Northern Ireland Outdoors Forum - Hiking, camping and more

General => Meets, places, trips and reviews => Topic started by: Dowser on November 03, 2010

Title: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Dowser on November 03, 2010
(http://i.imgur.com/s0DzJ.jpg)

You can find the location of this camp here:
http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=1514

Please join in the food discussion here
http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=1530.0

Looks like the 4th December is the most popular date.

Attendees
Dowser
Suspectmonkey + Kat
RedLeader + 1
LennyJ1
MatthewRBlack
Chuck
Andy
Chris
Fourman
MikeKeating
Drybag + 1


Please make suggestions below for:

Food
Drink
Games
Decorations

Anything else festive that sounds fun!


Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: suspectmonkey on November 03, 2010
Oh yes, spatch cocked turkey all the way!

Saturday 4th December would be good for me :)
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: RedLeader on November 03, 2010
I'm in, small boy will probably come too. Not sure what date, will ask and duck :)

Who knows any good mulled wine recipes?
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: LennyJ1 on November 03, 2010
I'm in any saturday night really.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: Dowser on November 03, 2010
Saturday the 4th December looks good for me too.  My work do is Friday 10th and our NI-Wild Christmas Market outing is the 11th.  Hair of the Dog that day me thinks!!!  8)
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: Matthew on November 03, 2010
You have far too much free time to make a flyer like that. Congrats though it looks class.


I, of course, am in for a Saturday in the forest.

Matthew
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: ChuckMcB on November 03, 2010
Quote
Saturday the 4th December looks good for me too.
Ditto.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: Scribble on November 03, 2010
I would be up for this what age are the other kids as I would be bringing a 5&6 year old or is this a sneaky ploy to say last minute dearest wifey it's too cold for kids I better go on my own  :-*
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: Dowser on November 03, 2010
I would be up for this what age are the other kids as I would be bringing a 5&6 year old or is this a sneaky ploy to say last minute dearest wifey it's too cold for kids I better go on my own  :-*

I am planning on bringing a 4yr old and a 9yr old weather permitting.  Dry and cold they'll be there... wet and cold I might be there on my own.  You could always bring the wifey too... we're gonna need somebody to cook the turkey and all the trimmings!!!

P.S. if were gonna be splitting the food I bagsy the Chipolatas.  I don't fancy carrying a 32lb Turkey up the hill.  :D
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: Scribble on November 03, 2010
If you can drive a campervan up to camp site and have a flushing loo I might have a chance of getting wife there , I have asked for a holiday so I am def on for this and I will bring the ham and fairy for top off our tree
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: Kat on November 03, 2010
Oh it sounds fabulously festive!  I'll bring some Mince Pies & cream!
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: LandyLiam on November 03, 2010
Quote
If you can drive a campervan up to camp site
could always use the land rover  ::)

December looks like my busiest ever month  :'( i'll be down south weekend of 4th and in England for 2 weeks after that, but the flyer looks great  ;D
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: Dowser on November 04, 2010
If you can drive a campervan up to camp site and have a flushing loo I might have a chance of getting wife there , I have asked for a holiday so I am def on for this and I will bring the ham and fairy for top off our tree

When I told my wife we were going to have a Christmas Camp I think this is how she visualised it:

(http://imgur.com/BxHJS.jpg)

She might be joining us for the first time so she'll get to see what really goes on  :o
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: LennyJ1 on November 04, 2010
I'll bring the cheese and crackers, with a tipple of Port Yummy
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: chris on November 04, 2010
If you can drive a campervan up to camp site and have a flushing loo I might have a chance of getting wife there , I have asked for a holiday so I am def on for this and I will bring the ham and fairy for top off our tree

When I told my wife we were going to have a Christmas Camp I think this is how she visualised it:

She might be joining us for the first time so she'll get to see what really goes on  :o


Best behaviour then! I'll leave the sacrificial robes at home...
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: whoRya on November 04, 2010
The wee buddy in the top right of the flyer is a bit off-putting, I guess he injects a bit of reality into the magic of a Christmas outing.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: RedLeader on November 04, 2010
If I'm not mistaken that's Mr Hanky the Christmas Poo. Naughty, naughty Dowser :)

The wee buddy in the top right of the flyer is a bit off-putting, I guess he injects a bit of reality into the magic of a Christmas outing.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: suspectmonkey on November 04, 2010
I'll bring some Mince Pies & cream!

