We are the Bests, a recently retired, midwestern couple that loves to see what the outdoors has to offer all across the country. Wherever we stop, whether it is for one night or many, we seek out things to experience that are unique to the area. We want to share some of our experiences with those of you that like to explore and take the time to regenerate the soul by soaking it all in. This is truly an exercise in appreciating the simple things in life and we think the world would be a better place if more people did the same.
You know those websites that offer information about something you are interested in and then after scrolling through pages and pages of fluff, they finally get to the point? Ya, that’s not us. Our articles will be short and to the point of what we experienced and can offer. We know that you are sharp enough to search farther if you want more information!
Camping
Years ago, we started like many others with a tent, camp stove, lantern, and coolers and enjoyed the outdoors. And then after a stormy night that resulted in a split tent, soaked bedding, and no sleep, one of us decided there would be no more camping without hard walls and a roof over our head. We now “rough it” in a 5th wheel camper with most of the amenities of home. We still have the camp stove, lanterns, and coolers and enjoy cooking with the old equipment from time to time. Some meals just seem to taste better when cooked and devoured al fresco, especially breakfast!
We try to patronize state and national parks as much as possible. It is not that we don’t like staying in private campgrounds – we do – but we want to support the conservation efforts of these entities to give the public access to the amazing landscapes across our country for generations to come. Our reviews are honest and try to give our readers some ideas on things to do at the site and in nearby communities or locations. We often include links to the park and campground information so others can do their research before visiting themselves.
Exploring
We don’t take ourselves too seriously, so everything that we share is raw truth and more simple than flowery. We are just wandering, enjoying the great outdoors, and sharing our experiences with others. Most of our activities are low impact and require moderate exertion, at best. There are locations that draw huge crowds, because of their beauty, and others that are spectacular and relatively unknown. A national park is a location as “touristy” as you will find us visiting. Many times, we will “do it while we have the chance”, because we many never have the chance to return. We rarely regret these impulse adventures. When possible, links to additional information is included in our post.
Eating
Our recipes are tried and true and we look for ways to make delicious “home cooked” meals while on the road. Many of our recipes include items that can be prepared ahead, when you actually have the time, and used to quickly throw something together when you are tired from the day’s activities. While we may suggest a particular piece of equipment to use, the majority of our ideas can be prepared with other methods, including a campfire, if you so choose. Feel free to adjust our recipes and share your ideas with us!
Photo Gallery
All of the photos that you see on our blog were taken by us using an iPhone. Would it be easier and more impressive to use professional cameras and photos from other photographers? Probably, but you see what we see and trust us when we say, “it is much more beautiful and interesting than we could ever capture in a photo”. There are times that we are so immersed in the location or activity that we forget to snap a photo, but we do our best to give everyone a taste of what the experience was like for us. As rough as they are, keep in mind that the photos are ours, so please don’t use them without our permission.
Seasonings
Seasonings elevate the average to excellent. Within each blog entry, we will try to offer some thoughts that come with being a bit more “seasoned” than the majority of the population. Whether it be general observations or words of wisdom from us or others, it does the soul good to add a little seasoning and focus on the simple pleasures in life.
Best Tips & Brain Cramps
Anytime that we run into a bind or screw something up, we try to learn a lesson on how to do it differently the next time. So, our tips are not overly complicated or dependent upon more and more equipment; they are useful ways of doing the simple things even simpler. Many of these ideas, we have picked up from friends that camp, as well. If you have any simple tips, please feel free to make suggestions along the way!