29 July 2018

This week the older boys in our ward went on a 5 day backpacking trip in the Sky Lakes Wilderness area.  They camped at Cliff Lake and took day trips to many nearby lakes and peaks.  Abe had a great time.  His only regret is not bringing more socks.  This photo is from Sunday night when they dropped off their gear.  In the photo are Ashton, Colton, Camden, Abe, Jake, Malakai, Cameron, Ben, Tate, Mason. Behind are Luke, Spencer, Bob, Seth, Chris and Jason.  Luke, Bob and Seth went to scout camp, not backpacking.

 Brandan and Gibson spent the week at Camp Makualla at scout camp.  Gibson is only 11, but he could go since Brandan was one of the leaders.

Gibson worked on his first class advancement and earned 2 merit badges, first aid and astronomy.  This is a photo of him working on his astronomy badge.

 The camp held several competitions, including a scoutmaster chili cookout.  Our troop's scoutmaster, Bob, made his famous chili.  He has won at past camps, but not this year.

 Another competition is called "Are You Tougher Than a Staffer?"  All the troops compete against each other and the camp staff to complete a relay course that covers the entire camp-- running, kayaking and swimming and also involves scouting skills.  Gibson was assigned to tie a bowline for his troop for the relay.  This is a photo of him practicing a bowline to get ready for the relay.

 This is Gib tying the knot during the relay.  He's holding the baton for the relay while he ties the knot.  Their troop came in 4th place.

 Eddy was at camp, too.

 Here's another competition.  The boys had to coordinate together to walk on long planks in a circle around a group of trees.

 The camp medic went home on Monday so Brandan took over the position for the week.  This cabin was his home base.  He had a steady stream of injuries to keep him busy all week, although nothing too serious.  He carried a radio when he left the cabin so he could be reached day or night.  The camp director gave him a T-shirt as a thank you and invited him back anytime to take the post officially.

 Here's a photo of Gibson relaxing at our troop's campground.

 Camp Makualla is on the edge of Crescent Lake.  Our hometown has smoky skies and unhealthy air quality due to wildfires.  Brandan and Gibson especially appreciated the clear blue sky and beautiful views. 

 Here's another photo of Gib and Eddy.

 Helen and Becky spent the week together.  We did a little work and had a little fun every day.  Here's a photo of some fun, inside the theater where we watched Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again.