Oh no Kat... this will be like banoffee all over again ;D

If I'm not mistaken that's Mr Hanky the Christmas Poo.

Hooowdy-ho!
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: LennyJ1 on November 04, 2010
Who's gonna get dressed as santa?
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: Dowser on November 04, 2010
Who's gonna get dressed as santa?

Whoevers got the biggest belly so that we don't have to carry any extra padding up the hill!!!

Could everyone post the measurement round their belly please... Biggest wins, or loses, whatever way you want to look at it  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: Sawyer on November 04, 2010

Could everyone post the measurement round their belly please... Biggest wins, or loses, whatever way you want to look at it  ;D ;D ;D
30 inches! Oh, you said round the belly, not depth of the first roll. Will have to order a new tape and get back to you.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: fourman on November 04, 2010
i ll b there . i dont mind mulling the wine .but im not roasting the turkey . and as for snowballs we ll find out the next morning. :D :D
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: Mike Keating on November 07, 2010
I'd be well up for this and happy to bring some drinks/food - along with 3 lively children, a very manipulative 15 yr old girl and the terrible twins, Jon & Connor, aged 14! They're all lovely - honest!

Any good horror story tellers out there???

Saturday 4th would be fine by me, as would almost any Saturday in December!
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010
Post by: RedLeader on November 07, 2010
Awesome Mike, you're all welcome, as is as much food and drink as you can load on the kids backs :)

I'd be well up for this and happy to bring some drinks/food - along with 3 lively children, a very manipulative 15 yr old girl and the terrible twins, Jon & Connor, aged 14! They're all lovely - honest!

Any good horror story tellers out there???

Saturday 4th would be fine by me, as would almost any Saturday in December!
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: RedLeader on November 09, 2010
So lets start organising this. We need to decide what we want in the way of food/drink, suggestions for festive things to do and we should seriously consider a few Chrimble decorations etc.

I'm assuming we'll want at least want turkey, ham and stuffing + gravy. We could cook the turkey / ham and bring it up and reheat on the grill over the fire. Warm mulled wine will be a must - anyone know any decent recipes? You can buy battery powered LED tree lights from ebay - we could bring some of those along with some tinsel.

If we decide what all we want to bring and then divide it amongst us then we should be able to get a good dose of gear up there.

I'll start a list, everyone just cut'n'paste my list into your own thread and add/edit.

Food:
Turkey
Ham
Stuffing
Gravy

Drink:
Mulled wine

Misc:
Battery powered led Christmas lights
Tinsel
Xmas music + speakers
Something to warm mulled wine in
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: MG1 on November 09, 2010
4 bottles of red wine 1 bottle of Hennessy a few chopped oranges and some cinnamon sticks. 8)
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: suspectmonkey on November 09, 2010
4 bottles of red wine

I was sure that was going to read "4 bottles of tonic wine" ;D
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: MG1 on November 09, 2010
You can't ruin good quality Tonic with Hennessy, believe me i tried it. :D
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Matthew on November 09, 2010
Food:
Turkey
Ham
Stuffing
Gravy

Drink:
Mulled wine

Misc:
Battery powered led Christmas lights
Tinsel
Xmas music + speakers
Something to warm mulled wine in
Christmas pud and custard/brandy sauce
Cranberry Sauce
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: DryBag on November 09, 2010
I'll bring the Christmas tree.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: admin on November 09, 2010
Can everyone who is coming please check that their name is on the list in the initial post (and let us know if it's there but you aren't coming)

