Spring Camping

 March 12-14, 2021

Camping in Harper's Ferry

Winter amidst a pandemic had really taking it's toll on our moods and we needed a respite. The Brink's and Shumakers had gone weekend camping a few times over the past year and when we were asked to join them in spring, we said yes. We were disappointed that Jim wasn't able to get off work because it was St. Patrick's Day season at Guinness., but the rest of us still really needed a change of scenery. 

We divided some meals up between the families and the rest was pretty straightforward packing wise. We would be staying at a KOA campground near Harper's Ferry in cabins with heat and electricity, so not too rough. The hardest part would be hiking up to bathroom which was farther away since it was off-season. Megan had just gotten her stitches out and was still in crutches and a boot. We determined that I'd drive her up as needed. The cabin was cozy and served it's purpose well. I gave Megan the bigger bunk so she could keep her things within reach. 

Megan hung out around the firepit most of the weekend and she progressively absorbed layers of smokey campfire scent. On Saturday Aunt Becky and Uncle Eric lead the kids and I on a hike, while Jimmy, Kirsten and Megan hung back at the campsite. Jimmy brought a large piece of beef to slow roast over cherry wood. The hike was fun. The kids collected walking sticks as we went down to the railroad tracks along the Shenandoah river. We then made a decision to take a path straight up the hill toward a battlefield and Murphy's Farm. This climb revealed how out of shape I had gotten over quarantine. We rested up top and checked out the earthworks and the view. the kids discussed the perfect spot for lunch and Evie suggested a large pine along a path on the battlefield. it was soggy so we went by the cannons and some logs where we enjoyed the shade. The sun was hot but the shade was chilly on the early spring day. We had packed subs, grapes, carrots and chips along with our drinks for a good picnic lunch. When we got back the beef smelled amazing but it still had a few hours to cook. 

As we were sitting around the fire, dogs from the camper next door kept visiting. The dogs were friendly but not familiar. Johanna was leery of them but most of the other kids welcomed the visitors. Soon enough the beef hit the right temperature and it was time to slice it and eat. We missed Jim. He sent up some beers and everyone toasted him in his absence. Being outside and with friends was so renewing. Everyone was pleasant and agreeable. The kids played outside, lounged by the fire, went up to the GaGa ball pit and the playground enjoying each others company. It got colder as the sun went down as we spent more time closer to the fire. The brinks also brought a cotton candy machine, and Joseph brought his gaming system so there was some Mario cart and other games played in their cabin.

We were all exhausted and fell asleep quickly that night. Sunday was all about a quick breakfast and packing. I was the first up in the chilly morning and restarted the fire. Johanna came out a little while later, but as she made her way to me one the the dogs went up to her. She was scared and backed up with her hands in front of her. The dog grabbed her coat and shook her. I scolded the dog and he let go but it was scary. I snuggled her in my lap by the fire until she felt safe again. Everyone else soon appeared from their cabins. While the adults finished up the kids went up to the KOA mini-golf course and played a round. With the packed van I checked out and them drove to pick them up. It was a wonderful weekend. We came home tired but our moods were renewed.