Backpack Camping Trip

It is Friday morning, spring break for the boys, and the alarm goes off at 5:30 AM. The big question—"Why is the entire family dragging themselves out of bed at such an early hour?" It is spring break for crying out loud! Bram and I are up only to provide moral support and encouragement. Neal, David, and Max have a 6:30 AM departure for their 20-mile backpack camping trip planned for this weekend.
It has been quite the production preparing for this two-day event. Several weeks ago boxes started being delivered to our front door—a tent, camp stove, hiking boots, sleeping bags. All of which were necessary for the camping trip. In addition, there were several trips to REI and more trips to REI for other camping items. I was quickly learning that the backpacking industry is a major sub-economy, and the backpacking extremists do not know the meaning of RECESSION. Nonetheless, the boys will eventually be spending a week backpacking through the Appalachians, and I do want them to be prepared! So I have been massaging and trimming the budget in an effort for them to purchase all the "right" gear.  Last Wednesday night was what Neal called "controlled chaos;" aka pack inspection  Max was a minimalist and only packed what he thought was truly essential. However, his definition of essential was quite a bit different than his Scoutmaster's. There were several "essential" items missing from his pack. David, having a little more experience, faired quite a bit better with his pack inspection. After one more trip to Dick's and some late-night list checking, the boys' backpacks were filled to capacity and left by the door for an early morning quick departure. It's not every day you get to participate in a 20-mile backpacking trip.

Late Friday afternoon, I received a photo and an abbreviated text—"12 miles. Everyone is great." Today, however, will be the real test—it is pouring rain and temperatures around 47. I'll try to have a pot of warm broccoli soup waiting for them upon their return. I'm sure they'll be drenched, cold and hungry. I can't wait for some more "controlled chaos!"