Camping in the Maine North Woods is a balm for the soul. Upon arriving at our campsite on Moosehead Lake, we were greeted by a pair of friendly ducks, clean pine-scented air, water gently lapping at rocks on the shore, and a breathtaking view of the expansive lake and mountains. As we do some initial exploring and setting up of camp, I can feel a change within me as my ego begins to shed and my spirit begins to meld with my natural surroundings. A letting go that is mixed with a release of breath, some tears, and tension in my body I didn’t even recognize was there until it melted. Thoughts soften as I become part of the woods, the water, the mountains, the sky. Joy. Peace.
The crackle and smoke of the campfire strikes an ancient chord within. We gather around it to feel its warmth, cook our food, and gaze into its meditative orange, red and yellow licks of flame. My husband loves to cook and plans all the meals and snacks ahead of time. He makes a mean and tasty batch of trail mix that we can’t get enough of. I’ll share the recipe soon in a future post.
There’s so much to discover in the natural world. Our children are the perfect guides, as their innate curiosity and sense of wonder remind us how to see…
The mister and I enjoyed starting the days with an early morning ritual — sitting still in our canvas chairs, sipping from blue enamelware mugs of strong, hot coffee, gazing out on the glass-like, undisturbed surface of the lake; a quiet, heavenly space to enjoy together before engaging in the next family adventure. 
Our new kayaks made for exciting fishing outings, on-a-whim paddling about, and excursions to the mini islands that speckled the lake. Two loons popped their heads out of the water next to our kayaks. We were so close we could see the red of their eyes. These magical birds lulled us to sleep at night with their gorgeous, eerie, melancholy calls to one another. Their evocative song has left an imprint on our souls. 
Nothing tastes as good as food you prepare when you are camping. My Love spoiled me, completely with the meals he prepared. They were simple and flavorful. My favorite was a bean burrito will red peppers, onion, lettuce and spicy cajun-style sausage.
I cannot find words to describe the sunsets we experienced. My photographs are all I need to convey the feeling of these moments on the lake at dusk….
A week of camping brings all kinds of weather, including some heavy downpours and thunderstorms. I am proud to say we kept the inside of our tent dry! I’ll be posting part 2 of our camping trip next and will give you a view into what we did on those rainier days.
I hope you are having a great summer! Thanks for stopping by! XO