(List is here for you lazy people http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=1500.msg13997#msg13997)
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Dowser on November 09, 2010
I'll get the awkward one out of the way... I'm happy to provide the Turkey and Stuffing  :D

Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: fourman on November 09, 2010
i ll bring the crackers (not the ones 4 cheese)looking 4ward 2 seeing Dowser stuff the turkey.In the culinary sense i hope!! ;D
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Mike Keating on November 09, 2010
Yep, still up for this, along with my kids, but can you give me a few details i.e. what time, exactly where in Donard Wood do you RV, etc.
I'll get some tinsel, lights, etc. the kids can help decorate!
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Dowser on November 10, 2010
Yep, still up for this, along with my kids, but can you give me a few details i.e. what time, exactly where in Donard Wood do you RV, etc.
I'll get some tinsel, lights, etc. the kids can help decorate!

Hi Mike

It seems Saturday the 4th December works for most people so that's the date we've settled on.  We usually rendezvous from about 3pm onwards in Donard Wood, but keep an eye on the thread as quite a few of us will probably agree a time to meet in Donard Carpark and head up together.

For those wanting to head up a bit earlier, or later, the campsite details can be found here (http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=1514.0) in the newly created "Routes and Camping Spots" (http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/index.php?board=20.0) section of the site.

This new section of the site is going to be dedicated to recommended routes and campsite spots of the "Hidden Gem" nature.  This will be a members only section so that our treasured locations are not broadcast to the nation  ;)
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Matthew on November 11, 2010
Andy, if you are needing a lift I dont mind getting you guys on the way past

Matthew
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Dowser on November 11, 2010
Andy, if you are needing a lift I dont mind getting you guys on the way past

Matthew

I'll probably hold you to that Matthew...  That would be great.  You do realise your car is gonna smell of pre-cooked turkey and stuffing till mid January  ;D
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: RedLeader on November 11, 2010
Travel might be an issue for me too if I'm bringing the boy.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Matthew on November 11, 2010
Andy, if you are needing a lift I dont mind getting you guys on the way past

Matthew

I'll probably hold you to that Matthew...  That would be great.  You do realise your car is gonna smell of pre-cooked turkey and stuffing till mid January  ;D

We will see about that, big plastic bag and wrap it up, not fancying the Christmas aroma; I will stick to my current clean cotton smell. Much friendlier on the nose.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Mike Keating on November 11, 2010
Sounds good - I'll confirm timings with my small tribe and go get some decorations!
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Scribble on November 12, 2010
I canne make this or at least my kids can't as my mother-in-law has already booked to take them to panto and they won't be home till near 6 :(
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: RedLeader on November 16, 2010
There is a thread for discussion on food/drink for this camp at the link below
http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=1530.0

Since it's an Xmas camp food will be one of the more important considerations so click over and give your thoughts.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: whoRya on November 17, 2010
This trip sounds great.  I would loved to have joined you but alas I will be in my usual lofty weekend perch on the top floor of UUJ from which the Mournes look so close yet so very far :'(

Have a great time everyone.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Timbo on November 17, 2010
I'm in sounds great - love the flyer too nice additiona with Mr Socky! I will bring the chipolatas wrapped in bacon - god I'm starvin now thinking about it
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Dowser on November 29, 2010
Hi-De-Ho Crimbo Campers, We still need some takers for:

Mashed Potato (Smash is Fine)
Roast Potatoes (Pre-cooked and wrapped in tinfoil for heating on the fire, probably best)

Carrots were on the list but as I was typing this I see Chris has just volunteered to do Parsnips that taste like turnip, so we'll ditch the carrots  :P

Potato volunteers reply here: http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=1530.0

 :)
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: suspectmonkey on November 29, 2010
Chris has just volunteered to do Parsnips that taste like turnip

All those Pepperami must have nuked my taste buds :D
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: DryBag on November 30, 2010
http://www.metcheck.com/V40/UK/FREE/dayforecast.asp?zipcode=Newry&day=5

looks like it's going to be a mild one.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: RedLeader on December 02, 2010
Just pondering the weekend, and I don't know if anyone noticed but it's been a bit parky around Northern Ireland these last few days. Forecast is for a low of 0c on Sat night but it could be chillier at altitude.

