Ah, those camping days, that's right once I had all my children potty trained we, started our camping adventures.

Put away you image of the campers or motor homes with all the comforts of home and picture tents, sleeping bags, the real "rough it" type gear and that is us.

As my children have grown so has our tent until we are now the proud owners of a three-compartment nylon tent. Nylon tents are great, but we had to learn some lessons the hard way. First of all re-watersealing the seams every year is a great idea. They are water proof but don't get against the sides as that draws the moisture in We have discovered plastic underneath and a tarp over top can be a real help when the rain drops fall. Tents that need to be staked down takes a little more work, but a wiser choice, especially if you get caught in a high wind.

The cook stove, lanterns, flashlights, cooking dishes, coolers, and etc. can be purchased as you go and reused again and again if you clean them up and store them. Most camp sights in most camp grounds supply a picnic table, fire ring, and sometimes even a grill, but chairs, your own cook stove or other ways to cook are a good idea.

The tenters don't need the electrical hook ups although a water source nearby is nice, and of course, rest rooms and showers. (If no restrooms, carry your own tp, no leaves)

I strongly recommend rain capes. They may look like plastic wrap but they do keep you dry, especially when you are forced to pack up in the rain.

No TVs, VCRs, or computer on camping trips, families must entertain each other, maybe even talk again. (When is the last time you had a conversation with one of your kids for longer then five minutes?) A peaceful feeling settles over everyone, as the world seems to slow down a little.

Most campgrounds have hiking trails to explore places to swim and/or fish, a camp store for all the items you may forget, and sometimes a game room and movie theatre. Also most campgrounds seem to be located near other tourist sites, and for the naturalist, there is even nudist camping at some campgrounds.

The campfire at day's end is so relaxing. We have sung songs, told ghost stories, played word games, all by the warm glow of the campfire. Remember to bring wood and kindling, but many campgrounds have it available to buy if you have none. Also remember to bring the marshmallows, chocolate bars, and graham crackers, wouldn't be camping if no s'mores are available.

Be smart, keep all food put up while sleeping or some little furry guests, or big ones may wonder into your camp sight. Never hike or swim alone in case you have an accident and need help. Always have a first aid kit, and depending on how large your vehicle is, keep the first aid kit in the vehicle. Don't try to feed wild animals, especially baby ones, momma may be near.

All in all a true family experience that's not so costly, and get you back to nature. A breather from the fast paced rat race we live in. We highly recommend it just remember not to let the little mishaps, I mean adventures rattle you.