At thirteen weeks old, my son River enjoyed his first ever camping trip! Every May, my partner and I head up to the Cowichan River to get away for a few days and sleep in our tent. Spring in the Cowichan Valley is pure magic. Migrating birds are abound and wild flowers are in full bloom. I look forward to this trip every year, but THIS year, I was even more excited because River would have his inaugural tent sleep.

How did the little guy do, you ask?! Amazingly! Sleeping under the stars runs in his blood 🙂 All the fresh air did him well. Those big curious eyes of his were constantly moving around, taking in all his surroundings. I love watching River observe his world… I try to think what it must be like from his perspective- seeing, hearing, and sensing so many things for the very first time.

We live in the city, so River is used to the ambushing noises of traffic, construction, and noisy passersby. He’s a pretty calm and mellow baby, but, as nature does for many of us, I felt even from River a sense of exhaltation and relief from being in a quiet green space. Those piercing city noises were replaced by whimsical bird song, the rushing sound of the river, and leaves blowing softly in the wind. River’s been to many parks and green spaces in the city, but nothing compares to a real forest. Trees upon trees and their unique patterns against the clear blue sky is mesmerizing to the average eye… I can’t imagine what it would do to the visual senses for a baby like River, seeing it for the very first time. This was also the first time River took in the smell of wood burning in a campfire. To me, that is a comforting, nostalgic provoking scent… hopefully it becomes the same for River as we continue with these camping trips.

This was a really special few days for our family. It marked the beginning of many camping trips to come with our sweet son River. If any other families out there have a passion for camping, and would like a piece of their trip photographed, please get in touch! I would LOVE to document your littles in this natural environment for a YYJ Camping Family Photography Session.