Summer days at Highlander are marked by BELLS, routine and schedules. We know that campers thrive with a predictable routine because it provides comfort and a feeling of peace when expectations are met and often in an extraordinary way. The bell at Highlander rings to signify the start of something big (like EP, camper choice sign ups or the start of meals) or to remind us to do something (wake-up, come down for assembly or the end of rest hour and time for snack.) Most of all, the bell signifies the gathering of our camp family for something fun that can only be done at camp in our community, making us feel alive! And as my mom would say to me when I was growing up, “we’re here for it with bells on!”
This is the power of gathering: it inspires us, delightfully, to be more hopeful, more joyful, more thoughtful: in a word, more alive.
Favorite Details of the Day
- Reflect at the Rock: This morning Mac talked about the strength of a cabin unit being found in sticking together. All for One, One for All!
- Meals: Breakfast this morning was biscuits and gravy, scrambled eggs, sausage patties, oatmeal, grits and fruit bar. For lunch we had grilled chicken club sandwiches, sweet potato fries and salad bar. For dinner Chef Michael WOWed us with marinated and grilled flank steak with chimichurri, rosemary roasted red potatoes, grilled asparagus and a green salad. Camp erupted with a Gus’ chant after dinner and everyone enjoyed their favorite sweet treat after camper’s choice sign ups.
- Weather: We had another cool morning on the mountain, but it warmed up quickly and temperatures got into the high 80’s today! We surprised the campers with a popsicle at snack time today which was a great way to cool off this afternoon! The temperature dropped into the 50’s overnight providing a comfortable night’s sleep for all!
- EP: Can I get a HOWDY? Tonight we had our first square dance of the session on the athletic field. We had the best time swining our partners and line dancing under the beautiful North Carolina sky! I love square dance because everyone can do it! No talent required! The sillier the better, and boy were we silly tonight!
Today was the summer solstice, which marks the longest day of the year and the start of summer. Summer started on Old Forge weeks ago, but today we felt the heat of the summer and soaked up the extra sunlight that the day gave us. We actually danced the entire square dance under the light of the sun, just past 9:00 pm. The campers were having so much fun, they didn’t want the day to end!
We have a saying at camp “the days are long, but the weeks are short!” Before we know it, it will be time for our campers to head home so today we are grateful for the extra sun, the extra time and the extra opportunity to make the most out of this time together!
About Melissa Fitzgerald
