FIRST CLASS SCOUT

Rich stews, good desserts, breakfasts that get the day off to a roaring start-there's nothing better than tasty meals outdoors, especially if you cook them yourself. Whether the ingredients are fresh foods for an evening cookout or lightweight dried ingredients for a long backpacking journey, some general skills, a few spices, and a bit of creativity on your part will result in feasts as memorable as the adventure itself.

Chapter 10, "Cooking," (beginning on page 247 m) has the information you need to learn the basics of planning and cooking nutritious outdoor meals using the food pyramid, the safe handling of food, and cleaning up afterward. Take a moment before a meal to share your thanks for the food you have been given, the experiences you are having, and the joy of being with friends. The grace used at Philmont Scout Ranch is one way of expressing that gratitude: Philmont Grace For food, for raiment, For life, for opportunity, For friendship and fellowship, We thank Thee, 0 Lord.