I can t help it anymore !!! I have the CAMPITIES ! and it is biting me real bad !.
Some bad people living in this board gave me a very bad idea which might work ! TENT CAMPING !!!!! Since it is not PU camping I am not putting this post in the general forum.
I ran it by the family and they all seem to be game !
So, I chekced the prices of tents at Canadian tire and they run anywhere from 50 bucks to 300 bucks, averaging 150 - 715 bucks (all us bucks). Tomorrow I will also check Wall mart and see what they have. Are they cheaper In USA ? say in target and stuff ?? I don t mind a one day trip to NY or OH to get it reasonably cheaper, we will make it a two day trip.
What brand to get, how many people should it be for, we are a family of four, is bigger better for some privacy and space ?
There are so many types, I don t know the first thing about tents.
Also, Once we are done with the tent, what else will we need, grill, kettle, etc etc etc. All this stuff should fit to the back of the killer windstar, so weight and space wise we are sort of restricted.
Let the fun begin !!!!!
Our first trip will probably be mackinaw island ! We fell in love with it last time we stayed a night ! Beautiful place.
P.S. The first person who tell me to check a tent camping board will have a visit from me [8D][8D][8D] I am not going anywhere [;)]
birolBirol, Great!
Then you can start planning your trips for the summer.
Even when you get your camper later, you ll find a use for the tent, we still use ours. I know we have never let anything stop us from getting a few camping trips in each year. It s the one hobby we have still been able to do, even between jobs.
And if you happen to hate it, you just made/saved thousands.
Tents, Since you ll probably move on to something else quickly. I would go for a cheaper one, but big enough for the family. Just make sure it has a breathable top and a rain fly.
Good Luck
birolYou mean something like this is not good ?
[link=http://www.coleman.com/coleman/ColemanCom/prod_Detail.asp?Product_id=9270B133&CategoryID=11020&SourcePage=PROD_CATEGORY_MAIN.ASP&SubmittingPage=Prod_subcategory.asp]A Tent[/link]
birolMaybe a tent like this would be good, it would give you plenty of space for 4 and not cost to horribly much
[link=http://www.target.com/gp/detail.html/ref=br_1_4/602-3080600-0129444?asin=B00006447L]see the tent here[/link]
I think it s a great idea, it ll get you out where you long to be!
birolWe bought ours Fall of 00 for about $150 at Sam s. It s a 4" room" cabin style. It s definatly big enough for 4 adults+ We used it for 2 adults and a playpen. The room dividers we re kind of strange and the other " rooms" pretty small, but you could stick a kid over there. I was in one once that was about the same size, but a 2 room that was nice. It split down the middle of the room.
Walmart, Sams, Target type places are definatly cheaper then Cabela s and such. I d go with a cheaper one. Most of them are fairly easy to put up with 2 people now days. You ll want a GOOD air mattress for you and DW, Kids can sleep on the ground IMO LOL!. A cook stove is really nice, and any other camping stuff you normally need.
HAVE FUN.
birolHi Birol,
Go to a tent board. Am I the first? Did I win? When are you coming to visit me? I live in southern Indiana. gr8grandpa
gr8grandpaI am packing and getting into the minivan soon. I will bring a keg of beer and some ribs !!!![;)]
birolThe kind I meant to stay away from is the all one piece tent. It doesn t have a rain fly. I had one of those it didn t breathe, we all felt sweaty all the time.
I have a feeling they don t make them anymore, so don t worry about it.
Just look for the rainfly, and you should be fine. But I m certainly no expert.[&:]
The one you linked looked good. and everything I ve seen lately even the less expensive ones, look good.
birolYou d be awfully surprised at how much of the tips we give for PopUp camping are actually very useful for tent camping as well. Pay attention to those about saving space, using one item for more than one purpose, how to set up your kitchen, how to pack your clothing. Go to Tim s web site, (or is it Natasha s?) for all kinds of useful lists, etc.
T
[;)]
birolBirol, all joking and teasing aside, this is a very sensible decision you have made. Many of us have camped in tents for years past. it was sometimes a challenge and sometimes we and our gear got wet, but you take pride in being able to do it and stick with it when you have one of those experiences.
We still have our camping gear and use it even now once in awhile. This is especially true of the Coleman stove if we have an electrical outage from an ice storm. (You just have to be careful to have lots of ventilation when you use a stove indoors--we put ours in the firplace-- and of course, I m sure you know NEVER use a charcoal grill indoors.)
I hope you realize what a wonderful family you have to be willing to try this, and I am thinking particularly of Babette as a lot of this will have a direct impact upon her. She is a one in a million treasure for sure! (I m sure you ll always let her know you are grateful for her encouragement and co-operation)
You will need a tent which will hold all of you comfortably and some gear and not weigh too much. DO NOT BELIEVE what the manufacturers say about sleeping capacity. Most of them exaggerate. Yes, you can get 6 people into a certain size tent, but NOT with comfort and they will all need to sleep in Mummy Bags.
I hope you will be able to see whatever tent you buy ALL SET UP before you purchase it. Some larger WallyWorlds and Sams actually have them on the floor all set up. And if you cannot find one that you plan to buy which is set up so you and Babette and the kids can go in and lie down in it, , go to a place that has a lot of camping equipment and take a look at what they have got on show. Then, take what you see there into consideration when you decide on what size you are going to buy.. Also, try to get one that has shock=corded poles if possible. They are generally lighter weight and go up more easily and quickly.
and like Jeffrey says, A GOOD RAINFLY IS CRUCIAL! Like him, we have had both kinds and you dont EVER want a tent without a rainfly!! (I am glad to hear he thinks they have stopped making the other kind.)
birolBirol,
My Dh & I used to travel with our motorcycle friends and all we could bring was a tiny tent, sleeping bags and minimal clothing. Luckily that was back in the early days when we were happy no matter what. Now we enjoy more comforts.
A few years ago we took our kids camping in Maine. Hoping to help them enjoy the experience, I bought a fairly large tent, with its own screen room entrance. Our camping friends arrived in their brand new Coleman Cheyenne. I had never seen a popup and wasn t too interested. Truthfully, I never even went inside theirs that weekend. After a few camping trips (in the tent) we came upon the first of many torrential rainstorms. I jokingly said we would be better off in a popup. We had a few rental ones in the campsites next to us so we took a peek. My DH thought they would do fine but I knew better. Fitting 5 of us into a Taos sized popup wouldn t work. Our tent was bigger than that.
Within a few days of that trip, I discovered EBAY and my popup shopping began. A whole new world opened up before me. I knew absolutely NOTHING about popups and wanted to kick myself for not checking out our friends Cheyenne. Like OZ once stated, some people research things to death and we unfortunately fall into that category. Sure was fun checking out all the manufacturers. Found PopUpTimes (on coolboard) and learned SO much. Within 6 months we ordered our SunValley and have never regretted our decision. Nor do I regret our tent purchase. It got our family started and I imagine we may use it again. I can also see lending it to friends who may want to camp with us.
