(Posted pic is not really representative of my actual family, it is for point making purposes only)
So we just got back from a week of camping with our extended family. We go to a campground in Lake Tahoe, it has all the basic necessities, but you still get covered with a lot of dirt and there is always the bear factor! (Side note: I have never seen a bear there in the 30 plus years I have been camping). The good news is that my kids are now able to really appreciate being at one with nature, etc. However, I think there may have been times we pushed a little too hard in this respect.
First example, a 3.5 mile round trip hike. Yes that is kind of a lot, but on the way there was so leisurely and neat that it was no problem. On the way back? Way different story! Both of my kids (ages almost 7 and 4) told me their legs were not working anymore, the hubs and I took turns carrying them which was not easy going up a rocky trail. They both were thirsty and sweaty by the time we made it back. Both declared they were, "Never, ever, never going hiking again!" Oopsies, so much for making fun childhood memories...
Second example, a family bike ride through the campground! I thought this would also be a great family activity, you know, with the whole being active thing, but it really became unpleasant and dare I say torturous? Yes. So we are all riding bikes together when shortly after we take off (and I mean still within sight of where we just left) my dear son who is four, starts complaining. He started with, "My legs hurt, they hurt so bad!" This is followed by loud moaning and groaning for other campers to see and hear. I tried to be encouraging by telling him it was a short ride, to enjoy the trees and the little animals we saw, but he wasn't having any of it. This continues until he starts crying and saying, "Agua! I need agua!" He had his head thrown back for maximum effect. Keep in mind that we are really not a bilingual household. People passing us probably wondered if they should alert Social Services, geez....One group of ladies passed us and started saying things like,"look at that poor little boy!" By the time we made a half circle it was time to head back, I was laughing at all the theatrics, the hubs was annoyed, and my dear daughter was rolling her eyes, it was a perfect family moment!
Ok, but besides these two examples, we had a great time! It is fun to hang with family I don't see that often and the lake is always so clear and beautiful. My kids love seeing all their cousins and they run around exploring everything. It really is good times, we will do it all again next year!
