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Derek Gann
Derek Gann has been with the Coleman Company for 5 years. He is a graduate of West High and is currently working on a Major in Industrial Engineering at Butler County Community College. Derek enjoys spending time outdoors either boating or active in sports. You can reach Derek at 264-0836.
Outdoors
2004-02-01 15:36:00
Camping with conveniences
: I am not fond of "roughing it" but occasionally I will camp with the family. What is the best way to organize the basic supplies (hair dryer, curling iron, battery operated TV) without packing the whole house?
Derek Gann Question: I am not fond of "roughing it" but occasionally I will camp with the family. What is the best way to organize the basic supplies (hair dryer, curling iron, battery operated TV) without packing the whole house?Answer: I can easily answer your question, although I'm pretty sure it is not the answer you want to hear. Organizing the basic supplies is one thing, organizing the supplies that you mentioned is another. It's really quite simple. Leave those articles at home! You might want to work out a compromise with your family. For example, send them camping and treat yourself to a spa, or enjoy a weekend at home alone with a good book. If compromise is not an option, open your mind to options that can make your trip more enjoyable, eliminate the "roughing it" perception."Now I see the secret of the making of the best persons. It is to grow in the open air and to eat and sleep with the earth." Walt WhitmanThe majority of women don't commonly participate in outdoor activities including hunting, fishing and camping. I believe that this is due to lack of knowledge. Most women just haven't learned the skills to participate in outdoor fun. Leaving the comforts of home for a camping trip with your family should mean that the everyday responsibilities such as organizing supplies, selecting food for the trip, cooking and cleaning up, should be shared to allow you time to discover a wide range of outdoor activities that you enjoy. Modern day camping can be almost as convenient, and comfortable as staying in a hotel. Almost. Shop for a portable, lightweight grill that gives you an open flame at the touch of a button (just like your gas grill at home). You can grill, griddle or cook stove top on these. No reason to fight the smoke while trying to prepare food over an open campfire. Save that treat for toasting marshmallows. Purchase or designate cooking and eating utensils just for camping. That way, they can be stored and ready to go at the drop of the hat, any time the camping urge hits you. Keep non-perishable travel-sized ingredients and condiments stored at the required temperatures so that they can be easily packed, eliminating having to re-shop for these items each trip. If time allows, prepackage or prepare any meals ahead of time. This will only allow you more time to relax during your trip, and to participate in the outdoor activities that you are learning to enjoy. Backpacking, biking, hiking, canoeing, stargazing, sailing, nature walks, rock climbing, nature photography and more can be enjoyed alone, or with your family. If you need peace and quiet, treat yourself to a comfortable and lightweight foldable lawn chair. Add a good book that you've been trying to finish, pack a snack, your favorite beverages, and head for the hills. To kick-off your stress free day, (and remember you don't have to be the designated chef) begin with a good breakfast such as the one featured below.  Above all, enjoy your "roughing it" days. Believe me, good bad or otherwise, they will provide you hours of entertaining stories to share with your kids and grandkids later!
 
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