August 26, 2011

How backpacking with a baby is similar to Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome. And why I think REI should sponsor my next trip.

We recently took our 4 month old backpacking. As in, not car camping but oh-my-god-how-heavy-is-my-backpack-because-I’m-basically-carrying-two-people’s-shit camping.

This was our first time trying out the Deuter backpack and it was also our first time, you know, backpacking with a baby.

At moments, this is what it felt like.

We wanted to stay close to home, in case of emergency bailout (notice a theme?) and decided on Caribou. It’s right outside of Nederland, about 20 miles away, and also just happens to be the site of our elopement.

caribou backpacking

We hiked in about two miles to find a somewhat mediocre campsite. Eli did well sleeping in the tent, riding on his dad’s back and hanging out in camp. There were definitely some fussy moments, but all in all, I think he enjoyed his time outdoors.

thermarest

After hearing about our trip, a friend sent along this video about some parents who took their 8 month old backpacking…

It made me tear up. I love what they’re doing and why.

THEN…I realized that all of the baby’s fussy moments and crying have been edited out of this video.

Which then made me realize that REI should totally do a video about our next backpacking trip with the baby. There would be humor, singing and way more whiskey.

Probably lots of swearing and poop talk, too.

Did I mention that the singing isn’t very good? And that the songs are made up?

Ummm…maybe a video isn’t such a good idea. But we do need trekking poles and a new hip belt for our pack before the next journey.

So, REI, if you happen to be listening, we’re planning a multi-day backpacking excursion to Utah in October and we’re REI members.

A video crew isn’t necessary, but we will happily accept you as a sponsor. And we promise to take pictures, video and mention REI as often as possible.

I’m ready to talk when you are.

(Look at me. I’ve only been a mommyblogger for five months and I’m already trying to score some free stuff. I’ve had good teachers.)

June 24, 2011

No dead bodies here.

We took Eli on his first camping trip this past weekend. It was what my husband wanted to do for Father’s day and we both wanted to prove something to all those naysayers that told us we’d never use our outdoor gear after the baby was born.

It only took us two hours to pack. For being so little, babies seem to need so much. Thank god for car-camping.

We wanted to stay close to home for this first trip, in case we had to do an emergency bailout. Luckily, Boulder is surrounded by plentiful camping options and after a mere fifteen minute drive, we found ourselves in Roosevelt National Forest.

After pulling up to the perfect campsite, we got out and looked around. What we found was so funny I had to capture it on video.

Enjoy the father’s day campsite haul…as explained by my husband…

For the record, we did hear a few gunshots off in the distance and only started worrying when a stray bullet ricocheted off a tree nearby. Adam yelled at the yahoos, they apologized, we survived and Eli did wonderfully sleeping in a tent.

See, camping as a family can be done. And can be fun. Except for the gun.

November 28, 2009

I didn’t know I was camping

Inspired by the intriguing TLC show and almost as ridiculous…

sausage and veggies

I thought the kitchen looked a little greener than usual.

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a perfect brunch spot

And I couldn't believe the sweet outdoor spot we scored for brunch.

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sleeping sans tent

Not to mention that breeze as I slept...and the fact that our bed felt harder than it normally does.

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Food out of boxes, in bags

It's not weird to repackage your food. And only eat things easily rehydrated.

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me and my backpack

Wait...so that's why my back was hurting?

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everyone plays a part

Here I thought our plumbing was acting weird. Why else would we be pumping our own water?

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campsite

It seemed like we had a little less privacy than usual.

I’m a little embarrassed. But if telling my story helps other women to know when it’s happening to them, then I’m glad to share.

(Also, TLC, if you’re reading, let’s talk reality backpacking shows. Think a little less Survivorman and a little more Animal House. Have your people get in touch with mine.)