Ashtyn Britt
abritt@lc.edu

It may be weird to admit this, but it took me exactly twenty and a half years to go camping in the woods for the first time. For a long time, I had no desire to and thought I’d lose my mind if I ever did go camping. However, in the past couple of years, I have become a lot more open to new experiences and at least trying things before deciding whether or not I wouldn’t enjoy myself. So, when I was invited by my friends to go camping this summer, I agreed and immediately bought everything I’d need for the trip.

Despite the fact everyone suspected that I couldn’t possibly enjoy myself, I really did. Sleeping in a tent wasn’t as bad as anyone made it sound, I got to make smores, roast weenies around a fire, nobody was looking at their cell phones for the majority of the time, and swim with my friends in a creek! I know for most people this may not seem like a big deal since most people I know we’re getting thrilled about these small things when they were little kids, but I didn’t get the chance to enjoy this until now. I’m glad I went, and I’m glad I’m able to enjoy this as much as I am.

Honestly, my favorite part of camping was by far the view of the stars at night. Without lights everywhere, including light from our phone screens, stars become significantly more visible. I know it sounds silly, but I really hadn’t ever seen that many stars before at night. It was one of the most beautiful sights I’d ever seen in my life. The view of those stars is the reason I wouldn’t hesitate to go camping again next summer as well if my friends ask me. I learned from this trip that trying new things is always worth it, and to stay adventurous. So, if you’re considering going camping and haven’t done it yet, or if you’re considering going camping again, make sure you go with the best company available and go have a great time watching the stars!