Good morning 👋
What do monks, parrots and s’mores have in common?
Well, that’s exactly what we’re going to be taking a look at in today’s blog, as we look back on some of the things that I got up to while camping in the South Downs last weekend.
Hello and Welcome to Sweeney’s Blogs!
Last weekend, 25 of us from the Undefinable Community (UC) travelled over to Wild Combe Camping, a campsite we have used annually for the last four years now, for our 2026 Summer retreat ☀️
For a little overview for those who aren’t familiar with the UC, we’re a group of like-minded people who believe that we, as people, are more than conventional labels. For example, I’m not only somebody who works in humour-based marketing, I love mentoring, travelling, blogging, going to see shows live and so much more.
The group is focused around creating intimate spaces where people can genuinely connect – sharing their stories in a judgement-free zone that’s focused on growth, development and a real understanding as to what’s shaped us into who we are as people.
We run a load of different activities as a community, with one of our core ones being quarterly retreats. These are weekends where a load of us travel somewhere different, catch up, do a load of fun activites and generally enjoy each other’s company.
Anyways, this trip was focused around our shared value of “Seriously Silly”, which we define as being able to discuss the topics that matter, but not being afraid to laugh along the way.
So, what were some of my highlights this time around?
🔥 Campfire chats, games and all-around craziness were just the chilled and wholesome time that we all needed – throw in some marshmallows, and you can’t help asking for s’more
(You know I couldn’t resist making that joke- stop judging 😂)
🚶♂️ Going on a lovely hike around the local areas, bumping into horses, doing challenges (one of which the loser had to dress up as a parrot), and making the most of some time in nature, appreciating the beautiful views and houses
🧺 Making up a musical about a washing machine wasn’t on my bingo card for 2026, but it was a load of fun
(If you need anyone to make some random musicals up on the spot, you know whom to call 😉)
🧘♂️ Having a group Q&A with a practising monk at the nearby Chithurst Buddhist Monastery was an experience I never thought I’d have, but it was so insightful and calming. A convo I won’t forget for a long time, that’s for sure.
Trips like this are a good reminder that we don’t always need a packed schedule to make great memories. Sometimes, all it takes is good people, a few tents, a campfire, and the freedom to be a little silly.
Thanks again to everyone for a brilliant weekend – here’s to the next one 💃
I’m not usually the biggest fan of camping, but when you’re going along with a group like this, you can’t really say no, now, can you?
I’m sure there are a load of other points I could make in this post; however, I’ll leave it there for the time being. What do you think? What’s a fun day out that you’ve had lately?
I’d love to hear what you think 😊
Thanks for reading, and I hope you have a lovely day!
James
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