Admittedly, as I child I created certain “challenges” for my well-meaning parents.  And, although I’ve tried to block out most of the memories of me being “challenging” in my own mind, I do have some vivid recollections of bad behavior out in the middle of nowhere.  Yes, you know—camping somewhere, where as child seemed like nowhere. A place with no potties, no city water and no limit on bug bites. 

But, as I’ve (now) grown into a well-meaning parent, I’ve come to recognize the true value of teaching kids about nowhere.  And, that camping is the best way to find it—which is why I think Oprah should “get into camping.”  Entire shows and magazine articles could be devoted to “going outside,” tick removal, having fun with each other, knowing how to spot a wild animal.  You know, O, things we can’t learn by going downtown Chicago.  I, personally, have very “fond” memories of the unforgettable feeling of a giant wood tick stuck in my head. . . and, the smell of burning hair upon my mom “unleashing it” with a hot match. 

But, really.  Kids (and parents) need to know more about making due these days . . . survival.  Camping teaches kids something that I think is much needed—learning the importance of working hard.  Camping requires participants to reach inside themselves little further, do a little bit more to get to the end goal.  You have to make some effort to get your reward.  Hotel living is nice, but there are big lessons to be learned out there under the stars, un-showered and un-shaven (in, my case – legs!). 

Even with the price of gas, camping can be inexpensive.  It can even be done in the comfort of your own backyard.  If you have not camped before, or on a tight budget—start there. . .somewhere in your backyard.  Spray yourself with some good bug spray and throw a sleeping bag out under the maple tree.   If you are lucky enough to own a tent, even better.  You can almost always pick-up good, cheap camping equipment at your local thrift store—you know from people who have either upgraded or. . . given up. 

If you do decide to venture out beyond your neighborhood, there are some good resources for you (and, guest options for O).  Of course, you can always start with my personal favorite—for any subject—“The Complete Idiots Guide” books.  In this case, pick up “Complete Idiot’s Guide To Camping and Hiking” by Michael Mouland.  I am also a big REI fan.  They have stores in almost every state and offer many outdoor classes, along with employees who usually know what they are doing. You can also visit their website at www.rei.com where there is an “expert advice” tab with lots of good information.

I’d also recommend Bill Bryson, a travel writer who has discovered the back trail with his “A Walk in the Woods” book.  If nothing else, this memoir is proof positive that the journey is the destination. It’s hilarious and a good way to put you in the mood for a camping trip.

So, get yourself motivated – it’s your duty.  Our future will be better for it.  O see the woods, O see the world!  

I am a local radio book reviewer and I have to admit that everything Oprah recommends, I for some reason love.  We MUST have the same taste in books, so that is why I am certain that she should get to know one of my favorite writers  - Susan Reinhardt.  Susan is a humor writer and she just released her latest – and VERY FUNNY – book, Dishing With the Kitchen Virgin.  Oprah does a decent job of incorporating humor into her show, but if she engaged Susan for a show – we’d all be whizzing our panties (which you can check out if you buy her new book - her panties are on the cover).  Not only is her book hilarious, but she has a fascinating life story. 

I met Susan on a yellow school bus at couple of years ago when I was attending the Erma Bombeck Humor Writers’ Workshop at the University of Dayton.  It was just the two of us shuttling over for the workshop’s Sunday luncheon (I’d overslept as usual) and I instantly recognized her because I’d read her first book, Not Tonight Honey.  I tried not to stare at her, because Susan is a bestselling author and I didn’t want to appear to be some kind of humor groupie (or whatever you call “wanna be funny people”).

Susan instantly began chatting ME up and I’d have to admit I was a bit stunned.  She was slated to be the keynote speaker at the luncheon and was a bit stressed out because she hadn’t written a word of her speech. . .that she was to deliver in 45 minutes.   She was clutching a folded up piece of some kind of paper that was unrecognizable because she’d sweated it into a glob.   And, she was trying to scribble things on it with a red pen all while telling me about different types of calming medications she wished she had at that moment.   

As a public relations professional who often writes and prepares influential people for speeches – I was speechless.  I had to do everything I could to not burst out laughing.  But as I quickly learned, that is Susan – funny even under extreme duress.  Which is why her books, speeches and weekly syndicated columns are so brilliant.   As with most great humor writers, Susan is UNIQUELY herself. 

Susan’s speech at the luncheon (of course) was hilarious.  She had everyone attending the conference held on the campus of the private, conservative Catholic University rolling on the floor about her boobies, her va-gee-gee and doggie sex organ surgery.   It was amazing.

I received my autographed copy of Dishing With the Kitchen Virgin in the mail yesterday and stayed up all night reading.  I’m not going to review the book on the blog, but let you experience it yourself.  But, I will say I think it is her best book yet.  Copies can be purchased at your local book store – I found the book online at Borders, Amazon and Barnes & Noble.   Check out her weekly syndicated column or read more about Susan at www.susanreinhardt.com.

If you have questions for Susan, please feel free to post them (as comments) on this site.  Susan is following this blog and I know she’d be excited to hear from you – even if you aren’t Oprah!