I think all the scouts continued to get better at planning, packing, and working as a team. While we had a few hiccups and had to repack a few packs to more optimally carry the load I believe that each scout has a better feel for what he really needs to bring and how best to prepare his gear and pack. We also learned it's important to empty your pack after each trip so you don't end up with two of everything on the next trip and doubling your weight with unecissary stuff.
I also hope the new scouts came away with a sense of accomplishment for completing something big. Most would not have been able to do this even a few months ago and some even doubted their capabilities before the hike, yet they all finished and finished strongly. They are ready for bigger and more interesting activities and challenges.
Cards were played during downtime and skits written and practiced for the Troop's evening entertainment. During our final campfire of the year the scouts performed two of their most important responsibilities, electing a new Senior Patrol Leader (SPL) and starting their outing planning for our next Scouting year. More on both at our Court of Honor next week.
We also had a visitor who fascinated the Troop.
A huge Black Rat Snake visited our campsite. More info on this and other snakes of NY can be found here: http://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/administration_pdf/snakes.pdf
For a complete look into our campout the full photographic record of the weekend can be found on our Troop photo page:
Looking forward to seeing everyone tonight. Remember we are doing our Board of Reviews and every Scout needs to be in uniform and have their handbooks.
