It's not where you are...
It's whom you are with!
I spent the 4th of July at Woodward Camp for the 1000th summer in a row. This time though, I wasn't working, I was just visiting- as were many of my favorite people.
Up until this point, when people asked me if I missed camp, I typically responded, "No." Who would miss the 18 hours days, hill duties, endless Sundays, walkie talkies, 8am director meetings and high school drama? Well, I of course don't miss that stuff, what I miss are the people. Elena Frew said it best once, Woodward is a place where "forced friendships become true." And I was whole heartedly reminded of that when I stepped foot onto camp.
I arrived at camp on Monday evening, in time for karaoke. As I drove down 45, mere miles from camp's driveway, I told Christina (on the phone) how excited I was to get all the hugs. And once I stepped foot onto campgrounds, I was not disappointed. One after another, I received welcoming hugs and kisses from so many people that I had missed.
Tuesday was the most exciting day- it was the arrival of Christina (my best friend in the whole wide world) and Kate and Erin got to camp as well. Once we were all together (including those who were already at camp for the summer), it was non-stop fun. Whether eating Green Bowl, sitting at the picnic table, or drinking beers at biker night at the Hotel, we never stopped smiling, laughing or loving every minute.
Wednesday was as wonderful as the others. The 4th of July at camp is a magical time- almost like Christmas. People are excited and happy- there are special events like a dunk tank, waterslide and a parade. Everyone wears their red, white and blue and is just excited to be around. We even welcomed a new friend into our circle and had a blast shopping, drinking margaritas, and watching fireworks. Although I didn't cry this time, I was still overwhelmed by how important these people are to me and how much I freakin' miss them!!!
Truly, I could spend anywhere, anytime with these friends because no matter where we are or what we are doing, I'm just happy to be there, with them.
