Camping is not easy...and that's what makes the reward of a successful trip that much better.  I take it upon myself to try to make everyone's experience a good one by shouldering as much of the workload as possible.

I have similar pet peeves as you with organization, timing, activities, etc. and really have to work hard to make sure I'm communicating not just the "what" but also the "why" when it is appropriate.  Among the many planning discussions heading into the trip include the menu and necessities to bring, when we get to the camp we then discuss things like organization, meal times, etc.  This lets them know that "we'll use this area for cooking supplies - that way we don't contaminate our clothes with the smells of food and attract bears into our tent at night - and that area for clothing and this area for extra stuff" so that everyone is aware of the distribution of stuff and why it is done.

Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't.  It is often difficult for folks who are new to camping to come up with a "system" for where and how to store their stuff without a closet, cabinet or dresser and takes time to get settled in.  It sounds like you had both ends of the spectrum with you and your in-laws - newer folks who take time to acclimate to the process and experienced folks who are a bit on the particular side.  But isn't that like so many interactions - understanding our perspective and others' perspectives and arriving at a common understanding?

Started with a Hennessey scout and Expedition A-Sym with bottom entrance and then got two more A-Sym with the side zipper (family of four, we all have a hammock).  I wouldn't say we use them exclusively, but probably 70% of the time we camp it is in the hammocks.  

I've camped in snow and used the standard rectangular sleeping pad - cool elbows but warm otherwise.

Kids are grown (one in college, one graduated) and they have borrowed them to use for various group activities and really enjoy them.  It's nice when you teach them how to do something and they embrace it and move forward with it.

@ the pimp...I've never had anything from L.L. Bean that was substandard.  The nice thing is, their return policy is top notch.

@ Ed, Edd & EddyTurn...not a misprint.  No doubt that cotton gets wet like a wick...it also dries out fast in front of a fire.  I still use a substantial amount of cotton clothing even in May.  I've got other layers that are designed to keep me dry but I haven't found a pair of pants that offer the warmth, durability and comfort of cotton against my skin.  I always have some wool or fleece for my torso when it's cold that retains its warming capabilities when wet but prefer cotton fibers for my pants.

As others have said, layering is key and a toque is nearly indispensable.  What I usually go with...

warm socks (smartwool are nice)
base layer
jeans or other quick-dry fabric
t-shirt
flannel or chamois shirt
fleece or wool sweater - I'd try L.L. Bean - they have good stuff
jacket 
rain suit
gloves

I use the rain suit for rain or for that outer layer when cold and windy to help keep the heat in.  When traveling it's not necessary or practical to wear all layers but when hanging around the site the warmth is needed.  Be able to start a fire in the rain.  We've had some roaring fires in May to help drive the chill away after cold, long days.
 

Unfortunately, the nearly full moon will make viewing relatively poor this year.  The moon will look great but not as many meteors will be visible as with a new moon.

Narrows of Perley Lake heading towards Burntroot?

Our community must be so awesome that it warrants a single, drive-by self promotional post.

;-)

Hi Breed,
We just purchased a 17' Quetico from Souris River this spring.  We've only had it out about a half dozen times so my experience with it is limited.  

The most challenging aspect has been revealed in a small, quite tortuous creek in the New Jersey Pine Barrens we did.  It was challenging getting such a long boat to maneuver through some of the tight twists and turns of the creek compared to the two kayaks we were with.  It was expected, since the Q17 tracks so well in large flatwater, that it is certainly less maneuverable in twisting confines but this was an extreme example which we would rarely ever expect to see again.  That said, it did perform well enough; we just had to pry and draw our way around the tightest spots.

Gear-wise and capacity, the Q17 cannot be beaten.  It has a TON of room for your stuff and, compared to many 16' canoes I've paddled over the years, it is likely a little more than needed.  If your trips are less than one week and you desire a single carry amount of gear a 16' would easily fit the bill and provide better maneuverability in twisting rivers and streams, without compromising too much on seaworthiness in big water with a well-balanced load.

Quality-wise, you will be happy.  We went with the Le Tigre green kevlar and it is a beautiful piece of work that is lightweight as well (just over 40 lbs., if I'm not mistaken).  The lines and design are excellent.

I love your wit, Bob.