often but after my dad passed no one felt
like going. This is understandable but I still miss it just the same. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This weekend as my
one sister gets married; we have the opportunity to once more camp out.
Considering I do not have a car and must rely on others to escort me places, I
may end up camping out. This will be fun without a doubt but I sure will miss
the comfort of sleeping in a camper where I am off the hard damp ground! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The wedding itself and reception afterwards will be fun.
This is a unique wedding, which all second weddings should be. Our family is unique
by any measure but this wedding is going to make us stand out. Yes, someone
will be videotaping the wedding procession, which will be the unique part.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have never been in a wedding so that alone will be
different to me and to be doing this ‘first’ with all my sisters is awesome. Our
dad will be watching from heaven as the ‘sisters’ give away our other sister to
her new husband. I know this will be a very special time for all of us. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-25586753923690312752012-05-07T14:19:00.000-07:002012-05-07T14:19:00.686-07:00Camping fun with preschoolers<br />
Camping is great family fun, and out in nature there are many
things you can do that do not cost you a penny. Free entertainment is
a great way to stick to your budget. Here are some fun ideas to try
when you have preschoolers and toddlers at camp.
<br />
<br />
On our second full day of camping Wednesday July 1 2009, I woke to
sunlight streaming through the windows of the camper and birds
chirping all around me. There was a mist rising from the trees that
simply was very breathtaking and relaxing.
<br />
<br />
There is nothing but trees and wildflowers when you open the door
to our camper and it was so nice to see that image when I chose to
get up and greet the day. Tons of berries are out there too, and the
earliest berries are starting to ripen.
<br />
<br />
My daughter accompanied my niece to a doctor's appointment so my
grandchildren joined us at the campsite for a few hours. They arrived
early at 8:30 eager to start their day.
<br />
<br />
I stoked the fire with hopes of removing some hot coals to get a
jump-start in the cinder block campfire stove to begin breakfast.
However, plans for bacon and eggs were forgotten when I spotted the
hot dogs. The little ones enjoy hot dogs and found it fascinating
that I was cooking their hot dogs this way. Both little ones sat on
the bench with eager anticipation.
<br />
<br />
There is absolutely nothing in the world that tastes better when
you are camping than a hot dog cooked over the open fire. Those
extended forks that you cook marshmallows on work excellent on hot
dogs too, and cooked my hot dogs to darkened perfection.
<br />
<br />
My parents arrived on their four wheelers and brought scrambled
eggs with cheese it was a nice delivery at the campsite. We had hot
dogs and eggs for breakfast, which the little kids loved.
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=177076341679802103" name="article_text_blocks7"></a>The little ones a preschooler
and a toddler loved hanging out at the campsite, checking out the
fire from a safe distance and stumping in mud puddles. When they get
antsy with that they played on the many toys available. We have a
central area for their playthings, such as bikes, slides, trucks, and
dolls it is playtime heaven for these little ones.
<br />
<br />
I walked my grandchildren on a little hike where we saw a family
of bunnies. We also picked fresh raspberries from the vine. Because
we are in a field it is safe to allow the little children to run and
play and my grandchildren had so much fun on that walk.
<br />
<br />
Allowing children to run and play in a field where they are safe
makes, them feel more independent. I was always close by so they were
safe, but they were free to run all over with no danger from being
hit by a car.
<br />
<br />
My granddaughter who is five enjoyed her first ever four-wheeler
ride with my mom. However, my grandson who is a toddler would not go
near a four-wheeler while it was running. Tip if you are going to put
a five year old on a four-wheeler you need a helmet, and the adult
driving needs to take it slow.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-50327976449574019982012-04-30T14:39:00.000-07:002012-05-01T22:55:51.066-07:00Buy a cheap camper<br />
Camping is a fun way to have a vacation and stay in your budget.
However, purchasing a camper is usually out of the budget for most
families in the current economy. I have a budget friendly way for you
to be able to afford that camper so your family can enjoy a camping
this year.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
Look around your local area for these you can locate them as you
drive to the grocery store or in the newspaper. Sometimes on bulletin
boards in grocery stores, laundry mats, and libraries, you can find
low cost campers.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
If you cannot locate anything locally within your budget try <a href="http://motors.shop.ebay.com/items/RVs-and-Campers__camper?_catref=1&_fcid=1&_fln=1&_sacat=50054&_sc=1&_sop=15&_stpos=18810&_trksid=p4506.c0.m282&gbr=1">eBay
camper and RV search</a>. You can find a motor home, pull behind, or
pop-up camper within your budget. However, before you buy something
expensive, ask the sellers for more images or travel to see the
purchase.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
Always check feedback and of course, any shipping charges before
making a bid. Who knows this maybe just what you are looking for.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
You may want to look on the <a href="http://www.craigslist.com/">www.craigslist.com</a>
site for good deals in your area or locations close to you. You can
usually see more images and a phone number so you can call and ask
questions.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
You could try a place where they sell campers and rvs' and ask about the trade in models. These are usually outdated models
but are usually in fine working order. Rich people simple change
their campers as faster than the rest of us.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
Sometimes with a used camper, there are minor things wrong with
it. Some of these things are cosmetic and easily fixed. If the
paneling is broken or scratched, you can easily replace that part or
wall paper it.
