From the moment the buses arrived, an unmistakable energy filled the air. Returning campers ran off the bus with huge smiles, eager to reunite with old friends and beloved counselors. There were countless hugs, happy squeals, and joyful reunions as friendships that had been put on pause, picked up right where they left off.
For a few first-time campers, the day brought a mix of excitement and nervous anticipation. Leaving home and stepping into a new environment takes courage, and we are so proud of the bravery they showed today. While some arrived with butterflies in their stomachs, they also arrived with open hearts, ready to discover the friendships, adventures, and opportunities that await them this summer. One first time camper told me before dinner she had already conquered two of her biggest fears….swimming in a lake and hugging a big dog.
The first day was filled with camp traditions and new experiences. Campers unpacked their belongings, made their beds, met their cabin mates, and completed their annual swim tests. Later, many headed down to Blue Lake for a tubing adventure with their cabins, where laughter echoed across the water and hot showers were needed after.
One of the most meaningful moments of the day was raising the Camp Agawak flag for Summer 2026. That flag will fly proudly above camp all summer long and will be lowered on the final evening of camp, marking another season of memories, growth, and sisterhood.
Dinner was a camper favorite—spaghetti and meatballs, garlic breadsticks, peas, a fresh salad bar, and delicious homemade cookies for dessert. The dining hall buzzed with conversation as campers shared stories from their first day and began settling into camp life.
This evening, Ashley, Bella, and our incredible staff put on a hilarious staff show that had campers cheering, laughing, and fully embracing the fun spirit of Agawak. As I walked through camp tonight, laughter and giggles seemed to be coming from every direction. Camp is alive again. The cabins are filled with chatter, the paths are busy with new and old friends walking arm in arm, and the excitement of an entire summer stretches out before us.
As I was leaving the office, I heard a camper running outside chanting to a fellow cabin mate, “You miss all the shots you don’t take!” I couldn’t help but smile. In many ways, that simple phrase captures the spirit of camp. Camp encourages girls to take chances, try new things, make new friends, and discover strengths they didn’t know they had.
Camp Agawak has a remarkable way of bringing out the very best in everyone. We are grateful to have such wonderful campers and staff here, and we cannot wait to see what this summer holds.
Here’s to Summer 2026—a season filled with friendship, confidence, adventure, and special memories.
Lights out until tomorrow.
Smile on,