The Sari Diaries- Tuesday 8/11/15

Dear Chippies, Parents, Family and Friends,

As the last full day of regular activities comes to a close, I am writing with a heavy heart. Today was a good one but I am having trouble getting that pit out of my stomach that tends to linger at this time of the summer. Here are the details of today’s wonderfulness…

1. This morning, I had the opportunity to hit with the Junior Tennis Team. I get to see them each day as first period is ending and I have been meaning to spend some time on the courts with them. Seeing as today was the last second period of the summer, I had to make it happen. Sookie D was my partner and I could not believe what a high level she was playing at. The entire team was so incredibly kind and encouraging toward each other. I loved every minute of second period today and as I told them, I am already looking forward to joining the Junior Team more next summer!

2. After lunch, we all headed out to the stables for the 2015 Chippewa Rodeo. This tradition has been around for as long as Chippewa has been on Dam Lake (since 1946) and today was spectacular. We had five advanced riders (members of the Senior Saddle Club) compete and demonstrate their impressive riding skills. They completed a course that they had been practicing all week which included three jumps. All five girls did an excellent job and the entire camp enjoyed watching them show off their talents. A-Frame made signs for Grace F and they were so excited as she entered the ring. For some campers and staff, Chippewa Rodeo is the one time each summer they go out to the stables, but I love that the entire camp is out there supporting our riders in this special annual event.

3. Tonight we had the Final Staff Show! To say the staff has a large amount of talent on stage might be an overstatement, but I am confident that our campers appreciate all of the effort our staff put in when they get up in front of the camp. My personal favorite was Meredith and Morgan performing their Lakeview summer Dynamite dance. It was known around camp for years and they brought it back in full force. Although there were only two of them up there, they took the dance very seriously and did their age group proud. We also did the traditional Mr. Rogers skit along with “Today Is…” which the campers loved. The night ended with an emotional rendition of a number of songs including “Friends” and “Leaving on a Jet Plane.” As we sang, I looked up at the sky and the stars were incredible. We are getting a meteor shower tonight and we all got to see the space station soaring through the sky. It was amazing!

Those are the amazing highlights from our day at #TheRanch2015. In the office, Trailriders were in and out playing Jacks…I am beyond thrilled that they are officially bringing Jacks back! I guess that’s it, but I hope you have a great night!

Happy Camping and Love,
Sari