It is that time of the session when everyone is trying to squeeze out that last bit of joy from camp. You can see it in the activities, the cabin, and even during the evening program. The boys know the time is drawing near and there are only a few days left. This time of the July session is particularly busy. There are so many opportunities not only in activities but for other special events too!
While the trips were still happening out of camp, the special events in camp are a really big deal. We have one more round of the camper-counselor tennis tournament that needs to be played before the finals. The final game is a big deal and will happen on Friday after the equestrian program has their Drill Team Show.
The big event this afternoon was the soccer match. Anyone that wanted to play could sign up. The first half was age groups 1 through 3. We had commentary, fans, and even a half time show (check out the worm wars in the pictures). The second half was age groups four, five and, six. Again, lots of fun. There was gatorade, heckling, and even a real referee. All sorts of staff jumped in to play as well. What a blast!
Oh! And check out this sweet Waikiki Wednesday shot! Gotta love those colors!
We are definitely in the “norming” part of our group process here at High Rocks. The boys have learned how to work together, accept differences, and even realize that from time to time we all need help. Leaders are not always out in front, sometimes they need to let others earn their wings. These boys surprise me every day with their thoughtfulness and their skill. This immersion has created something new in these young men that we hope you will see at home. I heard a second-year boy explain how there are just so many great things at camp every day that you can never be bored. It is all part of this 28-day expedition we call camp. Now these Mini men are also experiencing a lot of growth. Even these two weeks will have an interesting result. Part of it will be hanging with these four week boys for the last two weeks. These last few days are some of the best. It is important to note that you cannot have the norming without the “storming,” or even the “forming.” Group dymanics is a cool process to watch unfold. I hope you can appreciate it.
A quick note from Darby: A couple of summers ago, we quietly and successfully started a Camp High Rocks library. Located in the Dining Hall, campers are welcome to peruse the shelves and borrow books throughout their session. On the first day it was opened, books went flying off the shelf. We are always working to build up our library and we invite you to bring books that your campers may have outgrown, in good condition to donate! Please drop them off with Darby at check-out. You are welcome to stop by our small library on closing day and see the start of a new High Rocks staple!
This is a great opportunity to show you all what it’s like out there. This is a typical climbing trip the boys are invited on when they sign up for the activity. We have trips out every day during the week for these boys. this shot is on top of Cedar Rock in Pisgah National Forest. Our guide Chris Dorrity has extensive experience in the area and even sends his boy to High Rocks now. The perfect example of “You Can’t do this At Home.”
Mud Pit!!!
Tonight everyone headed down to the mud pit for some good old fashion choas. I am pretty sure you can’t (don’t want to) do this at home. The mud pit event will be featured in tomorrows pictures. Once they are edited, I will get them up mid-day. Again, you might be able to do this at home, but I don’t think you want to do so!
Your boys sure do make High Rocks a great place. We like to have more boys that are just like your sons. Remember, if you have any family friends in the area, the summer is the best time to see camp. Have them come by High Rocks to see it in action. Send them to our tour page and we will take it from there. We love to show off High Rocks! Here is a link to the Tour Page.
Stay tuned for all the end of session fun! Looks like a little rain tomorrow, but we are definitely on the edge of this mid summer storm. Looks like some nice cooling off for us tomorrow. Thanks again for trusting us with your boys!
Don
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