I feel like I have been planning this weekend for months, years even. Perhaps it's because I have been craving some solitude, for so long. Time just for myself, where I don't have to be responsible for anyone only me.
Three whole days in the wilderness, high up in the mountains with me, myself and I, plus Freya my canine companion.
I pack my backpack, inside are two changes of clothes, my travel hammock, a sleeping bag, mosquito net, my bottle water filter and enough food to last me the weekend. I contemplated bringing a stove, but in the end decided to go raw for the weekend.
It's still so dry round these parts, so any type of fire can pose a risk. Plus I am looking forward, to the moon being the only light I have at night. It is a full moon after all. The perfect time to be sleeping out in the wild.
I pack my head torch and multi tool, some rope and a lightweight tarp, which I can use to shelter me from the rain and sun. Freya has her own pack, which is strapped onto her back, which is carrying her food and a blanket that she will sleep on.
We set off early morning, my kids are being well cared for and if an emergency arises they know where to find me. But I really don't give that matter much thought, as all with be fine with my girls.
We reach the GR 7 (a walking path over the mountains) in just under 3 hours. It has been a bit of a steep climb at times, my lungs have certainly been put to work, but I feel so good. Sure my legs are a little achy and tired, but it is so worth it.
It's just me and my canine pal, walking higher and higher up the mountain. The air is so fresh and the view all around are breathtaking. After a quick stop for lunch, we set off again. It will take another 3 hours until we reach our destination.
The place, where we will camp at for the next two nights. Close to a stream, where there is a small cluster of tree's, where I can hang my hammock.
We reach there and set up, well there is not really much to set up, so we claim our spot. With the hammock up, the food bag hanging from a tree and blanket laid out for Freya, I walk to the stream to wash myself.
I reach there, the sound of the water, enticing me to take off my hiking sandals, so that my bare feet can be caressed. I step in, surrounded by mountains, blue sky above me and sacred water cleansing me.
I take a deep breath and close my eyes. I am here, away from it all. High up in the wilderness. The only sounds, are those from the breeze blowing through the trees, the birdsong and the sound of the stream, flowing over my feet.
This, this right here, is what I have longed for.
Completely unplugged from my life. With time to do the things, that I want to do. To write, to rest, to dream. To forage some greens for my lunch and dinner and to go locate those cherry trees that I know are not too far from here.
I mean, what else could I possibly need. I have some paper and pencils with me, so that I can write, when I feel inspired to do so. My small bodhran, so that I can drum out a beat and my voice so that I can sing to my surroundings.
After my dinner of avocado, wild greens and tahini, I climb into my hammock, so that I can sleep under the night sky. The sun has set and I am so exhausted and content. I can't wait to awake with the rising sun and do whatever comes to mind.
It doesn't take long, for me to drift off and I sleep right through the night. When I awake, I feel so refreshed. Climbing out of my hammock, I walk out into the clearing and there I greet the sun.
I do a few stretches, to help wake up every part of my body and then I head to the stream, where I wash my face and fill up my water bottle. With Freya by my side, I go pick my breakfast from the cherry trees that lie to the west. This will be the pace of my life, for the next two days. And I couldn't be happier.
This is my entry, into the latest Weekend Engagement Challenge, where I chose to write about a no Device Weekend. A weekend that I can't wait to make happen.
Not bad woman!!!! I wish I had the guts! Daytimes would work very nicely for me out there, even without a dog, but the nights? Not even a dog would be enough for me to sleep. I am happy for you that you know this kind of peace when so deeply in nature.
Hey @owasco, I just feel safe there to be honest, my pain has all come from humans really, nature has always been my sanctuary. Sending you love xxxx
This is peaceful and refreshing
That calmness you enjoy is necessary
Thank you @ijohnsen xxxx
I must say you are a very brave woman haha I would be very scared to be outdoors alone and camping. I don't doubt it would be a wonderful experience but it would scare me so I applaud your bravery and at least you had Freya's company.
It's definitely a moment of disconnection that we often need.
Freya is the best company, I would rather camp in the wilderness than in the middle of a city, I feel much safer. Thanks @rlathulerie xxx
Wooww,,,two days of being in the forest looks very pleasant,the drought-soaked forest makes the grass and trees look a little wilted.
I hope it rains there soon.
Yes rain would be very welcome, we have had a little, but not near enough xxx
While reading through your post, it felt like the dream and desire of my life was taking a beautiful shape through the flow of words :') I have to say, you really are a strong and brave person. It takes courage to go out in the wild and spend the night under the stars, although I am assuming Freya to be an wonderful companion. :'))
You are living my dream life man, I wish one day your present reality become my reality too. :'))
And yes Freya is a wonderful companion xxxAh thank you for your beautiful feedback @sarashew. You can make anything happen.
As much as I personally hate the question -- aren't you scared? Though I imagine it's a matter of experience, as with anything. To someone with almost no camping experience like myself, it's just "what if something happens that I'm not prepared for"...but I'm guessing things are a little idifferent on your end?
Anyway, it sounds like you had a super peaceful weekend!
This weekend has yet to happen, although I have already slept alone in nature. I would be more scared to sleep out in the city. And when are we really ever prepared, life is so unpredictable. I just trust, really. Thanks @honeydue xxx
I must've misread, I apologize. With that, I agree. Sleeping in the city seems way scarier. But you make a very strong point, you can never be truly prepared. Thanks for reminding me of that <3
looks beautiful there!
Thank you @shaunf, it is xxx
Three days in the wilderness; very cool!
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Thanks Nature Lovers xxxx