Well, firstly a big thank you to all those who helped spend my money - you did a good job and now we are the proud owners of a poly tent / trailer and lots of other stuff to go with it! Griff, as I sit here in the tent typing, that little heater is doing a great job.
So we have made it (with only a couple of disasters) and I managed to pitch the tent with only a small (and I mean the tiniest amount of help) from my seven year old daughter. There's only myself and our two daughters (the other has just turned four) here so it has been quite a challenge at times trying to sort out the tent and the innards whilst trying to keep them entertained.
Not quite a disaster, but I did set off from home and then after ten minutes turned back thinking I had forgotten the washbags. I couldn't find them at home, so I set off again thinking they must be in a bag in the roofbox. I got to the campsite till late afternoon. Got a phone call about six from the better half saying she had found them on top of the printer!!!! I had to make a quick dash home this morning to get them.
Disaster no. 2: I borrowed what I think is an expensive set of pans from my brother-in-law. They have fancy handles that fold in and they all fit together inside one another. They have a copper bottom too. Well, I think I managed to damage the largest one when cooking pasta! I came to drain the pasta and found at the bottom a large black mark, of which I have managed to get most off. However, the bottom of the pan that is directly underneath the mark on the inside is also damaged. I wonder how much they will be to replace?
Other than these two incidents, so far so good. The girls are having a great time and the cavalry arrives tomorrow!!!
I've uploaded a photo to my profile, but I'm not sure if it is viewable!
Yes it's viewable, and it seems you have passed the test, my friend!!
Job well done!
The grass looks a tad long, so may I suggest some of the interlocking foam mats for in front of the door(s) and/or in the canopy/cooking area. Aldi have a good deal at the mo, apparently.
Truth is, you always forget something, that's what the nearest shop / supermarket is for...
Looks like a great setup, have a great time!
------------- My OH is convinced that a permanent raincloud follows my tent where ever it is pitched. Apparently, I could end all drought and famine in Africa simply by pitching my tent there!
Thank you all for your best wishes -much appreciated.
If I can find a way of posting photos I will upload some.
Mucker, I have some of the mats, they are still wrapped in the boot! The grass was cut while I was out with the girls this afternoon so we have an island of long grass around us.
I took the girls along the Monsal Trail and we walked to Millers Dale looking for a pub to have lunch. We didn't find it, so had an ice cream and set off back to the camp site. The field full of cows, on the Pennine Bridleway, was quite intimidating for the girls. Roughly, I reckon they walked 5 to 6 km, not bad for a just-turned for year old!
We have had a fab time and unfortunately leave tomorrow.
On the down side, our intex airbed seems to have developed a slow leak so that will have to be returned. I quite like it, it was comfortable to sleep on, but I have also been impressed with the aldi sims we bought for our girls so may buy another two for us and a double camp bed. Any recommendations?
Thanks again to those who have offered advice, encouragement and congratulations. (This sounds like it had the beginning of a speech!)
By the way, I think we may have been spoilt staying for our first camping trip at Beech Croft Farm. The facilities (showers etc) are excellent and spotless. We have also had Laneside, near Castleton, recommended to us so that may be our second trip.
The "trouble" with finding good sites, is that it gets harder to take a chance on others!
Of the 4 sites I've visited, I've returned to 3 of them!
I have a list as long as my arm, of sites within an hour and a half. I now just need to force myself away from my "old favourites"!!
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: Finally! First trip in progress!
