Laurie

mrs red feather: your post made me laugh! Our son has glasses, and I wasn't sure they'd come home (thinking they could easily be broken--he is very good with them--but a week in a tent is a big change!), so we took a broken back-up pair to the doctor to have ready for him when he came home--just in case Outfitting a small country--that has had me laughing as I pack up for another trip! ds: our son only just turned 11, and I've been praying and preparing for 12 years now to be able to let him go bit by bit. It is not easy, but there is no greater joy than seeing my baby first learn to walk with teetering first steps, then to read and write, then to go out on his own for a bit. He actually told me this week that he feels more confident, that he learned he could really take care of himself. That is priceless--that is yet one more step toward growing up. Thanks to all for sharing this fun time with me

Thank you I have this on my list of "must plan for Cubs" for next year...with knives at home.

The local tour permit is on-line at the National BSA site: http://www.scouting.org/ I just type what I'm looking for in the search box at the top of the page, and I did that for the tour permit, and it is there. I can't cut and paste or I would, but I hope this helps.

I understand your concern Hunt. I do respect MB counselors, but I also know my son far better than anyone else. I have not given up my parental responsibility, so if I feel that I personally want to know my son can do something and I'd like to know more about it, I ask him--without apology. I've done this with him with school since he began. I've done this with his younger brother as well. I want to know what they can do, and it's a thrill when they share. As to honestly earning something, I simply encourage my son to do this every once in a while. He knows he could have coasted on a recent MB, but actually took time to make sure he knew the requirement after it was signed off on. I respect that and believe he'll be a stronger and more responsible young man for recognizing that he could coast at times but still give it his best shot and some extra time.

Wow, this is bad news. I was hoping to take a group of our Cubs and their families to the city to tour the historical district. I have actually been putting it off due to not knowing about security; many times buildings are just closed for security reasons. Since our boys are into carrying their knives and love to touch, well everything!, I'll have to give this some more thought. Any suggestions on how best to plan a trip that is close by and very doable for Cubs?

I'm glad you had a nice visit. Wow, I had not realized that security had become so tight. That's a shame. It's not the way I remember it--walking freely through the historical section, keeping eyes open for Benjamin Franklin. It was always fun to spot him on the street I've been to the city recently, but only council headquarters, so I haven't seen the changes...yet...that you mention. How sad.

scoutmom--thank you so much! Please update us on your son's trip once he arrives home Isn't this Scouting stuff great?!

Eagle Foot, please don't just let this go now. You mentioned the boys. They are in a Troop with apparent disregard for their welfare. I understand your leaving, but having left, now be sure to document why. Perhaps a letter explaining your concerns addressed to the COR and the District and/or Council. They should know what is happening. What they do about it is up to them. As for the ASM thinking that you have jeopardized his position in Council--no, you didn't. His own actions did that.

Bob, I missed your PM, but I am curious to hear follow ups to NJ's questions. My understanding is no 1-on-1. ie MB counseling. A boy takes a buddy, but the MBC doesn't seem to (unless I'm missing something?) need another adult present. Time for me to sit back and learn something more. I am now in a muddle.

silver-shark: With all due respect, jerryz is neither making excuses for this boy nor sweeping his actions under the rug. Removing his rights to use a knife, saw, and ax by removing his Totin' Chip deals directly with the problem, focusing on the problem itself. Making him earn it again is appropriate and had the boy acted with the proper respect to begin with, he'd not need a second teaching time. If the parents of the boy on the receiving end of an admittedly poor and dangerous joke are willing to accept this, then why go further? If they felt charges would be appropriate, I would think they could still press them and that noone would blame them. They are still his parents, and if they remain unsatisfied, they are certainly other avenues for them to turn to if they feel it is necessary to do so. Just my thoughts, and I'm called "Mean Old Mrs. L" because of my enforcing rules at in school, at home, and in Cubs.

I am in agreement with eamonn on this. I would personally err on the side of caution. In reading the G2SS, I thought it seemed best to have a second adult in the car. And unless I'm misunderstanding this, it seems that the 18-yr-old can drive if in the company of one 21 years old or older. Since convoys are discouraged, that implys (IMPLYS--for I don't know for sure) that another adult would be in the car. Clear as mud? Sometimes these rules, regulations, guidelines--whatever name is attached to them--can be general enough to be vague.

I was the one who wondered, and so I posted a PM to Eamonn just to see if I had done something wrong--due to all caps. That is all, for that usually indicates shouting, and I do know that much is lost in black and white type as we post. Eamonn has much to offer, and somehow sarcasm didn't seem to fit, but I asked just to be sure I hadn't been offensive in some way. As I told him, it is hard to know at times because simple things can turn into an argument. Have a good day all!

dsteele, how did you like your visit to Philly?

