Hood in the Wood

Robin Hood

 

and his mighty band of  Merry Men, being the family men they are,

packed up their Maids Marian

and the Hoodlets

and stealthily stole to their forest hideout for intense Hood-related training and domestications.

Strength training, as first item on the scrolled, leather agenda,  was carried out through a muscle-straining game of He-Man Croquet. 

The woods were strewn with shattered fragments of bowling balls, sacrificed for the greater good of the rising Hoodlet generation.

Speed and accuracy were measured as arrows employed wings,

pool cues jabbed,

and horseshoes fell from the sky…

because you never know when an opponent might challenge with a game of horseshoes.

The wee ones were instructed in the most basic, albeit essential, woodland skills, such as

how to wield Forest Weaponry,

(some of the Merry Men needing a refresher course),

intimidation techniques to fend off villains and imposters,

floral selection for future betrothed,

woodland creature identification,

(like badgers who attempt breaking and entering),

the virtues of Patience and long-suffering,

how to treat your mother,

and flying  through he woods,

though jumping into trees is an advanced skill set, intended only for the boys of the Hood family.

                 

The acute focus on deftness and technique was balanced nicely with nights ringing with music,

rest and relaxation,

  

 

forest excursions,

and general togetherness.

                            

            

Though, in hindsight, I think the Hood training may have been TOO successful…