<br />
<a href="" name="article_text_blocks1"></a>If the refrigerator, electric
or stove do not work who cares. Take a cooler, and use flashlights or
those battery-operated lights at night. A broken stove is not a problem, as you should be cooking
over an open fire anyways.
<br />
<br />
People do time shares on vacation houses and condominiums all the
time, but it does get expensive. Have you ever thought of doing this?
Used campers can run 300-700 dollars, which make it out of reach for
some people.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
What happens if you split that cost with two or three families
this way no one is paying a huge price? You simply need to find
enough families who have a little money to spare and that you trust.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
Plan which family will have the camper on what weeks, this way
there are no disagreements when it comes time for your vacation.
Verbal agreements are fine for some groups, while others may need to
have things written down.
<br />
<br />
If all families agree to keep the camper, clean and follow the
vacation schedule and keep the camper in good repair than there
should be no problem with this way of saving.
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-85515846686431179642012-04-23T14:36:00.000-07:002012-05-01T22:55:50.713-07:00Camper or Tent?<br />
Which is better, a camper or a tent when one goes camping? That of
course depends on personal tastes, age and abilities. Me, I love
sleeping in a camper in comfort but I will sleep in a tent if I have
too.
<br />
<br />
<b>Comfort</b>
<br />
The comfort in a camper is noticeably better then compared to
sleeping in a tent. Even if you were sleeping in a tent on an air
mattress or a cot, the comfort cannot match that of a camper.
<br />
<br />
Most modern campers have thick comfortable mattresses, but even if
you have an old one you can still have added comfort simply by
remaking the mattresses. Couch cushions when placed under the
mattress will add comfort.
<br />
<br />
You can also add sheets to have a higher standard of comfort,
because as we all know the material used to cover traditional camper
mattresses needs to be durable, which means it is scratchy.
<br />
The ground the matter how many blankets you put under your
sleeping bag, or air mattress is never soft enough to get
comfortable.
<br />
<br />
<b>Warmth</b>
<br />
Even if your camper does not have electricity to run the heater,
you are still warmer in here than you would be in a tent. The
structure of the manufactured camper will block out some of the wind
and dampness allowing you to get a more comfortable restful sleep.
<br />
<br />
<b>Storage</b>
<br />
This storage options within a camp where are much better than a
tent. With so many storage compartments, it is easy to store
everything out of the way giving you more walking, sitting, and
relaxing space.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
<b>Security</b>
<br />
<a href="" name="article_text_blocks19"></a>Security in a camper is a
better than a tent, simply because you can toss everything into the
camper when you need to go away. As long as there is a lock on the
door the items inside remain safe and secure.
<br />
<br />
<b>Safety</b>
<br />
Your family is also safer at night sleeping inside from erratic
weather and the wild animals. Although I have never had a snake enter
any tent that I have been sleeping in, I have heard of it happening.
In a camper, it simply does not happen.
<br />
<br />
<b>Transport</b>
<br />
The tent is more portable if you simply have a car or truck
without a hitch. It is so easy to pitch a tent in many places and to
move it to change the scenery.
<br />
<br />
Whatever your personal preferences are I hope you remain safe on
your summer vacations. I am so happy we have a camper, as I am too
old to sleep on the ground comfortably these days. I still get to
enjoy nature at its finest around the bonfire. <br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-16825046432978779192012-04-16T14:33:00.000-07:002012-04-16T14:33:00.976-07:00Backyard Camping<br />
Backyard camping is not only for children! My friend Sharon was
mentioning that it has been awhile since she has been camping and she
misses it I am creating this article for her and others who think you
need to leave home to enjoy nature. Backyard camping makes tons of
sense if you stop and think about it.
<br />
<br />
If you live in the country, you may have the perfect spot to
pitch a tent already. If you have a level area among the trees, you
have the perfect place to pitch a tent. If you do not have a level
area than level out an area which is suitable.
<br />
<br />
Make sure you clean the brush so that it is not destroying your
tent. If you have an old rug or big piece of carpeting, you can lay
it on the ground as extra padding beneath you.
<br />
<br />
If it is your property, you never have to worry about paying park
fees, which are increasing each year.
<br />
There are many benefits to this type of camping. There are no gas
fees, and with the price of gasoline in recent summers, this is a
godsend to many.
<br />
<br />
Another benefit is that you can sleep outside when you feel the
desire. You need not worry about leaving valuables in your tent if it
is in your property.
<br />
<br />
If you have animals, they can enjoy camping on their own property
as well. There is no need to uproot dogs or cats that will minimize
their stress. They will certainly enjoy you being outside so much
with them during your vacation.
<br />
<br />
If you do not have a tent, you can curl up on an air mattress or
rough it with a sleeping bag and the ground. There is nothing like
sleeping under the stars to renew your spirit and be at one with
nature.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
<a href="" name="article_text_blocks33"></a>Screened in porches are also
excellent places to crash for the night so you can remain dry if it
decides to rain during the night. Sleeping on a porch or deck will
keep away the critters and slithering snakes. Snakes are the reason I
dislike sleeping on the open ground any longer.
