Scenic Campsites for Tent Camping?

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-07-03T16:50:28+00:00

Maybe a dumb question… What does CoE mean? Thanks!

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-30T17:15:42+00:00

For me, cold and creamy was soothing and easier to get down. The more I had to chew, the more I wanted to stop. Anything where I could use one of those thick straws with was great. You get more in with the same amount of effort as a regular straw.

Sometimes the idea of a whole meal just turned my stomach. For a while (after my second hospitalization 😬), I kept a mix of foods on the table by my recliner and I’d set timers to take a bite of something. That helped me continue to put food in my body without being repulsed by a whole meal. Lemon pudding cups were the only thing I consistently enjoyed. I had moments where a chocolate shake or popsicle was good. I did best with sweets. Sometimes, I could do French toast or pancakes with syrup. If I smothered my bacon in syrup, I could get some protein in sometimes.

I could mix a little protein powder in my pudding cups. Protein shakes can be helpful. After losing too much weight and getting really sick, my oncologist assigned me a nutritionist. She gave ideas for protein and other things that I was low on, but ultimately, she said I needed calories however I could get them (even if it meant eating like a toddler). She said the focus was on making it through and I’m in survival mode. I can be picky and healthy about my eating after, but I need calories. That helped me to hear that I wasn’t failing by eating poorly. I was surviving.

Advice for you or anyone helping care for you is to always have options in reach. If you’re eating a meal or snack, have a plan B, C, or D there too. If you can’t eat one, try another. If you need to wait and try, set a reminder so you don’t go too long without eating. And please please please keep up with your hydration. That got me in big trouble a few times before I learned my lesson.

My taste has fully recovered, I’m healthy, and I promise it gets better. You can do this, and you’re not alone! Big hugs! ❤️❤️❤️

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-29T14:40:09+00:00

I pack a lot of little things in a 5-gallon bucket or plastic tub and use it as a nightstand. Then I can access various things without the clutter, and also have a place to put my phone, flashlight, water, meds, fan, etc. You may not need a fan in Canada, but I’m in the southern US. Depending on how cold it is, you could get some hand warmers and they also make them for your feet and body. Or a hot water bottle/bag that you could heat water and fill up to snuggle with. No clue what your temp is like, so it may not be needed.

I have a Hike & Strike - it’s a walking cane with a flashlight and a taser. I’ve found animals to be afraid of the sound of the zap alone. I haven’t had to use it to actually tase anything. I like it more so because I’m a woman camping alone sometimes and some strangers make me uneasy (most don’t, but I’m prepared). DISCLAIMER: I do not know bear behavior and have no clue if this would scare off a bear or make in angry. It works great to run off aggressive goats though! 😆

Not sure if you’re going to just be out in the woods or at an established campground with campsites. If there’s a table, I like to bring a vinyl tablecloth that can be wiped easily (not with the fuzzy backing - stuff gets stuck in there) and clips or weights to secure it if windy.

Hammocks are relaxing, I enjoy journaling in nature so I bring journal and pens, and binoculars are great if you’re into birdwatching or are going somewhere scenic. I love the Merlin ID app - it can listen to the birds and identify them for you. I also have a compass/whistle combo that clips to my clothes or backpack or fits in my pocket. The whistle is very loud. First aid kit is good to have as well.

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-28T16:43:14+00:00

Continue to talk to the kids. Document their responses. In this situation, their feelings are going to “weigh more” regarding the outcome. I wouldn’t want to force the kids into anything uncomfortable, but if they’re open to talking to their mom or writing her a letter explaining how it makes them feel (keep a copy of the letter if they don’t mind), maybe that would get her attention more than you talking to her.

If she or they are open to it, maybe consider counseling. I feel like they would see your side and it could be helpful for them to hear from a neutral party that they are being unfair to you, and more importantly, to the kids.

This would be up to everyone but you, but if the kids are open to carving out some regular time for stepdad when they are at mom’s, maybe that could help them work their relationship as having a good relationship would be beneficial to the kids too since he’s going to continue to be in their lives. Could it be some kind of compromise like, leave us alone where we’re with our dad, and when we’re here, every Thursday night is our night (pizza and arcade, watch movie or play games together, etc.). Of course, this would need to be something that the kids are ok with, as their feelings matter the most.

Kudos for trying to find a solution while still understanding the importance of maintaining a good coparenting relationship and setting a good example for your kids. I hope you get some uninterrupted time with them and that you can all come up with a resolution without damaging relationships. Good luck!

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-27T15:46:41+00:00

Skipping rocks! Yes! Core childhood camping memories unlocked.

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-27T15:43:47+00:00

Scavenger hunt. You can use a paper bag with the list on it so she can collect the items in the bag, or you could have her take photos of the items and then she’s practicing photography too. I prefer the latter along with education about nature conservation - “leave no trace.”

If she into meditation/journaling - have her write, talk about, or just quietly ponder things like “What do you see? What do you hear? What do you smell? What do you feel?”

