Date: Wed, 9 Jun 2010 10:10:48 EDT From: Bwstories8@aol.com Subject: Castaway Hotel: Grand Reopening - Book 7, chapter 7 - 8 The Castaway Hotel: Grand Reopening --Book 7 - by BW Copyright 2009 by billwstories Chapter 7 -- On to South Dakota. **Author's Note:** Please read the disclaimer in Chapter 00 before you read this. After finishing up at the dinosaur museum, our next destination was Buffalo, Wyoming, where we were planning to spend the night. I had chosen to stay there, because it was about halfway to our next destination, which was much father than I wanted to travel nonstop. The ride was long, but not totally without merit, as there was some lovely scenery to view along our route. This included the Bighorn Mountains and the Bighorn National Forest, as well as some other magnificent scenery. As always, the boys found ways to entertain themselves and each other during the trip, although a few opted for more sleep, probably because they had stayed up so late messing around the night before. Once we got to Buffalo we checked into our rooms at the Big Horn Motel, cleaned up quickly and then went out to eat. We dined at Colonel Bozeman's Restaurant and Tavern, which features steaks, ribs, prime ribs and selections made with buffalo meat. I let the boys select their meals first and then I ordered a couple of extra entrees -- which none of them had been adventurous enough to try. I did this because I wanted to give everyone a chance to sample the buffalo meat, if they wanted to. The boys found it slightly different than beef, maybe a little gamier and perhaps just a touch tougher, but everyone finished chewing and swallowing the piece or pieces they took. After dinner, we decided to walk down the historic Buffalo Main Street and check out some of the more notable buildings. One of these was the Occidental Hotel, which was mentioned in Owen Wister's book, 'The Virginian.' With a little effort, you could almost picture the trail hands riding down the street, before stopping and entering the hotel for a room, meal or possibly just a drink. After we went back to our rooms, the boys began clamoring for something more to do. Seeing it was getting late and I didn't have any plans for anything special this evening, we started discussing our options. Again, I told the boys they could venture out on their own, if they wished, but after their experience the previous evening, most decided it wasn't worth the effort. Eventually, we finally settled on going to the large pool at the motel for a swim. I managed to have the boys keep the noise down to a dull roar, in case some of the other guests had decided to go to bed early. However, I knew a good workout would tire them out, so they'd sleep better. After we finished our swim, everyone went back to his room. I wasn't surprised to discover that Kevin, Vinnie, Trey and Dion had left about a half hour before the rest of us. I knew both couples valued their quality time alone and this most likely accounted for the fact they didn't want to share a room with any of the non-couples. At least this way they wouldn't feel so conspicuous or uncomfortable about their lovemaking or for ignoring the others, as both pairs would be focusing solely on their own partner. Once they had dried off from their swim, one of the four tuned in to a radio station that played the kind of music they enjoyed and then both couples went to their beds for a long evening of intimacy and lovemaking. Neither couple was there just for sex and for them the cuddling, kissing and simple touching meant as much, if not more, than the sexual act and their eventual release. For the first hour or so, they mostly talked, caressed, kissed and stroked each other's faces and upper body, before they ultimately gave in to the urges every teen experiences. After a certain point in their intimacy, both couples became completely oblivious of the other pair and merely went about doing the kinds of things they would have anyway, had they been totally alone. None of them was ashamed or embarrassed about their lovemaking and were able to share the love and tenderness they felt for their soul mate. Both pairs engaged in a variety of foreplay and sexual acts, including manual and oral stimulation, but when it came to surrendering themselves totally to their partner, that was the gentlest and most beautiful act of all. This wasn't animal lust, with two mammals rutting for sexual release. This was a slow, tender and passionate coupling. It was a total commitment, performed by two people in love, and was the most beautiful and intimate act they could share with each other. As the two bodies joined and slowly merged into one larger body, connected by a fleshy tether, the boys reaffirmed their promise to be with only this one other person. It also showed they didn't desire or need anyone else to make them feel fulfilled and whole. These were couples I could see being together for a long time, or so I hoped. When at last they reached their orgasms and enjoyed the release they ultimately sought, it didn't mean the end of their need for each other or their lack of desire to be together any longer. Therefore, they didn't immediately roll over and fall asleep, once their sexual desires were sated. Instead, they continued to touch, cuddle and kiss, thus proving this was more than just a purely physical act. A half hour later, they were still cuddled together, but at this point they decided to let their bodies drift into oblivion, as they sought the rejuvenation that only sleep would bring. When they awoke the following morning, both couples were still entwined with their soul mate and content with the love they had shared. This meant they were also well rested and ready to face the new day ahead. This morning, we still managed to get a very early start. The bus traveled east again, as it headed to our next stop, Devils Tower. This is the natural formation made famous by the movie 