My brother and his wife recently bought a camper.  They have a daughter who's almost a year and a half old and are looking forward to some quality family time.  I'm sure they will get it and make some great memories along the way.

Mom and Dad often took us camping as kids.  We were lucky enough to live near  Lewis & Clark Lake and could take advantage of some great camping opportunities.  Back then, camping wasn't all the rage it is now.  We could pull into a camping spot late Friday night and stay there the whole weekend without any problems.  Now, you often have to have reservations months in advance. It seems the secret is out about how fun camping can be.  For my brother and I, it was often the anticipation of the camp-out that left us giddy.  Craig and I would do all we could to help Mom and Dad get the supplies ready.  It's funny how setting the table at home might not be that fun, but getting dishes ready for the camper...that was something entirely different.

Once we got to the campsite, and our little home was all in order, it was time for endless biking on the bike paths or cool dips in the Lewis & Clark Lake.  I'm sure Mom and Dad loved how much energy we would burn off during those camping weekends.  But even after a long day, we were never too tired to sit around the campfire and roast marshmallows. They are some very happy memories.  I know they made an impact on me, and considering my brother's recent purchase, it must be something he's willing to carry on for another generation.