Camper Experience Pioneer Life

Josh Silveira, righy,7, of Canonsburg, learns how to play tug-of-war from Jeff Donahue with Washingtion Parks and Recreation during Pioneer Living Day Camp

Boys and girls from the ages 7 to 10 put down their video games / iPads and step out into the bright sunshine and fresh air to partake in some old-fashion fun this week. During Pioneer Living Day Camp run by Washington County Parks and Recreation at Mingo Creek County Park, the campers enjoyed activities in the spirit of those who settled the United State such as Native American games, archery, butter making, panning for gold and much, much more. Even with the absence of electronics or a high speed internet connection, the kids seemed to enjoy connecting with nature and learning about the past.

Jeffrey Chickis,10, of Cecil, tries his hand at an Native American game by flipping sticks off the back of his hand then catching them during Pioneer Living Day Camp

Then and Now

This photo took five years ago of my niece Abby in 2008 and now in 2013 on the same ride at the carnival in Beaver.

Cooling Off

Above the Rim

Butterfly

Riding the Wave

Sun Fish

When I was a child I could not wait to go fishing with my dad and grandfather. The night before the trip, we would go out after dark to search for nightcrawlers. My job was to hold the flashlight and then it was off to bed. I could hardly sleep. I was the first one up and dressed, setting in the dark, waiting and ready to go and wondering if I was going to catch anything.

There was something about the experience that was truly magical to me!

It has been years sense I have held a fishing pole. But when I hold my camera and look through the lens, I experience that same magical feeling of never knowing what images I will catch.

Giovanni Biagini, 5, of Jefferson Borough catches a fish at 84 Lakes while fishing with his father, Sean.