Many of the items we bought for tent camping are still used, such as our sleeping bags, stove, dishes, utensils, lanterns, chairs, flashlights, etc. We still use the inflatable mattresses when our kid s friends stay over.
I say go for it. What you invest now will cut down on purchases later. We did find having an EZUp canopy to put over the picnic table was a big help when it rained. It provided extra space so we weren t trapped inside a tent all day. Stringing a tarp over the table would work as well if you camp where trees are accessible.
Have fun planning those trips.
Di
birolGeez, I hope Y-Guy doesn t find out about what you re going to do. Last time he found out I went tenting, he punished me severely. My arm still hurts from raising & lowering the popup while saying all those " hail Coleman s" !
If you re going to be getting a popup, don t buy all the stoves, etc. for tent camping as they become redundant. A cheap gas grill can be used to cook on either by itself or with a cheap griddle on top. It will also boil water (or at least heat it) and won t set you back a lot. A 7-1/2 quart black pot is always useable for heating water and it can hold a nested set of pots (like MSR makes sold at Campmor.com) and that red & white checked tablecloth.
Coleman tents are always a good bet. But, if you look at others, make sure that the flooring extends up the wall before the seam appears. Seams next to the ground leak!
You ll need one good lantern (dual fuel operates the cheapest & brightest), some flashlights and some bedding material. If your back isn t hurting yet, you can get by with some inexpensive foam as a mattress. Get a couple of large tarps to cover everything + give yourself a dry dining area and a bunch of cheap nylon ropes to anchor them.
A hand axe, knife and matches are always needed as is a couple of those collapsible 5 gallon water things. Bring along paper plates & cups & plastic knives, forks & spoons, a cooler full of food & drink, and someone to cook for US. Heck, I m ready to go now! Get that grill going! [:o][;)][&:]
birolClick [link=http://www.coleman.com/coleman/ColemanCom/ActivityAdvice.asp?Activity_id=1000&activity_title=Tent%20Camping&submittingPage=HELPFULPROD.ASP]HERE[/link] for some help from Coleman!
topcat7736
QuoteORIGINAL: topcat7736
Coleman tents are always a good bet. But, if you look at others, make sure that the flooring extends up the wall before the seam appears. Seams next to the ground leak!
Birol, the kind of tent floor Al is talking about here is often referred to in tent literature as a " bathtub" floor meaning it somes up the wall several inches in a seamless sort of " bowl" Our first REI tent was not made like this and we sure did regret that during a 3 day rain near Ennis Montana. The next tent had a bath tub bottom and it made a big difference when it rained!
And he is also SO right about the " redundancy" factor. Be aware of getting too many gadgets.
birolBirol, I think you ll find most of us started out in a tent. BTW, have you given any thought to renting a PU for 1 or 2 trips?
birolA few mistakes that I ve learned from on tenting. Those 3-4 room tents; check the size of the rooms carefully a lot are only good for storage or a 4 year old.
The roof height; nothing worse than having a huge tent and still have to crawl around inside and it s a real pain trying to put on jeans in a crouching position.
Like the others mentioned watch out for a floor seam thats on the floor; bring a shovel; a little ditch around the tent can prevent streams through the tent.
Things like poles that are strung with bungee cord can make the " which piece goes here?" and the " where does that piece go?" disappear.
Coleman makes a very nice queen size air mattress w/battery pump, around $30 at BJ s. For around $50 they had one with legs that looked like a tinker toy arangement, but was comfortable and easier to enter/exit than one on the ground.
Don t forget a good dining fly, or even several. It get s mighty close on the third day of rain and cooking indoors in a tent can be a disaster.
birolThey cost around 600 Cdn or so for a week, that is too much money for me to spend for rental. I thought about it though, I don t think it is wise for us to rent and fall in love with us yet.
Just spoke with babette again, she is all gung ho for the tent (this from a woman who didn t want a PU because it did not have solid walls or proper shower/porry, go figure). I think it is a good decision to get a tent first, enjoy it till I find a job and then upgrade to something better.
I am so excited and at the same time so scared. What if we don t like it ? I am sure I will, but the anxiety is there .....
birol
QuoteORIGINAL: birol
They cost around 600 Cdn or so for a week, that is too much money for me to spend for rental. I thought about it though, I don t think it is wise for us to rent and fall in love with us yet.
yes! you are so right! after renting one of these for a week or so, most people could have paid for a decent used popup
QuoteI am so excited and at the same time so scared. What if we don t like it ? I am sure I will, but the anxiety is there .....
yes, this is another wise reason not to sink much money into a lot of equipment. And remember, just like with popups, all will not go smoothly, but dont be discouraged if you run into difficulties and little disasters. be patient with yourself and with your supplies and give it a chance.
All you need is ONE beautiful sunrise or sunset by a lake or a night full of stars and your doubts will fade.
birolBirol, Could you please edit your post to this:
[link=http://www.coleman.com/coleman/ColemanCom/prod_Detail.asp?Product_id=9270B133&CategoryID=11020&SourcePage=PROD_CATEGORY_MAIN.ASP&SubmittingPage=Prod_subcategory.asp]The tent.[/link]
It does the same thing, but stops the arrowing right and left.
By the way, I got an old Camp Kitchen, homemade, rather nice. It has a 2 burner stove (mounted on top) removeable door on the front, inside (compartments) for coffee pot, pots and pans, dishpan, dishes, drawers for silverware, and salt and pepper etc. The whole thing sets up on 4 screw in legs, so it a comfortable cooking height. The lid goes on the back on a bracket, and doubles as a work surface. If you come get it I ll make you a deal on it.[;)] Great for tent camping!
MtnCamperI changed the subject to " the tent" , was that what you meant ? WHat did you mean with arrowing right and left ?
I would come and pick that stove but, you are in Colorado [&:], twith the current gas prices, it would cost me a PU money to come and get it [:D]
Thanks a lot for the offer though ....
birolMuch better, Now I don t have to arrow right and read, then back left and read.[;)] My old fingers are getting tired. Now that s ambitious, huh?
I noticed your link was edited by popupx2, who is that masked man (woman)?
Quote< Message edited by popupx2 -- 2/25/2003 10:39:07 PM >
Tell, ya what, If I ever get up to that neck of the woods, I ll bring it along. It s actually a great piece of work. DW s old boss made it for the back end of a jeep.
Everything fits into it, He used it for a couple years, then quit jeeping, and sold it to us for $50. Stocked up, Lantern and stove included. We used it in the jeep for 10 years or so. Wonderful idea.
birolbirol, old buddy, you ve come a long way. No, I m serious. Do you realize just how much you have soaked up in the many months you ve been hanging out with us? You are actually better prepared to make this step than most of us ever thought of being when we first started out. I can understand you being a little anxious, but never fear, you ll do fine.
