So What If It's Cold?

We've been camping at Defeated Creek. We made the reservations six months ago to get a choice spot on the lake. Yeah, weather after the first few days was predicted to be cold, with rain and wind and snow flurries. So what? We went anyway.  

We packed hoodies, thermals, and quilts. We had firewood and a comfortable, well heated fifth wheel camper. We had plenty to do inside: TV, movies, internet access, library books, hobby gear.

One day we drove the scenic route up Highway 70 to Cookeville for lunch, some shopping and the required stop at Ralph's Donuts. We rode our bikes, hiked around the campground, took photos, sat by the fire, and even fished a little bit when it wasn't raining. 

I started and finished two new crochet bags. We made homemade soup and chili. We saw seventeen deer grazing together right behind our campsite.  

We watched a lot of people leave. We could have come home early, but we didn't. So what if the weather wasn't perfect? If we waited for things to be perfect, we might never start anything or go anywhere. 

So what if people say we're nuts for camping in winter conditions? We were cozy and warm, relaxed and happy. And that's all that matters. Life's too short to wait...so what if it's cold?

Bits, Pieces, and Blarney

I routinely jot down funny, random or interesting ideas so I can expand on them later for this blog. As I looked through my notes to begin writing, I realized that some of them don't need expansion or explanation. They are good enough on their own.

So, enjoy!

When a friend needs duct tape, don't ask questions and don't offer advice...just deliver her the roll with a smile. And be sure to wipe off your fingerprints just in case.

Life would be easier if everyone came to the realization that you just can't fix stupid.

If the stands at Bristol are less than half full for a Sunday race, something is very, very wrong with NASCAR. There was once a waiting list for tickets and it was only used if someone died.

You don't always need a reason to give someone a hug, a hand, or a call.

You might be a redneck if you've used Channel Locks or Vise Grips to pull the cork on a wine bottle. (guilty)

Children should be taught to stand on their own two feet and be independent. They are not entitled to indefinitely live with or be supported by their parents.

It's not denial...I'm just very selective about the reality I accept.

Signing off with this belated St. Patrick's Day quote:

Are We There Yet?

After this very stressful winter, I am more than ready to take off in the truck with Jerold. Soon we're going to hitch up our fifth wheel and head to our favorite lakeside campground, where we can sit by the fire and relax. Or fish. Or read. Or do whatever the heck we want. 

We've been restocking the trailer with food, clothing and supplies, probably more than we need. The bikes and hiking boots are loaded, along with hobby gear for us both. Early spring is a fabulous time to camp. The air is fresh and cool, there are no mosquitoes, very few kids, and poison ivy hasn't sprouted yet.

My mama is eager to house-sit; it's a welcome change for her to be up here in the country. Her room is always ready. I have magazines, books, music and movies for entertainment. Her favorite foods are stocked in the pantry and refrigerator.

We're good to go, so let the 2013 travel adventures begin...are we there yet?

Useful Notion:  Let spring be a natural tonic for all that ails you.  Get outside, enjoy the sunshine on your face, smell the fresh rain, notice the budding plants, listen to the chirping birds.  Discover the inspiration and peace that comes from nature. 

And by the way, Happy Birthday Jerold! 

 

Favorite Quotes From Garfield the Cat

Garfield is a wonderfully lazy, lasagna loving fat cartoon cat created by Jim Davis. He's sassy and funny, and his cynical outlook on life always makes me smile. Here are a few of my favorites from his many nuggets of wisdom.

“I'm not over-weight, I'm under-tall.” 

 

“Never trust a smiling cat.”

“Eat every meal as though it were your last.” 

"I can...but I won't."

“I'm not messy. I'm organizationally challenged!” 

“The most active thing about me is my imagination.”