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind,' where it was the eventual destination of the lead character. I thought it would be great for the boys to see it in person and believe some were even looking forward to it. I think we were all gawking out the windows as we approached the site, because it was truly inspiring. It rose 1,267 feet above the surrounding Belle Fourche River and is known by several northern plains tribes as Bears Lodge. To these tribes, Devil's Tower is a sacred site of worship. In 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt established Devils Tower National Monument, which made it the nation's first national monument. Now, it is included in a park of more than 1300 acres and receives more than 450,000 visitors each year. Although climbers are allowed to scale the Tower, it was not part of our plans. Instead, we opted to take the one-hour walking tour, guided by a park ranger. The walk was interesting and the view spectacular, but by the time we finished our hike, we were ready to get back on the bus and set off again -- this time to Deadwood, South Dakota. It took a few hours to reach our destination, but most of us were growing accustomed to the long rides between stops. However, once we arrived, the boys were surprised that Deadwood turned out to be such an interesting place. It was incorporated in 1876, during the gold rush in the Black Hills, and James Butler 'Wild Bill' Hickok was killed there. Hickok was later shot during a poker game in Deadwood, and at the time of his death, he was holding two pair, aces and eights, and this hand is still known as 'the dead man's hand.' You can even visit his gravesite, as well as the final resting place of his long-time friend, and possible lover, Calamity Jane. The area has almost always survived on gambling, but now there are many other things to see and do. There are several small museums to visit or you can take guided tours of an old gold mine, the infamous Boot Hill Cemetery and the old Chinese tunnels, which run beneath the city. There is also a Ghosts of Deadwood Gulch Wax Museum, which features the likenesses of some of the town's most notable prior residents. We found plenty to do, and there were tons of choices of establishments to eat, so the hours just seemed to fly by and it was time to head to our rooms for the night. We spent the next day in the Deadwood area as well, but this time we started out at the Gulches of Fun Amusement Park, where we played mini-golf, rode go-karts and bumper boats, and spent time in their large arcade. This was pretty much a 'let your hair down and just be a kid again day,' for the most part, and I think the older boys, Jake and I had as much fun, if not more than the younger ones. After tiring ourselves out there, we drove to Custer, South Dakota, where we spent the night and set ourselves up for the next day's three stops. I personally don't remember much about what happened that evening, except for a late night visit from one of my boys. Something must have come up the previous evening that bothered him, so he came in to my room and asked to speak with me alone. He seemed very nervous, but desperate for my attention, so I sat down in a chair and pulled him onto my lap. I hoped by doing this it would make him feel a bit more comfortable and easier for him to tell me what was on his mind. "What's up, Andrew?" I asked, once we'd settled against each other. He looked up at me and studied my face, before responding. "Dad, how much longer am I going to be a little kid?" he asked, deeply concerned. "Andrew, you're not a little kid any more," I countered. "You'll be turning thirteen in a couple more months and I don't believe anyone thinks of you as a little boy any longer." He didn't look convinced. "But I am," he whined, "even if the rest of you don't think so. I'm still short, shorter than anyone in my grade at school, and I'm even shorter than Sammy was at my age. When Sammy was almost thirteen, he already had a few hairs down there and his thing had begun to grow. I got no hairs, 'cept on my head, and my wiener is still really small." Now, I understood what his problem was. "Andrew, I know you've heard me say this before, but everyone reaches puberty at different times. Some boys begin this trek at eleven, while others may not start this phase of their lives until they're fifteen or sixteen. It doesn't mean you're a baby or that there's anything wrong with you, it's just because it's not your time yet. That's all." Looking at his face, he still didn't seem convinced by my explanation. "Peter told me he didn't start until just before Ricky went there and said I might be like him…" suddenly, Andrew remembered his promise to Peter and stopped in mid-sentence. "Dad, I wasn't supposed to tell anyone that," he informed me, looking panicked. "Please, don't tell Peter I told you. Please! He's nice to me and I don't want him to be mad." "Calm down, Andrew," I urged. "I'm not going to say a word about this, but how did you find out?" "He told me when we messed around the other night," Andrew admitted. "I was worried he'd think I was a baby and wouldn't want to do anything with me, because I only have a baby dick. That's when he told me he was like me and didn't start to grow down there until just before Ricky showed up. I'm not sure I believe him, though. He might just be saying it to make me feel better. He's the same as the other boys, so I don't see how he could have started so late." "I'm sure he's telling the truth," I confirmed, "and once it was his time, he caught up quickly. The same will happen to you. Just be patient." "You really think so?" he challenged, still not convinced. "I'm positive, honey," I concurred. "Maybe this is partially my fault though, for giving you permission to start doing things with the other boys before you had reached puberty. Maybe I should have stuck to my guns and made you wait until