Hello Mr. Sun!

We awoke to a dense fog that melted away before Flag to reveal a blue sky and brilliant sun. It is going to be a typical NC August day, highs in the 80’s and a slight chance of rain in the afternoon. The mood of the campers was sky high as we gathered in the Dining Hall for a breakfast of scrambled eggs, hash browns, and sausage.

I mention weather first because weather is really noticed by the girls. Ours is a country that insulates from the climate in which we live. We sleep in climate controlled homes, drive in climate controlled vehicles, work in climate controlled offices, shop in climate controlled stores, and exercise in climate controlled gyms. Most of our campers are NOT used to the impact of weather… they relish the fact that here they feel the moisture of the air on a foggy morning and the heat of the sun or cool of the shade. They find it invigorating… I see it on their faces. They look up and see a little blue sky peak out from a cloud filled sky and point. They feel the sun on their back and turn around as if to say “hi”. They were quite literally skipping and twirling as they walked to class through the rainstorm yesterday morning. They celebrate the rain and the sun with enthusiasm. It is one of the simple lessons of camp that they will always remember!

I am going to head out and get a few photos this morning. My plan is to go to the pool and putt cove, but might get pulled into Glass Beads or the Fine Arts Center. I really love our arts programs at camp. We do some very extraordinary up there: it is real art being taught by real masters of their craft. Campers sometimes find a talent that was previously hidden. The light goes off and: WOW! The counselors sense the greatness and marvel that such a talent is in our camp. I am serious when I say that each summer I see artwork that is worthy of a gallery. Art that I would purchase without hesitation if I stumbled upon it in the “real world”. You will be impressed with what the girls bring home. You will want to put it in a safe place to enjoy a down the road… and some of you will proudly display it in a prime spot and it will inspire you every day.

We expect great things from the girls, and they always deliver. They surprise us with their wit, humor, talent, and energy. These young girls are capable of amazing insight… I am sure that I am not telling you anything that you don’t already know. They are an inspiration.

Lunch is going to be BLT sandwiches… this old favorite is brought up to a new level by the use of home made bread. Served with Kettle Fried Chips and Sweet Tea… it is a real treat.

Dinner is Cheesy Chicken. This is one of those dishes that is quite literally addictive. Cream Cheese, Monterey Jack Cheese, and Parmesan Cheese are mixed with whole milk and a touch of garlic to form a creamy cheese sauce that covers roasted chicken pieces on top of a bed of spinach. I can not convey how good this combo is… it is YUMMY.

EP is the Bungalow and Cabin Lip Synch… and the girls are SO EXCITED about it already. The songs and dance moves have been carefully put together for a show that we will all be talking about tomorrow. Can’t wait.

Camp is genuinely delightful. Wonderful moments appear unexpectedly all day long, giving us a sense of anticipation and attentiveness. We don’t want to miss a thing… August Camp is like that. It is a blessing to be here with your girls. Thank you for the opportunity!

Jimboy