The Hiking Trip

     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 were 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. 

Two days later, as they hiked along the path, Dad suggested they stop for the night. They set up the tent, lit a fire, and got food out. 

     "Dad?" said Robert. "Where's my food?" he asked.

     "It should be right in..." he paused. "You must have... already eaten it." he said stuttering.

     "No, I wasn't aloud to eat it befo..." he paused to. He realized he had left both of their food by the river.

     "Hey, where's mine? Don't tell me you forgot mine,too."

They both went to bed very hungry and mad. They hadn't had anything to eat for days, so at this point Robert had had it.

     "We have to go now." he said angrily.

     "No, we didn't finish the tra..."

     "Forget the trail, dad, if we don't leave we will die out here!"

     " He's right, Bob. I will call a helicopter and we will go.

     "Fine." So they left and went home.

     " The next time, we have to check twice" said Robert. 

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