GS8060

Camp Elk River - Zimmerman, MN

Saturday, August 9th

Part One - Horseback Riding

The girls woke up bright and early Saturday morning. We headed off to the main building for breakfast. For each meal, two girls are assigned as "Hoppers." Their job is to set the tables, get the food ready, get more food if needed, and clear the tables. Yes, it is possible! Your daughters all know how to do this. Heather, Andrea and I saw it with our own eyes. :)

After announcements and clean up, they were off to learn how to do a Flag Ceremony. Diva (the man in blue), explained how the ceremony works and gave them all jobs to do. Sophia read the commands. Kjirstin carried the flag and the rest of the troop helped unfold and raise it.

Getting directions and sashes to wear.

Learning the correct formations.

Off for the real thing!

It was a huge success. Diva gave them all high fives for a job well done.

We spent the rest of the morning at Horse Camp. I've included several photos of each of the girls. I have more! If you want extras of your daughter, let me know and I'll see what else I can send.

They started the session by getting fit for helmets. Afterward, they had a chance to sit with one of the counselors and go over breeds, sizes and colors of horses. We were all surprised to learn a mule comes from a female horse and a male donkey.

Elk River Map

Their classroom for the session.

After our lessons, it was time to ride! Chip (in the white striped tank top) just graduated from Coe College and was fantastic. She spent a lot of time explaining things to the girls.

Getting some lessons on noises, camera flashes, and walking while around horses.

Heading into the riding area.

Each girl had their own horse.

Then it was time to get up on them!

There was a lot of excitement!

Gabby realizing that her horse had just stopped to poop.

All of the girls did a great job riding. Some were a bit nervous. Some were really nervous. They all did it though and were excited about tackling something new. There were smiles all around when they were finished.

Next, they learned to brush and saddle their horses.