Today was the last full day of Camp Carpe Diem. We took it easy in the morning and caught up on some work. Also, Peggy had to let her aching muscles rest.

Your own adventure

The plan was to take your own adventure today. Well, we had so much adventure the past couple days and I was really ready for a day off from so much physical activity. The most exercise I got in the morning was taking the trash to the dumpster. In my defense, that trip took 10 minutes because the dumpster is far away.

We had thought of running to town for a little shopping and filling the gas tank, but we didn’t even get that far!

RV Tour

In the afternoon we all gathered for a tour of the RVs that were open to the idea. This group has one of everything. We saw Class C, Class A, fifth wheel, Class B van, and teardrop styles, in addition to opening up our travel trailer.

While Tony showed off the solar and lithium system from ABC Upfitters, I pointed out some of our favorite gadgets and mods. I showed the easy-velcro sheets in the RV SuperBag, and the Geyser shower system.

Wait, we’re having beer?

Next up was a beer share. Each of us brought a hometown favorite to share with the rest. We brought 7K IPA from Santa Fe Brewing, and bourbon barrel stout from Anderson Valley Brewing Company. One couple brought an icy sort of pina colada called a “pain killer” that I liked quite a bit. And since I had some of that rum drink, I figured I better not mix in too much else. I did have a taste of a peach cider.

Tony tried a lot of beers. His favorite, even though it’s one we brought, was the bourbon barrel stout. We sat at a table with some other couples and had a nice time visiting and getting to know our new friends.

Catered dinner

Our hosts arranged for BBQ dinner to be brought in for us. They put out a great spread with BBQ pork and brisket, and lots of side dishes. It was very tasty.

Great friends and great tunes

After dinner, our new friends The Status Crowes took to the stage and entertained us for a couple of hours. They sound really outstanding, and they played so many songs that we know and love. Tony and I even did the electric slide when they played “Pretty Woman” and “Brown Eyed Girl.” And ALL the ladies joined to gather on the dance floor for "These Boots are Made for Walking.” Michelle and Chuck even played “Pencil Thin Mustache,” which we don’t hear much outside of a Jimmy Buffet concert.

And then: dessert

CCD friends Sue and Les brought supplies for a special dessert: Waddinger sticks, also known in some circles as Woofums or Wolf’ems because once cooked, you wolf ‘em up. Les made their sticks, out of wood and golf clubs. So clever! They oiled up the sticks, showed the first group how to make their own dessert, and we got to cooking. Yes, I am aware of what they look like in photos. Yes, many jokes were made and many silly, adult-ish photos were taken.

What the heck is a Waddinger?

As I said, Les made the sticks. Here is a link to purchase a wooden stick on Amazon. Here is a link to purchase a stainless steel stick on Amazon. You take biscuit dough and wrap it around the end of the dowel, stretching it so it’s thin. The two reasons for that are: you want it to cook quickly over the fire, and you want the largest cup possible for filling. After cooking the biscuit over the campfire, you (wait a minute because they are hot, then) remove the cup from the dowel, and fill it with - well, whatever you want really. I’ve mostly seen pie filling and pudding as the most common fillings. And of course, top with whipped cream!

Last Sleep at Camp Carpe Diem 2024

Tonight is our last night here. Tomorrow we will be moving on, though this gathering will live in our happy memories. We’ve had fun and made friends and we hope to attend the next Camp Carpe Diem next year!