Roughing it ...



Do you like backpacking? Roughing it? Living off the grid?
A friend posted that her youngest hates birthday parties. Her birthday boy loves staying at fancy hotels for his special day. This boy is only ten years old, and he would rather stay at a five-star hotel than have mom work like a cat on fire delivering a kid's party. Cara included a pool-side picture with her post. Amen, Josh! Your celebration is one the whole family embraces.
Josh would love the executive suite at the Ritz Carlton at Grand Lakes in Orlando. I landed there by the good graces of an event planner during a work-related conference. I considered extending my stay — to forever.
What about camping versus "glamping?"
My husband likes camping.
I've been there. Done enough of that. "Sleeping" in a thin sleeping bag on the hard ground with an obligatory rock under my rib. Public bathhouses. Freezing cold/swampy-hot temps. Mosquitos the size of small airplanes.
David now camps with the guys. They congregate at their favorite primitive spot in North Georgia. Each year, they improve their camping conditions: stoves, camp ovens, make-shift showers. And gadgets. So many gadgets. I question, "Do you really love camping?" if you try to replicate the comforts of home.
Here's the catch: there are drop-dead gorgeous places in this world you cannot see if you cling to the comforts of home. Glamping won't even come close. How far are you willing to venture? How many comforts are you willing to sacrifice?
What mountaintop or natural wonder lures you into the world of tents, sleeping bags, and roughing it?

~ LowTide explorer, Carolyn Fjeran
[LowTide is an eclectic collection of discoveries and reflective writings.]

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