The waterfront is being dismantled; squirrels are busy gathering their “nest egg” of acorns and fond memories of another summer gone by lingers in my heart. It’s true every summer on Blue Lake is special but this summer was magical. The weather was magical, the staff was magical and the spirit generated by our large group of girls was more magical than ever.

After 23 summers, I still get goose bumps every time I hear a White or Blue Team cheer.  Twenty three summers later, I still get shivers down my spine listening to closing ceremonies. The thrill of an all night treasure hunt still lives on and the chants of midnight movie still echo throughout the midnight night air. Perhaps best of all camp offers us all a chance to feel like we belong. All those goofy songs and chants and the sense of common purpose go a long way to offering all of us a sense of being rooted.

Thank you to everyone who shared in and contributed to the magic of this past summer.  I’m sure by now all of you have settled into your city routine BUT…..if you’re like me you’re probably missing camp life and your camp friends. Well, don’t fret before you know it we’ll be back together again.  By now all campers who were with us this summer should have received your priority registration.  Those with us this summer will have first priority to register.  We will open up registration to new families beginning October 1st. Please make sure your registration form accompanies your deposit.  You will not be officially enrolled without the proper paper work and initial deposit. Unfortunately, we are unable to hold spots for those who think they might attend.

We received our first registration today from Samantha and Sydney Himel who will be attending full season. I’m thrilled to have these two lovely sisters back for another fun-filled summer. I am anticipating a grand return of campers so please don’t forget to register. Campers going into their PA year (completing 9th grade) should be mindful there are only so many spots available this summer in your specific age group so register early in order to reserve your spot. Last summer, I had a total of fifty- nine 8th graders. Thirty one of those fifty-nine 8th grade campers attended full season.  I only have three cabins reserved for PA’s so again don’t wait to register at the last minute. Registrations will be accepted in the order in which they are received.

I’m looking out at Blue Lake as I type away. The water is smooth as glass, a perfect day for skiing. There is a light crisp wind filtering through my window.  Our Agawak spirit award, presented by the Minocqua Chamber of Commerce, sits on my window seal as a constant reminder of the soul of this amazing place. It was a summer to cherish. Thanks for the memories. Much more to come in the weeks and months ahead.

Camp hugs,
Mary