Orienteering

I'm a little behind on my blogging but since I am in front of the computer now, uploading photos, I will tell you about our day.

I found out, through Facebook, about an awesome "Orienteering" event not far from our house. It looked like so much fun but I was reluctant to go because it would be just the kids and ME. Daddy is in China for another few weeks. Just one day before we were all yelling and screaming at each other. School has been out for a whole week now and everyday has been filled with sitting in front of the XBOX or TV and lacking in structure so there have been a lot of arguments. I figured getting the kids out of the house would be a good idea and would definitely tire them out beyond arguing with each other.

The directions were a little confusing but thanks to TomTom and the provided GPS coordinates we eventually found our way. There was a comment under the directions on the website that read "If you can't find the place, it is ok, it is like failing to qualify for an event".  I took this as a slap in the face and was so determined to find this place, even though there were no sins or clear markers. It was inside the Thai Military 100th Batallion Camp and navigating inside the huge compound was a bit overwhelming. Plus the directions told me to take 2 lefts when they should have told me to take 2 rights! But we found it.

After walking around for about 15 minutes searching for anyone else participating in or even running the program we were given our map, compass, and instructions.

learning what to do.

The idea was to find your way around using the map and compass to find flags with codes on them. We headed out to the 2 closest flags to get things going.

Ellie was really adamant that she wanted to go canoeing so after the 1st 2, we went in the canoes (which were actually kayaks).

Benny was not to keen on this as they were a little wobbly for him. It took some convincing but with me behind the paddle he climbed aboard. He really hated this once we got to the island and he jumped out to check the flag and happened upon some REALLY big ants that started biting him. He had a little melt-down and I couldn't get to him so he jumped back into the boat and we managed to get all of the ants off. Once back at the dock I used a little "Mommy Magic" and put some Neosporin on the bites and that seemed to help him calm down.

With now soggy bottoms, ant bites, and fresh sunscreen, we headed out on our bikes to find all of the other flags. It was a chore to fit the bikes in our small car but I am so glad we were able to do it. It would have been a totally miserable day walking through the woods without them.

The boys loved this part but Ellie was full of complaints about the temperature, bugs, mud, being outside in general. We were able to make our way around and actually find most of the flags. I had a great time, even if it was really hot out. I was so proud of myself for making it through with all 4 kids by myself, as well as getting 4 bikes in the car, and mine tied to the top of the car, twice!

Can you see Andy back there? Benny is down below him somewhere.

2 kids up front: We could/would not do this anywhere but in Thailand!

Loading the bikes was much easier the 2nd time, but a whole lot messier with the mud caked tires.

We ended the day at the pool to cool off and ended up eating dinner there as well. We stayed until it got dark and the bats came out. I know everyone will sleep well tonight!

Notice Ellie walking away! She was DONE! Wouldn't even pose for a picture.