As I opened my eyes this morning, I immediately peeked outside hoping to see bright sunshine. I wanted our parents to come to camp and see their boys on a perfect Maine day, and I am so happy the weather cooperated.
Having parents back in camp created an energy we have missed over the last few years. Pictures and blogs simply do not justify what a visiting day provides. Parents deserve the opportunity to see where their child is spending their summer, witness their routine, and meet their child’s friends and counselors.
I cannot help but imagine that you greatly appreciate your son’s ability to manage his affairs, attend activities on time with his appropriate equipment, and participate with enthusiasm and earnest effort while being a good friend and teammate to those around him. As many of you will pass out after a full day in camp, I am sure you are amazed at your son’s stamina and versatility.
When visiting day ended, our Okees assembled all the boys in their camp family and went to our council ring for some singing and entertainment. Counselors led the group in some of our favorite camp songs, immersing everyone in the camp spirit. It was the perfect distraction at the end of a long, emotional day.
As we wrapped up our time in the council ring, I surprised the boys with an enormous camp raffle, highlighting some of their favorite camp swag. We then went down to the dining room by families, where our boys sat together and enjoyed some comfort food– chicken fingers and french fries.
As the sun began to set, our boys grabbed a shower, a pillow, and some candy and made their way to movie night. Laying on gym mats with their friends, surrounded by our staff, and munching on some candy was the perfect way to end this glorious day. We will continue to focus on all our boys as we transition back to the regular program tomorrow. I am happy to report that our guys are feeling comfortable and settled.
