Written by Joanne Aspinall. Feature photo by Andrew Fulton.
The annual AYC Summer Campout was held near Mormon Lake last weekend, July 31-August 2nd. Each year the campout is a little different; but in many ways, the same.
The location was the same as it has been in the recent past – the group sites at Dairy Springs Campground near Mormon Lake. The location is ideal – two group sites that can accommodate a small group (like this year), or a large group (like some years). Close enough to town for folks to come up just for the day (which several did this year), but also far enough to get out of the heat.
One benefit of the location is it’s proximity to several AYC member’s residences. The Nahkalas, Lehmans, and Grijalvas are nearby and are always ready and willing to provide necessities like firewood and Bloody Marys (yes, a necessity!). This helps immensely with event planning – thank you!!
The nearby Mormon Lake Lodge is also a plus – Andrew Fulton again took advantage of the cabin rentals, along with trying something new this year – his first time riding a horse!
Upper Lake Mary is about 15 minutes away, and provided an opportunity for another first for Andrew – stand up paddleboarding! Joanne and Andrew headed to the lake and paddled up an appetite for dinner.
The potluck provided lots of yummy food and plenty of leftovers – something that never changes! Grill master Bruce Andress served up hearty burgers and legendary chef Rick Johnson fancied up the meal with gourmet chicken piccata. Another thing that has become a tradition is the Salsa and Sangria Contest. This year’s salsa contest winner was new member Ellen Wesley and friend Spencer; and the sangria winners were campout veterans Ken and Marnie Whitley.
The Suttons came through again this year with a plethora of s’mores chocolate options, and the biggest marshmallows you’ve ever seen!
The stars always make a grand appearance, and this year the 90% illuminated moon rose up from the dry Mormon Lake lakebed to provide more evening entertainment and a calming night light to put everyone to sleep for the night.
On Sunday we packed up and said our goodbyes, noting that this year was even more relaxing that past years, and agreeing to see each other again next year!
More photos of the campout can be found on our SmugMug. Have photos to share? Follow the instructions to upload them here.