you'd developed first, before I allowed you to join in the sex games. If I'd have done that, maybe you wouldn't be feeling this way now." He looked up at me, the tracks of his tears clearly visible on his cheeks. "No, Dad," he sobbed. "I think I would have felt even worse then, if you didn't think I was old enough to do those things too. I know you don't think I'm a baby, and I'm pretty sure the others don't either. It's just me. I just can't help feeling this way. I know you're right and all, but I still feel like such a little kid. I try not to, but I can't seem to change how I feel. I hope I don't have to wait much longer for something to happen though, or I'll go crazy." "Just hang in there, little man," I nearly pleaded. "All good things come to those who wait." "Man, you sound just like some of those crazy stories we have to read in school." He giggled. "Well, I was probably around when they were written, so I'm sure I do sound like them." He laughed even louder. "But some of those things came from ancient Greece," he explained, as if I didn't know, "or even from guys like Ben Franklin. You're not THAT old." He giggled again. "Well, the same way you feel younger than you really are, sometimes you boys make me feel older than I really am." Andrew stopped laughing and studied my face. "Yeah, I guess your right," he agreed. "Things like that can change how you look at yourself, so I guess this is just in my head, isn't it?" "I think most of the problem lies in how we perceive ourselves," I clarified. "Okay, I understand and I'll try to do better," he agreed. "I think I see what you're saying." I gave him a hug and a kiss on the forehead after hearing his acknowledgment. "Oh, I hope that doesn't make you feel like a baby too!" I exclaimed, with a shocked look on my face. "Maybe, but I don't mind it for something like this. You can do it again, if you want," he added with a huge grin. Not wasting any time, I repeated my last gesture and gave him the biggest hug he'd had in a long time and kissed him over and over again on his forehead. He was giggling hysterically by the time I stopped. "I love you, Andrew, and rest assured, I do not think of you as a baby, in any way. Just my loveable youngest son." I gave him one more hug and kiss, and then I just relaxed, with Andrew still on my lap. "I don't know how you do it, but you always make me feel better," he confessed, as he melted against my chest. "That's just part of my job, little man… that and loving you." This time he hugged me. "You do a good job of both," he assured me. "I trust you, Dad, so I'm going to try to do what you say. I guess I really believe Peter too, because why would he tell me something like that, if it wasn't true. It must have been really embarrassing for him to admit he had been like me." "Probably not," I challenged. "It might have been hard for him to admit it while it was happening, but since he's looking back at a problem that no longer exists, it probably doesn't seem so bad now. Besides, he did it to help you." Andrew smiled and blushed. "He's pretty nice, isn't he, Dad?" Andrew asked. "He is and I'm sure he likes you just as much," I added, "especially since he told you about himself, hoping it would make you feel better." We sat there for many more minutes, chatting about other things, but it was mostly just to allow Andrew the opportunity of receiving a little more affection from his dad. Even though it was something a younger child would be more likely to do, I knew he was enjoying our time together, since we haven't had many opportunities to do this as of late. Once he'd started joining in the sexual escapades, we hadn't spent much time alone, but I think he was now letting the little boy in him show through again. He didn't seem to be as concerned about being considered a baby and was simply enjoying our closeness. Eventually, he went off to his own room, somewhat convinced he had nothing to worry about. I know he was still greatly concerned about his delayed entry into puberty, but I think he had decided not to let this bother him for the time being, so he could enjoy the fun he was having with the others. When I went to bed that evening, I mentally rehashed everything I had talked to Andrew about and wondered if I could have said or phrased anything better. After thinking this over for many minutes, I finally concluded I was only beating myself up about something I couldn't change and Andrew seemed satisfied with the way everything went. I did consider a few things I might say to him in the future, if this subject popped up again, but for now, I'll let a sleeping dog lie. After a good night's sleep, we were all in a better mood and it was another beautiful day. We ate our breakfast, gathered up our things and boarded the bus again. This time we were on our way to visit some more typical tourist attractions. We began the next day by going to Jewel Cave, which is the third longest cave in the world and currently has more than 129 miles of mapped and surveyed passageways. However, this is believed to be only a small percentage of what actually exists there. The cave was discovered in 1900 and in 1908 a Presidential Proclamation established it as a national monument. I chose to take the boys on the Lantern Tour, which is a 1930's style adventure through the caves. You enter and exit via the historic entrance and travel over an unpaved trail. The tour is quite strenuous, because it is a half-mile long and includes steep wooden steps. There is also a great deal of bending and stooping required and the only light provided is that from the lamps everyone carries. Due to the fact they limit these tours to 20 or fewer people, the operators of the site decided to take my family alone, with no outsiders included. At first, I was worried about Vinnie being able to handle this, so I confronted him about it. He said he wanted to try and asked if Jake or I could carry him up