That said, maybe you could give us a list of what you *do* have. And remember, if you have four people, get a tent big enough to sleep four people AND have enough room left over for whatever gear they ll keep in the tent. Nothing is worse that trying to move around, over, and past other people, duffle bags, piles of stuff, dirty laundry bags, etc, etc, etc.
I m happy for you, man. You re gunna love it. And give your other half a hug from all of us-- she s earned it.
MtnCamperBirol,
What a wonderful idea!!! You might try a trip to Target to get your tent. They carry Greatland (their own store brand), Coleman and Eddie Bauer tents. Plus all the gear you will need. And a lot of that gear will be useful when you get a pop-up.
You are going to be out there camping with the rest of us soon!
MtnCamperMtncamper If you are ever nearby, let me know and I will come and grab it ! We will celebrate it with a multiple of six packs ! If you do not do six packs, we will substitute your favorite poison :)
Popupx2 must be one of the moderators, I had a very long coleman link and he fixed it up for me, now it is a short link and works too, Thanks popupx2 [:)]
AB Diver I HAVE learned a lot by hanging out with the crowd, I intend to thank you guys one by one as we meet ! You can only imagine what the " thank" will be [:D]
What do we have, hmmm, we have one sleeping bag for the DD, and that s about it to be honest. I am thinking that we will get a tent which sleeps 7 or 8 people, three rooms at least. They are around 250 Cdn, so it is not that bad.
I don t think I want anything smaller. We had a picnic table, portable, a great thing but one leg is broken, maybe I should fix it, it was great when we were younger, It folds into nothing flat in no time.
I am so excited you won t believe it, this might work out for real !!!
Thanks for all the suggestions so far, tomorrow I will print these and start putting stuff into an excel spreadsheet !
As for hugging the wife, Iwill do [:)][:)][:)][:)]
birolSome of us are still in a tent. Mine is a cheapie (under $100, US), 10 x 12, has a rain flap and shock-corded poles. Bought it at Academy Sports. It s easy to set up; especially with two people. A couple of things not to forget: and small throw rug for just inside the door and a small broom. I would not go without an air mattress (the good kind). I would definitely get a big tarp to put up over the picnic table area (in my case, it s a screen house now). The extra " dry" will really be appreciated if it rains. Don t forget a hammer or mallet to pound stakes in. Also, a first aid kit. And, do not ever leave your campsite without putting your chairs away in whatever dry space you have (under the tarp, in the car, etc) even if it s bright and sunny when you leave. Trust me on this....those canvas chairs take a while to dry out. We have Coleman stove, lantern, flashlights, camp kitchen, and a zillion camping gadgets. Keep it simple at first; you can always buy more stuff and you will recognize what will also be usable in a pu. Have fun!
NightOwlIf you have access to a Costco in the states they have some good deals on tents. I just saw a huge one with a front screen room for $80 US. I don t know if they list these online, but it is worth a try //www.costco.com. I have a card & am willing to share, but I m in AZ.
MtnCamperMackinac Island is an excellent choice. I was there long ago, when I first learned how to drive. My first trip-across the bridge[:@]
Don t know too much about campgrounds there-maybe our northern Michigan or southern Canadian friends can help out.[8D]
BTW-What s with the bent hinge on the Windstar?[:D]
MtnCamperOur first tent was a Hiliary from Sears that we purchased in Canada, (when we couldn t afford Motels there) it was a great tent it never leaked and we camped in it for years before we wore it out. We loved our Eureka! tent, it was a dome with a fly and vestabule, it never leaked and was very easy to put up. We tried a K-Mart cheapie (one of those room things) after the Eureka! wore out and we couldn t afford a new big one, which we spent a miserable week in the rain in. We went out every day and purchased more and more seam sealer until we had over $20 worth on it before we got it to stop leaking, (we did come home with a new supply of towels!), then moved to a different campground where a bear broke the pole on one side and ripped it (while we were in it of course). The next year it was pop-up time for us. The bathtub walls are a must have, height is nice, the vestibule was wonderful (nice place to put your shoes making the tent cleaner, but rodents have been known to eat your shoestrings so shake out the shoes in the morning), a large fly is nice too. Bigger is better, if you have 4 people go for a six person. You get what you pay for. If you live in Pennsylvania where it rains every time you go camping it is worth the money for a better tent. However if you aren t sure you will like tentcamping cheap might be better, just go when it isn t supposed to rain. We have many wonderful memories of our adventures while tentcamping and I m sure you will too.[:)]
MtnCamperBirol
Check out this site http://home.gwi.net/~spectrum/camping.html
This guy has all the answers to any question you can ask on tent camping - he is one of my first sites I ever visited on the web when I was trying to figure out what I needed and how to do it successfully.
He also has a great sense of humor - lot s and lots of advice - really great advice!!
Good luck!
MtnCamperThanks a lot for all the advise and links. I will go thru them today and start making a list of what to get, what to avoid and the type of tent we should be after !
Did anybody buy a tent on eBay ? any good/bad experiences ? They don t seem to be too cheap on eBay though .....
BIrol
MtnCamperneeds for tent camping
-a couple of Rubbermaid locker type totes to hold everything (Crappy Tire has them on sale for $10 this week) cardboard disinegrates when it gets wet.
-a good cooler
-a portable bbq (can be had for around $30 if you watch)
-if finances allows a small propane or coleman type stove we have used a hibachi when we first started out.
-rob the kitchen for pots and dishes or hit the dollar store
-we actually used blankets for a while till christmas and birthdays rolled around and guess what everyone got.
- a good air mattress for the adults kids never notice and roll off them anyway.
-a tent
-the biggest tarp you can find to use as a cannopy make sure the entrance to the tent is under this tarp.
-rope to string the tarps with and to use as a clothesline
-A SENSE OF HUMOUR you re gonna need it.
MtnCamperWe have a days pass for Sherkstone, I think we will initiate the tent there :)
MtnCamperbirol, what a great move to get you started. I didn t catch this thread yesterday, but think you are on the right track. I have to agree with the others that you don t want to (or need to) invest alot in a tent. We still have a Greatland tent that is a two room tent and about 12 X 16. It is plenty big enough for our family of 5 and is about 8 years old now. I have had absolutely no problems at all with the quality of this tent. We still use it occasionally when we take the boat to an island and camp or when we camp in the pop-up and our kids bring along friends. Mom and Dad get the camper and the kids get the tent. We have had two birthday parties at campgrounds using the PU and tent arrangement..... so I guess my point is that you should still get some use out of it if or when you get a pop-up camper.
