The Sari Diaries- Wednesday 8/10/16

Dear Chippies, Parents, Family and Friends,

So Final Banquet is over, we sang the final Creed and watched the CRC effigy burn in the North Field. The next eight hours are all that we have left at #TheRanch2016 and to say I am unhappy about it might be the understatement of the century. The last day of camp is always rough and today was no exception. I am going to keep this post somewhat brief so that I can head out of the office to spend time with the people who make this place the incredibly unique camp that it is. I promise that tomorrow I will be long-winded to make up for it…but in terms of today’s highlights, here it goes…

After a day full of cleaning, packing and the all-camp photo, we gathered at the Center Fire Circle for our final campfire. Lakeview campers spoke to the camp individually about their camp experience…they thanked their counselors for being such positive role models, they advised the campers to appreciate their time here and they described their excitement about the opportunity to be a part of the staff next summer. I know I have said it before but I do want to say it again, at least one more time…this group of Lakeview campers has exceeded expectations and set the bar high for future Lakeview campers. They were amazingly enthusiastic about all things camp, they were kind to each other and compassionate to the entire Chippy community.

After the campfire, final banquet began. Patti Katz-Black joined us once again to sing during our delicious dinner. The awards ceremony was awesome…campers were excited to receive their plaques and to cheer on their friends! Tan, White and cabin plaques were presented and they were impressive! At the end of the awards program, Cliff and Lisa announced both Miss Rodeo and Honor Camper. Grace F is the 2016 Miss Rodeo, and when it was announced, the crowd went wild. And then there was Honor Camper…Julianna G was presented with this special honor. Campers and staff alike stood up to applaud her- Julianna is a wonderful representation of Chippewa campers…who they are and who they strive to be.

As we headed to the North Field, cabins gathered together to watch the effigy burn. It is always a peaceful way to end the last night…the entire camp together enjoying our final moments. We then sang the creed with Julianna starting the squeeze…it was an emotional time for all…there were many of us that lingered in the field savoring our time together.

That’s all for now…I truly wish I had eight more weeks of blogging to do. Tomorrow I will write with thank-yous and more, but for now I am signing off. Goodnight Chippies.

Happy Camping and Love,
Sari