Raindrops Keep Falling on His Head

     Robert and his father had enjoyed hiking and camping out together ever since Robert was old enough to walk. Their favorite hiking trail was the Appalachian trail which stretches from Maine to Georgia. They had never walked that far, of course, but enjoyed the section of the trail that passed through their part of Pennsylvania.

     Although his dad always picked the date, it was up to Robert to plan the meals, shop for the food, and get all the necessary supplies packed for the outing. Dad always insisted that Robert create a checklist so that nothing would be forgotten, but sometimes Robert got lazy.

     "If we forget anything, it won't be a big deal," Robert explained to his mother, "There are always other hikers around who will loan you a can opener or share their matches."

     Mother just shook her head as if she disagreed, but said nothing. She had firmly stated from the very beginning that these trips had nothing to do with her, and she would not get involved. Mosquitoes, sore feet, and using a bush for the bathroom was not her idea of a vacation.

     Robert checked the calendar. This weekend was their next trip, and here it was, already Thursday. He had totally forgotten!

     "No big deal", he said aloud, "I've packed our supplies a thousand times."

     "Sure you don't want to make a list?" asked his mother, sipping a cup of tea at the kitchen table.

     "Never had a problem before", Robert answered confidently "Besides if i forget one little thing, what could possibly go so wrong?"

     If he only knew.

     The first day they had great weather for hiking; it started out close to 75 degrees with a slight breeze. Robert assumed it would be sunny the whole day. It was so nice he didn't even bother to check the weather channel.

     They were about two thirds of the way along the trail to their campsite when they felt the first drops of rain. Robert thought that it was just a passing cloud, then he saw the first flash of lightning. This wasn't good, he forgot to pack his rain gear.

     About three seconds after he saw the lighting bolt he heard the thunder. The storm was practically on top of them in seconds. Drop by drop the rain came down harder until it was a torrential downpour. When they finally got in to the campsite, they headed straight for the canteen. Inside they saw a sign that read "Rain suits $25". Robert ran to the cashier and asked for 2.

     "We're all out of stock", the cashier had said, "I can't believe that you didn't bring you're own? The weather channel said rain for the next two days."

Robert felt terrible that he did not take the time to properly plan for the weekend trip with his dad.  Without any rain gear the whole weekend would be a wash out.  After apologizing to his dad for his mistake they both decided to hike back out and head back for a dry nights sleep at home.

     "I forgot", Robert said sadly.

     "You know, I like to make a list so I don't forget anything." The cashier suggested.

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