Camping season has begun. The weekend before last, I had Michael help me open up the camper in our driveway. While he mowed the yard, I proceeded to clean out the camper and pack in clean blankets. I got rid of some things we never really used and cleaned all surfaces. When I was finished inside, Michael came around and lubricated the bed rails and the stabilizers. We pushed the beds back in with no issues and closed the camper back up. I looked at Michael and said “let’s go right now!” He agreed that he was also ready to get the camper out.

We have an epic trip planned for June, but we will officially kick off our camping season with a trip to meet Chad and Jess this weekend. We have all been watching the weather like crazy and all reports predict rain, but we don’t care. We’ve been planning this trip for at least a month now. Jess called me the other day to talk about food and meal plans. Both of us were so excited. I said “I can’t wait to squeeze you!” Jess replied “Oh my god, I can’t wait to hug someone other than Chad.” and we both laughed and laughed. I knew right then that rain or shine, this weekend is going to be filled with hugs and laughter. AND I CANNOT WAIT! Life has been real hard for these two in the last few years. There have been at least two phone calls in the last year where I sat in a conference room crying with Chad on the other end of the line. To top it all off, last week they had to say goodbye to their dog, Moses. I am in desperate need of looking into both of their faces and making sure that they are still okay and being a shoulder to cry on if need be.

I would be in desperate need of looking into both of their faces under normal circumstances.

Today, I am thankful that camping season is here and that our first trip out will be with my framily.