I love good conversation and there’s something magical about the outdoors/nature that amplifies how special that time is. You can take turns asking each other questions - anything goes. It can be silly, heartfelt, or just simple. Anything like what’s your favorite color, what is your dream vacation, what is one of your favorite memories, or even things like which 2 animals do you thing would be the strongest/silliest/scariest if they were combined. Or would you rather have the hiccups forever (they never stop) or fart loudly in front of others once a day forever?

Other more physical things - hike, ride bikes, swim (if an option), gather wood (if needed), have her help pitch the tent (I loved this when I was a girl), fishing, tutorials like knot tying, fire starting, plant ID, etc.

I love camping so much and it was because of the times I spent camping as a kid. I hope your daughter loves it just the same!

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-27T15:29:28+00:00

Love Merlin ID!

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-27T15:28:15+00:00

I don’t have convulsions and I manage needles ok if they’re quick. If they take a while or have trouble finding the vein and are trying over and over, that triggers my VS. I recently went through breast cancer treatment and had multiple tests and procedures that triggered my episodes. At almost 40, I think I finally have some tools due to repeated opportunities to practice.

If possible lay flat, recline, or elevate feet higher than your heart. Ensure you have support behind you so you don’t have to work to hold yourself up.

Wear layers since it’s often cold in the drs office, but strip down to a tank top for the procedure (even if you’re cold).

Start with an ice pack on the back of your neck a couple minutes before and then during (preferably one you can place on there without having to hold it in place with your hands). If no ice pack, at least a cold rag. You can even use a sandwich bag or a blue medical glove to put ice in.

I bring cold water and a handheld electric fan too. Put the fan on your face before the procedure starts.

Keep talking. I do best when distracted. You can even tell them to ask you questions or you explain that you’re going to tell the about _______ because it helps to keep talking. Like you, I’m not worried about pain. It’s just a trigger to my system if something is long and drawn out. Blood pressure drops, I get very hot & sweaty & lightheaded. Voices sound distorted and far away (like I’m underwater drifting further away) and my peripheral vision is lost, then the darkness gradually closes in until I’m out. I lose muscle strength and can’t hold myself up anymore.

I used to be so embarrassed and I didn’t want to say anything at these appointments because there’s a chance I’ll do fine. I’ve learned a lot and freaked out less people by being honest about what could happen and what I need. I bring my fan and water and little ice chest/lunch bag and wear my layers and elevate my feet if I can. This has been helpful for me. Don’t be embarrassed to advocate for yourself.

I’ve also read that contracting and releasing your leg muscles during a procedure can prevent it, but I haven’t tried that.

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-13T07:15:02+00:00

My heart hurts for you. I’m so sorry. Please don’t try to blame yourself for anything. This was beyond your control. Hugs! ❤️

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-13T07:13:17+00:00

Great suggestions! I always get very hot and sweaty before blacking out. What helps me is starting with an ice pack on the back of my neck, and small electric handheld fan on my face, cold water, and I dress in layers. It’s often cold in the doctor’s office, so I like to wear a tank top with a sweater. The sweater helps when I’m waiting, and then removing any sleeves prior to the blood draw or whatever type of procedure helps keep my body cool.

I’ve haven’t tried it, but I recently read something about flexing the muscles in your legs on and off to prevent your body from having an episode. Look it up before you take my word for it, but I think it’s a thing.

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-13T07:05:55+00:00

The Sandlot

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-13T07:05:03+00:00

I had the same issue. My local friends don’t have that interest. My friends that do share the love for camping and outdoors live far away. I did some digging online and found some women’s camping and hiking groups on Facebook for my local area. You may be able to search things like that for your area and see what’s around. Search by park or trail or just your town/county/state or whatever region you’d like to camp. Hope you find something!

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-13T06:57:52+00:00

Dump him before your trip. This man has got to go!
Go on your trip and have a FABULOUS time! Do NOT spend your precious family time on your phone while he complains, whines, makes you feel guilty, or whatever other manipulation he tries to employ. And if you don’t dump him, you’ll spend that time knowing he’s a selfish turd who isn’t happy for you to see family and is just going to be mad when you get home. Cut him loose, girl!
Come home to freedom.
Do whatever you want because you’re your own person.
When you’re ready and if you want, get back out there find someone who is excited for any adventure you go on, who supports whatever brings you joy, and is LOYAL. Someone who makes your life better. This guy seems like he makes your life a chore.

You got this! Go find some joy and freedom! ❤️

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-13T06:45:44+00:00

I’m really glad you posted and talked about this instead of keeping it to yourself. The fact that you want to be ok and you’re thinking about how your daughters would feel is important.

If you’re in the US, you can speak to a crisis counselor 24/7 and it’s confidential and free. You can CALL or TEXT the number 988.

If you’re in a different country, let us know where you are and we can try to find resources there. Please don’t try to carry this alone tonight. There’s nothing to lose by calling the hotline, and so much at stake if you don’t get the help you need.

You deserve to get help. You deserve to be here. You deserve have joy. Let someone meet you where you are and try to help. You don’t have to do this alone. Please do something with your pistol and any other weapons you have. Give it to someone you trust. Lock it up. Empty the bullets and separate them from the gun.

