Well, we had our Copper Canyon Ward Campout last Friday, Sept. 11th. It was to be held at Marshall Lake (which is just south of Flagstaff). As we usually opt-out of Ward campouts due to various reasons (too far away, lack of sleep, kids too young, etc.), we decided to be adventurous and supportive and actually attend this one! So, we get everything ready, make sure we've got good directions, and drive for 3 hours up to Flagstaff. By the time we got close, it was dark and so we didn't see even one sign directing us to the campgrounds. But we continued on and managed to get to our destination...with one little hiccup---NO WARD! Yes, that's right, there wasn't anyone to be found ANYWHERE! We drove higher, we drove lower, we "off-roaded" in our little Saturn. Finally, it was around 8:30 and Asher started screaming his head off--his patience having finally run out (poor kid!). So, we decided that our Ward Campout was going to be the Elsberry Family Campout and we pulled off the road to a little secluded spot of Earth with an already-made firepit. We were so happy to finally be somewhere-anywhere-that we were practically jumping for joy. Jase was such a good sport and set up our tent in the dark while Jonah happily searched for wood scraps to use to start a fire. So, we had Oreos by the fire and enjoyed ourselves with our one good chair and 3 man tent. The stars were incredible to behold and we felt grateful to just be together. Because the "Ward" was providing breakfast, we packed up early and headed over to McDonalds--the perfect end to an unexpectedly great campout experience. P.S. We never did see anyone or the promised "signs" telling us where to go---next year? We're carpooling with the Bishop :)
