Scouting East Arroyo Canyon with the Vespula Veterans

Another fine day.  A great weekend overall.  And, although we were deep in that canyon, overshadowed by big mountainous earth and tall trees, the warmth still found its way down, and even the sun graced us with its rays.  We gathered together ready for a genuine scouting on a path we’ve never been before.  But first, the meeting.

Well, so we thought.  What happened was that the stream again and again seemed intent on usurping all of our foolish plans by gathering our attention in its currents and whirling and eddying our minds among the many rocks, snags, and sandy patches.  The Explorers went right to it, and before Drew and Matt knew it, they were full-on engaged with that stream.  So natural, so joyful that we would have been foolish indeed to stop it right there.  So, we began our day with following the fates and the whimsy of curiosity.

Soon enough, however, we realized that a little prod can be very good for a group, so we did gather and brought our minds to the day.  We began with a game… the wolf pack hunting the deer.  Clear borders in interest of safe-guarding our hard working nesters and the flowering trillium made the game even more interesting.  The Explorers showed some admirable efforts on all sides, and this proved a great way to dive into the day.

Then the meeting and some more thoughts on carving.  Explorers pulled out their carving projects or got magnetized again toward that stream.  It’s funny how some days the plan goes out the window, but what comes in through the door, so to speak, is absolutely fascinating.  Honestly, we did not get more than 100 yards from the cars for the first three hours.  But what full hours they were!  That stream was just such a strong draw on that day, and two little human guides would be fools if we tried to assert authority over it.  Instead, we “went with the flow” and found some amazing adventure, teaching, group activities, and solo wonders.

In the last couple hours, Drew and Matt did give another nudge, and we ventured at least a little down the path we’d never been.  Games of Hidepeppered our way, of course.  And then we were truly rewarded.  An unbelievable downed cedar across the stream, so big that a wide, well-trodden path was on it.  It was the perfect place for some admiring exploration.  Then, the inspiration for a game.  This one proved, perhaps, the most challenging terrain and parameters yet.  Explorers could not do it on their own.  But, in the end, some brilliantly inspired teamwork won it for all.

We ended with a meeting and a circle of thanks.  What a great day.  Thanks so much to all the Explorers for your great work!  Thanks so much to all the parents for your enduring support!

Don’t forget to check out pics of the day on the Vespula Veterans Photo Gallery.