<br />
<br />
Pitching a tent on your property means less packing for the trip,
electric and indoor bathrooms. You can shower at your convenience,
and not worry about leaving the campsite unattended.
<br />
<br />
Do not take the phone with you, that is what answering machines
are for. Leave technology inside and become one with nature and you
will have a restful mini vacation any time you need it.
<br />
<br />
Of course, if you have an emergency an added benefit for backyard
camping is you have the telephone near by if needed. However if you
play it safe, the chances of an emergency occurring is drastically
limited.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-37459035827060600892012-04-09T14:29:00.000-07:002012-04-09T14:29:00.844-07:00Colored flames in a campfire<br />
Colored flames in a campfire are a neat way to bring some
laughter. Make these with common household substances and a piece of
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duct_tape">duct tape</a>. You
can get a single packet of this material from Wal-Mart for about 5
bucks. I am not responsible for your actions if you decide to try any
of these at home.
<br />
<br />
Colored flames are also a great way to make people think you are
very smart or perhaps a little magical. Bring out the magic in you at
your next bon f ire or the next time you are sitting around the
campfire.
<br />
<br />
This would be funny to do if you live in the country and use a
burning barrel. Prepare your packet of colored flames and toss it in
the burning barrel to delight your neighbors.
<br />
<br />
If you want to scare the crap out of someone, make the packet toss
it in the garbage bag before they take it out.
<br />
<br />
First for each of the colored flames, recipes listed below you
need plain ordinary <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duct_tape">duct
tape</a>. You need to make sure you get the wider roll as it is
easier to work with. There are plenty of colors of duct tape so you
can get your favorite. Once your packet is created just toss it into
the fire and watch the fun begin.<br />
<br />
For light yellow or and light green colored flames you simply need
borax. Simply cut a one-inch piece of duct tape and lay it on a flat
surface. Next, add 1 teaspoonful of the borax. Fold the duct tape
into a little packet, making sure to seal each seam by pressing the
duct tape together.
<br />
<br />
For nice violet purple colored flames, purchase some saltpeter.
Saltpeter sometimes called <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Potassium_nitrate">potassium
nitrate</a>. Cut your duct tape as directed above. Add a teaspoon of
the saltpeter to it. Make your packet as you did before. <br />
<br />
<br />
Dark purple colored flames can be made with water softener salt at
Wal-Mart. Cut your <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duct_tape">duct
tape</a> as directed above. Add a teaspoon of the water softener to
it. Make your packet as you did before.
<br />
<br />
For nice white colored flames, purchase some Epsom Salt. Ask your
grandma for some Epsom Salt rather than purchasing a box as all you
will need is a teaspoon. Cut your duct tape as directed above. Add a
teaspoon of the Epsom Salt to it. Make your packet as you did before.
<br />
<br />
For bright blue colored flames, you simply need <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calcium_chloride">calcium
chloride</a>. Calcium chloride is damp rid and it takes moisture out
of a damp cellar. Cut your <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duct_tape">duct
tape</a> as directed above. Add a teaspoon of the damp rid to it.
Make your packet as you did before.
<br />
<br />
Once more, I am not responsible for your actions if you decide to
try any of these at home. <br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-26521559690089563352012-04-02T14:27:00.000-07:002012-04-02T14:27:00.890-07:00Camping Games for Rainy days<br />
A few Yahtzee games for rainy days at camp will not only help
everyone pass the time easier but it will also get in some hidden
match skills for children. Children need to keep up those math skills
in the summer, less they forget how to count. It happens, kids do
forget simple math things over the summer.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
Phase 10 dice game is played with lots of dice, and it is played
like Yahtzee sort of. Players make runs and sets of different
numbers, which makes it more like the classic game. It is played with
more dice, which makes it even more exciting.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
Flinch is a great card game that has been around for many years.
It was introduced back in 1903 as a card game, which could be played
solo, or with up to four people. Players try to get rid of stockpiles
that they are dealt by discarding cards in piles where the cards
ascend or descend.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
<a href="" name="article_text_blocks15"></a>This game was fun game in my
childhood when I would sit and play it with an aunt and my elderly
grandparents. I remember sitting on top of Mount Pisgah playing this
game with them during many rainy and sunny days.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
Bingo is a great game to play with kids of any age who can read
numbers. This is a game, which can be played with different ages, but
younger kids will become bored quickly with longer versions.
<br />
Grab a few decks of cards and <a href="http://www.pagat.com/">visit
this site</a> for tons of card game ideas you can play with your
family. This web site has many instructions, and some of the
variations have photo guides.
<br />
<br />
Resources for camping games<br />
<a href="http://www.freeworldgroup.com/games/yahtzee/index.html">http://www.freeworldgroup.com/games/yahtzee/index.html</a>
<a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/2578">http://www.boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/2578</a>
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phase_10">phase 10</a>
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.pagat.com/">http://www.pagat.com/</a> various
card games
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-54341662861867067822012-03-26T14:22:00.000-07:002012-03-26T14:22:00.182-07:00Quick Camping Lessons<br />
Camping in a way is forming a new civilization of it is done in
the true American way. I am speaking of pitching a tent and creating
a campfire. The lessons are endless almost with this type of camping.
