Scouting

Flagbreak

Camping, Cooking, Memories, Outdoor Pursuits, Outdoors, Poetry

Unfurl

A summer morning, Worsley woods, west of Manchester

the sun just peaking through the nest of trees

circle of tents in various spots

and a scout leader starting the beginnings of an altar fire

little faces pop out of the niger tents to grab a view

breakfast served at 8 am sharp

but first, a mug of tea

some make a break for the toilet block

as sausage and eggy bread sizzle in a pan

orders given to the sous chef … he keeps his eye on the food

and slowly the camp leader makes his way to the pole

and all stand still in observance

the flag is released from its bonds

and flies high in the gentle breeze , proudly to attention

and all present give a salute

before breakfast is served

Unfurl

Acrostic, Camping, Character, Childhood, Outdoor Pursuits, Scouting, Scouts

Unfurl

17th August 2017

Middlewood scout camp, Worsley, Salford

UJG

Maybe it was

in the act of “doing our duty” that the

dedication of raising and lowering the union flag each

day at camp, reminded those

little or big, to “do their best”

even in the smallest of acts – from

washing the pots , to keeping their tent clean

over time, we’d learn a lot at that campsite – but we’d always

observe the traditions of flagbreak, each

day and evening

Knots

Outdoor Pursuits, Outdoors, Poetry, Schooldays, Scouting, Scouts

#Napowrimo #Day17 #Knots

#Blogging101

A Dictionary poem for #Day17 of the Napowrimo challenge.  Based on my old scouting days! enjoy.

 

Don’t get stressed,

in time – you’ll master it

creating an artform from two ends of rope

bridges don’t need wood or metal but a few simple knots

Reef Knot, Clove and Timber Hitch are handy for a pioneer

and some west country whipping will soon get those old ropes into shape

Loop your ropes tight around the tree to maintain tension

Sheet bend and bowline and the old Round Turn comes in here

The half hitch keeps these in tight.

Be careful with your left and your right though

as one wrong move with your rope work could spell disaster

Can’t have a Granny Knot where a Reef Knot is Needed.

Good Companion

Camping, Outdoor Pursuits, Scouting

Oh little resting place of mine
set among forest of green
lashed down on the grassland
in space of trees between.

Your A-Frame and Flysheet,
are a real treat,
against the clouds
you cannot be beat.

And under your flysheet is perfect,
for drying boots after ‘ hike
as raindrops drain down, into gully of brown
and one or two of your spikes

When midges arrive, you’re a cover –
whilst getting prepared for parade
and when sunshine is fierce and fiery
you provide the perfect shade.

Plenty of space for my camp kit
at head of my bag I will rest
and as I work and play, they’ll be safe all day
under the best cover in camp in the west

And when I seek you , out at night
your reflecting orange shines in torchlight
and as I rest my happy head
your canvas cover overlooks my bed.

They call you the “Good Companion”
The orange tent on forest ground
A place that is home for a scouter –
the best little tent all around.