The location for this year's Spring Camp Out was Huntsville State Park; a beautiful part of Sam Houston National Forest, with a lake, tens of miles of well-maintained trails and - crucially - several alligators that wander freely. Kids and alligators, what could go wrong? The toilet block had lovely hot showers, and each campsite also had a fully bug-netted hut with picnic table inside, as well as light and electrical outlets. Someone brought a microwave with them. Does this even count as camping?
Many shenanigans took place, with the usual scouting traditions including a hike and a big campfire where "skits" were performed by each Den. I recognised several of these from my own scouting days in Britain in the mid-80s, and they were about as funny now as they were then, but it's comforting to watch these things cross generations and continents.
Being hardcore, we stayed for two nights, which brought the usual downpour an hour before we had to pack up and then a garage filled with wet tents on our return home. Hannah can't wait to do it again, Pete can't wait to do it again. Me? I think I got all this out of my system the first time I was a Cub Scout.
Many shenanigans took place, with the usual scouting traditions including a hike and a big campfire where "skits" were performed by each Den. I recognised several of these from my own scouting days in Britain in the mid-80s, and they were about as funny now as they were then, but it's comforting to watch these things cross generations and continents.
Being hardcore, we stayed for two nights, which brought the usual downpour an hour before we had to pack up and then a garage filled with wet tents on our return home. Hannah can't wait to do it again, Pete can't wait to do it again. Me? I think I got all this out of my system the first time I was a Cub Scout.
See how tough this camping is?
And while we lounged, Hannah put up the tent.
Looking for alligators.
Chef in the highly convenient (and illegal, in scouting terms) shelter.
Sunset on the lake.
Our Lion (the rank of 5- and 6-yr-old Cubs).
Good morning to the whole motley crew.
A little relaxation before the rest of the Lions arrive.
And here they are!
Off on a hike. No one lost/eaten. Success!
Campfire.
Our skit! A song of my own composition entitled "Mane, tail, teeth and claws..." (with actions).
No alligators, but I did spot this chap.
