Kayaks, Kites, Lighthouses and Cake!

7/10/2010


The OBX expedition is close to completion. The group has really bonded over the past couple of days and the leaders are very happy with the way the program has unfolded.

More on the kayaking section-they kayaked a total of 20 arm-burning miles over the 2 ½ days. They learned the difference between good water snakes and bad water snakes. They slept on the tent platforms together, with all of the girls in one tent. At night the local owls sounded like wolves. In the true Leave No Trace (LNT) spirit, they turned left-over rice water into hot tea with honey and drank it. The group decided they wanted less to pack out and could use the extra calories. They also had to pack out their “business”, as it is a fragile eco-system they were exploring. While on the river, they also found time to write a Longacre-song.  The lyrics will be found in the OBX trip journal. Please ask your child to sing it upon returning home.  The group paddled out, loaded the vans, showered and then hit the pool at Frisco Woods Campground.

The next day they hiked the 248 steps to the top of  the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. The leaders said the group didn't even need to stop along the way for breaks. Impressive!!!  They also enjoyed some ice cream and frozen custard.  The morning was spent on land, working with the kites and learning how to maneuver them. The second half of the day was spent on the water. The wind was a little light that day so none of the kids were able to get on the boards. On the second day we tried our best, but ultimately got rained out due to some prevailing storms. The leaders felt the kids deserved a change of pace and actually took them to the movies for popcorn.  Not the usual Longacre-activity, but an enjoyable experience for all. This day was also Abby’s birthday.  Cinnamon rolls for breakfast and one of her favorites, Mac n cheese, for dinner.  The meal was topped off with key lime pie for dessert complete with candles in the shape of an A. That night they performed their bracelet ceremony. There was also lots of stargazing with heat lightning flashes adding to the night sky’s
awesomeness!

Today the group headed out on a private dolphin tour and then tackled the famous sand dunes of Jockey Ridge State Park before heading North to Virginia. Tonight will be their final night together as a group.

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