Camp Orkila—the Build-Up and Send-Off

I have always wanted to be one of those kids that went off to summer camp.  Sleep in a cabin, get dirty, make lifelong friends in one week.  It’s probably a little late for me, but for my kids, I wanted to make it happen.  With some help from Grandma and Grandpa Black, this year, it did happen.  The boys went for a week to YMCA Camp Orkila on Orcas Island in the San Juan Islands.  I’m so jealous.
When we first told the boys in April about this grand scheme, Guyan was thrilled.  Owen, not so much.  He has problems with homesickness at Grandma’s house, so he wasn’t sold on the idea of a week away in a strange place.  In June, our whole family, plus Grandma and Grandpa Black, went over to Camp Orkila for an open house, so we could all check it out.

A cloudy ferry ride, followed by beautiful skies and scenery at Camp Orkila.

The campfire and stage…

A real stump house!

Goofy and his grandson.

The dock—site of the Polar Bear Dip, should the campers choose to accept the challenge.

At the end of the Open House (even before!) Guyan was convinced, and Owen’s nerves were calmed.  By the time it came for camp, they were both ready, with a bit of nerves, but more excitement than anything else.  After hugs and kisses (and wrestling), they were on their way.