August 2002

Dear parents of 4^th, 5^th or 6^th graders,

The semi-annual Children’s Hike of First Evangelical Free Church is scheduled to take place on Saturday, September 14. Kids are invited who are at that time in 4th, 5th and 6th grades and have been in First Evangelical Free Church’s Vacation Bible School, Stockade, Adventure Club and Junior Church. As usual, we will meet at the church parking lot across the street from the church (5150 Chicago Ave, So. in Minneapolis) at 9:00 am and take vans to the hiking place.

The exact location is not officially confirmed until the environmental impact statements are filed but we are on a schedule to hike in the vicinity of the Sibley House, at the junction of the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers. There are often special activities at the Sibley House so we may not need to be hiking all day.

The hikers will be returned to their homes or other designated destinations within the Metro area between about 5:00 and 6:30 pm. A donation of $5.00 will help pay for lunch, snacks and photos to be distributed to each participant. And even if you donate more, we will STILL bring your children back to you, wherever you may hide!

Please have your child dress for the weather and be prepared for the forecast. We may encounter any of the elements (and some of the milder plagues). Long pants are best because of nettles and other toxic weeds. Shoes (whether endorsed by multi-millionaire sports stars or not) that are not old and mud stained at the beginning of the day, will be by the end, so have the kids wear old ones if possible. Hats are wise. A rain jacket may be a good idea if the forecast warrents it.

We do go regardless of the weather and in worst case scenarios relocate to the Bell Museum or Fort Snelling if being outdoors is completely out of the question.

Personal backpacks will help us to distribute the load. We have some that we bring along as well. Insect repellent and sunscreen would be a good idea, although we will also bring a supply for those who need.

If you are ideologically opposed to having small slimy creatures or various creeping things brought back by your young naturalists, be sure they understand that they must be pest-free for re-entry into their house of origin.

Pray for safety and a good time. God has been very gracious over the years and we do not want to take that for granted. The kids have been safe although we have had occasional mechanical failures of a certain leader's knees. Please call to confirm who is going or if you have more questions. We are unable, however, to answer the questions of why we keep doing this and how long we intend to live.

Mary Anderson (612-824-5573)

Ross Olson (612-824-7691 or 612-538-6882)