We usually go for camping with friends , family or even solo. But have we ever taken 30s to 50s for camping ? If you have please share with me and if you did not, read my experience.
My maternal grandma aged 74 was reluctant to try when I first asked her. But then she agreed after I requested , begged, pleaded and what not.
We selected a place which was nearer to my grandma's place (since aged people need to be cautious about many situations)
My grandma's place is 27 km from Puttur, Mangalore district in midst of western ghats. So we selected a small place called "Talanji" where the small hills are called by the same name.
We climbed like 30min since it was little steepy for my granny and found a nice spot to set out tent.
Tent was set up later in evening as it wasn't that sunny and winds were preventing us to stabilize it.
We made out small stove with stones and made some soup . (We had taken only a big bowl and small cup and spoon as it was very difficult to carry all weight)
Walking around taking pics showed me a new side of my granny! She even made some hairstyle using wild flowers and took pictures of mine. yet she was shy to allow me to take her pictures.
My battery was far declining even with portable charger due to lack of signals and power unit.
Our lunch like substitute was with cocoa fruit( used to make chocolate and cocoa butter) which myself climbing a tree and scratching myself but it was all worth it :D
we walked , talked the whole time and reached greener side which was all different from top of the hill. Since it was the base on other side as well as nearer to a villager's place, the plants were watered properly and grass was grown for cows at their place. We got drenched and muddy while crossing as stream and even had small muddy fight . That gentleman was kind enough to let us freshen up
Look who I met there !!!
With little charge left, I saved it for sunset. We climbed back chatting and granny telling me various stories of her adventure during her youth . The sunset was mesmerising and the breeze soothed us out.
After a lot of persuading and last ounce of battery left in my phone before leaving that gentleman's place , I took couple of pics of my granny .
setting up our tent took little time and finally made ourselves some hot buns . Though it was cold at night and fortunately no mosquitoes we were able to get some sound sleep.
Early morning we woke up as sunlight fell directly on our face and packed up and returned home for coffee.
We often forget that elder people have more strength than younger generations. Also they have more experiences of walking and climbing hills . It is very nice cosy time to spend such time with grandparents. They are very adjusting in nature and help us plan out very well. They also tell us bedtime stories and especially under the stars this time with granny was a heavenly experience.
Such trips are short and sweet as well as very much memorable than any other trip I have ever had. I learnt a lot about my granny in one day than all these years. And it was all worth the effort. Am glad I was able to do this
I can assure you that this will be a memorable trip of your life too. Try it out with your grandparents and find how it gives you a satisfaction.
