Technically, I have been on my sabbatical for 18 days, but that is close enough to 3-weeks. Besides, I am in the habit now of writing a summary on Sunday evening. This week, I am using the FAQ format based on questions asked by other campers/travelers.

Why aren’t you afraid to camp alone?

I am not alone. I have my dog, my Kindles, and 12 pairs of shoes. When a woman has a faithful furry companion and enough shoes and books, there is nothing to fear in life.

Why do you go to yard sales and thrift stores? Isn’t the stuff there stinky and gross?

Seriously, I am trying to buy what I can second-hand. I think this is an eco-friendly way to live. We throw away too much stuff. One person’s junk is another person’s treasure. There is an art to it and you have to be picky. I have learned to scan areas and go to quality or interesting stuff first. Top of the list: fabrics, vintage linens, shoes, tools, bags, craft supplies.

Do you really set up the camper and take it down by yourself? 

Yes…but I have to keep physically strong. Set up and take down is a great mental exercise as well. I have to think about what I am doing and in what order. I have made some costly mistakes and learned the hard way. I have also learned to be more patient.

What do you eat while camping? 

I will do a whole post on this in the future. A big bonus on this trip is abundant Farmer’s Markets. Also, I arrived right in the middle of the Flathead Cherry season.

Why do you love Seeley Lake so much? 

I love water and this spot has a great swimming beach. The tall trees are magnificent and, even though lots of people camped here this weekend, there is a great deal of privacy.

Why aren’t you afraid of the bears around there? 

I am thinking that the troublesome time lies ahead, when the hungry bears are looking to binge eat before hibernation. I do check out this interesting bear alert site, which includes the Seeley Lake area. Also, I practice special camping techniques. I seem to be alone in that. This campground is full of warnings about leaving out food, garbage, and cooking pots ($150 fine minimum) but no one seems to care. In fact, every morning the ranger drives through at about 5 mph, checking out the scantily clad ladies, but ignoring all the bear camping violations. This morning the site across from me was littered with cans, bottles, chip bags and so on. The ranger drove right by. Maybe I should be more afraid; thankfully the bears prefer berries.

 

Do you get bored? 

Never. I have so much to read and lots of work to do. I am panicking because time is flying by. I have not had time to do my craft projects.

Why do you love being outdoors so much? 

Many reasons– I am the most at home in the outdoors–a beach, forest, lake, stream, desert, mountaintop, anywhere. Very strange since I lived in cities until about 8 years ago. There is also a strong spiritual component at work, and nature acts as a muse for my creative side.

Do you like living in a camper?

I do now. I did before the trip when I went out for only a few days. At the beginning of this journey I did not. I was uncomfortable: in bed, in my chair, etc. I had to take some time and spend some money to figure out how to get comfortable. Eventually I will move up to a regular camper/trailer but I sure love my popup.