Breaking Down (in) Camp (Give Me Strength · Snow Patrol)

     There are times that push us.  Push us to be better...stronger...bigger.  We need these moments because we forget how truly strong we can be.  We take the ease of the day to day life for granted.  We forget that we can turn on a faucet and get fresh cold water when we need it.  Maybe we take showers without remembering that it is a luxury.  We eat when we are hungry because most of us are blessed enough to have food in every cabinet and drawer and within a cold fridge.  I knew camping would be a good reminder to not only myself but for the two little ones with me that have known the ease of life.  I had no idea how much bigger it would be.
     Beyond the unseasonable temperatures, unyielding insects and disappointing facilities there was more.  There was fear, hunger, thirst, some panic, illness, time restrictions, unfamiliar territory and worry.  But instead of losing it which I would've back in the day...I simply looked at the problem in front of me and figured out the solution.  Calmly.  I calculated.  I communicated.  I pushed through the fear and made decisions that were wise and thought out.  I also asked for help when I needed it.  People should never stop asking for help when they need  it.  That is why we have friends and families.  We ended the day safely.  I was proud of myself.  I needed a moment like this to remind myself of how brave and strong I can be...I forget.  I get lost in fear quite often and this challenge of the new has pushed me to remind myself.  I also realized that in the moments where fear and worry began to creep in I reached out to my girls.  They dug me out with words of inspiration.  They made me giggle as I stood there in the woods trying to figure out what was next.  They encouraged me when I grew weary.  I am lucky to have them.  I appreciate them more than they know.  I might be getting bigger, stronger and more able everyday but I'll never forget the support system that holds me up when it all gets too heavy for me to hold up on my own.  To them...thank you. Thank you more than you know.