When the sun went down
So, replenished with the classic English meal of beef and Yorkshire
puddings, we ventured out for our first round of activities. These consisted of
aeroball, fencing, team challenge and Karting.
Each activity enabled the children to learn new skills, put
their existing ones to the test, learn about the importance of team work and resilience
and of course have fun, beginning the memory making process.
Then, as the sun went down, we headed to the back of the
field overlooking the sea for the bonfire. The evening sky was clear and soon
the wonderful tapestry that is the night sky began to display itself above us. As
the flames of the campfire sent sparks into the evening sky, creating trails of
light. So too did shooting stars as they flashed across the night sky above us.
An amazing reminder of how light makes a difference where ever it is.
Our leaders enthusiastically, despite their hoarse voices,
introduced us to new campfire songs. Gone were the traditional scouting songs
of my youth, no Lord of the Dance or on top of old Smokey. Instead, we learnt
to master words, actions and rhythms that reflected a completely new take on
the concept of campfire singing. I am certainly starting to feel old!
Once hot chocolate had warmed our hands, we made our way
back across the fields ready to settle down for the night. The plan is that
this should lead to everyone tucked up and fast asleep by ten o’clock – but as
it is the first night there may be another story to tell tomorrow!
