Despite the early spring we have been enjoying lately the weather gods decided to take us for a bit of a ride this weekend. All the parents and, I believe, the scouts (years from now upon reflection) had a good time. There’s something about mutual suffering that both brings people together and forms lasting memories.
The trip started off almost perfect with a timely departure from Redeemer and an uneventful trip to Highroads. Upon arrival the boys were efficient in collecting firewood, arranging camp and setting up their tents.
A quick lunch and the scouts were off to archery and the challenge course. A few of the scouts and some British guy actually popped their balloon targets on the archery range. The challenge course proved to be fun as well with the chance to experience Will Salt’s eagle project from a couple years ago.
The time before dinner (and the deluge) was spent in various activities from the older scouts chopping wood and building a sizeable fire to the younger scouts playing and parents napping in a sun drenched field. Dinner was moved up a bit to accommodate the coming rain. Mr. Forrer and Mr. Salt made a round of inspections on the scout’s tents and found most lacking a hull to withstand the soggy mess that would become our campsite in the coming hours.
Delicious dinner was had by all and the only item not finished on time was a dutch oven cookie pie which the scouts lost patience with and decided to enjoy as cookie pudding instead. Most of the group warmed up by the camp fire with about half the scouts and parents up till 8 but then we all finally retreated to our warm sleeping bags soon after.
The rain continued and the temperature dropped through the night to a low of 36 by morning. Breakfast was a bit delayed due to the soggy/cold scouts moving slowly packing away their tents and gear. Fortunately there were some warm breakfast options for all and coffee/tea for the adults.
After roses, buds & thorns it was a quick load & go by all with only a few vehicles needing a group push out of the bog. Fortunately we came home to clear skies and comparably mild temps which hopefully helped everyone get their gear dried out and put away for the next outing.
Chris Peterson