SCOUT CAMP!

Steve is our ward's scoutmaster and had the privilege of going to Camp Napowan for his 5th year.  Because he has gone multiple times, he knows the camp--its schedule and layout, and has figured out how to help the boys be as successful and efficient as they can.  Four of the 7 boys earned 11 merit badges during the week!  Unbelievable!

 To avoid doing swim checks on Sunday, they drive up EARLY Saturday morning, get set up, do swim checks, and play.  For the last 2 years, this handsome man pictured above has coordinated us hanging out with a group from Arlington Heights for some added fun.  He is also Steve's partner in crime.  Luckily they get along because he and Steve got to be the leaders of this scout camp as well as varsity scout camp that was held a mere week after this one at Camp Tomahawk four hours further north in Wisconsin.  

Water balloon launchers - they can leave a welt!

Evan is working with the "Mayor" in leather working.

The boys work, work, work at night around the campfire, weaving baskets, writing reports, etc.  This is the secret to earning so many badges.  Utilize every minute!

Early morning observations for Environmental Science

Flag Raising ceremonies

Rifle Shooting

Digging for minnows (not a merit badge, but added to the fun)

Public Speaking

More working around the campfire at night

Canoeing

First Aid

Waiting to jump in and turn clothes into life preservers...

Steve's Policy: When you finish a merit badge, you have to raise your hands in the air and declare to the camp "I just finished  my _____ merit badge!"

One of the greatest things about scout camp is that these boys learn they can do things they never thought they could.  I believe scouting is one way young men these days learn how to do hard things.

Troop 68

Steve was so proud of these young men!  As we were going through the hundreds of pictures he took and he was talking about each shot, he would get emotional and then I would get emotional.  What a unique moment to see the love my sweet husband has for these good boys.   The week, of course, didn't go without challenges.  Three boys got sick and one (my son) threw up all over the tent.  To everyone's credit, the boy who got his sleeping bag creamed didn't yell or get mad.  Everyone was kind, polite, supportive, and worked hard.  Steve's planning on doing it all over again next year!