While the weather forecast indicated showers throughout the day, we were fortunate to avoid the raindrops and enjoy a bright, sunny day with a slight breeze that made its way across Camp Takajo.
There are summers when the week after visiting day is a natural letdown after seeing one’s parents, but our boys seem eager and enthusiastic to jump back into activities. Our Junior campers enjoyed playing golf at Point Sebago. Warrior campers participated in their normal sports and hobby periods but seemed to enjoy their time down at the waterfront on this warm day. Our Okees put the finishing touches on their packing, and are chomping at the bit in anticipation of their early morning departure heading west.
Warrior Group Leaders Hank and Jane Fortin have created a wonderful tradition of inviting all of the Okees to their cabin on the evening before their big trip. Hank and Jane have been summer parents for our oldest campers when many of the boys first arrived seven to nine years ago. They always remark what a pleasure it is for them to have the opportunity to watch our oldest boys mature and flourish throughout their camp experience. Both love to bake, and Hank is famous for dipping fresh fruit, cookies and marshmallows in homemade chocolate. (We all know our oldest boys love to eat.) As you can imagine, this evening always is filled with love and great memories.
I started hosting movie nights down at my house as a break in the routine for our Warrior campers. Last night, I hosted the Crows, and this evening, the Indians had the opportunity to put their feet up on the couch, enjoy a cold soda, and relax while watching a movie on a big screen. I have always felt that it is important to invite our youngest campers down to my home to reinforce that these little guys are truly members of our family.
During this time in the season, we create a series of special events that the boys anticipate. Last night, Warrior camp hosted a three-point shooting contest, which creates amazing excitement for those who take part as well as those who enjoy being spectators. The Indians challenged our Junior Greens to a baseball game. These games create amazing camp spirit and the chance for our boys who love a little extra competition, to compete in the sport of their choice.
With just two and a half weeks to go in the summer, I am acutely aware how our limited time reinforces the importance of making the most out of each and every day. It’s a great lesson that I learned when I was younger, and is important to impart to our boys too.
