August 5 2025

Bad weather is not unusual, so we treat it as normal at camp. Campers and counselors alike accept changing weather with good-spirited interest. About 20 years ago, a tropical depression brought a deluge of rain on Opening Day just as parents arrived. It was so bad it was funny… but we made it through just fine. Another summer, it rained every day (literally). That summer is the most memorable of my years at camp and it is fondly laughed about by everyone to this day. The cool rainy weather of the past couple of days might be a concern for many of you newtimers, but rest assured that this is just “normal” camp life. All is well.

As Christians, an attitude of rejoicing should be normal. Remember Paul’s encouragement to the Philipians: Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say Rejoice. In the Lord, we confidently embrace circumstances that cause others to worry. It is the foundational principle of the Great Day Attitude that flavors our days at camp and it is rubbing off on your girls. They shine brightly as they walk/skip/run from class to class. It fills my heart to see them, and I am sorry that you can not be a “fly on the wall” to watch it with me. At the same time, know that it is impossible (no matter the technology) for you to experience camp and not be here. There is power in the place, people, and spirit of camp. God made us to “BE” not to watch. When we watch through a video feed or photo, it is not real. It is nice to have the memento of the moment, but those photos will only make a genuine connection with the camper.

Take some time with your daughters when they look at your “favorites” from the summer after they come home. Let them tell you about the people, the place, the moments commemorated in those photos. That is when you will begin to “get it”.

Camp builds confidence, grit, and resilience. As some of you dropped your girls off on opening day, tears welled in your eyes. You were happy and nostalgic at the same time. Camp represents a step up the stairs of growing up. You are happy about this, but also wish things wouldn’t change. Rest assured, this was a good decision. Camp provides a growth experience unlike anything else. We hope that every camper will be stronger and better equipped to handle life’s challenges after a session at Greystone.

Today, we are looking forward to the Birthday Ball and Talent Show tonight. Fourteen birthday girls (who have had birthdays at camp) will put on their pretty dresses and come to a special dinner on the porch of the Dining Hall. We decorate their table, and each camper has a name card and a little gift waiting. We serve Chick-Fil-A nuggets, waffle fries, fruit salad, macaroni and cheese… and cupcakes for dessert. Afterwards, they are the guests of honor at the Talent Show. It is a fun night.

We are doing fine and are REALLY excited about EVERYTHING!