rt115+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.

As the sun began to set, Robert and Dad began to set up camp. After a 9 hour drive they drowsily unloaded random packing bags, set up camp, and slept on the ground without any blankets.

In the morning, they started to set up a few more smaller tents to put in their supplies. "Let's first put up the food tent, so it won't rot in the car," Robert said.

Good thinking, son." Dad said. When they opened the trunk, they discovered that the food bag was gone! "I thought you put it in trunk! Now how are we gonna eat?" Dad exclaimed.

"Um... sorry Dad. Maybe we could just fish. We can also get home maybe 4 days earlier." Robert replied sorrowfully.

"Alright. But when we get home your grounded for a month."

"What? I mean, okay."

The father and son unpacked everything in silence.

After 3 days of eating fish, the two were feeling really hungry. "I suggest we go home now, son. I feel like a skeleton right now," Dad said

"I totally agree, Dad," Robert replied. After packing, they decided to walk a little bit before they leave. There were a bunch of trees, snow, and a river that run for miles. While they were walking Robert noticed something about half a mile away. "Hey dad, what's that giant blue building right over there. His dad squinted, brightened his eyes, and grab his son's hand and started to run. Robert was confused. "Dad what is that?" he asked.

And he replied. "That's a food market!"