The Sari Diaries- Thursday 7/27/17

Wednesday, July 26 by Sari Hirsch

Dearest Chippies,

I write to you this evening proud and lucky to call myself a Chippy Girl. Today was definitely my favorite Thursday of the summer thus far. It was the definition of action-packed—every minute filled with spirit, enthusiasm and gratitude. What more could you ask for?

After a morning of blue skies and regular activities (Sadie G caught her 10th fish and Jacklin R became a Blue Cap in swimming!), we spent the afternoon honoring Alexa Weiss. Through a series of rotations, we were given the opportunity to appreciate Chippewa for the parts of it that Alexa loved the most. We SUP-ed, climbed the Ropes Course, went to Cathy’s, made bracelets and decorated cards for kids at Lurie’s. Some of Alexa’s counselors, friends and family members also talked about how their camp experiences have been and continue to be impacted by Alexa and her everlasting message of Love Never Ends. As a camp community, we were given a glimpse of CRC through Alexa’s eyes, and her love for camp certainly radiated through each and every Chippy here today. It is incredible to see how significant an impact Chippewa had on Alexa (and Alexa on Chippewa) after spending just four short weeks here. It goes to show that it is not only your time at Chippewa that changes you; that initial step onto Chippewa soil as a first-time camper or counselor also signifies a much larger initiation into a Chippewa community that endures long past your final summer. It was clear around camp today that no one takes their place in this community for granted, and it was overall a day of fun, laughs, dancing, strength, appreciation and so much more. I think Alexa would have loved it.

After an afternoon as incredible as today’s, it only seems right to have an equally amazing Evening Program… So naturally, tonight was Pirate Night. The Male Staff pirates were especially spirited this evening, decked out in all kinds of weird and crazy pirate-related garb. After an early discovery of the coveted treasure, it seemed as though Lakeview was going to end the night with a victory. But somehow, Cactus’ superior flag collecting skills allowed them to sneak into first place and seal the deal as the victors.

After the Pirates jumped in the lake, we ended the day with everyone’s favorite late-night Tan and White game, Stalk the Lantern. I was fortunate enough to join the Neutrals and Cliff at the center of the circle, shining my sub-par flashlight across the South Field to expose hiding campers. I was surprised by the number of people that actually made it to the center without getting caught. It was an impressive showing by both Tans and Whites, but the Tans did go ahead and take home the win tonight.

And that, my fellow Chippies, is that. Like I said at the very beginning, I feel so grateful to be a part of this incredible community. Every day, but especially today. Chippewa is full of kind, genuine, strong people who care about each other and this place that we are so incredibly lucky to call home. It doesn’t get much better than that!

Sincerely,
Soph Aloaf