Days 24, 25, 26 – Return to Endicott – meet some friends, play with Patrick, and a Wilderness Camp visit

We had a nice 6 hour drive back to Endicott where we spent most of the next few days “playing with Patrick”. This was Gigg’s last time in Endicott, so in addition to meeting our friends, Gigg also said her “goodbyes” to Mom, Sharon, Terry and Patrick.

It was a quick hello and goodbye to Mitzi and Don:


and bye bye to mom, Sharon and Patrick …






and even Mark Ruffalo stopped by to bid his farewells …



The highlight of this visit to Endicott was a day at the “Wilderness Way School and Camp” (http://www.wildernesswayschool.com/ ). The girls were greeted by a 1.5 year old puppy, Maca … who had a 100 meter running start. This is what happens when large puppy meets petite Thai girl … with a head of steam.


and in “cool down” mode …


Mike, the Chief Instructor and founder of the Wilderness Way School had some interesting and educational projects planned for the girls. First, he demonstrated making fire with a wood set and bow.



and then the attentive and capable students each were able to make a fire themselves …



They then learned the ancient art of finger weaving:




Then, Bill, the big fishermen took over and showed the girls the fundamentals of fishing. Within a few minutes both girls were making excellent casts with spinning gear (that they had never before even seen).

They caught some small fish …



and some big fish …

Gigg even got to the point where she was holding the fish herself


Bill helped Su display one of her larger catches.


and this picture, taken seconds after the previous one, is a good demonstration that fish do have teeth … (as Bill grimaces in pain)


Of course, as with all fishermen … there is always the tale of the “one that got away”..


The guys discuss the “correct fishing techniques”


While the girls continue to pull them in … sometimes... two at a time...


I was trying to fish … but fishing skills were being severely impacted because every time I made a cast, on of the girls caught a fish … and this meant I had to throw down my rod and take some pictures. All I could manage was one fish –


and I cannot tell a lie. I had to borrow this fish for the photo opportunity. (I guess I should have borrowed a bigger one)

Terry’s parents joined us for dinner on the girls last night in Endicott, and we were once again treated to a very nice Thai meal.