Exactly What We Need
Camp presents an interesting situation for camp directors. Take a moment to consider the opportunities such a position offers… for we get to decide exactly what circumstances each day should include. Nobody but kings have that kind of authority!
Little things like what time to awaken and when to sleep; when and what everyone eats; where everyone is to go and what they are to do. These are all circumstances under the total control of a camp director. Add to that little things that good government excels in providing… things like quality health care, dependable trash service and utilities. We even provide the news and entertainment services that make for a happy community.
I bring that up to just let you know why this blog is often so introspective. Much of what we do arises from what we think is needed. We keep notes on every event, thus adapting each tradition year to year. We keep a careful eye on the current “feeling” of camp. If we sense we need a change, we provide one. All details are done with the well-being of the campers in mind… we strive to present a “bubble” of protection from the tension, anxiety, and worry of the world. These emotions gradually fall away at Greystone. Over time we find ourselves relaxing into the simple routines of camp and embracing the simple blessings of friendships built on a foundation of love.
At this point in the summer we are ready for some relationship centered EP’s, we want to just hang out. Tonight’s Corn Roast will give the girls exactly that. We will gather by the lake and eat a delicious picnic for dinner. This is no ordinary picnic… it is a celebration of smoked goodness! Featuring BBQ ribs, smoked chicken, beef brisket, and giant turkey legs along with a wide variety of salads and desserts. We will also serve ice cold root beer from kegs (a real treat) and relax while playing yard games, taking pontoon rides, playing tennis, reading books, and dancing (of course). This year we will set up a “county fair” as a new twist on the day (the girls play games for tickets that can be used for cheap prizes).
It is a super relaxed evening that never stops… about 7:30 the live music begins with a great band from Asheville: The Business (a really fun band, they played Catherine’s wedding reception this spring). They play a wide range of music and have a GREAT horn section! The girls will love the camp wide dance party as the sun sets over a peaceful lake (we hope it doesn’t rain!). We go to bed with full stomaches and full hearts.
Soon we will experience the big events of Main Camp. Things like the Talent Show, Horse Show, Water Show, Junior and Senior Plays, and Production Night. These big events are done exclusively by the campers who are working feverishly to get every detail perfected for that moment when they are put on the stage. You might think that this would lead to anxiety, but it doesn’t… for while the big event is anticipated, it is experienced as a moment of joy not a test. We love doing things for each other, a big show is really just a nice gift that we joyfully present to our friends. Our friends are encouraging us every step of the way and we enter into each day with the confident expectation that no matter what happens, it is going to be a Great Day!
Classes are going well for every day counts at this point of the summer (a fact the counselors are well aware of and the campers are beginning to grasp).
We appreciate your support, especially the great letters and emails that fill the mail boxes every day.
