Steele Family Reunion: Pirate Treasure Hunt

Probably the most exciting night of our reunion was the Pirate Treasure Hunt. My parents had been planning this outing for weeks. They prepared everything! Hats, swords, booty bags, eye patches, and a treasure map! Ryan and my brothers went out the night before and made the different points in the neighborhood the treasure map had the kids go. The made arrows out of sticks they found to point the kids in the right direction. We put the treasure box on the front doorstep and when we were all ready, we let them loose. Benjamin, the 7 year old, took the lead and helped the other kids get suited up in Pirate gear and figure out the treasure map. 

The kids had no idea what was going on when we had them walk outside the front door! Ellie was pretty anti-Pirate hat and pretty much everything to do with the treasure hunt, but the older kids had SO MUCH FUN!!

The map lead the kids down to the lake. The treasure was found at the beach front (by X marks the spot!) and we had a weenie roast and bonfire. It was a perfect night. The humidity was way low which made it a bit more comfortable to be outside, and be near a bonfire. 

Sometime during the bonfire, Ellie weaseled her way out of the umbroller and into the lake. She is such a fish! She would not get out of the water. Her diaper soaked in so much water I swear it alone weighed 5 pounds. I totally flaked about bringing towels and extra clothes down to the lake so poor Ellie was shivering going back up to the house. I guess Miss Ellie is going to be our designated "kid that always falls in water no matter where we are." My younger brother Jared had that title growing up and it rang true almost every time we were outside! If there was water, he would find it!

After baths, my mom presented something for each of the grand kids. She decided on a new tradition for them to have for reunions, birthdays, and holidays. Just something simple to remember them by. Pillowcases! It was so fun! The kids were obsessed. And to kick it off, she made the perfect Pirate pillowcase!

Mom and Dad, you hit this one out of the park!! Thanks for making this such a fun night for the kids! (and adults too!)

Next up, more boat adventures!