345: Our Glamping Adventure

Jesse and I welcome you this week as we reflect on our recent glamping trip, an anniversary trip that Jesse had secretly planned and that nearly didn’t happen! Hear all about how, after finally figuring out childcare for the kids, we were ready to leave when everything unraveled all at once: sore throats, emergency doctor appointments, positive strep tests, and even an unexpected COVID diagnosis.We suddenly found ourselves trying to decide whether to cancel a trip we had been looking forward to for months while also making sure everyone at home would be okay. Thankfully, the Airbnb hosts were unbelievably kind and let us reschedule which turned out to be the best thing that could’ve happened!What waited for us a few months later was truly one of the most unique places I have ever stayed. Jesse booked this incredible glamping dome tucked into the Tennessee hills overlooking Center Hill Lake, and the entire place felt almost unreal, with clear curved walls open to the sky, decks hanging over the hillside, a hot tub in the middle of nature, and a shower that somehow made me feel like I was outside while still enjoying modern comforts.Listen in as we talk about the hilariously overheated first hour after arriving, the clever sprinkler system that cooled the dome down, and why we immediately understood why people become obsessed with glamping. We also share the quieter parts of the trip that ended up meaning the most: playing Scrabble, watching the sunrise over the water, hiking down to the lake, sitting around the fire with nowhere else to be, and realizing how rare it is to experience true quiet. There was no packed itinerary, no distractions - just space to talk, laugh, process life, and reconnect after years of constant responsibilities.Also, because apparently every memorable trip needs at least one disaster, we also tell the story of how Jesse managed to put a massive scrape down the side of my car while leaving the property, something that I will probably reference forever considering my long history of being the one who usually hits things. Enjoy our conversation all about this truly unforgettable trip, and, as always, please feel free to reach out! Maybe you have your own glamping story to share?In This Episode[0:36] - Jesse and I are finally sharing the story of our recent glamping trip![2:53] - Unsure whether to cancel or not with kids being sick, we debated traveling while juggling sick kids and mysterious packing instructions.[4:49] - Hear how, after rescheduling, I was amazed by the surreal glamping dome overlooking the Tennessee hillside![7:31] - Hear about how our unique glamping dome offered stunning lake views, outdoor luxury, and an unexpectedly hot interior.[9:51] - Jesse shares having discovered the dome’s greenhouse-like heat required sprinklers and repairs to cool the interior.[11:16] - Once the high temperatures dropped, we fully embraced the peaceful hot tub retreat and unplugged outdoor atmosphere.[13:38] - Hear how, between stargazing, Scrabble, and luxurious showers, we officially became devoted glamping fans![16:35] - Surrounded by silence and nature, we reconnected without distractions and embraced the slower pace.[18:51] - I share how our peaceful getaway ended abruptly when Jesse scraped the car pulling out of the property.[21:04] - Despite my dented car, the relaxing overnight escape still felt restorative and memorable.[23:19] - Jesse and I reflect on our restorative glamping getaway and invite listeners to share future trip recommendations!Links &amp; ResourcesCrystal PaineSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group<a href="mailto:crystal@moneysavingmom.com