Secular Co-op Road Trip

H.O.P. Home School Co-op

Total we spend the day at a Home School Co-op. That's what its called. It isn't anything like how I pictured school co-operatives 13 years ago when I first read about them. I pictured 4 families getting together. Three parents would stay and one parent would have that time off or something like that. In the area that I live, there are many home school co-ops. Most are based on common religions. Those families keep their children out of the school system to reinforce their beliefs. We are secular home educators. I drive all over the place. Every other Tuesday I drive an hour for Camp Fire USA. Then twice more I drive an hour to two different secular co-ops.

Wish You Were Here!

With all that driving you would think that I would be tired of driving but I have found myself lately day-dreaming of my next road trip. I have to admit I was going to try to sneak in a trip to the snow this winter. Apparently there will be no winter so that may have to wait. My daughter wants to go camping again in the Florida Keys. We went early last summer. I really wish I had sent a post card that said "Drove through the night Thursday night with the kids fighting the whole way. Friday morning, it was so hot that I thought I was going to pass out as I set up the tent. Friday night, the seam in our air mattress broke and quickly left us sleeping on the ground. Saturday morning, I got stung by a wasp on my leg. Saturday afternoon I brushed my back and arms against Fire Coral as I was snorkeling. Then Sunday morning it started to rain as we were packing.
Having a great time wish you were here."

Our Camping List

Your usage may vary. We are tent camping and this is list I use to gather and pack for our trip. I also check it as we pack the car to make sure some item didn't get left behind in the house!

Tarp, ground cloth
Tent
Stakes
Mallot
Air matress
Sleeping bags
Pillows
Flashlights, Lantern & related supplies
mess kit

Clothes
Plastic bag for wet, dirty clothes
Toiletry articles - soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shower shoes, washcloth, towel, etc.
Camp Fire Vest with Uniform or red, white, and blue clothing to wear during ceremonial
2 pairs comfortable shoes – tennis shoes are perfect - absolutely no open-toe or backless shoes
Raincoat or poncho - no umbrellas, please

Sit-upon or folding chair- to use when sitting on the wet, dirty ground
Quiet time activity - books, cards, a toy or two
Sunscreen and insect repellent
First aid kit for the trip
Firewood, shovel, bucket, charcoal (optional)
Camp chairs and table (optional)
Supplies for special activities you want to do
Food - food, plates, utensils, drinks, ice, ice chest, & any needed supplies

ALSO:
first aid kit
ice? water
chair
rope tarps
tent
matches