Here in Columbia they have a used sporting goods store. I m sure they have something like that up in Toronto or somewhere nearby. Our store also carries camping equipment. The store is called PLAY IT AGAIN SPORTS and I ve bought several things there. You should also look in your newspaper and any trader type newspaper for used items as you can probably find something used that you can look at and inspect. You should be able to save quite a bit of money too.
Congrads and I hope to see you at a campground someday.
birol
QuoteORIGINAL: birol
Did anybody buy a tent on eBay ? any good/bad experiences ? They don t seem to be too cheap on eBay though .....
BIrol
Birol, with a little luck and some caution, is possible to find great bargains on e-bay and not experience any difficulty along the way. We got our Greatland Insta-Set ScreenHouse tent from e-bay. The transaction went smooothly in every way. I ordered the screenhouse on a Monday afternoon and it was here Wed. AM via UPS. Very good experience in every way. Be SURE to READ CAREFULLY THE REVIEWS AND RATINGS OF ANY DEALER YOU CONSIDER DOING BUSINESS WITH
Our dealer had received rave reviews from EVERYONE doing business with her and clealry, they were well-deserved.
The price we paid was about $20.00 lower than retail for this particular item at Target. Others here got their Insta-Set tents for a much better price at e-bay, but by the time I got around to doing it, there was a big demand for them and so the price was higher. Still, it was in mint condition, in the original carton, and is a fine product.
IDEA: why dont you write Suezy and ask if she will help you find a good tent at a decent price. She has a very kind heart and has always loved assisting people with projects like this. As we all know, if there is a bargain to be found anywhere in our solar system, this girl can ferret it out![:)] (And if she cannot locate one, NO ONE can!)
MtnCamperI looked at eBay little bit and prices are not attractive, especially considering shipping and that I have to pay GST or PST on thejm when I receive them.
I think I will stick with the stores in Canada. Unless there is a great discount at Target, then we will drive and grab that one :)
We will go to wallmart this afternoon and see what they have. [:)][:)][:)]
MtnCamperyes, actually, I was wondering about costs of shipping, the exchange rate and possible " duties: as well as the Canadian VAT type thing if you went with something in the US. but if you dont find something suitable in the stores, maybe you or Suzey could locate something inside Canada via some online digging.
MtnCamperbirol, before you get all wound up buying everything you could possibly need...
Many of my early camping trips involved little more than a sleeping bag, a lantern, and a cooler. Now, I realize you have two little ones (and a wife, can t forget her [;)] ), but try to keep things simple at first. Cannibalize the house for stuff you already have, then buy extra stuff a little at a time. Ebay might save you a bit of money, but you can t take it back if you don t like it or if there s a problem.
And remember, a backyard campout works just as good to shake out problems with a tent as it does with a pop-up. Heck, you can even practice in your living room. That way, if you find the tent doesn t meet your family s needs and you want a different one, you won t be miles from home when you make your discovery.
Anybody else make their first *solo* outing into " the great wilderness" within the confines of Mom and Dad s backyard fence? My brother and I were 9 and 7, IIRC. (hijacking birol s thread)
MtnCamperWe are following the good advice given here, we will just get the tent, something to cook on, and a porta potti (I think) , we will ransack the house for the rest of the stuff. I am sure we have some paper plates, and plastic glasses and so on.
I am not in a situation to go out and drop bundles of greeneros to buy stuff, we will make do with whatever we can scrape from the house. The tent is the only expense which we can handle :)
Unfortunately we can t backyard camp as our backyard is in horible shape (new house) We will have to take our chances with the first one I guess. I sure hope there will eb a Wally World close by.
And for hijacking my thread, please be my guest, this is the campfire chat, if I have more questions I will throw them in and I will get answers [:D]
Birol
MtnCamperBirol & babette is leaving for wallmart to check on tents .....
MtnCamperBirol, in case you haven t bought the tent yet, here s another thought. You are driving a mini van, have you ever considered taking out the seats and camping in it? My DH and I have done that many times with our GMC Caravan, and it worked just great. I know that there are two more of you than there are of us, but I still think you could make it work by getting a few cheap folding cots. We took some plastic tarps and hung one from the luggage rack, to make a canopy, and we had some extra ones that we used for a shelter by velcroing them to the canopy one. That gave us a place to put the picnic table in case of rain, or in your case, a place to put the cots for the kids, or yourselves. (oh, we put a twin sized mattress in the back of the van) We took a folding table, the coleman stove and lantern, our cooler, two telescoping tent poles, (for the canopy). Topcat and LuvyourJayco had the list of things you would need. We took our van all the way from MI to Key West, camping in it all the way and had a really good time.
T
[;)]
MtnCamperNope, didn t buy the tent yet, they are out of all the good ones at that wallmart, sheees. I am going to check another wallmart and a Canadian tire tonight. I don t think camping in the van is a good idea for us. Son is as big as my wife and girlie is growing fast. If it were just the two of us it would work though !!!
I will keep you guys posted on our tent hunt adventure.
birolBirol PLEASE, PLEASE don t make your first trip one to sherston your dw will never ever camp again after that place. It is aweful, the tent sites are in one big field and its a resort so lots of partying etc. Make your first trip special and find a quiet spot. If you are coming as far as Sherkston look at Byng Park or Long Beach. Find somewhere enjoyable yet close enough to get anything you forget. DW will have enough to do trying to set up house and keep track of things without putting her in that place. If you want the falls area see my website and go from there.
http://luvourjayco.irv2.com
I would hate to see babette turned off camping because of one bad trip esp her first. If you really want to use that pass use it to daytrip that will be plenty unless I read you wrong and you really are the party animal. PS everything withing the park is $$$$$$ bring a lunch and lots of liquids not much shade around.
birolBerol,once you get your tent setting it up in the backyard is a good idea, that way you can check out just how much space you ll have for sleeping and storage.
oh one more thing stake down the bottom(floor) first. [&:]
when I was a lot younger and not to bright bought my first tent and tried to put it up in the back yard without stakeing down the floor first,had to call my couzen and ask him how to put up the tent as mine kept falling down. His first question was did you stake down the floor first. duh[:o]
birolbirol,
For long camping trips in the Boy Scouts, we used wall tents which didn t have any floors in them. In fact, most wall tents I ve seen lately still don t have them. Now, if you bought one, it would be unusable for you after you get a popup. But, the Paha Que screen room in the PUT store would give you a 10 x 12 living space, with high walls, privacy panels and screens NOW, and could still be used as a screen room (in lieu of an AAR) when you get the popup! Once it s setup, there s not much of a difference between it and a tent on the inside & it would be perfect in the summer months for that great cross ventilation. For a floor, you could get some thick astroturf stuff which could also be used with the popup. Would be an investment you could use for the rest of your camping time. Just a thought.
