Checking In

Just finished a counselor meeting (though I am NOT a counselor, remember!) and thought I would check in. The program office has a few computers that I was able to get a hold of one tonight. It's 10:45 and we've been going since 7am. What a great day!

They blessed with me two other staff members in A&C, so life is great with our groups. We've finished two days of projects--woodworking treasure boxes, tie-dye, fuse beads, and "loot bags." It's been a wonderful two days at camp, and we have three more to go. Tonight was a full blown carnival put on by an oncology pharmaceutical company. It's an amazing night and the kids had a blast. Tomorrow night is the dance, so securing a date is number one priority for the older cabins.

Every Tuesday during "Happy Nappy," Camp Discovery has it's remembrance ceremony. It is a time for us to reflect on the campers that have passed away since last July. Sadly, we lost five campers this past year. During the remembrance ceremony, we take time to also remember anyone we want that we have lost for some reason. There is a time for the kids to share, a beautiful poem read, singing, and then the chance to write a note to that loved one or write out thoughts, followed by a balloon release. Those will be thrown into the bonfire and "sent up" on Friday night when we begin closing ceremonies. You can imagine that this is difficult for me.

I came really close to skipping the ceremony this year. At the last minute, I found myself jumping on the tracker with everyone else and riding out to the gazebo over the pond. It won't be a surprise to know that I bawled like a baby. This is my release at camp. I cried for about an hour until I was able to compose myself just in time to tie dye with the "Red Boys." Red boys are 7 & 8 years old--no time for crying because they need all the energy you have!

So now, I have finished another great day at camp and I'm ready to climb into my bed. I can guarantee you that I will NOT be joining the running group that is heading out at 6am tomorrow morning. I've had my Oreos and ice cream today and I'm quite happy with my fat, thank you very much!

Hope you are all having a blessed week. I know I sure am.

PS--Lorraine--Benji is doing GREAT!! He is such a sweet kid. I told him you wrote me and he beamed. He told me he has quite the outfit ready for tomorrow so I can't wait!