What I've Learned

We interrupt your regularly schedule programming, for this kind of fun list….

• I underestimated the amount of time it takes to just keep things going – making meals, cleaning, keeping an eye on the boys. I simply don’t know how single parents do it. I am SO looking forward to the cruise – you have no idea.
• It IS possible to get sick of your kids – but still love them. And it happens much more quickly than you might think.
• It’s pretty easy to live on 17 gallons of water for 3 days for 3 people and a dog – provided you don’t bathe much.
• It is not necessary to wash your face twice a day, or even every day.
• Our solar panel puts out 20V of power, partly shaded, on a rainy rainforest day. We were never in danger of running out of juice. Pthththththt. That raspberry is for you Dad – you were so sure our battery was going to die. Water was our constraining resource. HA!
• Life is easier when you’re plugged in. But not nearly as interesting.
• Taiko is about the world’s most patient and willing dog. He’s out behaved the boys at every turn.
• Always have a back-up plan, especially if you’re going out to the middle of nowhere.
• Always carry a good tool kit.
• Being handy is, well, handy.
• There’s a big difference between 64 degrees and 85% humidity, and 64 degrees and 55% humidity. The first one is COLD. The second is rather pleasant long sleeve weather.
• Nope, I didn’t overpack – just about everything has been used at least once. But not everything would be needed for any single camping trip. Interestingly, it’s the Arts & Crafts and Games boxes that have seen the least use.
• While I’m quite happy to sit in a woodland glade and contemplate for hours on end – the boys require ACTIVITY! I haven’t had much quiet time. Sigh.
• I miss adult conversation.
• Nobody misses TV or the Internet when they’re not around.
• 11-year-old boys can eventually learn how to guide in a trailer and/or tow vehicle when backing up. We’re getting pretty good at it.
• The best way to keep the boys on track tearing down camp is to make it a race. So far 39 minutes 4 seconds is our best time.
• Have the next two jobs figured out for the kid. If you don’t give them a new job right when they return from the previous one – they tend to wander off and get into mischief.
• Even when they have a job they tend to wander off and get into mischief.