Last December 2024, my family and my sister’s family went on a camping trip to the mountains of Tanay, Rizal Philippines. It was our first time camping, and we are both excited and nervous at the same time. We packed our things necessary for camping such as tents, sleeping bags, food, and other camping gear like rechargeable lights and fans the night before our trip.The next morning, we drove for hours until we finally reached the location but because the way through the campsite is kinda narrow and our vehicle cannot pass, we have to walk on a trail for 5-10mins until we reach the campsite. Despite of being exhausted cause by walking with so much stuffs in our hands, it was all vanished because the air was fresh and cool, our eyes freshen up by the green surroundings and the sound of birds singing welcomed us. My husband and my brother-in-law quickly set up our tents, rechargeable lights hanged and gathered firewood for the evening. Me and my sister prepare Tinolang Manok (a kind of clear chicken soup with ginger and papaya) for our dinner. We enjoyed our dinner as soon as everything was ready. As much as we are, our kids really enjoy the experience.
During the day, we went to the river and enjoy the cold running water, even catch some small crabs. We also explored the forest trails and saw tall trees and colorful wildflowers as if we are all kids finding something to be collect and gather. My favorite part was roasting marshmallows and hotdogs over the campfire at night sitting around the fire, telling stories and laughing under the sky full of stars with kids playing and laughing around the campfire. When we decided to prepare to sleep, we made sure that everything in the surrounding was clear and safe for us especially for the kids.
I was not able to take a picture of our dinner Tinolang Manok because my cellphone ran out of battery that night. So here’s what we prepare for breakfast and snacks
Although it was a little scary sleeping in an unfamiliar place such as forest especially we have our kids to be protected. I felt safe with my family around we just pray at night before going to bed and excited for tomorrow’s another adventure.
As we woke up that morning, we cooked breakfast outdoors and prepare in the bahay kubo beside our tent. We cherished every minute that is left by savoring food experiencing slow morning because we planned to leave in the afternoon.
That camping trip taught me to appreciate nature and enjoy simple moments with family and amazed of how great is our creator. Surely, we will be doing this trip often as much as we can because I believe that it is therapeutic. It was an unforgettable experience that I will always treasure.
PHOTOS ARE MINE EDITED BY CANVA