MtnCamperBirol,
Have you looked on Ebay yet? Take a look at this Coleman tent with its own screenroom. Bids up to $89 now and closes in less than 24 hours:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2712354098&category=16041
birolBirol,
Are you willing to pay shipping for a tent which was only used one time?????
It is a large cabin tent with a full floor. Can t get pictures right now but it is pretty big. I can t use it anymore like I would have in years past (kids all grown and gone).
Let me know.
birolcavman, why don t you e-mail birol. What a generous offer. I thought about the same except I still use our tent occasionally.
birolCavman, it is indeed a very generous offer. Are you sure you want to part with it ?
I really really appreciate your offer, I would gladly pay all of your expenses to package it and ship it my way.
You guys/gals are making me emotional ........
Thanks a lot for all the support and help ...
Birol
birolBirol,
After having passed through so many trials and tribulations, one can only reflect on the thought of " What can I do to help?" .
It isn t the thought of: " Are you sure you want to part with it ? " . I have already enjoyed using it with my youngest son on our last camping trip. Since then, my health has raised its ugly head, my son is in college and DW said the popup is the camping home now. (We tent camped in other tents before this.)
I will need your address for shipping and we ll see if we can t get this little item headed North before the weather breaks so you can do some trial runs. I think that I still have the ground cloth and if so I ll pack it with the tent.
You should be able to e-mail me from my profile if not I ll get it to you.
I can only hope that you will enjoy it with you family as I have with mine.
birolCavman thank you very much,
We look forward to playing with it. Also thanks to you, now I don t have to go thru tons of tents trying to make sense of what is what and choosing one and not being sure if I picked up the right one.
We will drink for you on our first outing [:)]
Birol
P.S. I e-mailed you my address already.
birolTerrific!!!!!
Now I can vacate one more space in my shop and let someone else begin making those " good" memories.
Soon as I get the address, I ll start the process on my end. BTW, didn t I hear somewhere that there was a birthday in your family real soon. Might be nice to receive a present Hey?[:)][&:]
birolI am going to be 43 soon [:D] Getting better all the time :)
birolWe started out tent camping. I like it. One of the things I did not like about tent camping was trying to fit everything into the van. So I bought a fram for a utility trailer for $50.00 and built a box on it. I still have it and store a lot of my camping supplies in it. I still take a tent a long. My pop up is small and I store our clothes in the tent while camping and I make a couple of the boys sleep out there. I bought two slumberman big man cots which I take every trip. They are really great to sleep on. I leave the cots were I can get them. We have 5 in my family and I stop at motels if I travel a long distance. Most motels sleep only four to a room so I pull out a cot or two and make a boy or two sleep on a cot.
John
birolHey Birol, just don t forget the air mattress! That ground get s really hard. Oh, either a hand pump or one that works off the cig lighter would be extrememly handy, blowing up a queen size air mattress by mouth will wear you out before your vacation get s started!
Also, don t forget a blue tarp, the bigger the better. First time it rains, you ll know why that tarp was so important to bring along!
birolWhere do I put the tarp ? Under the tent ? Why will it rain in summer [&:]
birolI believe the tarp would be for on top of the tent. No matter how well you seal the seams a tent can leak if you get torrential rain storms while camping. A tarp over the top gives you some extra assurance. Also you want one that will help provide some shade in case you don t have any trees around.
I AM SOOO EXCITED FOR YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Cavman - you are a wonderful person!! Now birol can have the camping bug like the rest of us and REALLY become obsessed (like he isn t already [8D])
birolWhat a change from that other thread. This really is great that we can find a way to share our appreciation and support for someone who we really like and want to bring into our camping world. Someday birol will have his own PU. Only he will probably appreciate it more than we do. You always appreciate the things you have to work harder for. And I really don t know what to say about cavman. He is a very generous and thoughtful person to offer this gift.
birolCongrats to both Birol and Cavman on their wheeling dealing. Makes me proud to be a member of this board.[8D]
Now, if someone would wheel and deal to get Birol a pop-up.[;)]
birolI have to jump in here with my opinion. Having just moved to a PU last year I am pretty experienced with tents. You were given good advice about adding a tarp if it is raining. You can get a tent sealed, but it is tough to do and that will give you an extra layer of protection. But by all means in all weather put down a ground cloth under the tent. That will also keep you dryer and mostly cleaner. It should be just slightly smaller than the foot print of the tent. If it is larger, rain will run down the side of the tent and on to the ground cloth getting caught between the tent and the ground cloth. Definitley a bad situation. I am not sure what kind of tent you are getting. Personally I prefer the " Dome" style tents. I find them much easier to set up. But here is where I have to disagree with Campingcop, most dome tents you stake down after you set them up. I know it goes against the grain, but if you get instructions with the tent make sure you follow them. I broke a tent pole once when I tried to do things in the wrong order.
birolThe thing I miss about tent camping is lying in the tent without the rain flap on and staring at the stars. If they could make PU s like that (and of course make them set up and take down themselves), they would be completely perfect!
Congratulations, Birol! And Cavman - Very nice!
birolbirol check out your local Canadian Tire we were at ours yesterday and picked up a folding table for $12.99 marked down from $42. They also had screen houses marked down to $89 which is a great deal. Lots of the old stock is being marked down to make way for the new stock coming in. Our CTC has so much marked down I want to shop but meeny dh won t let me spend too much [:@] I checked out the online CTC but none of these specials were available so it must be just the local stores clearing old stuff out.
luvourjaycoEven though Cavman has solved Birol s " problem" (kudos to you Cavman), I ll still post my thoughts.
I was going to suggest that you might want to get a tent for the grownups (you can have some privacy - especially if you set the kids tent waaaay on the other side) and another for the kids - I see you have boy and a girl so that might not be cool, depending on their ages. Remember that kids like to bring friends.
Costco has a nice looking Wenger Sport Dome Tent (9 x9 ) (Item 890270) for $48.79 and there s a $15 coupon from the mailed passport, which brings the price to $33.79.
luvourjaycoThe TARP could be used for a lot of things, but the last place you want to put it is under the tent, unless of course you re real careful to make sure nothing is poking out from underneath. Tarp would trap and hold water under the tent, it s best to just place the tent without so that moisture can drain/absorb into the ground.
The reason I mentioned the tarp, is because when ever I go camping, it inevitably rains. A large canopy strung up between the tree s with a big stick holding up the middle so rain runs off to the sides, makes for generous moving around room outside during a rainy day, not to mention it keeps the goodies on the picnic table from getting soaked! Trust me, if it rains, you re going to wish you had one rigged up somehow! The bigger the tarp, the more room you have underneath of it. A 15 x20 works great for covering the picnic table and camp kitchen area. Oh, and they are dirt cheap too!!!
luvourjaycoCliff s right about tarps. When Peggy decides on a campsite, I scout it a few minutes, deciding where the tent will go, and then setup my main tarp. Once its up, the tent goes underneath. (If you do the tent & then the tarp, inevitably you can t get the tarp to completely cover the tent.)