the steps, which I said shouldn't be a problem. Vinnie felt he wouldn't have trouble with the bending and stooping though, because he was already on the short side. He concluded if worse came to worse and it became necessary, he'd crawl through some of those areas. Seeing he was so determined to try, I went ahead with our plans. The tour took just under two hours to complete and was quite interesting. From past experiences, I had the boys take jackets with them and many were grateful to have these items later, since the caves maintained a constant temperature of forty- nine degrees. Beside the temperature, I would recommend that no one with claustrophobia ever take this tour, since the areas we traveled through often seemed very confined and restrictive. After we finished up at the caves, we went to see the Crazy Horse Memorial. This work is still in progress, but you can see the model of what the finished product will look like. The work was begun in 1948, by sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski, who died in 1982, but his wife and family are continuing his dream. "Why are they carving an image of this person into the mountain?" Peter wanted to know. "I'm not sure what the sculptor had in mind," I began, "but Crazy Horse's people saw him as a visionary leader and one who proved himself in battle many times. I would say he is one of the most famous, courageous and influential Native Americans to have ever lived." "I thought he was an Indian," Peter challenged, innocently. "Well, we now call them Native Americans," I explained. "It's because they were living in this land first, before the Europeans arrived." "Oh, like the Aborigines in Australia," he commented, showing he recognized the similarities. "Exactly," I concurred. "The Aborigines were the first to live there and, therefore, native to Australia." Once this was clarified, we did a whirlwind tour of the site, since we had one more stop to go. Even though our time was limited, the boys still saw a great deal and found it very interesting. After leaving the Crazy Horse memorial, our bus took us to Mt. Rushmore, for our final stop of the day. Although everyone has seen a picture of the presidents' heads carved into the side of the mountain, what they may not know is it took about fourteen years to complete. Gutzon Borglum and four hundred workers sculpted the sixty-foot high busts of Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln into solid rock. "You've had so many presidents," Peter stated, "so why did they choose these four?" "They were selected to represent the first one hundred and fifty years of American history," I explained. "Washington was included because he was the father of our country, the first president and represented the struggle for independence. Jefferson was honored as the author of the Declaration of Independence and for expanding the new nation through the Louisiana Purchase." I paused briefly, to see if he was following me. "How about the other two?" Peter pressed. "Lincoln was chosen for preserving the union and for expanding the ideals of freedom and equality for all. Finally, Teddy Roosevelt was added because he oversaw the completion of the Panama Canal, which linked the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. This made travel from one coast of the country to the other more accessible and helped the west grow. He was also a great conservationist and helped establish many of the places we visited earlier." "Wow, sir, you really know a lot about history," Peter commented. "I should, because I once taught it," I explained, "but I also did some extra research while deciding which places to visit." This seemed to satisfy Peter, so we continued on. After looking at Mt. Rushmore from a distance, we decided to explore the half-mile or so Presidential Trail. This is a combination walking trail and boardwalk, which provides a spectacular and unique close-up view of the various sculptures, as seen from below. Using a pair of binoculars, it seemed as if you were standing beneath each of those enormous heads and looking up their nostrils. "I wonder if they carved any boogers in their noses," Ricky joked, while looking up. "Only you would think of that," Danny chided, while the others giggled. "But think about it," Ricky continued. "If they did, and he had a cold…" I cut him off. "That's more than enough for now," I interjected and Ricky took the hint. There was no further discussion about such things, although there were intermittent jests about Ricky's sense of humor. At the end of the trail we came to the Sculptor's Studio, which contains unique plaster models and tools relating to the sculpting process. Again, this was an interesting stop and something you really have to see in person to appreciate fully. "Hey, Andrew, maybe some day you can do something like this," Cole suggested. "You did a really good job drawing Cody's picture." "Thanks, but that's it," Andrew replied. "I just draw and paint. I don't think I'm strong enough to hammer out something as wonderful as this." We all understood his concern, but the boys continued to impress upon him how talented they thought he was, which helped inflate Andrew's ego. It was just what he needed. Once we finished there, we got back on the bus and rode to Rapid City, where we spent the night. Although we did take a walk around some of the area, we didn't see very much. After that, we basically just went back to our rooms watched movies on television, but no one seemed to mind. I felt a little guilty about not doing more, since I knew we'd have a long day on the road the next day, but I had something planned that would make up for it. The next morning, we took everyone to the Flags and Wheels Amusement Park. I thought it would be a good place to go, because they had activities geared to the older boys too, not just the younger ones. The park featured sprint car racing, which are like go-carts