Camp DreamMakers - Boat Days

Camp DreamMakers is a local program, supported by the United Way and the YMCA.  They have many wonderful activities for their daily "campers".   During the summer, there are two events on this lake where the campers are given boat and pontoon rides by local boat owners.  The county forestry team volunteer their time to make this possible as well.

Last year, we had signed up for the one in July, but it was canceled due to rain.   We signed up for both of them this year; one in June and the second in July.  Again, the one in June got rained out.  Luckily, we had a beautiful day for the Camp Dreammakers participants this time!

While we were loading everyone up and introducing ourselves, the little 7-year-old boy (Lawson) was ready to be captain of this ship!

As we headed out for a nice relaxing boat ride, I grabbed little Lawson and sat him on my lap.  It was clear he had a lot of energy and did not want to just chill.  ha!

Everyone was happy and enjoying the sun.

The gal I spoke to to volunteer told me that the kiddos like to play Captain.  She jokingly reminded me that some like to "go really fast".  I informed Eric of this.  

He let little Lawson have the reigns.  We were all astounded.  Lawson KNEW EXACTLY how to drive a boat.  And, he did NOT want to go slow!  Unexpectedly, he gunned it and maxxed the gas.  We were all quite surprised!  

During the boat ride, when Eric was looking away or speaking to one of the other campers, Lawson would gun the gas again and start crazy steering!  It was very comical!  Eric was a bit worried we may have motor issues, so he only allowed that to happen about two more times. ha!

The little guy was also loving to run around the boat and visit everyone.  He was certainly a ball of energy!

We put on some music and quickly found that Lawson loves heavy metal.  And, Craig (below) and his son like metal, but also CCR and Vietnam-era music.  The young lady, pictured previously, had fallen asleep with the afternoon sun, so she didn't seem to care what tunes we played.

The boat ride, in total, lasted for about an hour and a half.  It was certainly a fun experience and a great way to donate some time and facilities.  

We'll certainly be doing this again next year, weather-permitting!