jw115+The+Hiking+Trip

Robert's Responsibilities
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.

Later along the trail, the sun began to set, so Robert and his dad decided to make camp for the night. Robert searched the luggage for the huge bag they placed their camp tent in.

"Ummm ... Dad?" Robert said weakly and a little afraid.

"Yes Robert?" he said, concerned why he sounded afraid.

"I think we forgot the camping tent," Robert announced, "I think we can walk around and see if there were any campers can lend one?" He knew this was a very stupid idea, since people would pack only one tent for themselves, not for others. But, it was worth a shot.

His dad walked down the path, and Robert waited about twenty minutes until his dad came back with a familiar face. It was his best friend, Jonah.

"Hey Robert, how've you been dude?" said Jonah, sounding a little exited about finding Robert here.

"I'm fine, fine, and you?" Robert said back.

"It's pretty boring at my tent, I didn't bring a video game," he said, gloomily.

"So you came over to invite us?" Robert said. If Robert saw his best friend here, and Robert's dad invited him to his campsite, he has to invite us.

"Sure, I'd like that," Jonah said, wiping the gloomy face away.

So they spent their night repacking Robert's camping things that they took out and brought it over to Jonah's tent. The night was nice, including the kids playing Robert's video game and the adults talking about their kids and what they're doing now and then. It was a nice night that everyone enjoyed, especially when they ate hot dogs!

The next day, they went farther into the trail, then went back they way they came.

"That was an awesome trip!" said Jonah. "I hope we can go again next time together!"

And that was the end of the hiking trip that was messed up for Robert because he forgot his tent. But, in the end, his best friend came out of nowhere and shared his tent, what a save for Robert!


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