Family Campout

So, last weekend was our family camp out with Jake's troop. We loaded up the van on Friday after work and headed for the camp. We spent Friday night and Saturday night in the tent, under the stars. Friday night rained on and off and the wind was crazy (so Lily said), but on Saturday night, the most disruption we had was the scouts playing capture the flag until 1:30 am (in the dark - no flashlights allowed). We had so much fun just hanging out together.

The highlight of the camp out was the Saturday evening Court of Honor and bonfire. This was the time set aside to present all the merit badges and awards that the boys had earned since April. This is also the time when all the patrols have to present a skit for everyone to enjoy. Jake's patrol decided to do a skit about Chuck Norris. He was Chuck and everyone was supposed to be afraid...be very afraid. In actuality everyone laughed because when he tried to do his karate moves, he looked more like a robot. It was too funny.

Jake earned five badges - Weather, Archery, Metal Working, Citizenship in the Nation and Space Exploration. He also received patches for summer camp and a special one for the help he gave to the Cub Scouts at their annual 'Weeblos Woods' camp. But, he was most proud of earning his Tenderfoot and Second Class ranks. He is ready to go with First Class as well (which is half way to Eagle), but he has to be able to swim quite a distance first and he is just not quite there yet. It will happen soon, though. He is also currently working on his Personal Fitness badge which is requiring him to have a 90 day fitness plan that he has created on his own and that he carries out on a daily basis.

Hannah enjoyed the camp out because she met a new little girlfriend there. It was pretty funny, though. While we were there another mother sat down with Hannah and french braided her hair. Awhile later the mother said "wow, she sure can talk!" I just smiled.

Lily enjoyed being outside all weekend, but she did not like the mosquitoes and she did not like the wind on Friday night. But it was hilarious as she screamed to Jake receiving his awards "I believe in you Chuck Norris!"

Kermit had a great time and afterwards decided to sign up as a leader. So, after his training this month, he will be Assistant Scoutmaster Ruoss. I love a man in uniform : )

I really enjoyed being with the family without the rush of life in the background. My favorite part of the weekend (besides seeing Jake get his awards and learning how to cook on a camp stove) was learning the beaver song. It's hard to explain, but basically you steal the beavers from the zoo, roast them over and open fire and then eat them. I know, doesn't sound appetizing but it's great fun to sing about. Maybe that's because they are so close to weasels : )

Couple prayer requests:

My dad - had to go back for a third surgery this week. I haven't been posting about him but he has been having some setbacks with his leg (was back in the hospital for a week, bad infection, etc.). This week they put another drain back in his leg because the infection and swelling were getting worse. He is pretty tired and not able to do much. Pray that he will be healed and that he would follow doctor's orders about resting, etc.

Our friend Amanda's mom Diane - Diane had a small stroke this week. I am not sure of all the details but I am 100% sure that this is not the progress they were hoping for during her recovery from her heart surgery and other issues. Please pray for Diane's complete healing and that the Lord would refresh her mind, body and spirit.

Tina and Daniel - they are still waiting to find out about heading back to the Fayu. Pray that they will receive a response soon.

Oh..and here's a shout out to Kristy and the man crew! We miss you terribly, but are praying for you in your new home.