on steroids, but there is a catch. You need a driver's license to race one, so this was one activity I knew my drivers would enjoy. The park also had less powerful go-carts and bumper boats for the non-drivers, so they weren't completely left out of the fun. There were also batting cages and paint ball available, so we made sure to take advantage of those activities too. Once everyone had raced as much as they wanted and used the batting cages, Jake and I organized a massive paint ball war for just our family. I had made sure everyone wore old clothes today, for just this reason, and soon we were divided into two teams and waging war on each other. Jake and I played on opposite sides and split the boys evenly, by age. It might have seemed a little cruel, but we also pitted partner against partner, but the boys soon proved this was war and showed their lovers no mercy. I found it a blast and felt everyone had a great time. We actually did this twice, so those who were put out early in the first war would have a chance to do better on the second go around. By the time we were done, the boys were exhausted, but not nearly as much as Jake and I. This meant we were all more than anxious to just sit back and relax during the long ride to Sioux Falls. Before we got on the bus, we cleaned up as best we could, so we didn't make a mess. The boys also talked the driver into selecting a radio station that played music they'd enjoy and then kicked back and listened to the tunes as we traveled. Some also read or napped along the way, but they were all unusually docile. I guess the morning had taken a lot out of them too. It was late by the time we reached Sioux Falls, so we checked into our rooms, cleaned up as quickly as we could and went out to dinner. The boys were still fairly subdued, but not enough to prevent them from trying to evoke reactions from the other diners by making sure everyone knew we were a family unit. This sometimes got uncomfortable for us, as even casual observers picked up on the fact there are two dads and no mother, but thankfully the majority of people did not let this bother them or create a problem. In fact, many went out of their way to stop by our table and ask how we came together. They also commented about how they enjoyed seeing us all interacting so well and having such a good time, without the boys becoming rowdy or rambunctious. I told these people they were welcome to visit us at our home anytime, if they wanted to witness the boys in action in their natural habitat, but no one ever accepted my invitation. However, Jake and I were both complimented for what we were doing, by raising so many boys. Those commenting said it was wonderful and very obvious we were having a positive influence on our sons. The Castaway Hotel: Grand Reopening --Book 7 - by BW Copyright 2009 by billwstories Chapter 8 -- From Tourist to Campers. The next morning we got up early, had a large breakfast and then got ready for another long ride, but this time to Minneapolis. I had told the boys we were going to see a ballgame at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, between the Minnesota Twins and the Oakland Athletics. It was a night game, so we had plenty of time, but I suggested we'd stop for a late lunch and eat heartily, and then just have some hot dogs, pizza and other things at the park later. They seemed to like the idea, which made the long ride seem to go a little easier. We checked into our hotel before going to the game, to make sure we got settled in first. The boys knew we'd be staying here two nights and this would also give them a chance to freshen up before we went out again. We still managed to get to the park early, so we could walk around and check it out before the game started. I also understood the boys wanted to watch batting practice too, which would give them an opportunity to collect autographs from players on both teams, so I let them roam about in small groups to see what they could come up with. Everyone returned to his seat before the National Anthem was played and then settled in to watch the game. It didn't take long for the vendors to acknowledge us, once word got out about how many hot dogs, sodas, popcorn and other items we were purchasing at one time. Each boy consumed a large variety of these treats while enjoying the action and no one was hungry by the time we reached the middle innings. The game wasn't very close and the biggest redeeming value was that it was a high scoring affair. There was plenty of action and some tremendous offensive output, which captured everyone's interest. When the game was over, we went back to our rooms, but not before I informed the boys we'd be spending the next day at the Mall of America, where we'd do a little back-to-school shopping. Most of the boys seemed to really like the idea, so it wasn't hard to get them to go to bed quickly. They were also unusually easy to get up the following morning, since they were quite excited about seeing the mall and doing some shopping. Imagine that -- gay boys excited about shopping. The Mall of America is huge! It was built on the 78-acre site of the old Metropolitan Stadium, which used to be home to both the Twins and the Vikings. It opened in August of 1992 and has over 500 stores, which tempted the boys to go off on their own. I tried to keep everyone together, as much as possible, so I let them suggest which stores we'd check out, in order to minimize the chance they'd wander away. As we made our rounds, we'd go in and see what the store had to offer and then make our purchases. Before we were even halfway through the mall, we were already becoming loaded down with packages, but the boys weren't complaining about having to carry them, so we kept going. However, when we stopped for lunch at the food court, we ran into our driver and talked him into letting us take our bags out and locking them in the bus with our other