Fri, May 1 2009 - 4th Annual Surf & Turf Weekend Adventure (View Original Event Details)
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Surf and Turf 2009
The excitement started in the beginning with the tremendous response we had on the first day the event opened for registration. 40 spots full in record time! As the wait list began to grow, Paula and I discussed it and opened up 10 more spots, making it the biggest overnight trip the AOC has had. The waitlist was moved through as people dropped off for various reasons, and even on the last day we still moved one person over. And the fun began.
I won’t bore you with the prep work involved before the event, those memories/nightmares we will keep for ourselves, so on to the event.
Friday night people came in at different times, setting up tents (some taking a mysterious 2 hours…) and some picking spots in the bunk houses. The rain did not dampen spirits as everyone help set up and decorate for our fun filled weekend. After a hearty dinner prepared by various volunteers, everyone continued to enjoy each other’s company and getting to know new people. As the rain slacked off, most everyone prepared for the midnight hike to Ice Mountain. As the long line of hikers, ranging from slightly to mostly intoxicated, wound through the trees different groups began to form. By the time the first group reached the top, the other three groups had gone in three different directions. It took another hour to get everyone back, but spirits were still good (and still consumed) for the rest of the evening.
Saturday morning brought more rain and a hearty breakfast as everyone prepared for the rafting trip. Cards were brought out and the smiles still continued through the afternoon. As lunch finished up the rafting guides arrived and began the preparations for our adventure. On the river people were broken out into groups of 5 to 6 and our guides were assigned. Though the rain had pretty much stopped, the river was still raging with the effects of the excessive downpour. As a side note, we were told that if the river had been 10% higher, they would have shut it down for commercial rafting because of the danger. Needless to say, our trip was wild. Boats were flipped, people were ejected, and paddles were lost. Good times were had by all, but some were injured more than others. Everyone made it back alive and all joined in for dinner.
After a little effort, the bond fire was started and most everyone moved down to the field to enjoy the outdoors around the Big Screen Caveman TV, in HD. Our evening was enhanced not only with laughs, smiles and S’mores, but also with the talents of Scott, Jay, and James as they brought out their guitars. Nothing is better than guitars around a campfire, so spirits were raised even higher as many joined in singing along with the six strings. . As the night continued, people began breaking off and moved to their lodgings for some much deserved sleep.
Sunday was uneventful as everyone enjoyed a French toast breakfast and packed up to leave. With goodbyes spoken and friendships made, everyone went their way back to the reality of their lives.
Thanks to all that joined us on this event. Paula and I have been asked why we would volunteer so much our time and deal with the stress of planning for 50 people and both our answers are the same. It is all worth it when we see the smiles and hear the laughter of all of you. We love sharing the outdoors with people, new and seasoned, and the friendships made and strengthened on adventures like this are priceless.
Safe Journey to all!
Picture Links: (By the way, if you want a copy of the Rafting pictures taken by the outfitter, please email Paula@atlantaoutdoorclub.com and let her know. We need a count before the Social)
Rafting Pictures
Christopher's Pictures
Eric's Pictures
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