I'm just thinking we should maybe have some or all of the following:
Axe
Bowsaw (need a big fire for warmth)
Rope (don't want to be sitting on the ground in this weather and the logs we usually use may be gone)
Grill (for cooking on)
Kettle of some sort for the fire for hot drinks for everyone

There's also nearly no moon on Saturday night and clear skies forecast so a few pairs of binoculars might be interesting for a bit of star gazing.

Feel free to add anything else you think individuals would need to have but not have thought of or stuff we could do with as a group.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Dowser on December 02, 2010
Just pondering the weekend, and I don't know if anyone noticed but it's been a bit parky around Northern Ireland these last few days. Forecast is for a low of 0c on Sat night but it could be chillier at altitude.

I'm just thinking we should maybe have some or all of the following:
Axe
Bowsaw (need a big fire for warmth)
Rope (don't want to be sitting on the ground in this weather and the logs we usually use may be gone)
Grill (for cooking on)
Kettle of some sort for the fire for hot drinks for everyone

There's also nearly no moon on Saturday night and clear skies forecast so a few pairs of binoculars might be interesting for a bit of star gazing.

Feel free to add anything else you think individuals would need to have but not have thought of or stuff we could do with as a group.

Smash... Nobodies offered to prepare the mashed potatoes yet   ;)

I'll have my Binoculors with me and Chuck and Timbo will probably have some sort of Kettle/Pot, of a good size, for the mulled wine which could be used later for other hot drinks.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Matthew on December 02, 2010
I have the large Trangia kettle and a 1.7l pot so hot water will not be an issue.

Matthew
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: suspectmonkey on December 02, 2010
I will bring the Smash.  Can't believe no one has offered to bring what is probably the easiest, cheapest, lightest item on the menu ;)  Couple of packets should be okay?  One regular, one cheesey?

I will have my Trangia kettle and pots with me as well.  Going to bring the Honey Stove for some wood burning banter.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Dowser on December 02, 2010
I will bring the Smash.  Can't believe no one has offered to bring what is probably the easiest, cheapest, lightest item on the menu ;)  Couple of packets should be okay?  One regular, one cheesey?

I will have my Trangia kettle and pots with me as well.  Going to bring the Honey Stove for some wood burning banter.

Good for you Suspect... Thanks  :)  I see your down for the gravy and sprouts too.  If your happy to let me do it, I will take the gravy off you.  From experince, the best way to re-heat Turkey (when there is no microwave available) is to have it swimming in a bit pot of the stuff.  I'll also have a lot of run off from cooking the turkey that should make some mighty fine gravy. 

Doing it this way warms the turkey through, without drying it, out so it makes sense that I do it all in the one big pot leaving you to concentrate on the finest sprouts and mash ever produced on the side of a mountain  ;)

Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: RedLeader on December 02, 2010
NI has its coldest November night since 1919. Ooer.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-11898645
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: suspectmonkey on December 02, 2010
I see your down for the gravy and sprouts too.  If your happy to let me do it, I will take the gravy off you.

Makes sense!  To be honest, my gravy skills probably aren't the best anyway ;)
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: RedLeader on December 02, 2010
We're aiming to meet at Donard Car Park at 130pm on Saturday. Sun goes down at 4 so that gives plenty of time to get up and get a fire going

Obviously, anyone coming up later can just meet us at the site.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Matthew on December 02, 2010
Christmas puddings bought and so is the brandy sauce. Only issue is that the puddings take an hour to steam lol.

Matthew


ooh Andrew, you still driving? and if so still good to nab a lift?
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: ChuckMcB on December 02, 2010
I was planing to bring a tonne of firebricks/charcoal bags...save me having to do any of that pesky running about with an axe looking for a dead fallen tree.