belongings. After securing everything on the bus, we went back inside and got something to eat. Once we were full, we set about finishing up our shopping. I was pretty much dragging by the time we were done, so we made our way back to the hotel and rested for a bit, before we cleaned up and went out for dinner. It was a nice meal, but it was also the last one we would share with Mark and Frankie for a couple of weeks. Mark had to go home and return to work, and Frankie decided to go back to continue his job search. He was very serious about landing a position in law enforcement and didn't want to risk missing any opportunity to do so. Throughout the meal, the others told Mark and Frankie they were going to miss them and a few even asked for one or the other to do a favor for them when they returned. The duo agreed, since most of the requests were simple, but it would also keep them busy, so they wouldn't feel so lonely. After we finished the main course, I urged everyone to order dessert. I even allowed the older boys to have an after dinner glass of wine with it and poured it in their empty water glass, hoping no one would notice. Once we finished, we went for a brief walk, before going back to our rooms. The next morning, we went to a U. P. S. store to ship our purchases home and then took Mark and Frankie to the airport to catch their flight. After seeing them off, the rest of us headed northeast, toward a little place named Ely, Minnesota. We were leaving from there to begin a two-week camping and canoeing trip thru some of the surrounding lakes. This trip would take us as far as the Canadian border, but we weren't planning on crossing it. It was mid-afternoon when we finally arrived at the outfitter's base and they had everything ready for us. We merely unloaded the fishing gear and backpacks we had brought with us, before we began dividing everything up. Some of the boys would carry one of the backpacks we brought with us, which now contained their clothing. Two boys shared each backpack, so the other would be free to carry the items we picked up here. The outfitters had the food and tents already placed in several of the backpacks, with the sleeping bags fastened to them. Since these backpacks were larger and heavier, we quickly assigned them to the older and larger boys. Jake and I took one too, as we tried to make sure we distributed everything equitably. Once everyone was responsible for something, the outfitters led us to the six canoes we were going to use on this trip. They also gave me a map in a waterproof case, but not before they showed Jake and I the route they had planned for us to follow. They then went on to explain how far we should go each day, so we'd be back on time, and then provided us a few other essentials, such as wooden matches to start our fires with. These were put in the waterproof case with the map, to help keep them dry until they were needed. After some general instruction about what to watch out for and other information we should know, we were given a quick demonstration of the appropriate way for one-man or two-men to carry a canoe over a portage. A portage is when you have to travel overland to get around areas where the water isn't deep enough for a fully loaded canoe to travel or when you were moving from one water-source to another. We were told we'd be navigating many of these and they would range from thirty yards to over 300 yards in length. This news brought groans from my poor, abused family, but I told them to 'suck it up' and get moving. A few minutes later, the canoes were in the water, with our gear stored safely in between those who would be doing the paddling. There were three in each canoe and I assigned Andrew, Sammy, Graham, Cole, Vinnie and Trey to be the middlemen in the various canoes. Once everyone had a chance to practice, we shoved off and started our adventure. Due to the fact we were getting a late start, which the outfitters had taken into consideration when planning our route, the first campsite wasn't very far away. This short outing gave us a chance to get used to working together in a canoe and then cross a small portage, before we set up our initial camp and fixed our first meal over an open fire. I knew this would be great preparation for the more difficult legs of the trip, which were still to come. Protectively and instinctively, I kept a close eye on Vinnie and wondered how he'd handle the portage. I was amazed by what I saw. With Kevin's help and the use of his crutches, he managed to do just fine. His ability to adjust and determination to do everything the others do still impresses me and I'm certainly glad he is like this. He doesn't let his handicap overcome him and will not use it as an excuse. This attitude will serve him well in life. When we reached the area where we'd be spending the night, we were all thankful this hadn't been a full day's journey. By the time we finished setting up our tents and securing our gear, we were all beginning to feel some muscles we hadn't used in a while. In addition to that, many of our hands were red and tender from using the paddles to propel the canoes, plus the weight of the gear and carrying the canoes over the portage had taken it's toll on our endurance levels. Even the boys who thought they were in fairly good shape were showing signs of wearing down, so we took a quick breather before we began dinner. By the time we finished eating, everyone was ready to call it a day. I asked who wanted to go out and fish for breakfast with me the next morning and wasn't surprised to see only a couple of boys take me up on my offer, as the others preferred to sleep in. I informed the interested parties I'd set my watch and wake them between 5 and 5:30, so we would be out when the fish were biting. Since there would only be four of us, we'd just take two canoes. I'd be in one with Pat and Jake would be in the other with Dustin. When the alarm