If a turtle falls in the woods, will you hear it?

I've been furiously planning for my upcoming camping trip with my older daughter (10). We're headed to the Smokey Mountains in Tennessee, and then up to the Virginia/Kentucky border. The best part is that I haven't told my daughter yet that we won't have shower facilities for the first 4 nights. Somehow, I have dillusions of grandeur that I will somehow be able to cram in all that Cub/Boy Scout survival knowledge that I've been retaining for the end of the world into her little brain in 1 week.

It will be her second time camping in a tent. The first time was only 1 night.

It could be a disaster. It could be fantastic. Only time will tell.

We will be in an established campground with running water and toilets. I'm not tossing her to the bears just yet. She is an excellent traveler, has a natural gift for map reading and navigation, and a drive for adventure. I'm not sure who is more excited.

For her, this is a whole new adventure. A life learning experience to build on.

For me, it's partial regression therapy. I love camping. It brings me close to nature, and in tune with the best memories of my childhood. I just hope I can give her memories like that without going overboard. Heck, I'm fun to camp with. Ask Ginamonster!