When I was growing up, camp was the highlight of my summer. I could hardly wait till I got on the bus and traveled the 3 plus hours to get there. Then when we arrived it was like coming home. At camp I always felt loved, and safe. As I grew older I couldn’t wait to be a part of the staff team.
So when I found out I was accepted as part of the “Summer Team” back in 1995, I was so excited. I could hardly wait to spend 4 whole months in the place that felt like home. Little did I know the lasting effects my time there would have on me. Being a member of the summer team, meant we were responsible for leading programs and chapel times. My camp experience brought me closer to God than I had been before, each morning I would try to spend some quiet time down on the dock, and prepare my mind for the day. Under Jo Schimpky’s leadership and her confidence in my abilities my eyes were opened to the gifts and talents I didn’t think I possessed. I developed a confidence that helped shape me into the teacher, mother, and wife I am today.
Now 20 years into teaching, and 2 children of our own I still look forward to our family time at camp. It is a true oasis from certain realities in my life. Each time we come back home from camp I feel refreshed in spirit and ready to face life with renewed joy. It is my hope that my children will also be able to experience the life altering effects that camp had on me, although it may be a year later than we planned due to the pandemic but as always that is in God’s hands.