<br />
<br />
If you pitch a tent in the middle of nowhere, you have to clear
the land. In clearing the land, you learn about tools, plants and
even some leveling. A smart camper learns quickly to put his or her
tent on moss or at least on a layer of carpet. The carpet keeps
moisture out. The carpet and moss protect against tears in the tent
from rocks or other things under the ground surface that may come
uncovered.
<br />
<br />
A smart camper also quickly learns the difference between harmless
plants and plants that can cause rashes and other harm. Never make a
campsite near poison oak or poison ivy. Take the time parents, learn
these harmful plants, and educate the children as well.
<br />
<br />
Parents also need to teach their children to take care of food and
to keep the campsite clean of any food scraps. This means bread,
chips, candy, and snacks need to be in plastic containers so that
there is no odor to call the animals.<br />
<br />
Coolers, dishes, and tabletops
should be washed often to keep pests from entering the camping area.
Parents will also need to make certain that small children have their
faces and hands washed often as they tend to get food all over them.
It would be a shame if a bear wandered into camp to eat the creamed
spinach that your infant dribbled down his sun suit. <br />
<br />
<br />
The campfire is also a great area for lessons to be learned.
Gathering wood should not be just one person's job; small children
can gather sticks or small stuff to use when an adult starts a fire.
Stick a box for the children to fill near a tree and allow the
children to fill it. Teach them why they need to gather the small
stuff, and explain the dangers of fire when starting a fire.
<br />
<br />
Explain why the fire needs to be contained in the fire pit; a forest fire is an awful thing to start. Take the time also
to explain what type of stick is needed to push the burning logs
around to slow down the fire or speed it up.
<br />
<br />
I hope that your children will never need to make a fire
themselves. What happens if you get hurt out in the middle of nowhere
and fall ill, you child may have to build a fire to signal help. It
is better to teach them this lesson so they can do it, if it is ever
needed. Teach them the ways of camping and they can carry these
lessons and adapt them as needed in their lives. <br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-46307068113059107462012-03-19T14:20:00.000-07:002012-03-19T14:20:00.227-07:00Rainy Day activities<br />
Camping games for rainy days are a Godsend if you are stuck in a
tent or camper while the rain pours down outside. If you do not plan
ahead and take some games for rainy days while camping, then you will
need to get creative.
<br />
<br />
Camping Games for Rainy days are the focus of this article, and
all of these games are geared towards older children and adults
alike. Games like Phase ten dice, Yahtzee, and Flinch have been
around for years and are part of my sister Carmon's arsenal, which
she shared with us on a rainy day of camping lately.
<br />
<br />
Camping is a great activity for families to enjoy together, and it
can be a great way to teach different things that will stick with a
child forever. There are many lessons to be learned while camping and
they all promote teamwork and working together.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-15901536748496896442012-03-12T21:35:00.000-07:002012-03-12T21:35:00.582-07:00Win a Book Contest!<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of my favorite things to do while I am camping is relax
like everyone else, but when I get very relaxed I tend to work. When I am in
the midst of Mother Nature, my muse floods me with ideas for stories. Of course,
when Mother Nature inspired my muse, anything is possible. Most of the stories
I have written for my own books or my stories in Circle 8 Writers Group have been
‘born’ at the family campgrounds. My
muse just enjoys the serenity of the wooded acres on my sister’s land. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I can often be seen lunging in the chair under the trees
with a pen in hand. I am a writer it is what I do, more importantly it is who I
am. I have never been one to leave my work at home since I began writing full
time back in 2007. Sometimes when my
muse is kept at bay, I read a good book. I believe there is nothing like getting
lost in the words between the cover of a notebook or a good novel. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SO anyways, <a href="http://www.angelsharums-storyboard.blogspot.com/">Angel Sharum</a> who founded the Circle 8 Writers Group
is currently running a contest through March 31. The winner gets an autographed
copy of one of our six books. Please visit <a href="http://www.angelsharums-storyboard.blogspot.com/">her blog</a> and get your entry in there
today, we also have a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Circle-8-Writers/163212760355932">Facebook Fan page</a>. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy St. Patrick's Day I hope you have your green on.!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-85509161164624499602012-03-05T14:14:00.000-08:002012-03-05T14:14:00.836-08:00Camping with Fresh Berries<br />
There are many uses for fresh raspberries, blueberries, and
blackberries. These are three berries, which are coming into season,
and if you are lucky, you can pick them right off the vine, if not,
visit your local fruit stand or grocery department. Grab your own
raspberries, blueberries and blackberries today.
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The freshest raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries can right
off the vine and this is a great family activity. If you live in one
of the small towns around America, you can find these berries growing
wild. There are also berry farms where you can pick your own for a
nominal fee.
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I love to eat fresh berries right off the vine, but when I go
camping, it is a whole other ball game. My favorite way to eat them
is straight from the vine but there are other ways. When the morning
dew is still fresh on the fruit is the best time to pick raspberries,
blueberries, and blackberries. You can sprinkle them on unsweetened
cereal to make it more healthy and it does not add as many calories
as sugar would.
