There are a few aspects of work camping that bring a hurdle, one being your location during the holidays. Thanksgiving, Hanukah, Christmas or New Years are key times when families gather. But when work camping you won’t be able to be there.  How do we keep a semblance of holiday normality?  

  • Family contact.  One word, Skype.  This free utility brings us a videophone, right on our computer. We have used this to watch our grandkids open Christmas presents for awhile now.  Even before we were full-timing, we lived at a distance, so this has been a real boon.  
  • Pictures. What grandparent among us doesn’t want a new picture?  This goes in both directions, so take pictures of where you are and send them to the kids with a map of the U.S.A. When they receive the pictures they can post them on the map!
  • Facebook.  Another way to stay in contact and easier than Skype, especially for a more constant contact.  This is a very easy way to share video and pictures.  Privacy is easier than you hear about, just set it to family only.

The celebration of the holidays is the easiest of all that goes on.  You will find friends that act as family – or Framily, a phrased coined by an online friend – will organize a holiday feast. The workplace may often host a dinner or party for employees.  Typically, they will supply the main course and everyone brings a dish to share.  In the reply section, post your side dish, here is one we are known for: 

  • Mashed Turnips.  2 turnips, peel, cube and boil.  When done, mash in a bowl with 1 stick of butter and 2 tbsp of sugar.  We like them a little lumpy, if you want them smooth use a mixer.  Nice and easy to keep warm in your crock pot.  This is one to win over the turnip haters!

This brings us to decorating.  We bought a small 30” tree and some small ornaments. Only one string of lights will make it shine and it will fit right on the dashboard of our motorhome.  All in all, this keeps a festive holiday scene.  Afterward, everything easily packs away.  And if the tree is an issue, we could toss it and only be out a couple dollars.  

In conclusion, being with family for the holidays is the best.  But when you can’t, don’t let it get you down, just add some decoration, get together with framily and share your favorite dish.

Tell us how you celebrate, decorate or share a side dish in the comments section below. Read other work camping articles here.