The end of September saw me heading down to Buckland Dinham for BathCamp2. While camping is not usually my thing, I was persuaded that it might be a fun type of BarCamp and went along.
We had a great time, the weather was kind to us (even if it was pretty cold in the tend overnight!) and the talks, as usual, were excellent. Memorable ones included @frankieroberto (about building OpenPlaques.org) and @alistair – who gave a presentation on Mr Duck‘s life over the last 12 months. The first BathCamp was where Mr Duck originated, and Alistair has been putting up with looking after him ever since!
As a bit of silliness, and as it was Mr Duck’s official Birthday, I baked a cake which we enjoyed with others during our afternoon tea on the Saturday.
Rather than talk about tech subjects, I lead a discussion on self-published photo books with Blurb and other sites, which seemed to go down well.
It was also great to meet some new friends and catch up with a few of the northern folks from Sheffield who had come down for the weekend!
There was also a gig in the main tent from a local band, and impromptu gatherings around the campfire on Saturday evening.
The catering could have been a problem, but the do-it-yourself sandwiches and Saturday evening BBQ were perfect for this type of camping venue.
Yes, we had to use the chemical loos in the night (but I was prepared for that in advance). At least the pub was open during the day for a more civilised toilet experience. I like my creature-comforts!
All in all, an enjoyable BarCamp – and I particularly liked the camping chair and enamel mugs we each got as schwag! Besides, who wouldn’t love a BarCamp with chickens pottering around and clucking at your feet during sessions?
