This weekend was the first campout of the year. We had a good turnout of close to 80 people and wonderful weather all day Saturday. Bill and the boys left early to stake out our spot at the Fraternal Order of Police campsite where we have camped in the past. They set up camp and gathered the wood for the campfire. Walker was really happy to put his new hatchet to use.
I don’t know what it is about acorns that make me so happy but I love collecting them. Signs of Fall, I suppose.
Bill planned a few scouting activities during the day but also scheduled time for families to socialize, play and fish.
Our hike was a quick loop through the woods. Everyone returned intact.
Then they had a fire starting competition. As a Boy Scout, Walker was able to help facilitate some of the activities which he enjoyed tremendously.
The flag ceremony was impressive. Bill spent a little time teaching the scouts about how to raise and lower the flag, to stand in formation and to salute.
The rest of the evening included burgers and hot dogs cooked over the grill, Bill’s famous Dutch oven cobbler and a super campfire with songs, stories and s’mores.
Our family crashed about 10 pm. We were awakened in the wee hours of the morning by a fairly impressive thunder and lightning storm. We stuck it out until the rain started soaking through the tent. Thankfully, we took shelter and it wasn’t much earlier than we would have gotten up to make breakfast anyway. It was very satisfying to make a hot breakfast of eggs, bacon, biscuits and coffee as well as the hungry man breakfast in the Dutch oven.
Our earlier start allowed us to pack up everything and head home early. We all showered and dressed in uniform before reuniting at 11 AM mass.
This was the first time I camped with the boys and I had a lot of fun. I can only imagine the joy the new scouts had. I hope the excitement carries them through the next weekend when the popcorn sale starts.
Yes, it’s already popcorn time! More about that soon.
Our similar Cub Scout outing was in the spring, but we bunked in cabins…..good thing because the 17 year (I think) cycads were in singing mode and it was deafening.
You make a better “Scout” than I do!
Awww, love this family time!! (And, yes, YOU are a trooper, LOL)
Walker looks so tall!
Wait til you see and hear him!
Woohoo! Looks so so much fun!
xoxo Kim