Campout

Scott and John went on their Y Guides campout last weekend. The boys left very early Saturday morning and didn't return until Sunday morning. This was the first camp excursion for their newly-formed tribe, and also Scott's first experience being a part of a dad/son YMCA fellowship group (versus the dad/daughter Y Princess group that he and Amelia have been a part of for the last three years).

John reported that the trip was a lot of fun! He said that they went on a horseback ride, shot BB guns, roasted smores around the camp fire, took a nature hike and went on a boat ride, among other activities. The boys and dads traveled to a YMCA camp facility about 2 1/2 hours west of Dallas, where they stayed in cabins and utilized the facilities of Camp Grady Spruce (complete with dining hall, recreational facilities, etc.).

John is fourth from the left in the photo below. Scott reported that this photo was taken from the island that they traveled to via pontoon boat.


Scott's words upon returning from the trip were, "Yes, it was fun. But I am so tired. Ane let's just say that being part of a boy tribe is a WHOLE LOT DIFFERENT from being part of a girl tribe!". I can only imagine!
I love this photo of Scott and John. I am very happy that Scott thought to have someone snap this photo as it is one of my favorites of these two together. ever.

On Saturday morning, about three hours after the boys left, Amelia and I set out to run some errands around town. While we were driving in the car she commented, "Mom, I hate to say it, but it is a little nice to have a day without John around." I understand what she meant because it was more quiet in the house without John, plus Amelia got to dictate what we would do that day, which included spending a significant amount of time with her best friend Lydia to come later in the day. This would have been more difficult had John been home and I was juggling both kids by myself.

But when I inquired about her comment, Amelia's reply shocked me a bit. "It's because, mom, you just aren't having to yell as much as you do when John is around. In fact, I haven't heard you yell once yet since they left!".

Note to self: control anger when John makes me frustrated and try not to show such frustration so much. Lesson learned. I hugged the boys when they came home. And despite how peaceful and calm my weekend with Amelia was, I was glad to have them back.