Was also planning to bring enough wine to keep the mulled wine brewing/flowing all night...(everyone bring their insulated mugs)...not got a pot/kettle yet tho, but will pick one up the 'morrow (and some sort of pot stand thing to allow it to brew without risk of it being knocked over)

Anyone got a large thermometer? Would be cool (boom boom...sigh) to know the temperature as the night progresses.

Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: RedLeader on December 02, 2010
Sounds awesome. I was also pondering trying to find a small thermometer so we could keep an eye on the temps. Haven't managed to find one small enough yet.

I was planing to bring a tonne of firebricks/charcoal bags...save me having to do any of that pesky running about with an axe looking for a dead fallen tree.

Was also planning to bring enough wine to keep the mulled wine brewing/flowing all night...(everyone bring their insulated mugs)...not got a pot/kettle yet tho, but will pick one up the 'morrow (and some sort of pot stand thing to allow it to brew without risk of it being knocked over)

Anyone got a large thermometer? Would be cool (boom boom...sigh) to know the temperature as the night progresses.


Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Matthew on December 02, 2010
ill see if I can "borrow" one from a science lab tomorrow!
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Dowser on December 02, 2010
Christmas puddings bought and so is the brandy sauce. Only issue is that the puddings take an hour to steam lol.

Matthew

ooh Andrew, you still driving? and if so still good to nab a lift?

The Big Fat Turkey has been defrosting in my fridge since Monday and should be ready to pop in the oven tomorrow, once I've stuff 3lb of Homemade Sage and Onion stuffing up it's backside.

No probs grabbing a lift Matt.  I'll collect you at 11:30am, then we'll go and get Fourman before meeting at Readleaders about 12:00.  Planning to squeeze in a wee McD's on our way down to Newcastle and should be in Donard Carpark about 13:30ish.

Defo try and "Borrow" the thermometer... that's a great idea Chuck.  We could start a competition to see which NI-Wilder has slept a the lowest temperature.  Photographic evidence required!!!

 :D
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Matthew on December 02, 2010
All this talk of food, what is everyone bringing as a backup plan if we end up erm not having the full festive meal.... Ill shout the super noodles.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Dowser on December 02, 2010
All this talk of food, what is everyone bringing as a backup plan if we end up erm not having the full festive meal.... Ill shout the super noodles.

Well, I'm gonna have 12lb of cooked turkey so worst case scenario we stir it into the Super Noodles  ;D
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Matthew on December 02, 2010

(http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-eatdrink023.gif) (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: DryBag on December 03, 2010
just bought the ham, and stuff for smores.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: RedLeader on December 03, 2010
I love a challenge!

Defo try and "Borrow" the thermometer... that's a great idea Chuck.  We could start a competition to see which NI-Wilder has slept a the lowest temperature.  Photographic evidence required!!!

 :D
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Dowser on December 03, 2010
just bought the ham, and stuff for smores.

Nice one.  I have to be honest, I had to Google Smores (http://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Smore) but now that I've seen them... bring em on  ;D
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: DryBag on December 03, 2010
'twas the youngster's suggestion.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: DryBag on December 03, 2010
I have to say that, looking out the window, i'm beginning to have doubts about camping out with a 5 year old.   :-\
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Dowser on December 03, 2010
I have to say that, looking out the window, i'm beginning to have doubts about camping out with a 5 year old.   :-\

I've decided against bringing my wee lad too.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: suspectmonkey on December 03, 2010
Really looking forward to this, reckon I can smell the turkey roasting from here!

Anyone know what the roads are like up Newcastle direction?  Take it the main road from Downpatrick to Newcastle is clear okay?
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: DryBag on December 03, 2010
We might come down for the food and then head home, but how easy is it to find the carpark in the dark?  I've done some pretty hairy night routes in the past, but not with a five year old...

I don't want to disappoint her.  :'(
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: LandyLiam on December 03, 2010
I'm in newcastle now and roads are great down here, there are forest roads down from the road, twice the distance and you'll need a map
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: RedLeader on December 03, 2010
Any thoughts on what Donard Forest might be like?