A ground cloth (tarp) under the tent is ok, but it should small enough to allow at least a 6" overhang of the tent on all sides. Having the tarp extend beyond the floor of the tent will divert water toward the tent. Many recommend having the ground cloth inside the tent rather than outside.
luvourjaycoUmmm, perhaps not the greatest pictures or the best use of a tarp, but enough to give you an idea...
[link=http://www.gonecamping.net/images/wells/dsc00059.jpg]Picture 1[/link]
[link=http://www.gonecamping.net/images/wells/dsc00060a.jpg]Picture 2[/link]
luvourjaycoBirol[:D],
When you talk tents...think Eureka! Tents. Quality doesn t really cost that much more, especially when you are talking durability, dependability and COMFORT, PIECE of MIND.
And no " roof sag" .[;)]. No sway! No Reese Min -350 s![;)]
Check this out! Eureka!Tent model: the " Sunrise 11" : sleeps 5-6, floor size 11 X 11 , Ht. 7 , pole dia. 12.5 mm, Wt. 22 lbs.. Made of multi urethane coated nylon floor and Stormshield polyester hooded fly, breathable roof, sealed fly and floor seams, No-see-em netting. Easy to set up. Three large hooded windows with storm flaps. $249.99 @ Campmor, catalog item # 20265. Phone: 1-800-CAMPMOR or: http://www.campmor.com
Room to move around, room for some gear, not stuffy (if you vent it properly, like a popup)!
Eureka!Tents has all types of tents. Campmor sells about most, but maybe not all, of the models they make. I own 5 different Eureka!Tents. Even though I have a camper, now, I am still reluctant to part with my tents. Besides, I can t take my Kiwi backpacking.[;)] (3 are different sized/rated backpacking tents).
And, Birol, most of all, keep the faith[:D]. We started looking at popups back in 97 and didn t get our camper until June 02. It took us five years![:o] to finally get out of our tent. But, the only way I could hack the wait, was by being able to go tent camping/backpacking when I wanted. There is a lot to learn about ANY KIND of camping. Learn as much as you can before hand, about tent camping and you ll have a safe, comfortable " first time" experience and everybody will love it.[:D]
Just start gettin out there and doin SOME kind of campin ![:D]
Good luck!
luvourjaycoI am going to the second RV show yeahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
Camper Dan
QuoteORIGINAL: Camper Dan
And, Birol, most of all, keep the faith[:D]. We started looking at popups back in 97 and didn t get our camper until June 02. It took us five years![:o] to finally get out of our tent. But, the only way I could hack the wait, was by being able to go tent camping/backpacking when I wanted. There is a lot to learn about ANY KIND of camping. Learn as much as you can before hand, about tent camping and you ll have a safe, comfortable " first time" experience and everybody will love it.[:D]
Just start gettin out there and doin SOME kind of campin ![:D]
Good luck!
birol, this is some of the wisest and most heartfelt advice you will ever get, so copy it down and keep it with you in your camping gear at all times[:)]
luvourjaycoBirol,
I know that you might think that I have dropped off the earth since you haven t seen (heard from) me lately.
I just went out and set up the tent to check for wear and tear. Guess what, it is just like I removed it from the box when I bought it. I m taking pictures so you will have an idea of size and setup. When I get the pictures, I ll note the information and give instructions with each picture. The poles are in a ripstop bag to protect the tent from damage and the pegs are in a separate little bag. Also, the size is 10 X 15 6" on the base. The side walls are 5 up to 80" .
(NOTE: I haven t used the camera lately and DUuuH, the batteries are dead. Charging now and will complete picture taking in a little while.)
Keep the faith bud, it is on the way!
Cavman
luvourjaycobirol, I know you plan on keeping it simple for the time being (the Henry David Thoreau school of camping). You may find yourself wanting to take a bit more gear than you thought possible, and decide you like having tables, chairs, screenrooms, camping kitchens, sleeping cots, bikes, etc., etc. If you re wondering how in the world you re gunna get all that stuff into the Windstar, consider a small utility trailer. Units capable of carrying a thousand pounds go for about $200 new, and used ones can be found for next to nothing. Not that you need to carry that much weight, but such a trailer could easily carry four bikes, a cooler, some plastic (non-folding) patio chairs, and bulky stuff like that (AND since it s so small and light, there d be no trailer brakes to worry about). Believe me, your Windstar would never know it s back there. Backing problems? Fogedabodit! With a tongue weight of about 40 lbs., just unhitch it and walk it to where you want it.
It may sounds funny, but it works. I ve seen a lot of families with just such a trailer behind their mid-sized sedan, happily on their way to our coastal campgrounds.
And it ll be there for other jobs as well. It s also good for moving furniture when you need to, and taking the occasional white elephant to the dump. [;)]
Ab Diver
QuoteORIGINAL: Ab Diver
You may find yourself wanting to take a bit more gear than you thought possible, and decide you like having tables, chairs, screenrooms, camping kitchens, sleeping cots, bikes, etc., etc.
There were times I wished I had a utility trailer to take with me! But with some ingenious packing and only have me and my DD I was always able to pack everything I needed in my Chevy Metro. My family is still amazed I could pack so much stuff in such a small car. I pretty much packed everything you are talking about, minus the bikes. Everything was always the fold up kind.
When ya get ready to go just don t pack at the last minute that way you have time to rearrange stuff without getting stressed.
cavman
QuoteORIGINAL: cavman
Birol,
I know that you might think that I have dropped off the earth since you haven t seen (heard from) me lately.
I knew you were up to no good [;)]
QuoteI just went out and set up the tent to check for wear and tear. Guess what, it is just like I removed it from the box when I bought it. I m taking pictures so you will have an idea of size and setup. When I get the pictures, I ll note the information and give instructions with each picture. The poles are in a ripstop bag to protect the tent from damage and the pegs are in a separate little bag. Also, the size is 10 X 15 6" on the base. The side walls are 5 up to 80" .
Wooow, it is humongous !!!! My apetitie is getting bigger and bigger for it :) Today at the Rv show we were looking at all the Pu s and small TT s and babbette said, Hey we can camp in our tent, we don t have to wait for a PU anymore, made my day :)
Quote(NOTE: I haven t used the camera lately and DUuuH, the batteries are dead. Charging now and will complete picture taking in a little while.)
Same thing happens to me a lot you know, when I need to use the camera, batteries dead, and I can t find any batteries, DD and DS go thru the rechargables like nothing.
QuoteKeep the faith bud, it is on the way!
Hey let me know how much it will cost me to ship plese, do you know how to, calculate it ? if shipping is going to be costly, I might jsut as well drooop down on march break and get so say hi to you (If you wish that is) and grab it.
