On September 27th, our troop embarked on a water journey on Swift Reservoir, located 20 miles North East of Cougar Washington. The first of three lakes, damned on the Lewis River. Twenty-four boys and eight adults, paddling in a flotilla of sixteen canoes. The weather was far from typical, 85 degrees at the end of September; not quite the norm. The paddle across the lake to our camping spot, on the south shore was only about 2 ½ miles, a nice and peaceful pace, placed us on the shore at around 1:00 pm Saturday afternoon.
The whole group was anxious to make camp and commence upon the activities customary of our troops outings. Tents were up, for those who used them. Others built shelters, while others simply spanned two trees with hammocks, suitable only for the young and nimble. Quick lunches were consumed and off to the water. Most boys climbed into canoes and set out to explore, race, bump, swamp and generally enjoy the unusually warm weather. Swimming was a must for most. Other boys simply enjoyed kicking back on shore, relaxing with friends and talking stories. The adult’s activities were similar.
Later in the afternoon, the boy’s played watermelon football in the lake. Chris Steele greased down the melon with Crisco oil. Team captains Miles and Levi chose their teams and the game began. It was aggressive and fun. In the end, Levi’s team won by a score one to zero. A great competition by all. Most all were worn out after the game, and many went back and napped for a bit.
Due to the unusually hot and dry summer and early fall, campfires were banned. We still had our evening time, around a common area and talked. The sky was clear and dark, benefiting from no city lights. Stargazing was at a premium. The planet Mars rose beautifully above the trees, and complimented the sky. Jon Matson, along with Joe Head and Erik, gave us some interesting lessons on the starts and the consolations.
Early to bed and early to rise. Most were in the sack by 10:00 and up by 7:30. Breakfast was prepared and eaten. After breakfast, we held a chapel service, up the shore a bit with a spectacular view of Mt. Adams and St Helens. The service was serene and well delivered. After the service, we began to break camp and ready ourselves for the paddle back to the vehicles. Everyone worked well together. New boys did very well, while the older and experienced scouts were in typical form, requiring little assistance from the adults, and offering, help to the younger scouts as needed. Miles, our Senior Patrol Leader, along with Travis, Assistant Patrol Leader, guided the boys fittingly.
We set off across the lake at 11:00 AM. We arrived on shore, loaded up the canoes and gear and headed back home. It was a wonderful and relaxing weekend. We all look forward to our next outing in October.
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