<br />
At lunchtime when you go camping, you can toss any raspberries,
blueberries, or blackberries one to plain pudding or vanilla ice
cream for a special dessert. If you are eating a fruit salad, you can
toss these berries in the mix as well.
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
For a special dessert, purchase a plain pound or angel food cake.
Slice it but before serving this, top with raspberries, blueberries,
or blackberries and whipped cream or cool whip.
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
You can also add raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries to
batter for great campfire pancakes. These pancakes will keep the kids
and adults alike eating. Syrup is okay but these griddlecakes are
also good when spread with peanut butter or topped with butter only.
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=177076341679802103" name="article_text_blocks5"></a>If your family enjoys making
mountain pies the raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries make a
wonderful addition. Simply butter a slice of bread put it in the pig
iron sandwich maker, top with the berries and a buttered slice of
bread. Grill this as usual. These sweet pockets make a sweet
delicious and healthy treat for your family. You can add a bit of
sugar to the fruit if needed but it is not necessary.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
A very special treat if you have a Dutch oven at your campsite is
to make a cake with fresh raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries.
Simply prepare a white cake batter as usual and pour over the fresh
berries. Bake as usual; on a campfire, which is, build in a fire pit
that has grates above the flame to prevent burning. If you have never
baked a cake on a grill, here are some easy directions.<br />
<br />
Cover the pan with aluminum foil and place on unheated side of
grill grate. Allow this to bake for about 35 minutes, or until a
knife inserted in the center comes out clean. You will need to turn
the pan during the cooking process to prevent burning. Carefully
remove Dutch oven from campfire pit grill and allow cooling.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-57355427481817424402012-02-27T14:11:00.000-08:002012-02-27T14:11:00.224-08:00Campfire Potatoes<br />
Cooking baked potatoes in a campfire is a great way to have a hot
nutritious main dish to eat when you are camping. Many people think
it is hard to be cooking baked potatoes on a campfire and nothing
could be further from the truth.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
First, it is important to make sure you have a right type of
potato, as some work better than others do. Russet potatoes and salt
potatoes are two great ones to use camping.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
You will also want to make sure the potatoes are of uniform size
to ensure that they are all done around the same time. As we all know
the size of the potatoes varies greatly within the package, and if
this is the case for you, it is better to cut the potatoes in chunks
and cook them that way.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
First, I am going to tell you how to cook with chunks of potatoes
and then I will tell you how to do the full potatoes. Both of these
are the preparation stages to a great side dish or main meal at your
outdoor excursion.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
Get a bowl or pan, and cut the potatoes into roughly the same size
pieces. Go ahead and chop any items you would like to add to your
potatoes at this time. This can include chopped onions, bacon, or
even cloves of garlic. Tear off a sheet of tinfoil, place a handful
of your potatoes and your toppings on top of that tinfoil. The close
that tinfoil up you can make this a ball, or even form a small
package.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
If you choose to use whole tubers, make sure to pierce the potato
in a few different places to allow steam to escape. Get a sheet of
tinfoil that is large enough, to cover the baked potato. Put your
favorite toppings in there such as onions, bacon, garlic, or even
some butter and close the tinfoil.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
<a href="" name="article_text_blocks28"></a>Now with either preparation
method you have chosen it is time to begin cooking baked potatoes in
the campfire. You do not want to put these directly within the
flames, but you would put them at the edge of the fire by the hot
coals. Allow them to cook at least an hour for the chunks of
potatoes, or two or more hours for the whole potatoes.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
You can also cook these potatoes in packets on the grill but
putting them in the campfire makes them taste much better. You can be
cooking these while your meat is also being done, this way you have a
nice hot meal that is filling and satisfying.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
You want to cook these potatoes, more than you usually would
because while many of us are camping we use plastic silverware for
convenience. You do not want to break the fork by trying to cut the
potatoes, the cook them a few extra minutes before you enjoy your
meal.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-23690096060629433132012-02-20T14:08:00.000-08:002012-02-20T14:08:00.727-08:00Mountain Pies and Hobo Pies<br />
Mountain Pies, also called hobo pies among other things, are a
sure fire campfire hit. These mountain pies can be filled with many
ingredients to be a main dish, a quick snack or even a scrumptious
desert.<br />
<br />
These are simply 2 pieces of buttered bread (white or wheat) which
are filled and then grilled to perfection.<br />
Every thing tastes better
over a campfire so try these quick ideas on your next camping
vacation.
<br />
<br />
Mountain or hobo pies are small hot pockets of bread that are
cooked over a campfire. You can fill these with all sorts of good
foodstuff. These have many names, and are made all over the world in
different cultures, so you are sure to find your favorites.
<br />
<br />
There is various mountain pie makers which can be seen on Amazon
if you have no clue what I am speaking of. Do your family a favor and
purchase one of these for your next trip and your family will thank
you repeatedly.