If it is huge, it might cost enough to justify a short trip to VA. Son is goinf to Washington DC, Williamsburg and all that area with his Air cadet team, so we wouldn t mind a short trip. It is only a days drive away after all.
Say, you don t have the instruction manual for it right ? So please jot down enogh for me to set it up properly. I don t want to rip it off or break anything first time we want to camp.
Once again, thanks a lot for your kind offer [:)]
ShirleyTAb DIver, I was thinking that we will take thre bench seat (third row) out and that should be enough to carry everything. You don t think so ? We have a rack on top of roof, so bikes would probably somehow go there ? I need some sort of mechanism to keep them there though. WE will go to the bike business once we get the hang of camping first :) We can t wait till it is summer ?
Is it camping season yet ?????
luvourjayco
QuoteIf it is huge, it might cost enough to justify a short trip to VA. Son is goinf to Washington DC, Williamsburg and all that area with his Air cadet team, so we wouldn t mind a short trip. It is only a days drive away after all.
Woooooo ----- Wait a minute here. Are you going to be coming down with your son???????????????? You do that and I ll load you up with more "
STUFF" and just about get you camping with little or no cost.
You know, lanterns (Coleman Fuel type), sleeping bags, maybe an air mattress (if I have one that dosen t leak air), etc, etc. (Don t have a portapottie. DS put it in the trash by mistake when he was told to clean the yard. Sides, Nightowl was providing that little nicety.)
I ll have " MYCAVE" open by then and your family could try it out for drools.
Let me know.
birolEureka make a tent whose name is something like the Outside Inn you might want to look at. It s basically a tent with attached screen room.
Eureka have a plant in upstate NY with an outlet store. Check their Website. Tents from the outlet store do not carry same warranty as their new ones.
luvourjaycoFor that matter, I live in the next town to Cavman, perhaps I can go through things and see what I have to spare as well. I ve got some stuff sitting around that hasn t been used in quite a while!
luvourjaycobirol, you may wanna get that little trailer BEFORE you head to Va. [;)]
Seriously, you guys are doing a *good thing*. If you ever get out my way, there ll be a chair at the fire, a steak on the barbie, and a cold one (or two) waiting in the cooler for ya.
luvourjaycoHey birol, I have four lanterns. Just send me your address via e-mail and I ll send you one just to clear up some room in my garage. I ll be out of town from Sunday night (3/2) to Sunday (3/10), but let me know and I ll send you an un-used lantern. I have several relatives that know that we are campers......
luvourjaycoBirol-
If you swing by here, I m sure I can dig some stuff up(tarps, propane bottles, etc.)
As far as the bikes on the roof, your basic bungee cords will work, unless you plan to go offroad.[;)]
luvourjaycoMaybe we could start a pass-a-long for birol. First person loads stuff up and takes it to the next person, they add if they have stuff to add and then drive it to the next person, and so on. Until it would get to birol he would have just about everything he needs. I do think he should come to the Eastern Rally though. Maybe everyone should take stuff to the rally and make him come there to get it. He could show up and have a campsite all set up.[:D]
luvourjaycoWoow woow woow,
It is early morning and I can t believe you guys are doing this for us. I have been up since 2 am, I need time to digest this.
Anybody needs a newspaper [8D][8D][8D][8D]
birol
QuoteI do think he should come to the Eastern Rally though. Maybe everyone should take stuff to the rally and make him come there to get it. He could show up and have a campsite all set up.
Now there s an idea worthy of further consideration. It would be nice to meet the person we re donating to!
Birol, I have a full size (double) air matress, and two single size, plus a hand pump to blow them up with, they are no longer used by me and just taking up space in the camper. These are heavy duty " real bed size" mattress, not cheapie water float s from the department store. I also have a couple of little Weber gas grills (they are small but easy to tote around). There may be more stuff, I haven t begun to really dig around yet! I m also working towards the purchase of a Hybrid, and that may free up even more stuff (sorry, I m not donating the PU....[:(] )
MtnCamperBirol,
I am glad to hear that you are going to get out there and camp!! I think you will have a lot of fun. If a person had to own a camper to enjoy camping then a lot of people would certainly miss out! My first summer camping was done with the tent I got as a present for my birthday. If I hadn t started camping in that tent, I would never have gotten the PU. Tenting is what started my love of camping. The PU didn t come until later.
I am hoping to take a week-long camping trip with my horse in the summer of 2004. Because its very likely I will be towing a horse trailer, I will be tent camping instead of taking the PU. Tent camping has a lot of advantages and this is one of them (also for people that like to go boating and need to tow a boat).
My tent was not an expensive model either (Wal-mart brand), but it DOES have a rainfly and the bathtub bottom, both of which are essential to staying DRY. I have slept through a couple of storms in that tent and never had a problem with getting wet.
The other essential is a GOOD air mattress. I think these things are one of the best inventions out there for campers. I love my air mattress and think it s as comfortable as my bed at home. I tried it out on my living floor when I first got it and thought " hey, I could probably sleep on this thing indefinately." I still use it as a spare bed when I have other people visiting and when I stay at my parent s or friends houses. As far as I am concerned these are invaluable. They re great for camping, but also great for other uses too.
Try not to worry. Take your first camping trip one step at a time and don t worry if not everything turns out perfect. By other people s standards, my first camping trip would probably have been classified as a " disaster" but I just laugh at it....and looking back....I probably learned the MOST on that camping trip than with all the others COMBINED. If you start to get nervous, anxious, or worried, here are some things to think about that might help you out.....
1.) There is nothing more beautiful than a sunset on a nice summer evening and the sounds of the birds chirping when you wake up.
2.) Gentle breezes are best enjoyed with a lazy nap.....in a camper or tent with all the windows open or on a blanket outside under a shade tree.
3.) Enjoying the company of the ones you love around a crackling campfire can calm even the most frayed nerves.
4.) Learn to laugh at your mistakes, because mistakes will help you learn and laughter will keep you healthy.
5.) Cherish every minute you have with your family because those are the most important minutes of your life. IMHO, camping is one of the best ways to spend those minutes.
6.) There is absolutely NO mistake you can make while camping that someone else hasn t made before you. They lived through it and so will you.
7.) You will never be alone.....because ALL of us here at PUT s is with you on this and we WANT you to have a great time!!
I hope this will help[:)]. Please try not to worry, you will have an AWESOME camping trip.
birolI have been trying to formulate my thoughts to reply to your generosity all day, but can t find anything which feels sufficient. Will this do ?
THANK YOU
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You can be assured that when I upgrade, your generosity will most certainly be used enable another family to fullfil their camping dreams !
I think a trip to VA is in order, and I see no reason not attend the eastern Rally (I will read the forum and learn how/when/where).
And thank you; PUT and all who created it and are working for it; for putting me in touch with such a great group of campers.
Birol
birolPHEW !!!!!!
