And We’re Off!!

After a surprisingly good night sleep it was go time – 19 months of planning and hard work and there I was putting on my uniform and getting ready to leave. I of course made a quick stop at Timmies on the way to say goodbye, lol!  As Scouter Erica and I walked to the church for 10am, Eric was already waiting – seems someone was excited to hit the road!  The kids (and parents) were awesome, and we had everything tagged and organized in no time.  Devin, our Troop Leader, called us in to horseshoe for a last minute pep talk, and then it was time to parade into the Sanctuary.

While we waited for our turn to enter, Rev. Kim asked the congregation if there was anyone special that should be included in their thoughts and prayers (as she does every week); Devin turned to me and said “How about us?”, lol!  Couldn’t have put it better myself!  Devin led us into the sanctuary with our heads held high and our hearts heavy with emotion.  We lined up at the front looking ahead at some of the people who made this trip possible, and Shanlee, our Youth Spokesperson, bravely took the microphone and delivered a heartfelt thanks to the congregation.  As we led the congregation in the “Ode to Newfoundland” I think each of us choked up at one point or another (I know I did!) but together our collective voice stayed strong and proud.  “God guard thee Newfoundland!”  Before we left Rev. Kim offered us a blessing, and as we walked out humbled and grateful the congregation offered us their applause and well wishes.

Without wasting a moment everyone quickly emptied the gym and dragged our 1000++lbs of gear to the lawn.  When our good buddy Charlie arrived with the big blue bus he was greeted with cheers and shouts.  “Holy crap – it’s seriously go time!”.  Scouter Rhonda arranged us all for one last picture (as only she can do!) and we boarded the bus with some tears.

After 19 months the planning was done; the training was done; the packing was done; and all we had left to do was start our journey with style => “Every where we go – people always ask us – who we are – so we tell them – we  are the Scout Group – NEWFOUNDLAND SCOUT GROUP – and if you can’t hear us – well that’s too bad!”


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