<br />
<br />
<b>AppleJackMountain</b> <b>Pies</b>
<br />
Please butter your bread and add in fresh slices of apples, apple
pie filling, or even applesauce. Sprinkle on cinnamon, raisins and
cook as directed.
<br />
<br />
<b>Mixed berry hobo Pies</b>
<br />
Once you bread is prepared and placed into the cooker, top it with
your favorite berries which are in season. Sprinkle with sugar if you
must, and cook as directed.
<br />
<br />
<b>ChocolateRaspberryMountain</b> <b>Pies</b>
<br />
Prepare your bread. Add in half a regular size Hershey's chocolate
bar and a hand full of fresh picked raspberries. You could use white
chocolate or special dark in this version. If raspberries are not to
your liking try cherries, blueberries or your favorite type of berry.
<br />
<br />
<b>Pizza hobo pies</b>
<br />
<a href="" name="article_text_blocks13"></a>If you wish to create a Pizza
hobo version, prepare your bread and top with your favorite pizza
sauce. Add in the sausage, pepperoni, cheese, or other ingredients
and cook as directed. Do not over stuff your pie as the hot filling
will run out and you may get burnt.
<br />
<br />
<b>Meat and Cheese</b>
<br />
If you have chunks of chicken, pork, beef or sausage left from
summer, toss them on two pieces of bread. There is no better comfort
food than a grilled ham and cheese, but in this twist, you can use
chunks of ham or a variety of cheeses. Use you imagination and come
up with something creative for your family.
<br />
<br />
<b>Meat salad mountain pies</b>
<br />
If you have tuna, chicken or ham salad you can create these
sensations for your family. Take care not to over stuff the meat
salad, as you would not want to risk a family member or friend being
burnt.
<br />
Please all any of these mountain or hobo pies to cool down before
they are eaten. <br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-43239371879138982282012-02-13T14:02:00.000-08:002012-02-13T14:02:00.554-08:00Camping Tips<br />
Are you headed camping? Here are some tips for gathering wood, and
other ideas for keeping entertained during a camping trip. Camping
promotes teamwork and family togetherness and I highly recommend it.
<br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>F</b>ix the fire before you go to sleep for the night with
big logs which will slow burn during the night so there are plenty of
coals in the morning.
<br />
<br />
<b></b>Place all games in a plastic bag with pens so that you
have pens to keep score.
<br />
<br />
A tarp comes in vary handy in a campsite so purchase
one for an awing, to cover excess belongings or even hang over tents,
which may leak.
<br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>U</b>se a tarp to cover wood, this prevents it from getting
wet, yet it is easily lifted when wood is needed.<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
<a href="" name="article_text_blocks10"></a>Camping is a wonderful way to
relax over the summer, and it is one of the cheapest vacations
around. You can camp at a public campground, private campground or
even your own backyard.<br />
<b><br /></b><br />
Battery operated lights from the
dollar store are a necessity in a camper or even a tent.
<br />
<br />
Grilled hotdogs were the name of the game and boy were they great.
Grab some extender marshmallow poles from your favorite sporting
goods or department store. They are great not only for grilling
hotdogs over an open fire, but also for grilling marshmallows for
your gram crackers and chocolate confections.
<br />
<br />
Extended grilling sticks make cooking hotdogs and
marshmallows over a campfire safer.
<br />
<br />
Purchase a used camper. If you can afford one, for a few hundred
dollars and it is in good shape, purchase it quickly to sleep in.
Make any repairs before you head camping this way you are ready to
enjoy camping when you head out. <br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-9459133706610118232012-02-06T13:59:00.000-08:002012-02-06T13:59:00.825-08:00Opening a Camper for the Season<br />
How does one open the camper for the first glorious days of
summer? Ray and I bought a camper last year at the end of the season,
so this year will be our first real vacation in there. This list
includes non-food items that you need to stock your camper with when
you open it for the season.
<br />
<br />
Before we move in though we need to clean it up, and stock it
before hand with some items. This makes other vacations less
stressful. After the first time we visit, each other vacation will be
less work.
<br />
<br />
<b>Dishes</b>
<br />
You can go out and buy special dishes for camping vacations.
However, I already have camping dishes from last year so I will just
be packing them up so that we can take them to the camper and leave
them for the summer.
<br />
<br />
I will need to buy more paper plates to fit in the wicker holders,
but we have the cups and plastic covered dishes that I will just
remove from the cupboard. I received new silverware over the
wintertime so my old silverware can be taken up to the camp, and this
way I do not have to use the dreaded plastic versions.
<br />
<br />
Rummage sales are a great place to get assorted dishes along with
pots and pans for your vacation. I do not recommend cooking on a open
fire with your good pans because the flames from the fire will turn your pots black quite easily.
<br />
<br />
Pick up a few cast-iron frying pans if you can get them and a
couple of saucepans for side dishes. Leave these pans right at the
campsite. This way they are always there for you and you do not have
to cart them back and forth.
<br />
<br />
<b>Blankets</b>
<br />
Every family that I know of has extra blankets within the
household. If you have faded blankets that you would rather not use
on your bed, take to the campsite. Store them in your camper, because
on chilly summer nights these faded blankets will come in extremely
handy.