I'm in newcastle now and roads are great down here, there are forest roads down from the road, twice the distance and you'll need a map
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: LandyLiam on December 03, 2010
I'll be there in 30 mins, if chris ever gets his ass down here :) very windy though, don' think we'll make the summit
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: RedLeader on December 03, 2010
We should have sent you up with a load of stuff to bury for tomorrow :)

I'll be there in 30 mins, if chris ever gets his ass down here :) very windy though, don' think we'll make the summit
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: LandyLiam on December 03, 2010
Hmmmm, buckfast shouldn't freeze, the kids could play "find the buried treasure"
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: suspectmonkey on December 03, 2010
We might come down for the food and then head home, but how easy is it to find the carpark in the dark?

Be a pity not to have you for the overnight camp, although I can understand folk not wanting to wake up with a five year old ice cube in the sleeping bag beside them!

Getting back to the car park in the dark is straight forward enough, decent head torch will see you back down.  Basically just follow the Glen River!

Usually I follow the left hand bank of the river to the first bridge, then cross the bridge and follow the right hand bank of the river.  That will see you most of the way down to the next bridge which you cross and again follow the left hand bank of the river onto a gravel path that takes you to the car park.  If my memory serves me correctly!
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Mike Keating on December 03, 2010
Folks, it looks increasingly like my clan and I are going to be ducking this! The boys have a badminton tournament on Saturday, and we don't know what time they'll finish (depends on how well they do - or badly!), but more significantly the enthusiasm of the boys, and their sister, for spending more than an hour out in the cold at the moment has waned dramatically over the past couple of days! I'm trying a last ditch attempt to turn them around - but don't have much confidence - and I'm not going to force them! Sorry!
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: LandyLiam on December 03, 2010
We just came down in the dark, went through the forest to avoid the slippy rocks, plenty of footprints to follow.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: RedLeader on December 03, 2010
Was there much snow in the forest where we're camping?

We just came down in the dark, went through the forest to avoid the slippy rocks, plenty of footprints to follow.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: chris on December 03, 2010
Was there much snow in the forest where we're camping?

We just came down in the dark, went through the forest to avoid the slippy rocks, plenty of footprints to follow.

I didn't duck in in the dark but on the way up I cast my eye over it, there was some around the edge of the forest but I don't think there would be too much lying in round the trees.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: DryBag on December 04, 2010
Well, that's us leaving now.  We've our walkie talkies with us, but I'm not sure if they're the same setup as the NI-Wild ones.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Scribble on December 04, 2010
Enjoy everyone gutted I'm not going  :( looking forward to the write up when you all get back and thawed out
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Sawyer on December 04, 2010
Looking forward to seeing the photos! Baby sitting so couldn't make it today :-(
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: LandyLiam on December 05, 2010
Was able to pop up for an hour tonight and managed to get the dregs of the "stew"

mightn't look like much but it was DELICIOUS  ;D

Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: suspectmonkey on December 05, 2010
mightn't look like much but it was DELICIOUS  ;D

A lot of effort went into the presentation of that dish Liam ;)  Top marks for popping up in the dark last night, was good to see ya!

Gotta say, that was definitely a Donard Wood classic last night.  Had a hoot around the fire and the food was the best we've had yet!  Massive thank you to the guys who cooked and carried the tricky stuff, Dowser's turkey went down a treat and Drybag's ham was delicious.  Oh, and Chuck's barrel of mulled wine, Chris' "turnips", Jonno's 70 odd chipolatas and Matthew's Christmas pud were all delish :D
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Kat on December 05, 2010
Perfect setting for a Christmas camp this weekend with the snow! 
The decorations were fab, the dinner festive and the craic was great fun!
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: RedLeader on December 06, 2010
I'd agree, probably the best Donard Wood camp yet. Cheers to everyone for mucking in, the food was awesome and great as a reprise at breakfast.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: LennyJ1 on December 06, 2010
Sorry could not come with the port.

Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: DryBag on December 06, 2010
it was a good night - though I was bricking it the whole time thining about taking Drybag Junior back down in the dark.
Thanks to Chuck, Kat and Bo for making that a lot easier.

How cold did it get in the end?  I saw -6 on the way home.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: suspectmonkey on December 06, 2010
How cold did it get in the end?  I saw -6 on the way home.

Well our meteorological expert had his thermometer showing 3 deg. but I reckon either the minus sign was broken or it was reading in Fahrenheit :D

Anyone got any photos yet?  I'm dying to see them!
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Dowser on December 06, 2010
it was a good night - though I was bricking it the whole time thining about taking Drybag Junior back down in the dark.
Thanks to Chuck, Kat and Bo for making that a lot easier.

How cold did it get in the end?  I saw -6 on the way home.

It was great you could join us and the Ham was very very tasty.  We weren't able to get our hands on a thermometer so we can only guess how cold it actually got.  To be honest it could have been -20 for all we know and wouldn't have noticed, thanks to the roaring fire, copious amounts of mulled wine and great company.

Definately one to remember.  I'll pop a few photos up later.  I was soooo tired yesterday I barely got my gear unpacked, never mind uploading my photos.

Thanks to everyone involved for such a great night  :D
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Dowser on December 06, 2010
Here we go... photo time.  I seem to have missed caputuring some of the cracker pulling, food munching, mulled wine sipping action but hopefully Chris our other resident photograper will have caught some of the action.  I can't believe I didn't even take a picture of my plate before getting tucked in... Doh!  Tell you what, I wish I had it sitting in front of me right now  ;)

The Turkey that was devoured on the side of Donard
(http://imgur.com/jWlTq.jpg)


My Hot Water Bottle - 10 Weeks old and glad to have arrived at the Campsite
(http://imgur.com/L64Kx.jpg)


Chris preparing the Spuds
(http://imgur.com/Tln2N.jpg)


Sally finds herself the comfiest spot on the hill and settles down for the night
(http://imgur.com/2s6w4.jpg)


Decorations time
(http://imgur.com/eRD7Z.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/1aBZj.jpg)


My bed for the night, decorated accordingly
(http://imgur.com/STP46.jpg)


Chuck... He was one popular guy on Saturday.  He kept the Mulled Wine flowing all evening
(http://imgur.com/GE0Lu.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/IjOz5.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/wYJGI.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/oB66x.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/Y46x5.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/gLTAM.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/MZqhm.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/VHrKr.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/1AESE.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/lEXia.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/pzrl6.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/1PQwW.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/sOMVW.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/bYhIE.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/Wzbw8.jpg)

Redleader Junior sleeping of his Crimbo dinner
(http://imgur.com/63wBh.jpg)


Nobody went without... Even Sally had a Christmas dinner of her own
(http://imgur.com/lMQKD.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/0qi3q.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/ObVPI.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/BBWPG.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/8BsDs.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/aqd65.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/FIzsh.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/4VNpW.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/kL9uP.jpg)

Landy could smell the Turkey Dinner from Downpatrick and arrived about 9pm with his knife and fork at the ready
(http://imgur.com/t5ocl.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/y50Yn.jpg)

The morning after... Everybody seemed to make it through the night  :D
(http://imgur.com/Sfh1a.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/MMxow.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/wZnif.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/JEmfv.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/iax5q.jpg)

(http://imgur.com/3iWch.jpg)





Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: LennyJ1 on December 06, 2010
Must of not taken a photo of the phone call for the port?
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: chris on December 06, 2010
Must of not taken a photo of the phone call for the port?

There was a distinct lack of port and a cheeseboard, the night was pretty much ruined in my opinion! I may have a few pics of my plate i'll have a look and see how the came out.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Kat on December 06, 2010
Haha!   ;D Love the photos!!
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: suspectmonkey on December 06, 2010
Yep, cheers for posting up the photos!  Gave me a laugh looking at them recalling some of the conversation... ;)
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Matthew on December 06, 2010
Ha ha cheese board. Photos really capture a brilliant night in the hills with mates.

