Roasting Hotdogs & Marshmallows

I'm hoping this coming Friday turns out pretty. My oldest girl has prom that day and since she's getting to go off and have fun I told my elementary child that we would have fun too. I promised him that we would have a small bonfire and roast hot dogs and marshmallows and that he could invite his best friend and his 1st cousin over. They are going to "camp out" in the living room since the nights are still a bit too chilly to get the tent out in the back yard.

For those of you who have never built a bonfire I'll let you know how it is done. Now I'm lucky that I already have a fire-pit and don't have to dig one but your first step is to do just that.

1. Create a fire pit. Dig a hole away from trees, buildings, and anything else that could go up in flames. You also might want to be sure you are in an area that allows bonfires. I don't want any of you to get into trouble.
2. When stacking the wood think of those little log cabin sets and build it up with a hole in the center of your square wood stack.
3. Fill the center with kindling, newspaper, cardboard, wood chips, etc.
4. Using either matches or one of those long lighters (which I love) light different points in the center. You will probably need to blow into the center of the logs to get the fire to burn hotter, just don't get too close and burn your face or anything.
5. Now you will carefully add more kindling and stuff until the logs finally catch fire, just don't add stuff to quickly or you will cover your flames and put them out and have to start all over again. 

Once your fire is going good you can get out the hot dog and marshmallow sticks and stick your food of choice on the end and roast away.

Also, keep a bucket or two of water near your bonfire in case the wind picks up or anything. Better safe than sorry. My husband keeps two water buckets and a fire extinguisher nearby. He is always prepared for anything. LOL.