We all straightened our claw fingers and took our seats back on the log benches. “Okay, Toad Claws,” said Toad. “Let me tell you what we have on the schedule this afternoon and tonight. In thirty minutes, you all have to be down at the lake to take your swim tests.” Kenny asked what a swim test was. Toad explained that we would each jump into the water out by the dock. Then we would have to swim the length of the dock and back three times. The first time you had to use a specific swim stroke, the forward crawl. The other two times you could use any stroke you liked. “After the swim test you can get cleaned up for dinner. And each night after the day’s activities the Toad Claws will meet back here for Roses, Thorns, and Buds.” “What’s that?” I whispered to Graham. “I don’t know. We didn’t do that when we were Cubs. Maybe it’s some secret activity you can only do once you’re a Grizzly.” All the Toad Claws ran into their cabins to get into their swimming trunks.
