Philmont

We just got back from one of the most amazing weeks. With Nate's calling as the Stake Young Men's President, we were invited to attend the LDS/Scouting Relations week that they hold at Philmont Scout Camp in New Mexico. It was a family oriented conference, and there were activities for everyone. I think that the most wonderful thing about the week was to be surrounded by such wonderful people from all over the country, and to be taught by our leaders who sit in counsel with President Monson. Both Nate and I learned so many new things that I hope will help the boys in our area to grow up to be responsible, hard working, and to be leaders themselves. It was a privilege to sit with President Lant (General Primary President) and Sister Ricks (Primary General Board) and be trained in how to run the Primary organization more effectively, to help all the young children have a love for Heavenly Father, the Savior, and the scriptures. Today, more than ever, children need that anchor to keep them safe from the awful things that the world throws at them.
Here are some of my favorite pictures from the week. (camera #1)

Amelia and Emma were in the group called the {Small Fries}

This is a picture of the building they met in. (BTW: if anyone needs a good Eagle Scout Project, I know of a facility that could use an upgrade on their playground equipment)

Sam was able to participate in the morning flag ceremony two times during the week. The first day was for all of the cub scouts. On the last day of camp, he woke up and put on his scout shirt. We asked why he wanted to wear it that day, and he told us that he wanted to be ready in case they didn't have enough people. Sure enough, they needed him!

Here is Sam catching the {biggest rainbow trout} that Nate had ever seen. Unfortunately, I was in the car with a sleeping girl, and the line got cut on a rock as Nate was trying to keep it in the water so they could throw it back, and take a picture at the same time.

Well, the sleeping girl woke up and had to be right there with dad to fish.

This is Bill Burch. He is a wonderfully talented wood carver who makes bolo ties. He also made these "tuits" that you see the boys working. He would give one to any child who could prove that they could make it work. He had a pink one too, and Amelia really wanted one. Bill was so cute with her trying to show her how to make it work. He also is a [wonderful storyteller] and would have a group of people gathered around him nearly all day long.

Emma had a tough time getting in nap time (which she has almost altogether dismissed at home) and we found her falling asleep almost anywhere.

The kids loved this sign in the dining hall. Emma had to deposit her gum there one day. However, on the last day, she wanted her gum back. Luckily she settled for a picture.

Curious Donkey

On the last evening at Philmont there was a terrific thunderstorm. Just after the youth who had been on a backcountry hike returned, this double rainbow stretched across the sky. It was a touching reminder to me of the promises of the Lord.