The first day of camp was one to remember. Thunderstorms, winds moving side to side, did not stop our fearless campers and staff from getting our first session started. On this treacherous day, many had to step in to help. Generously, after a tree fell on camp road, a former counselor, now father, helped our strong staff move it out of the way in order to allow more campers to move in and families to say goodbye to their campers. Among the tree on camp road, a couple more fell on our power lines, which caused a few brief power outages as families waited for the storm to clear.
Once our fearless campers settled in to their new homes for the week, the whole camp played board games. When the storm cleared and the waterfront area was safe, campers headed down to the calm water to begin their swim tests. Everyone did so well, and will be placed in their swim classes for the week.
Next was cookee bell. Campers and staff set the tables for us to have our delicious supper. Tonight we had hotdogs, tater tots, pickles, baked beans, and for dessert: brownies!
It was then time for evening program. Due to the rain, we all played a game of Reverse Scavenger Hunt indoors. Each cabin grabbed a few props from their cabins to use in their skits. Flashlights, brooms, blankets, and sunglasses were all used in order to liven up the performance. Cabins acted out dinosaur graduations, caveman school, and many more prompts which sure brought laughs to our judges.
Our campers and staff sang many songs as we waited for Hilltop’s tree extraction to be cleaned up. New campers enjoyed “repeat after me songs” and returning campers were quick to teach and lead.
After having animal crackers and goldfish for snack, our campers sang the Goodnight Song and went off to brush their teeth, get into pajamas, and fall asleep to their cabin’s book being read by our hardworking counselors.
Campers and staff alike are looking forward to a beautiful day on Columbia Lake tomorrow, and to build special friendships and connections that are unforgettable.
Sophie and Kate