Camp always starts with a smile as the boys walk across the covered bridge for check-in. Here’s what we saw of Mason this week on camera.
Mason’s unit, Chabanel, wears gold shirts and this was the first night of inspection.
Mason’s unit leader was Lucas (the middle man of three in blue shirts). Mason has been in his unit many times and we have always loved him but if ever he endeared himself to me, this was the week. When Mason and I arrived on Sunday to Chabanel, he looked up and said, “Mason! When I saw your name on my list for this week, it made me really happy.” That greeting alone was warmed my heart but I was even more touched by how he handled Mason’s birthday on Monday. Lucas had the entire camp sing happy birthday to him at breakfast. Mason got to eat first at lunch and he was able to eat dinner without his shirt. (Shirtless dinners, known as man-meals, are a tradition at boys’ week and always have been one of Mason’s highlights.) The clincher was that Lucas arranged for another counselor to bring back a happy birthday cookie cake from the nearest town 20 miles from camp They ate that at the evening campfire and allowed Mason to be first to get his marshmallow. Lucas went out of his way to make Mason feel special.
I’m always impressed how straight they are lined up but Mason says they do practice.
Leaving inspection we head to the stables before riding.
These are all at archery. The last is just before a sneeze!
Boating is refreshing on these hot summer days.
Mason is geared up at challenge for rock climbing.
There were a number of options at handicrafts but Mason chose to do leather stamping.
Friday is the day the campers compete in marathon. Mason is waiting to get his marathon job. Some of the jobs include blindfolded boondoggler, surprise, ruler race, three legged race, riflery shooter, spillway runner, and one match fire maker.
Mason got three legged race with Will.
In the game of tug o war, Chabanel opposed Amantacha. Amantacha triumphed.
The special activity is different every session based on the theme of the week. This week, they had to make something to protect the eggs that were dropped off the roof of the old dining hall. On their way there, they all had to walk with their Nessi symbol in honor of the Loch Ness Monster. Chabanel won first place in special activity.
Mason and Reece were narrating their story for the special activity.
Mason’s favorite part of Boys’ Week was marathon.
Stay tuned for Walker’s wrap up next.
Such great memories for him.