the next generation

Abigail has just begun her journey as a Silver Lake camper. I grew up being a camper and counsellor at Silver Lake and my dad was one of the young adults that started the camp. Because of this history, I don't want to ever make my children go to camp. And I didn't plan to sign Abigail up for camp this summer. But after a visit from the new camp director to our church, it seemed that this was just meant to be. Abigail got one of the last spots at this camp plus she could be in the same cabin as her cousin. Since talking about Silver Lake, Abigail has been excited to go. As I drove Abigail up on Tuesday afternoon, Abigail talked about being nervous. I explained that I always felt that nervous energy as we approached camp and made the turn onto the curved road into camp. And here I was now taking my child to this wonderful, magical place. I knew that Abigail would be fine. She has always had difficulty with transitions - both new and familiar. She will be hesitant and need me to hold her hand at the first day of swimming lessons to the last day of school. This is the way she is. I was anticipating this nervousness and hesitancy to come out as I said goodbye to her at camp. But Abigail seemed so at home, so natural in the camp setting. I helped set up her bunk and make sure she knew where everything was (probably a bit overkill here) and it felt so natural to say goodbye, wish her an amazing experience and leave her in wonderful hands. She gave me a big kiss and was fine to say farewell. I am so proud of her and see many more years of wonderful camp experiences in her future.