As for conversation all I'll say is


Head torch
      &
Mince pie

Fun times.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: ChuckMcB on December 06, 2010
Couple more snaps:

(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5207/5239259504_2135bd1662.jpg) (http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5047/5238663719_ede465300f.jpg)

(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5008/5239261052_a655919026.jpg) (http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5246/5239261338_50386474da.jpg)

Excellent meal folks, good fun. I'm still a wee bit broken. :)
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: LandyLiam on December 06, 2010
Grrrrrr, I'm stuck in a hotel with only blackberry internet access so I can't see the pics :(

I thought we were never going to mention the mince pie incident again!
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: fourman on December 06, 2010
good food ,good craic,good company, my wife didnt believe that we had a full xmas dinner ,cooked on a log fire,complete with after dinner mints .All that was missing was the inlaws!!
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Matthew on December 07, 2010


I thought we were never going to mention the mince pie incident again!


It was far too funny a conversation not to chat about again, but perhaps not publicly. ::)
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: RedLeader on December 07, 2010
What did I miss!



I thought we were never going to mention the mince pie incident again!


It was far too funny a conversation not to chat about again, but perhaps not publicly. ::)

Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Matthew on December 07, 2010
Check your PM
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: whoRya on December 07, 2010
Looks like a cracking trip.  I did get a little confused as to why Dowser changed his outfit for every other photograph, then it made sense.......Hi Fourman.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Kayakgirl on December 07, 2010
Awk look like you had a ball, I am sorry I didn't go! Ah well there is always next year!!







Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Wolf_Larson on December 11, 2010
Looks amazing !!!  even the dogs look warm and well fed  ;D

Thanks for the pictures.

Regards Wolf
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Tim on December 15, 2010
Looks absolutely class. Uber-jealous of the lot of ya's :/
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: suspectmonkey on December 15, 2010
Looks absolutely class. Uber-jealous of the lot of ya's :/

When do you get back Tim?
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Tim on December 15, 2010
Saturday I hope, although my passport went through the washing machine so I'm not entirely sure whether or not the nasty ryanair people will let me on the plane, in which case I have to go to the embassy and pay £150 for an emergency passport and try and book a flight for Tuesday, so fingers crossed.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: suspectmonkey on December 16, 2010
Saturday I hope, although my passport went through the washing machine so I'm not entirely sure whether or not the nasty ryanair people will let me on the plane, in which case I have to go to the embassy and pay £150 for an emergency passport and try and book a flight for Tuesday, so fingers crossed.

Its alright, sure Ryanair are renowned for their customer service and generosity, I'm sure they will be very helpful especially considering its Christmas ::) ;)

Hopefully you can make it out sometime over Christmas week for a welcome back jaunt in the Mournes then!
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: RedLeader on December 16, 2010
When it comes to dealing with Ryanair it's best to assume that they'll charge you for something extra. Always. They're pretty scummy.

Saturday I hope, although my passport went through the washing machine so I'm not entirely sure whether or not the nasty ryanair people will let me on the plane, in which case I have to go to the embassy and pay £150 for an emergency passport and try and book a flight for Tuesday, so fingers crossed.
Title: Re: Family Christmas Camp 2010 - 4th Dec
Post by: Tim on December 16, 2010
Its alright, sure Ryanair are renowned for their customer service and generosity, I'm sure they will be very helpful especially considering its Christmas ::) ;)

Yes... I'm bricking it. As long as I can make it onto the flight I'll be grand, would be easier to sort out any difficulties once I make it to Dublin.

When it comes to dealing with Ryanair it's best to assume that they'll charge you for something extra. Always. They're pretty scummy.

Ye if they don't let me on the flight I don't think I'll be able to get a refund and I'll still have to book another flight. This is all assuming that they don't perform some sort of blanket cancellation on all flights because of the snow under their "exceptional circumstances" excuse (Snow in winter?? By jove, I did not see that one coming), in which case they get everyones money and their customers get screwed over.