lp115The+Hiking+Trip

The Hiking Trip
Robert and his father had enjoyed hiking and camping out together ever since Robert was old enough to walk. Their favorite hiking trail was the Appalachian Trail. Which stretches from Maine to Georgia. They had never walked that far of course, but enjoyed the section of the trail that passed through their part of Pennsylvania.

Although his dad always picked the date, it was up to Robert to plan the meals, shop for the food, and get all the necessary supplies packed for the outing. Dad always insisted that Robert create a checklist, so that nothing would be forgotten, but sometimes Robert got lazy.

"If we forget anything, it won't be a big deal", Robert explained to his mother," there are always other hikers around who will loan you a can opener or share their matches."

Mother just shook her head as if she disagreed, but said nothing. She had firmly stated from the very beginning that these trips had nothing to do with her and she would not get involved. Mosquitoes, sore feet, and using a bush for the bathroom was not her idea of a vacation.

Robert checked the calendar, this weekend was their next trip, and here it was already Thursday. He had totally forgotten!

"No big deal", he said aloud."I've packed our supplies a thousand times."

"Sure you don't want to make a list?" asked his mother sipping a cup of tea at the kitchen table.

"Never had a problem before" Robert answered confidently "besides if i forget one little thing what could possibly go so wrong?"

If he only knew.

When they got about half way up the mountain, they decided to stop and make camp. As they started to set everything up, Dad began to collect the wood for the fire.

" Hey Robert, can you pass me the lighter?"

"It's in the blue bag, with the first aid kit." Robert exclaimed.

" What blue bag, and what first aid kit? All I see is textbooks and papers," Dad said angrily ," YOU BROUGHT YOUR SCHOOL BACKPACK!!!!!!!!!"

Dad's face was as red as a tomato.

"How are we going to cook the fish we caught on the way up, how are we supposed to sleep, and how are we supposed to find these things from other people, because I know you are going to say that?"

"Dad relax, we can rub two of these rocks together to make fire, and I have one giant blanket in my backpack for detention."

Next, Robert rubbed the two rocks together, and it worked. Then, they slept the night away.

"I am never going to forget this." said Robert.

"Me two." said Dad.