This is from the Guide to Safe Scouting, the chapter on transportation: 1. Seat belts are required for all occupants. 2. All drivers must have a valid driver's license that has not been suspended or revoked for any reason. If the vehicle to be used is designed to carry more than 15 persons, including the driver (more than 10 persons, including the driver, in California), the driver must have a commercial driver's license (CDL). 3. An adult leader (at least 21 years of age) must be in charge and accompany the group. 4. The driver must be currently licensed and at least 18 years of age. Youth member exception: When traveling to and from an area, regional, or national Boy Scout activity or any Venturing event under the leadership of an adult (at least 21 years of age) tour leader, a youth member at least 16 years of age may be a driver, subject to the following conditions: Six months' driving experience as a licensed driver (time on a learner's permit or equivalent is not to be counted) No record of accidents or moving violations Parental permission granted to the leader, driver, and riders 5. Passenger cars or station wagons may be used for transporting passengers, but passengers should not ride on the rear deck of station wagons. 6. Trucks may not be used for transporting passengers except in the cab. 7. All driving, except short trips, should be done in daylight. 8. All vehicles must be covered by automobile liability insurance with limits that meet or exceed requirements of the state in which the vehicle is licensed. It is recommended that coverage limits are at least $50,000/$100,000/$50,000. Any vehicle designed to carry 10 or more passengers is required to have limits of $100,000/$500,000/$100,000. 9. Do not exceed the speed limit. 10. Do not travel in convoy (see "Leadership Requirements for Trips and Outings," No. 2). 11. Driving time is limited to a maximum of 10 hours and must be interrupted by frequent rest, food, and recreation stops. If there is only one driver, the driving time should be reduced and stops should be made more frequently. 12. Don't drive drowsy. Stop for rest and stretch breaks as needed. Fatigue is a major cause of highway accident fatalities. I won't try to interpret; just passing on the info so you can take it from here.

Oh, I hope your son has as much fun as my son had! The details keep coming, and I'm proud of how he did, so thanks for giving me a venue to share First, a caution. Be aware that not all that goes to camp will come home again. I knew this, and I chose carefully when it came to certain things. For instance, the brand new jacket stayed home in favor of an old rather worn jacket. Good move--he left it behind. Along with most of his socks (what a puzzle that is!), a sweatshirt, and a smashed camping lamp. Oh a toothbrush too, though that may have been lost early in the week--ewwwww. In my opinion, that is fantastic for packing. My husband's opinion was different. He felt that our son was not responsible, that he didn't do what we expected. That got our son from a happy confident self (something I haven't seen for years) to a crying ready to quit self. So, if you have expectations, either ditch them or make them with your son. I did not have expectations, other than those I always have for him: be respectful, try to remember to be clean (no mom, no shower--hooray!), things like that. I suspected that he would not follow through on at least 1 MB because it was too "bookish" for his liking; he did not follow through. He is not a swimmer; I hoped he would take swimming lessons, even pushed that, but suggested that at a minimum he have someone in his troop help him learn to swim. He spent every day but one (it rained) in the pool with his patrol leader, and it sounds as though he knows a lot about swimming now. It wasn't the lessons offered, but it was a start; he has been afraid to swim since he was a baby. He announced that no way would he go horseback riding (terrified of animals) or caving (just not interested). It turned out that he now wants to earn his horsemanship MB and he enjoyed the caving. He also adjusted his own expectations; he learned what camp was about and what MBs are like. Remember I said he got emotional and was ready to quit? He and I have been talking...a lot. (Could you tell I'm a talker? hee hee) Most importantly, I've been listening carefully. Drawing him out. Learning the details. This child was not irresponsible when it came to the lamp. He loaned it out, then it got passed around, then someone broke it and offered to replace it for him. He said no, that it was his responsibility and he's have to take care of it, but thanks. He didn't do all of astronomy because he was tired; observation was at 11pm and he wanted to sleep. These 2 incidents alone show me that our son practiced good judgement. I told him so, and though he and I both know he needs to work on honesty, he knows that my praise of his actions was sincere. He needed to receive it; I needed to give it. These aren't just Scouting lessons; these are life lessons. Fun that leads to a more grown up boy who is more prepared to deal with the world around him--wow, it doesn't get better than that. Encourage your son (I'm sure you do already) and don't be surprised if he comes home a rather different kid than when he left I know our son wanted his dad's approval more than mine; oh how that showed to me. I hope that comes soon. In the meantime, he and I have been able to talk about how to prepare for future trips--with him taking the lead and telling me how he thinks he can do better. He just needed the freedom to forget a thing or two, to change his schedule, and to have a mishap. And just give him that hug--even in front of the whole troop! The other kids were a site for this mom, all of them looking mighty good to me too. And encourage, encourage, encourage. Find things to praise him for, and then heap it on with sincerity. This is a huge step for a young boy. Fresh sheets on the bed, taking on the unpacking and laundry for him once we reached our driveway, having an easy to prepare favorite food ready to make if wanted, and having clean clothes for him--that's what mattered. Also, a long hot soak in the tub with an assortment of soaps and big thick towels. The willingness to let him go out on his own and quietly readjust though I was longing for details. He appreciated all of this.(This message has been edited by Laurie)

