quiet

Check-out day, session 3 - some hours after the big exodus, first of most campers and their parents, and then, after clean-up, of most of the staff. There's a small crew here this weekend, plus all the CITs, to work with a small group of holdover campers. But the weather is August-perfect: a few clouds, otherwise sunny, temps in the low 70s, cool breeze. Of course this place isn't at its best when it's empty but I have to admit to a real affection for these rare summertime moments. It's so quiet out there in the fields and on the hills and by the streams. A few staff linger, waiting for a ride, hoping a late parent or friend really does arrive. News of some staff returning next session to help out (it's a full session, despite the tradition of smaller 4ths), lots of catching up on Facebook (as if these young folks don't see each other enough while they're here together mid-session), exciting weekend plans mixed in with lots of talk about "sleeping in." The morale seems good, but everyone knows 4th session will have its difficult moments. How can these people keep up the pace after 7 and 8 weeks? It's so difficult. Do you remember how tired you were at this point? I certainly do. So many alumni children were picked up today or went home by bus. This blog can't even keep track at this point. Time was when I could remark here on every passing-through alum.