Arts & Crafts and Pyrotechnics

(Click on the above title for a movie of the 2005 Indian Princesses Winter Campout. )

This January, I joined a group of Fathers and Daughters in a group called 'Indian Princesses.' This used to be affiliated with the YMCA and started in 1926. But, in the age of being 'politically correct' the Y had to drop the program.

I understand the point. After all, it was always known in my high school that the only true princesses were Jewish. To think the Christian females would call themselves princess is unconscionable.

In a recent article, Rabbi Labinowicz was quoted as saying "those young girls mock Jewish traditions by putting over-applying make up and wandering around area malls. It totally distorts our culture. They can only relate to this very superficial, stereotypical image of who they think we are."

For a breakdown of the real story, see P.C. vs. the Indian Princesses.

For more of a look at Jewish stereotypes see "The Official Jewish American Princess Home Page".

The first thing you do in joining the tribe is to choose Indian names for you and your daughter. Devin quickly came up with the name 'Little Sparkle' -- a name she will surely regret when turning eleven.

I spent some time thinking of mine. Should I be brave 'Running Waters'? No, that makes me want to pee. How about 'Running Elk' or 'Running Deer'? Finally, my wife chimmed in, "Why don't you go by 'Running Late' that seems to fit you best." Krista, also suggested Brave 'Lost His Car Keys Again'.

I took on the name 'Running Late' while mumbling under my breath "Okay, Squaw 'Hasn't given me any since the Third Child'."

The first campout that I attended was during a blizzard, when we received 14 inches of snow. It actually turned out great, as we spent a number of hours sledding. In fact, many of the various tribes (5 in total) that attended the campout invested hours and hours building elaborate sleds made out of cardboard during the prior months.

One particular entry was a take-off from the book and movie "The Polar Express." Their version, the Blackhawk Express, was built by the Blackhawk Tribe. This was the best designed entry. See pictures below.

Our tribe, the Yellow Knife, was sure to win for speed and distance. The German engineered sled was sleek and aerodynamic. But like all German designs, it lacked true asthetic appeal -- it was painted brown, yellow, and green (true Yellow Knife colors).

So, what happens when you get a bunch of girls with their fathers and no moms? Well, the girls build art projects, play with their Polly Pockets, and lots and lots of giggling.

The men, when not spending quality time with their daughters, are building fires, burning the sleds they have spent six months building, and grilling steaks.

When I asked what the spring and summer campouts are like, I found out that we burn the go-carts built over the next six months in even a bigger fire.

I like this group.