Wagons, Weenies, S'mores & More

Every year, the singles group from church goes on a hayride & has a bonfire. This year, after some individuals cancelled, I inquired as to if it would be alright if we invited some of the international students along. I figured that more than likely, they had never experienced a hayride. I was told there were 5 slots open & quickly, I had those openings filled. I was certain to stress the importance of the students wearing layers of clothing so as to not freeze to death. I made sure they understood that we would be outside all night long & that the temperature would probably be very cold. While it was a bit cool outside, it was no where near what it could have been. Got lucky with that! The students seemed to really enjoy the hayride (for the most part--Claudia, from Germany, runs track & for her liking, the ride was a little too slow. She said, "I could run faster than that.").Volter, from the Ukraine, was seated next to Haley. Haley said that he was taking in the fresh, country air stating that it reminded him of home. Suman tried multiple times to stand up while the wagon was moving & I had to yank him by the pants to get him to stay seated. One of the members from our Sunday School class threw some hay over on me & that led to somewhat of a "hay fight" between everyone. I am sure some would disagree with me but it seemed as if I went home with more hay in my hair & clothes than anyone. Which, no complaints about it...it was fun. After our ride, we stopped at the fire pit to roast some weenies & enjoy s'mores. Having never cooked hot dogs over an open fire, the students had to be shown exactly what to do & taught how to know when their hot dog was ready to be eaten. The s'mores were a huge hit. Claudia said, "I think I could eat 10 more of these!" While many of us visited one with another, Kwaku (from Ghana) entertained the youngsters that were present. The kids took a liking to Kwaku in a hurry & Kwaku was having the time of his life arm wrestling them, chasing them & loving on them. We returned to the church parking lot & continued having ourselves a good time. I am not sure how it came about but while standing around, I suggested that Haley & I teach them how to play Leapfrog. So, Leapfrog we played. Then, the guys taught us some dances...I attempted to follow their lead & do the dances as well. Unfortunately, I am not sure I did the dances much justice. We all had a wonderful time & for those that chose to talk to & get to know the students, I think they too, were probably blessed. I am so glad we were able to allow them to be a part of something that we oftentimes do here in the fall time--hayrides & bonfires.