July 8 2025

Internet was fixed about 4:30 yesterday afternoon and all was well again as we entered a HUGE night of group activities. All of them were over the top, I spent the evening with the rising 10th graders for a fancy party that put me in mind of a great party almost three years ago. Margaret and I had securred a coveted reservation at one of our favorite Asheville restaurants for New Year’s Eve, 2023. Three of our children decided to stay for the holiday, and we were excited about the treat. We dressed up, drove to Asheville, and were told our seats would not be ready for a while, so we took seats at the bar and had a lovely time people-watching. A stunning family walked through the doors. They looked like they were from Los Angeles, New York, or Paris. Some far-off, idyllic, mythical place. We were captivated by the arrival, as was the crowd awaiting their tables at the bar. None were surprised when the hostess greeted them warmly with the news that their table was ready, and they worked their way through the locals, smiling. Margaret, who is as smart as a whip, jumped up and ran over to the two supermodel daughters, hugging them like old friends. Of course, they were Greystone girls in town to celebrate! Warm greetings all around, I felt honored to know such a family. This is what it feels like whenever we run into Greystone Girls in the real world. They shine in a way that sets them apart… and are certainly included in any list of the sweetest, kindest, and most generous people anyone would want to invite to their special party.

But I digresss…Last night’s EP allowed me a chance to see our rising 10th graders in a “special party” moment at camp. Normally, this party would have been at our house with Margaret and me as the hosts, but we are using our house as an extension of the Health Hut Ward (something we do from time to time), so we held it at the Shepherd Gazebo and Pavilion instead. Ellis (the Group Leader) transformed these spaces from ordinary to extraordinary with the help of an amazing team of seasoned party planners (all Greystone moms who are on staff) and professionals (a really good local caterer). The girls were stunningly beautiful and beamed with childish delight at the same time. They enjoyed seeing each other in this new yet familiar setting. We took lots of pictures, ate a lot of food, enjoyed many conversations, and broke out the karaoke machine. It was a party to remember!

Such a night was enjoyed by every group. The pool was perfect for the younger girls, Putt Cove enjoyed the food truck that served treats throughout the night, Gradys Shop (our maintenance building) was transformed into a silent disco party venue, the soccer field into “messy fun” central, and Bear Mountain hosted the Seniors for a memorable meal with 50 mile views as a backdrop. Mic Drop EP for all.

So, of course, today is going to be just a little bit better. How can that be possible? By doing nothing! Yup, today is do nothing day (a tradition that is only a few years old but already anticipated by everyone). We have lots going on around camp, but everything is optional! If you want to do nothing, fine… enjoy yourself! Want to veg watching all three “High School Musical” movies… we’ll provide the place to do it… with snacks! A lazy summer day enjoyed with your favorite people in your favorite place. What could be better?

Drew and Ellie Concert, that’s what! Yes, that’s how we will end the day. It is optional, of course, but nobody would dream of missing what will certainly be the slam dunk winner of the many memorable moments of camp this summer.

This post has already gone too long (I woke up early - amazing what four cups of coffee and four hours of work will produce), and it might be a bit rambly, but I want to share part of an email I received last Sunday. The “fun” of camp is certainly surpassed by the “significance” of the friendships. This mom’s perspective is wonderful.

I have had this draft in my emails for 2 days now and have not made it to the computer to send over, because like you, it’s been a busy few days. I wanted to share a photo of Izzie that came across Waldo late Thursday night, as I thought it was extremely poignant – an absolutely beautiful to this mama photo- but one that I feel speaks volumes to the beauty of Greystone and her ideals. I have no idea the context of the photo (aside from that fact it was cabin night) - if Izzie was sad or if her friend molly was sad, if they had been praying or simply having a DMC, but this shot to me just captured the essence of Greystone and made my heart melt. It is not a staged shot, but one of raw human emotional connection that while somewhat forced given the circumstances (ie, no outside world distraction), it is also so natural, showcasing the simple beauty of old school human interaction that summer camp and especially Greystone sets the stage for and thus provides.

In light of this weekend’s tragedy, I now cherish a shot like this even more. Thankful that she has a place to be herself – in the truest and most raw form. Grateful for the friends and the leadership that has a hand in shaping the trajectory of these beautiful girls lives, and feeling blessed that God has placed his hands over Greystone providing protection, wisdom and guidance all these years.

Lastly, we will not be taking photos until the concert tonight… FYI