lj115+The+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...

As the sun began to set, Robert and his dad decided to make camp for the night.

"Hey son, can you toss me the sleeping bags?

"Sure thing Dad." Robert went into the tent to remove the sleeping bags from their backpacks, but quickly saw that there was only one sleeping bag!

" Umm, Dad?" "What is it, Rob?" "There is only one sleeping bag!." "Let me see", said his dad. Dad went in the tent and took the one sleeping bag."Now, Robert, if you can give me one good reason that you forgot to bring the other sleeping bag, you can share the sleeping bag with me." Was his Dad out of his mind?! It was supposed to be only twelve degrees above freezing! "But Dad!" "Robert, I said one good reason. It is not that much to ask for." As the night went on, Robert began to try to think of reasons why he forget the sleeping bag. Then, he came up with a reason why. Robert walked over to his dad and said," I figured out why I forget the sleeping bag. But, there is no good reason. I forgot today was are trip and got lazy, and did not make a list. I am sorry snd I will never do it again." Dad stared in Robert's direction blankly. Then he slowly motioned his hand toward the sleeping bag. Dad said, " Correct."