<br />
<br />
You can also use these faded blankets, under your sleeping bag to
provide actually comfort and warmth. These will also protect you from
the dampness that comes up from the ground, if you or your children
prefer to sleep out on the ground rather than the camper.
<br />
<br />
<a href="" name="content_article"></a>You can store these blankets in
large containers that you keep in the camper or within the many
storage places within the camper. It is always a good idea to stick a
sheet of fabric softener in with the blankets before you store them
for a day of any length of time to keep that freshness.
<br />
<br />
<b>Miscellaneous items</b>
<br />
Miscellaneous items to keep in your camper throughout the campaign
season include fresh batteries of various sizes. This way you are
covered all the time.
<br />
<br />
You will also want to include a first aid kit. You can buy one of
the prepackaged ones, or put one together yourself. Make sure you
include pain relievers, bandages, and some antibiotic ointment for
the cuts and scrapes which always tend to happen.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-88450252408999891162012-01-30T13:55:00.000-08:002012-01-30T13:55:00.117-08:00Camping Year Long Items<br />
If you enjoying camping, you know there some things that you can
leave there all season long! That means less to haul each time you
need to get away. Here is a brief list of items you can leave in a
camper all season.
<br />
<br />
<b>Games and activities</b>
<br />
Do not forget games and activities to keep your family entertained
in the event of rainy days while you were camping. Good ideas to
include are a deck of cards, a card game, dice, writing implements,
and a notebook or two.
<br />
<br />
If you are camping with children, include puzzles, coloring books,
crayons, and other activities to keep them happy and they are stuck
inside.
<br />
<br />
You can add balls, jacks and other playthings kids will enjoy in
your home away from home. Camping is a vacation for everyone in the
family, so include activities for all age groups.
<br />
<br />
<b>Clothing</b>
<br />
Some clothing is permissible to leave in the camper after you open
up for the summer. Make sure you have a clean outfit for each member
of the family for both high and chilly temperatures. Be sure to
include warm socks that your family can use any time in the camper
for those chilly mornings or nights. Extra shoes always come in
handy.
<br />
<br />
It is a great idea to keep a light jacket or sweater in there as
well for those cold damp rainy nights.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
<b>Food</b>
<br />
Canned goods will be fine when you need to store them in the
camper. When you are opening your camper for the season make, sure
you stock it with canned goods that your family can enjoy. Make sure
you have a can opener as well to ensure that you can open the cans.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
Any fresh fruits, vegetables, along with some snack items will
have to be removed each time you leave the camper for a few days.
However, things like marshmallows and bags of snacks if they are
sealed can sit in airtight containers to maintain the freshness.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
This way when you return to camp when you have a few days you
really do not have to bring very much food as the camper is already
stocked.
<br />
<br />
<b>Pest</b> <b>control</b>
<br />
Keep a bottle or two of OFF insect repellent spray around. I like
the spray because one can spray it on the screens and this will
prevent bugs from entering the camper that way. You could also spray
it on curtains.
<br />
<br /><br />
Wear the insect repellent bracelets on your body, but you can also
stretch these around table legs, hang it on garbage cans or other
places to keep bugs away. Wipe all surfaces clean after food prep or
mealtime and that will help immensely.<br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>MISC.</b>
<br />
Waterproof matches are important do not forget them, and keep them
stored in the camper. <br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-5522972833260620582012-01-23T13:52:00.000-08:002012-01-23T13:52:00.120-08:00Cheap Summer Vacations<br />
Cheap summer vacations can be relaxing or hectic, me I prefer the
relaxing type. Have you planned your yet? If not why not? Do not give
me the bull of money to tight, high gas prices etc. We all need to
have cheap summer vacations, which help us to relax.
<br />
<br />
So how can you plan for cheap summer vacations this year? Simple
grab a tent and pitch it in the great outdoors. Of course, a camper
if you have it is much better, but pitching a tent is good too.
<br />
<br />
I will take a few cheap summer vacations this year. I am a lucky
woman. Of course, these are all cheap and kind of close to home, but
they will provide me with the much-needed relaxation. The first break
in my routine begins this Saturday when I head out of town to begin a
three-week stay in the camper.
<br />
<br />
Camping is one of those cheaper vacations if you have a private
campground that will not cost you money. Ours is free to any family
member, and this year cousin Dan and his wife Cindy had better join
us at some point. Bring a tent and pitch it!
<br />
<br />
There is nothing as relaxing as being in the great outdoors, where
you can sit and relax by a huge bonfire by night. The lighting bugs
are plentiful and so are the chirps from the crickets. Oh what a
wonderfully cheap summer vacation it is. The tiki torches light our
way to the campers and tents and keep the wild animals from the camp
when we sleep.
<br />
<br />
When morning rolls around and the sun peaks over the mountain camp
begins to stir to the sound of the birds. Gather the firewood for the
day and how about a nice game of redneck horseshoes. There is a creek
to cool off in for the little ones, but the shade of the private
campground provides comfort to all.