I thought that we had overwhelmed you with an attempt to be nice. I m glad that you haven t taken offense with our offers.
As happy as I am about being able to give someone else happy memories, there are times when offers can have the opposite effect than the original intent.
Now those who have made offers can receive the immediate joy of being with you when you celebrate your birthday. Maybe even need a cake and some ice cream.
QuoteI do think he should come to the Eastern Rally though. Maybe everyone should take stuff to the rally and make him come there to get it. He could show up and have a campsite all set up. (Tracy)
Now comes the question. How much " stuff" is to much? When Birol shows up at the rally, he will have to figure a way to pack the presents for him and the family.
When I had a Aerostar van, I removed both rear and center seats, loaded the camping gear to the top inside and headed out. If DD and DS attend (and I surely hope they do), the roof rack (I checked the photo) will come in handy. From what I am gathering, there will be several members of the PUT Arvee Club who will be contributing various items. Maybe the trailer idea ain t so bad.
Well, members, what do you say. Site setup for Birol and family??????[:D] Talk it up.
birolSounds good to me.[:D]
birolChecked the dates for the eastern rally. Doesn t good look for us. The kids I could maybe bring but, DW just told me that she invited her mother to visit us for a month and that she will go To Turkey for a month with her. So she is definitely out of the picture for the rally.
I am not even sure if the rally will work as I am not a happy camper at the moment [&:]. Coming with the kids is bound to create some issues maybe not .... I simply don t know. So please do not reserve any place for us. If I can come with the kids, I will reserve a place as soon as I know I can.
P.S. I think we can still visit a few of you during the march break and get our booties [8D]. At least we would see cavman and Gone Camping and whomever else who wants & I can line up on our route. It would be nice to see you guys and have a cup of coffee.
P.P.S. Looks like I might be able to come with DD & DS [:)][:)][:)][:)][:)]
birolHey Cavman, Maybe we should set up the tent at Newport News Park, put my air mattress s in there, and let him spend the night at this campground. From a Candanian s standpoint, March weather in Tidewater would probably be prime camping weather for them!!!
birolAfter todays -36 celcius, anything would demand that we put on shorts and short sleeves !!!!
Is Norfolk open for visitors ? I don think so :(:(:(
What day is good for you guys ?? We can be there between 10 th to 14 th. We have to be back home on Friday ...
This is your last chance to back out and keep your treasures [;)] Short of not being home when we knock on your door with the ram thingie [8D]
birolCliff,
You re probably right about setting up in Newport News Park and when I first read the thought I responded mentally with " Great" . Then I reflected momentarily and came to the conclusion that I have more " STUFF" to pass along than would go into the back of the truck without unloading what is there already.
I can suggest that you come visit me here in Norfolk which would cut your travel distance in half. You would be more than welcome even if your are in the suburbs of Norfolk. LOL [;)]
I ll send an email with map and phone number so you can find me. Let me know. K????
Birol,
NO SUCH LUCK!!!!!![/u] You ain t gettin out of it that easy. " Sides, I already got it out, put it up, checked it out, measured it, counted the parts and pieces, took it down, packed it back up and then sent you all the pictures. And you wonder if I ll change my mind????? NOT !!!!
Really though, If you show up here, It (the " tent) and more will be exchanged for the payment I received in you post Sunday evening. I am excitedly awaiting for your knock at the door.
I am at home in my leisure (honeydo list notwithstanding) so any day and time is okay. I ll email a map and phone number (just got a new one) to park you in the front of the house. Then it will be up to you to knock on the door.
Maybe you will want to show up early on a non-rainey day and we ll go through the setup. Coffee and donuts anyone????
Let me know.
birolGot your details .....
I am like a child waiting for Sunday to come , it will probably take us two days to come as we have to do the newspapers first !
I will bring the donuts, hot coffee sounds good ! Anything you guys fancy from good old Canada (except our president and that stooopid woman who made headlines , those I won t bring ).
Hey Gone-Camping How am I going to meet you ? Are you going to be available ?
Birol
P.S. We will take I-90, I-79, I-70, Sleep somewhere near Gaithesburg (Any recommendations) and continue on I-95, I-64 to VA. Anybody knows a shorter route ?
birolBirol & Cavman...
I m not letting Birol get out of it that easy, I d like to meet you BOTH....
Let s figure out exactly when he plans to be here, and I ll meet up with the two of you at your house. I got the map in the email, and know exactly where you live (I used to live on River Oaks, a block away for those of you not in the know....)
birolBirol ya ll are welcome to come visit me if you get as far south as Oklahoma I will have some firestarters packed up and ready to go for ya and can show ya ll how to pack plastic containers with all your camping stuff! (saying all this with confidence knowing birol doesn t have time to drive that far in a few short days [8D]).
birolBirol also has a Pilot s certificate and a cessna 150 (I wish [:D]).
Actually I was almost getting my certificate but stopped just before I could solo [&:] We bought the house which we don t live anymore.
birol[:D][:D][:D][:D][:D] now THIS is what makes me PROUD to be a member of THIS GROUP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! [:D][:D][:D][:D][:D]
birolOnly two days before we go !!!!!
Thanks to this group, we will be able sqeeze a small vacation into our schedule and get to know two of the members AND [:)][:)][:)][:)][:)]
We look forward to meeting cavman, his DW and gone camping oin Tuesday Morning.
Look forward to seeing our pics and the treasure we are getting on our web site.
birol
QuoteORIGINAL: birol
Checked the dates for the eastern rally. Doesn t good look for us. The kids I could maybe bring but, DW just told me that she invited her mother to visit us for a month and that she will go To Turkey for a month with her. So she is definitely out of the picture for the rally.
I am not even sure if the rally will work as I am not a happy camper at the moment [&:]. Coming with the kids is bound to create some issues maybe not .... I simply don t know. So please do not reserve any place for us. If I can come with the kids, I will reserve a place as soon as I know I can.
P.S. I think we can still visit a few of you during the march break and get our booties [8D]. At least we would see cavman and Gone Camping and whomever else who wants & I can line up on our route. It would be nice to see you guys and have a cup of coffee.
P.P.S. Looks like I might be able to come with DD & DS [:)][:)][:)][:)][:)]
Birol - you gotta make it to the rally - we have to meet up for the turkish/greek or greek/turkish coffee competition![;)] I ll make sure to pack my briki!
Have a great time in Virginia!
biroltalk about warm fuzzies....just as well I m way down south or I d be tempted to part with some stuff. BTW, after seeing that Wenger tent in Costco all set up I couldn t resist...and bought it!!
Sandy Kramer who owns about 8 (at least) tents/screen rooms AND a popup camper.
I would not hesitate to set up a tent for an en route stopover rather than pop the PUP.
Next thing will be a thread from birol " Giving away surplus camping goodies." Can t wait to see the photos.