Klondike

A few weeks ago I realized I had to at least offer my Webelos the chance to go up to the top of the Grand Mesa, walk around in 8 ft of snow and do activities that could be done on a nice sunny day, but that Scout leaders think is more fun in freezing cold. I emphasized how cold it was, that it was really designed for older Scouts, and that parents must accompany them. The bad news was I had two Webelos that were all for it. You see my son had the chance to go to Klondike two years ago, thanks to Jason. He came back vowing to never go again. So when two other Webelos decided they wanted to go, Scott's troop was going, and they had suckered Scott into doing the BB guns, I knew I had to get Erik to go, if only for appearances. So we had the following conversation:

Me: Erik...what would it take to get you to go to Klondike?

Erik: I am not going to Klondike, it is freezing up there. I hate walking around in the snow, I'm not going.

Me: Would you go to Klondike for a cell phone?

Erik: NO, I'm not going to Klondike! Are you trying to bribe me?

Me: What would you go up there for?

Erik: Well...I might go up there for a collection of Bakugans, but who am I kidding? You're not going to buy me those.

Me: (Desperate at this point) What do you consider a collection?

Erik: Oh, like 6.

Me: Done!

So we went, bear in mind that I turn the thermostat up to 80 when my co-worker is gone. We were the only Webelos pack there, and we trooped around all morning, climbing through 6-8 feet of snow. OK, I didn't think we would need snowshoes, and now I know better. I didn't realize how fast little boys could soak gloves, and now I know better. I didn't realize taking my 14 year old daughter to the Klondike wasn't a good idea, now I know better (think sugar addict in a candy store).

Now I'm wondering what Scott will have to use to bribe both Erik and I to go next year, because I am not going up to Klondike!