He Shall Direct Thee for Good

It was our third annual Eleven-year-old day camp and we decided to switch it up a little bit this time. Our theme was "He Shall Direct Thee for Good" and was all about finding direction in our lives. Spencer and Noah came with me to help out this year and I was so grateful they were there.

The boys and their leaders checked in at the Brimhall Ranch in Florence around noon.

They were given instructions for the day and signed the Buddy Pledge and Leave No Trace Pledge.

We are always blessed to be supported by our Priesthood leaders. President McClellan is our rock.

The most fun part of the day is always lunch on the Boulders. The boys have a blast exploring the cracks and crevices.

We gathered for the opening ceremonies and were paid a visit by Joseph Smith.

Brother Woods' preparation, both spiritually and physically, was evident. His delivery of the Joseph Smith story was so moving, so inspiring.

The boys were mesmerized as he talked about following Moroni's instructions and finding the golden plates.

My favorite part is when they boys each get to take a turn carrying the plates. It is always so spiritual to me.

As we came down from the hill, we were met by Lehi coming out of his tent.

Brother Eyring spoke about the Liahona and how we will be directed for good if we listen and are obedient to God's commandments.

Cute boys doing the opening flag ceremony.

Then it was time to get to work. The boys did some hard requirements while they were at day camp. Brother and Sister Roundy put them through their paces (literally) as they taught them to use a compass and complete a mile-long course.

Sister Marie Russell and her sweet family came and spent the day with us at the ranch. She and her husband taught the Geocaching merit badge with great success! It was a favorite class.

The boys were elated to each find a liahona zipper pull to put on their scriptures in their geocache. So cool.

Then it was time for the traditional hayride and tour of the ranch. President Brimhall and his wife Sherie guided it this year. What a treat!

A few lucky boys got to ride the Gator! Sister Brimhall is so cute buzzing around in that thing.

Recipes are all about following directions, right? We threw in a cooking class in the middle of the day so the boys could make a snack to eat. Cameron Wells (MaryAnn's son) taught them all how to make a baked banana s'more. Fun!

And they were all responsible to make their own dutch oven dessert, too. You can't beat chocolate cake!

Before dinner, each patrol showed their patrol flag and shared their patrol yell. I always love this part. It always makes me smile. These are "the Russells": get it? Russell from the movie "Up?"

Despite a few blown fuses, it was finally time for dinner. Niki always outdoes herself and keeps our tummies happy. She is the queen of cooking for a group.

President McClellan, Sister Brimhall, President Brimhall.

Me, MaryAnn, and Niki. I love these girls with all my heart.

President McClellan spoke at the closing campfire about the brother of Jared and how he sought and received direction from the Lord. A perfect ending to a great day. I love Scouts.