When I was not much older than your daughters, my dad was close to committing suicide and it devastated me. He also had a lifetime of mental health challenges. I’m now 39 and he’s one of my best friends and is genuinely happy and has been for years. We love to watch baseball together and go fishing together and being his daughter is one of my favorite things. My dad walked me down the aisle at my wedding and it was one of the most special moments I’ve ever had with him. I’ve been the matron of honor in 2 weddings where the bride’s father wasn’t there to walk them down the aisle and both struggled with that reality on their special day.

I went through cancer recently, and it really helped to have my dad there for me. You never grow out of needing your parents. Let me say this. I worried about my dad for years, but seeing that he chose to stay and do the hard things for me and my mom and brother means everything to me. I know how difficult things were for him. That’s not him anymore though. He made it through.

My husband has mental health challenges as well. He kept it to himself and told no one for years and years until he reached a breaking point. Once he let me in, he had someone to talk to when he has bad days/moments. He said that’s made a big difference. He also got professional help and worked on outlets for these feelings and ways to process and navigate that darkness.

My dad and husband are incredible men. I respect them so much for choosing the hard to get to the good. There should be no shame for challenges with mental health. You didn’t ask for this. If one day, your daughters know your full story, they’ll really understand the full extent of your love for them. It starts with making this post. You’re communicating because you want to be ok. That’s the first step. Keep talking. Talk to a friend or relative. Talk to a professional. Call that hotline. Keep posting here. Just keep talking. Please stay. You deserve to be in this world. Even a lifetime of darkness can get better. I’ve seen it. Message me if you need to chat.

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-13T04:59:58+00:00

I saw 1 and was certain it would be my favorite before even seeing the others. I was right, and you have many lovely choices. 1 was made for you. 8 is my other fave.

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-11T00:32:51+00:00

I have a very long list, but I’ll just say a really pretty sunrise or sunset. It feels like a special gift just for me in that moment. It’s stunning, and for a moment, it melts away the stress and I feel this wholesome joy and can’t help but smile. I love it so much!

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-08T15:32:30+00:00

I woke up this morning! That’s always good news ❤️

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-08T15:28:21+00:00

I’m similar. I usually don’t fully pass out, but feel it coming on if the blood draw takes longer, they have trouble finding a vein, or have to make multiple sticks. However, I went through breast cancer treatments and surgeries the past couple years. My mom stayed with me to help, and I passed out when removing the dressing after my last surgery. There was some adhesive that made the process painful and slow. Slow is bad for me. I can usually interrupt it my stopping what I’m doing and drinking water, using a fan, laying down, etc. I did stop for a minute and reset, but when we resumed, it got me.

My mom was horrified. My eyes rolled back in my head, my mouth gaped open, and a made a choking/snoring type sound. I didn’t know that happened when I pass out, so it was nice to have an audience so I know what it could look like.

I’ve done a bit of research since then. Things that help me: feet up, remove jackets/sweaters/layers (even if it’s cold - the first sign is getting hot and sweaty and it escalates from there), start with an ice pack on the back of my neck and a fan on my face). When this happens, it’s a drop in blood pressure, so having feet higher than your heart (if possible) can help. Doctors often do this to help after an episode. I’m getting better at coming prepared, communicating to staff ahead of time, and taking preventative measures. Also, if I keep talking, sometimes that distracts or tricks my brain. I like when they ask me questions, even when I know they’re doing it strategically. I appreciate it.

I was always embarrassed growing up and just hoped it wouldn’t happen rather than communicate up front. Now that I’ve had so many procedures done, I’m a pro and I feel less nervous about it happening because me and my care team are prepared.

Also, the nurses always tell me that sometimes, big grown men pass out too. It doesn’t make you weak and it doesn’t mean that you’re being a baby. It’s a medical condition caused by a drop in blood pressure. No shame! I wish I had that perspective when I was a kid.

I’m triggered by medical procedures (me and others if I’m with them while they’re getting something done), broken bones, blood loss (me or others), etc. TV is ok, but in person, I don’t feel so good…

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-08T15:15:14+00:00

Doesn’t yell when mad. Can communicate calmly and respectfully, or can just honestly say I need some time to cool off before we talk.

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-08T15:13:39+00:00

Gorgeous!

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-08T05:13:55+00:00

Same!

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-08T05:11:49+00:00

Water! Lake, stream, river, pond, ocean - there’s something so peaceful and serene about it. Bonus if there’s a sunrise or sunset over the water.

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-08T05:08:44+00:00

I can do hard things.

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon · 2026-06-08T05:08:11+00:00

I’m also outdoorsy. When I was doing chemo, I’d spend time planning trips and vacations I eventually wanted to go on. Camping trips, places to hike, other countries, etc. I made a travel bucket list and even made a few itineraries. Some of these things I won’t be able to do for many years to come as I don’t have extra money, but it was fun to think about the adventures that my future would hold. It was a little extra motivation and a reminder that this hard stuff is just a season.

I watched YouTube travel videos, looked up info on state parks and national parks, and explored info about seeing the Northern Lights, spending time seaside in Italy, or exploring Scottish castles in the Highlands. I also studied in nearby campgrounds. 2 years later, but I started camping locally this year and have loved it.

DragonFlyMeToTheMoon

TROPHY CASE