<br />
<br />
Even though this is one of those cheap summer vacations, I still
have to work. I will be taking my computer up and leaving it at a
home within a mile of the campsite. This way I can still work and pay
for the fun as it comes! <br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-26152674909336343392012-01-16T13:50:00.000-08:002012-01-16T13:50:00.271-08:00Cheap Vacations<br />
If you do decide to camp by the water, the best time to do so is
over the fourth of July holiday as the fireworks on the water re
awesome. When I was a child, I spend many summers camping with my
parents and assorted friends down at horn brook. We pretty much lived
there, dad commuted back and forth to work while mom and us children
remained at the park.
<br />
<br />Now days with inflation and the cost of everything going up my
family has gone back to the traditional summer vacations. With
soaring gas prices, and prices of amusement park entry fees camping
is the smart answer to the tight budgets we all live on.<br />
<br />
If you have a family member who has plenty of unused land in the
country this could very well be the perfect spot for a private
campground. My sister has 80+ acres in the country so we have
converted a few acres into a private campground. We are close to
home, so gas prices are not really an issue.
<br />
<br />
We simply used my brother in law's backhoe to clear out campsites
in among the trees and to make the ground move even in some areas.
Now we have a nice secluded campground in nature, with plenty of
trails to walk. We simply pack up and go when we have a few days. <br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-49750417035390648272012-01-09T14:05:00.000-08:002012-01-09T14:05:56.438-08:00Saving Money while camping<br />
Saving money for camping is a necessity, especially with many
families who are battling in these tough economic times. How can you
save money when camping and still have fun? Trust me there are plenty
of ways to stay within your budget while camping.
<br />
<br />
<b>Save money on lighting</b><br />
Those tiki torches are nice and do provide a measure of security
for a large campsite. In our privately owned campsite we have several
of these every ten feet or so around camp to light the pathways to
the individual campsites. There are twenty of these and when they are
filled every night trust me it gets expensive to keep them all going
with the expensive tiki torch oil, which went from 5 dollars a gallon
to a little over 10 bucks for the same amount this year.
<br />
<br />
We began filling these tiki torches with kerosene as it is cheaper
and it burns slower then the commercially prepared and expensive tiki
juice. We keep these torches burning through out the night so this is
a great way to save money.
<br />
<br />
Purchase candles in windproof housing these throw off lots of
light in a camper or even a camp table. To get even lighter from
these simply place the candle housing in a large stainless steel bowl
or place it on a mirror.
<br />
<br />
<b>Save money on ice</b>
<br />
You can save money on those expensive bags of ice to keep meats,
and dairy products at safe temperatures. Simply by recycling plastic
covered dishes or even 2-liter bottles you can come up with a cheaper
alternative. Just remember to only fill any container half full of
water before freezing as liquids do expand as they freeze.
<br />
<br />
<a href="" name="article_text_blocks3"></a>Ice will last longer in a
cooler if the cooler is kept in the shade. If no shade is available
or limited, toss a towel or something over it to make it a bit
darker. Stainless steel will keep all products cooler so if you can
purchase a stainless steel cooler I encourage you to do so.
<br />
<br />
Stainless steel coolers are hard come by. However, watch your
local convenience stores for bargains. My boyfriend got a tall
stainless steel cooler for drinks at a very good price, and it works
wonderfully for hot or cold products.
<br />
<br />
<b>Save money on food purchases</b>
<br />
Purchase large bags of meat including hotdogs and at home store
them in meal size packages. Freeze them so that they go into the
cooler frozen and this will help to minimize ice purchases.
<br />
<br />
Grab a jar of peanut butter to help at those times when a quick
sandwich it needed and it is a healthy alternative to hotdogs.
<br />
<br />
Store snacked in individual serving sizes to save money when
camping. When stored in these individual sizes it prevents waste from
stale snacks and of course overeating.
<br />
<br />
Saving money on camping begins at home. All the change we get
during the fall, winter, and spring seasons goes into the camping
funds. Roll it up and cash it up for those summer fun expenses. <br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-177076341679802103.post-59540072531230803952012-01-09T13:50:00.001-08:002012-01-09T13:50:14.607-08:00Camping with the extended family<br />
Camping with the extended family is one of the best summer
vacation ideas I can think of to have fun and bond with extended
family members. This is something that our family has done since I
was a child, and each year memories are added to enrich our lives.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
When I was a child, I could not wait for school to let out for the
summer. I knew we would leave for Mount Pisgah within a few days and
I was just so excited. Our family would all gather on top of the
mountain and enjoy the summer days as a whole family.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
Camping on the mountaintop is always one of the best summer
vacation ideas you can do. Think of all the hiking you can do the
wildlife you will see and the peacefulness of nature almost unbroken.
<br />
All you need is a tent, coolers for your food, blankets, and other
personal items. You can take a puzzle book or board games for when it
is raining but get out there and enjoy nature on your camping trip.
<br />
This is perfect for adults or families with older children and it
is relatively cheap. The memories you will create are priceless and
it good for the whole family to be out in nature.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
Camping with extended family by the lake or other body of water is
also nice. This one is perfect for families with children of all ages
as long as the children are supervised. Please also take the time and
educate your children about water safety before allowing them to run
loose.
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09355925164205282214noreply@blogger.com0