went off the next morning, I first made sure Jake was getting up, before I went to wake the other pair. We gathered our gear, set out in the canoes and fished for nearly two hours before we went back in. We had a few fish we kept and Jake offered to clean them for us, so they could be added to our breakfast menu. Pat and Dustin offered to help Jake, so while they were doing that, I started a fire and began to get everything else ready. Once the smell of the food began wafting through the air, heads began to peek out between the various tent flaps. It wasn't long before the boys began making their way in my direction, to grab some grub. It was kind of comical to watch them wander around in various states of dress, but I guess their growling stomachs were a stronger motivating force than the normal teen instinct to sleep as late as possible. Soon all of them were moving about and filling up with a variety of items, but I was surprised by how many chose to have some fish with their meal. Heck, most of them even came back for more. We soon finished eating, struck camp and double-checked to make sure we left nothing behind. I also made certain there were no embers remaining from the fire, because I didn't want to be responsible for starting a forest fire. As you probably remember from our previous outings, I always make sure we leave a place in as good, or better, shape than we found it, and once I was certain of that, we began the next leg of this adventure. The water in the lakes and connecting streams was crystal clear and the boys were tempted to scoop it out with their canteens, so they could drink it directly from the source. After warning them not to do it and telling them the reasons why, they heeded my advice. We continued on, but I also noticed everyone was making sure to enjoy the fantastic scenery that enveloped us. We were surrounded by an endless supply of trees, in multiple varieties, the crystal clear lake we were on, the pale-blue sky, filled with billowy, white clouds and the golden sun. It was truly a scene an artist would die for and one we'd probably never forget. We kept going until around 2 p.m., when we headed toward shore to stop and eat. Although we were already a little tired and sore from the physical exertion, it didn't seem to be as bad as it had been the day before. We had even navigated a portage of around 200 yards and everyone seemed to do quite well with it. After lunch we struck out again and were just passing a small island when an unexpected noise split the silence. It sounded like a gunshot. Many of us were startled and jumped in our seats, before looking in various directions for hunters. However, after surveying the area, I quickly spotted what had caused the noise and advised the boys. It was not what they thought at all, but merely a beaver warning other beavers of our approach by whacking its tail on the water. After the boys regained their composure and had a laugh over each other's reactions, we kept going until we neared the spot where we were scheduled to spend our second night. This time we pitched our tents about ten yards from shore and then began to prepare dinner. The boys had a little more energy tonight and I could see they weren't about to go directly to bed. As we continued to sit around the fire, they began to beg me to tell them one of my stories, so I had to quickly come up with something that would suffice. Seeing there was so much water around, I focused in on one specific idea and hurriedly fleshed it out in my mind, so I could share it with them. When I thought I was prepared, I began to tell my recently concocted tale. "Well, when I first contacted our outfitters, they warned me that a few years ago a couple had returned from Florida with five baby alligators. They thought they could keep them and maybe make some money by charging people to see them up close. Within a short time, however, the gators had grown so large they were becoming a threat to the family and neighborhood pets, so the couple brought them out to one of the lakes and released them. "Seeing there are no natural predators for them in this area and with the abundance of food available, the gators grew rapidly and became more aggressive in the process. Soon they were attacking beaver, geese and other animals that dared to share their lake, and they even began to lie in wait for squirrels, rabbits, deer, moose, elk, bear and other animals coming down for a drink. Eventually, the alligators became so fearless that they even attempted to attack people in canoes and came up on shore at night, so they could pull campers from their tents. They would drag them down to the water, where they could deal with them better, and not many of their victims ever survived. "I don't think this is the lake they mentioned, and if I remember correctly, they said it was more to our west. What concerns me is that if those alligators have been having babies, I'm sure they're branching out and making their way to new places. If they didn't, it would put a great strain on the food supply where they were and then they'd HAVE to move on. However, I don't think we have to worry, but it wouldn't hurt to keep your eyes open just in case." I ended my story, but wasn't certain who, if anyone, believed my tale. I felt some might, but I still didn't bother to tell them I'd made the whole thing up or that gators wouldn't be able to survive a harsh Minnesota winter, when the lakes freeze over. They wanted a story, so I gave them one. I also knew the scarier those stories are, the more they appreciate it, so I tried not to disappoint them. As the boys left the campfire, I saw several of them looking around as they walked to their sleeping area, and I heard later a couple of them even checked their sleeping bags before they crawled in. A short time later, I spotted Peter coming out to relieve himself, but noticed he was unwilling to move away from the area the