This week, the kids used maps of the 4-H property and chose a destination for our hike. After much deliberation, they chose the Raccoon Motel, a site named for a downed tree that once housed a family of raccoons. We marched on, crossing streams flowing from melted snow and following the map through several different forest types.
When we reached our destination, we began preparing for a campfire. With heavy rain throughout the week, it challenged the kids to find dry wood to burn. With patience and teamwork, they gathered a pile and built the fire with minimal help.
Once the fire burned steadily, we brought out a popcorn pot. The kids patiently waited for their turn to stir the kettles, and we listened closely for them to pop! We celebrated their final winter after-school session and their independence in choosing the site and building the fire with fresh popcorn.
