On a recent vacation, we stayed in a cabin near by the place my husband (and 3 of my 4 children) go on occasion in the Upper Peninsula. My husband rented this cabin because he knew that in order to get me up there I was going to “need” running water and a kitchen. The cabin was modest, but had what I needed and slept all 6 of us.

 

I was surprised at how well my children could adapt. The meals were modest. We often ate the same things over and over. It was the same activities over and over. It was all 6 of us together over and over. They had fun. They were such good travelers. Better than me.

 

During the day, we went to a property that my husband and his family own. It has been in the family for years. He has been going up since his childhood. There is no electricity, no running water, and an outdoor toilet. My kids hit the property running. They love it there. I went, packed lunch, put on my winter clothes (it snowed 6-8 inches while we were there) and used the potty outside.

 

I have resisted this trip for a many years. The car ride is long. The accommodations are rustic. I just kept telling myself to relax and enjoy it. I can do anything for a week. And I did. I am glad I did. It isn’t as bad as I thought it would be. My husband made the compromise to get me the cabin. It did work better for Kid 2 and I.

 

This trip made me realize, I am genuinely afraid of being uncomfortable. My kids can be comfortable any where. We will be planning another trip or two up there this year. I will channel my inner Ma Ingalls and begin to like (maybe even love) this as much as the rest of my family does. I don’t step out of my box often, but This Mom needs to do what her family loves.