All winter long we prepare for the moment our campers step foot on Agawak ground for the summer. Yesterday, after months and months of preparation, we waited in anticipation for the buses to pull into camp. 

Counselors were singing and bouncing up-and-down as the buses steered into camp. The magnitude of cheering put shivers down my spine. I'm proud of the staff we've assembled and confident this summer will indeed be a special one. 

With uncertain skies above, we walked to Happy Camper Hall to announce cabin groups. As I read off each counselor and camper name, I scanned the room looking for any forlorn faces. What I saw was beaming happy faces. They are beyond happy to be at camp and are happy with their cabin placement. The first day transition was near flawless despite a few unwanted raindrops here and there.

We are a happy camp right now and there are no sad faces at the moment. If you've ever been to camp you know there will be ups and downs throughout the summer....that is life. We will work hard to make our campers experience an exceptionally good one! I can tell you our staff is already making a difference. 

Last nights evening staff show, brought giggles and laughter to everyone as the staff of 2017 performed skits and songs on the stage of Happy Camper Hall. A shout out goes out to Samantha Boorstein, Nicki Kleifield and Jamie Granik for coordinating such a well received staff show. 

I walked around to our cabins last night and peaked my head in to say good night. The energy and happiness I was greeted with made the last 9 months of work instantly disappear. 

Typically the first night of camp there are a few unsure faces. Oddly enough I did not see this as I talked with campers . This is not typical for the first 24 hours of camp. Our first day of camp could not have gone any better. It's sure great to be back together again. 

Today, we will be finishing up with some red tape items such as swim tests,  health center physical's and activity sign up. Campers will be swimming and tubing through the waters of  Blue Lake. The sun is shining brightly and the kitchen staff is preparing muffins, homemade granola and stirring up oatmeal. Life is good!!

Here we go full speed ahead into the summer. 

Smile on,

Mary and staff