Sue Girard, a 69-year-old former teacher affectionately known as “MadGrani” by her grandchildren, is embracing a unique Christmas tradition this year. Instead of the usual family gathering, she’ll be spending Christmas Day camping in her renovated van, Mogwai, accompanied by her three rescue dogs, Elsie, Gwladys, and Teddy. This unconventional celebration follows a large family holiday to Turkey earlier in the year, which prompted Sue to seek a new and different Christmas experience. Choosing a riverside campsite nestled on the edge of the Breacon Beacons National Park, booked through Pitch Up, Sue is looking forward to a peaceful and adventurous Christmas Day.
The campsite, complete with a nearby pub and within driving distance of Hay-On-Wye, offers the perfect blend of rural tranquility and potential indoor entertainment should the weather turn unfavorable. The campsite owners, aware of Sue’s solo Christmas plan, have assured her of a welcoming atmosphere, further enhancing the appeal of this unconventional festive break. Equipped with board games and a festive spirit, Sue envisions a cozy Christmas filled with simple pleasures and the joy of escaping the traditional holiday hustle.
Sue’s Christmas Day itinerary begins with a refreshing walk with her dogs, followed by a Hanukkah breakfast of Buck’s Fizz and smoked salmon bagels. After exchanging presents and enjoying a large mug of coffee, she plans to indulge in a traditional Christmas dinner at the pub. The afternoon will likely be spent relaxing with a few beers, creating a laid-back and merry atmosphere. While she plans to connect with her five children, including one son residing in Melbourne, through video calls, Sue intends to have a media-free Christmas, disconnecting from the television and embracing the tranquility of her surroundings.
This minimalist Christmas experience also comes with a significant financial advantage. Sue’s camping trip promises to be considerably cheaper than a traditional Christmas celebration at home, further solidifying her decision to embrace this unconventional approach. This shift in perspective reflects Sue’s desire for new experiences and a departure from the routine of past Christmases. At 69, she prioritizes creating memories and embracing the freedom to choose how she celebrates the holidays, demonstrating that Christmas can be as much about personal fulfillment as it is about tradition.
Sue’s story also highlights valuable camping tips from experienced campers, offering insights for those considering outdoor adventures. David Scotland, owner of Outdoor World Direct, emphasizes the importance of checking tent condition before embarking on a trip. He recommends setting up the tent a couple of weeks in advance to identify and address any potential damage, preventing unwelcome surprises upon arrival at the campsite. Choosing the right spot to pitch a tent is crucial, and Scotland advises testing the ground with pegs beforehand to ensure suitable softness and stability.
Furthermore, he cautions against napping inside a tent during hot weather, as this can lead to heatstroke. Finding shade or a well-ventilated area is a safer alternative for resting during the day’s heat. These tips, while seemingly simple, can significantly impact the overall camping experience, ensuring safety and comfort throughout the trip. Sue’s adventurous Christmas camping trip serves as an inspiring example of how embracing unconventional approaches can lead to fulfilling and memorable experiences, while also providing a practical backdrop for essential camping advice. Her decision to prioritize personal fulfillment and explore new horizons resonates with the spirit of adventure and the pursuit of unique experiences.
