Today was an extraordinary first day of camp as we welcomed campers to their new summer home. Parents drove through the drop-off line, sharing heartfelt goodbyes before their children ran through the tunnel, ready to embark on two weeks of adventure. Old friends reunited with warm embraces and high-fives, while new campers were welcomed with open arms by cabinmates and counselors. While many campers arrived brimming with excitement, others had nerves that quickly melted away when they were greeted by our loving, kind, and fun counselors.
After a delicious lunch and rest hour getting to know our cabinmates, campers dove into an afternoon filled with activities and exploration. The camp buzzed with energy as campers tried new things and began forming new friendships on Old Forge. Today cabins had TCOB (Taking Care of Business) where they had their swim evaluation and got their new 2024 camper t-shirt, then particpated in activities from flying down the zipline to canoeing in Silver Lake or shooting a bullseye at archery. I loved watching these campers laugh and play as they embraced the gift of camp and enjoyed each moment with their new friends.
The highlight of my day came at campfire tonight. Watching the campers sing and dance with their cabinmates, I was overwhelmed with gratitude for the gift of Camp Highlander. In one short day, we have formed amazing friendships, made lifelong memories and had so much fun. This is the gift of camp! This morning, we were strangers; tonight, we are family!
Favorite Details of the Day
- Opening Day: I loved seeing all of our camp families today at drop off. It is such a privilege to have your children here with us this session. Thank you for sharing them with us this session!
- Meals: Our Opening Day tradition for lunch is grilled cheese and tomato soup. Today we added something new to the tradition…french fries, and the campers were SO EXCITED about french fries. As always, we had a full salad bar, sandwich bar and whole fruit available as well. For dinner we had pot roast with carrots and potatoes, homemade rolls with a sandwich bar and a salad bar. When the disco ball went off, the dining hall erupted in cheers before enjoying the BEST dessert - Highlander Mudslide. YUM!
- EP: Tonight’s EP was our Opening Day tradition…Campfire. We began the campfire outside and moved to the gym halfway through with the wind and threat of rain. Campers and staff enjoyed singing and dancing to our favorite songs with our friends! Just as our final round of taps was playing, the rain began to fall on the tin roof of the gym. Perfect timing to cool down our evening and provide a wonderful first night of sleep!
About Melissa Fitzgerald
