We've just returned from another amazing weekend of camping with friends, this time near Salida at the O'Haver Lake campground. The moon approached "super moon" status and the skies were largely clear as six families converged on the lakefront tent pads and set up shop. The sixth grade boys had their own home base in the "tent mahal" -- a larger-than-life tent complete with porch and dog run. The kids fished or hiked or set up a fort near the forested stream and the adults sat and talked, played on Rob's corn hole set or hiked up the fire road for amazing views.
The nights were broken up by colicky babies in other tents or snorers in our own, and last night's sleep was interrupted by a conversation of feisty owls. In the early morning chill today I reflected on the strands of community and belonging that we have worked to create for ourselves and our children over the last six years of group camping. Through the years we have lightened the load and brought progressively less food, less equipment, and fewer entertainment options, realizing perhaps that the amazing landscape and energizing relationships provide enough fuel, enough sustenance for the weekend.
All parents try to weave a tapestry that will hold their family, that will support the children as they grow and take steps toward independence. The relationships that we all build are pulled by the busy pace of life and other commitments that try to separate the threads of our fabric. It's so important to take time to repair the rents in our weavings with old friends and make new designs with new friends and relationships; we are so blessed to have the time and opportunity to do this in the amazing Colorado landscape.
Post Script - Our amazing Aden turns 13 today and we missed her over the weekend. We all wish her the happiest possible birthday and year to come - we love you so much, sweetheart!
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