tents were set up to do this. I decided to approach him and ease his concerns. "It's all right and you don't have to worry," I told him, when he saw me approach. "But sir, I know what crocs can do. We have plenty of them down-under," he challenged. "I know, but I just made that story up," I explained. "Didn't Ricky explain that?" "He did tell me you told good ghost stories," he replied, "but he didn't tell me they were made up, especially this one." "Well, it was, even if he didn't tell you so," I added. "Are you okay now?" "I'd still feel better if you stayed with me," he responded. "If it will make you feel better," I agreed. I walked behind him as he moved a little farther from the tents, so the smell didn't drift back. Then, I stood guard while he did his thing. Once he'd finished, I walked him back and he thanked me for going with him. The next few days were much the same as the last and I was surprised we hadn't seen any other people out and about since the afternoon we left the outfitter's place. We did see more than our share of wildlife, mostly from long range, but our biggest thrill came when we saw an eagle soaring in the sky above us. We watched for several minutes, before it landed in its aerie, way up in a huge, and apparently dying, tree. It had been great observing it soar above us, as its huge wings caught the warmer air pockets, which helped float its great body effortlessly about. When it finally landed in its aerie, it did so with a minimum of exertion and little impact to the lofty nesting area. During these past few days the boys had done much more than just watch wildlife they became a little primitive themselves. They had done a great deal of skinny- dipping in the various lakes we camped on and often ran around the campsite with nothing on but some footwear. Although that sort of activity has never bothered me, I noticed it did make Jake a little uneasy. He was worried others would see the boys running around naked, even though we hadn't encountered anyone else, so he continually scanned the lake for signs of unexpected visitors. Other than that, there were few problems, but we also experienced some humorous moments. With all the quiet that blanketed the area, except for the sounds of a few crickets, frogs or an occasional owl, it made other disturbances seem even louder. So, when we overheard some of the boys' nightly sessions, it left little to our imagination. On more than one occasion, we had to stifle laughs over the cries of ecstasy emitted during a heated encounter, but I was glad to know they were enjoying themselves. We had almost reached the end of our first week in the wilderness when we noticed a storm approaching on the horizon. We quickly detoured to an island on the lake we were currently on, set up camp quickly and then planned on waiting out the storm. We had just barely finished our preparations, so the boys were still dressed, when another canoe appeared and suddenly headed toward our island. In it were a mother, father and their two children -- a girl about fourteen or fifteen and a boy most likely in the twelve to thirteen age bracket. Once they came ashore and spotted us, they quickly asked if we'd mind if they shared the island with us during the storm. I quickly informed them we would welcome their company and they began to unload their gear. They would occasionally glance around and examine our family, so within a few minutes they were asking if we were a scout troop. None of us laughed, since we were used to such questions, but I informed our visitors we'd explain later, after we helped them set up first. It appeared the rain would start falling soon and we wanted to make sure they were all safe and snug during whatever we were about to encounter. They agreed, and then the boys, Jake and I all pitched in to get this done rapidly. We had barely finished getting their tents ready when the first drops of precipitation began to fall. The storm turned out to be a violent one and sheets of rain slammed into the outer surface of our tents. The flashes of lightning were extremely bright and the thunder rumbled and vibrated throughout our temporary shelters and bodies. We even heard the lightning strike somewhere close by, but none of us went out to see what had been hit, although a few had been tempted. This terrible storm lasted for over an hour, before the rain began to slow from a downpour to a heavy drizzle. Even though it was letting up slightly, it still wasn't something you wanted to be in just yet. However, I think the boys would have liked to run around nude in the rain, if it wasn't for our unexpected company and the lightning. This situation lasted for about another 30 minutes, with the storm gradually letting up until it stopped completely. When the sun began to peek out from behind the clouds, we all emerged from our havens of safety. As we all came out to check the very soggy campsite, we began to chat. We discovered this family was heading back in to Ely and had been out in this wilderness for just over two weeks. Part of the reason they choose this type of vacation was to help their son earn some merit badges from his scout troop. They also felt it would give them time to bond and enjoy each other's company, without distractions. They said the experience had helped bond them closer to each other than they were before they started. After they filled us in about themselves, they wanted to know more about us. We quickly told them our story, but at first they didn't believe what they heard and thought we were just pulling their legs. Eventually, we convinced them we were indeed a family and then answered a ton of questions, mostly from the children. Once they were satisfied, we spent the remainder of the day together, since we decided it would be best to spend the remainder of the day on this island and then strike out again in the morning. 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