Challenges of Camp Standard Time

Thinking earlier today about how Camp Standard Time (CST) is a funny creature. Days seem very long yet fly by...as do the weeks of camp. Before you know it, the girls are gone.

Also the CST time lag that underscores the trust that our camper parents have in us. If/when there are times when a camper has a difficult transition, those down moments are the ones that result in the letter home that makes parents wonder if their babies are okay. Meanwhile, the parents don't necessarily get to see the amazing moments where their child is thriving...largely because in those empowering times, there is no time or opportunity to write! So thanks for the trust, even while CST is in effect! :)

Our camp staffing process more selective than Harvard

We've been enjoying a camp week with the 4H-ers at camp. Our camp staff is amazing, as expected, especially since they've been culled from almost 250 applicants. On top of their being just generally awesome, it's fun to note that our staffing process is even more selective than Harvard. It's acceptance rate is almost 7%, while ours is approaching 4%.

The Serious Responsibility of Caring for other Parents' Children

I had a couple of amazing moments earlier today--one a parent moment, and one a camp moment. During our staff training for rock climbing, led by our experienced instructors, Mico had his now annual opportunity to scale the limestone rock face. Belayed safely by a new staff member, he climbed his way to the top of the 50-ish feet limestone cliff, watched by smiling Mama and Papa. He was engaged and feeling great the whole way up, which was surpassed at the summit by his absolutely beaming smile and eyes gleaming, as he accomplished the feat of scaling the rock. On the way down, rappelling with the assistance of another new staff member, he continued to beam, knowing he was safe in capable hands.

It struck me profoundly how great the responsibility is to care for the precious cargo of other parents. It's one thing to be a camp director and know intimately the benefits of the camp experience, even as young people engage in activities that challenge themselves physically and mentally. It's another thing to see your own child do it. It's yet another thing to be excited for the onset of another camp season where uncountable "camp moments" like Mico's will be had, led by qualified, capable, caring young camp professionals. Today Mico's camp moment(s)...soon those of other parents' children. I can't wait...