It was a terrific week. The leaders that came home (3 stayed for a 2nd week) were very happy with the boys' attitudes and behavior. Everyone came home with smiles on their faces--that's a good review in itself My son told me there was NO WAY he'd go near a horse. Guess what his favorite memory is? He spent an hour on horseback, and he LOVED it!!! He didn't take swim lessons (he said he couldn't find where they took place), but his patrol leader taught him how to swim throughout the week. He completed most of 2 merit badges he signed up for, but he never made it to the third--got side tracked by that horse--lol! He is wide awake, announced he took a shower (it's a good thing he told me or I'd not have known, hee hee), and then waited for me to pick up his backpack. Uh, well, there's the car bud The leaders laughed when they saw this, and I've a feeling he won't live that one down. Seems the boys were changing tents all week too. They took turns sharing a tent during the night. The troop won the white glove award for the week. My dear son came home without souvenirs though. Said he couldn't find a patch or a tee shirt. Hmmm... He's a little bummed about that, but WOW...what a good first summer camp experience for him. His baby sister cheered when he walked in the door. He shied away from my hug, but he grinned big when he got just the same. Even his brother is happy to see him home...for the moment anyway. Now, after 8 hours in the car, it's time to eat. Time to shower too--yeah, again--lol! Thanks for letting me share this with you all. I'm sure there's much more to hear about, but for now I've got my boy home, safe and sound, and best of all happy.

I'm looking forward to posting his version of his first summer camp, but don't be surprised if that takes a few days Time to go get my boy!

Thanks Rooster! I wasn't aware of that site, only of the council site. I've been to the Washington Street Scout Shop--very nice, staffed with friendly people. Good for your sons for being on staff

I searched the Del-Mar-Va site but could not find a way to contact them about this patch. It is the winter camping patch for this past February for Rodney, my son's first camping trip with the BSA. I'd like to get 3 of this patch. Can anyone put me in touch with someone who could help me purchase these? TIA!

Thanks to you all! kwc57: ah, yes, for weekend trips I've learned to smile when thinking "ewwwww...he needs a shower" and hug and kiss him anyway. A week--what a challenge that wil be! He hasn't caught on yet, but I offer to run him a nice bath so he can soak and relax after sleeping on the ground all weekend. I do have ulterior motives . AK-Eagle: I'm figuring he might be too tired for his favorite meal on arrival home, but the next day definitely works too. Another Scouter said he loves a milkshake--now that would be doable and welcome even to a sleepy kid...one that might end up in a warm bubble bath with that milk shake Eagledad: you made me laugh--yep, I'm sure I would like a different welcome home than my son too Thank you, and I can only hope that I am a good mom. Fat Old Guy: After driving for 5 hours, you should not have to cook. Good for you for treating yourself out to dinner acco40: If my son does decide to talk to us about what he did upon arrival home, it will be a first. I'm hoping to pry that out of him sometime within the first WEEK home--lol! dan: I suspect the favorite hug for my son will be from his baby sister. She's been missing him terribly and hasn't slept through the night without a fuss since he's gone (but shhhh...don't tell him that...he'll remember and will be discouraged about going away again). And though he won't admit it, this mother knows he loves a hug and kiss anytime, so he'll get it--from all of us Thanks so much everyone!!

Great laundry tip! Thanks for the heads up. Yes, I'm sure poisonous plants and critters are something to check for, so all gear gets unloaded outside. Then I get to put on my gloves and tackle what is sure to be either a mess or a lot of unused clothes--making what was worn possibly saved for a fire rather than the washer

My son is heading home tomorrow from Curtis Read Scout Reservation, Camp Bucksin, in upstate New York. That is easily 8 hours from home, and he's been sleeping in a tent away from all family for one full week, just turned 11, and has never been to summer camp before. So, when he comes home, what is the best way to welcome him? Favorite foods, just let him head to bed (freshly made up and waiting for him ), or??? This mom is getting pretty excited about hearing about camp and about having my son home again. The days are suddenly longer with him away.

Thanks Robbie. I wasn't looking for medical advice (sounded that way though--sorry) but rather personal experience. This is one I am going to talk to the pediatrician about. It sounds so simple, and we live in and camp in very high risk areas for lymes disease.

Enjoy your trip! Philly is a few short miles from me, and it's a wonderful city to walk through.(This message has been edited by Laurie)

What percentage of the bug spray/lotion is made up DEET? I sent my son off to summer camp with Cutter's Family non-aerosol pump with 6% DEET, and it's in a plastic bottle. I hate the thoughts of any bug spray on my son, and I know there's little chance of this helping with tics, but it was on the list of necessary items for a trip to the Adirondacks. Question for you about sulfer: what if there's a family history of allergy to sulfer medications? Is the same thing, or would it be best to avoid it in that case?