It was the best of times, it was the worst of times… it was 1A closing day, 2022. 


As a camp director, closing days are the definition of bittersweet. After weeks of building a community together and watching our amazing campers grow in remarkable ways, it always leaves me a little sad to say goodbye and know we will have to wait another 50 weeks until they are back again next summer. At the same time, it is hard to put into words the joy Catherine and I feel when we get to see our families reunite and see our parents immediately begin to recognize that same growth that we’ve had the privilege of witnessing throughout the session.

As our 1A campers departed, we hope they did so as a slightly better version of themselves than when they arrived. The same great kids, but with an extra does of courage that comes from trying new things, an extra dose of humility that comes from learning that some things are really hard, an extra dose of grit that comes with persevering and trying again, and finally, an extra dose of empathy that comes from living in community, and sharing life together as a family of brothers for their weeks at camp. 

 

Those four character traits, Courage, Humility, Grit and Empathy, are things we reference regularly here at Timberlake as we encourage our boys on their journey towards becoming fine young men and we are so appreciative of all our families trusting us with being a part of that journey each summer. 

 

And happily for us, that journey continues for all our full session campers. The fun didn’t stop for them today as Barrett G, H-P, Lucas O, William B, Richard B and Henry O all were out of camp today doing a waterfall rappel. For those who’ve never rappelled before, this involved hiking to the top of a waterfall and, after setting up and anchor, lowering yourself over the edge and all the way down to the bottom. It’s an adventure these guys are sure to never forget!


The rest of our full session campers enjoyed a free swim and a heated game of quidditch. After a delicious dinner of Spaghetti, meatballs, roasted vegetables and garlic biscuits, campers are all currently headed to the Tuck for gameshow night, which includes bunco, trivia, and of course, lots of popcorn. 

 

It’s been a great two weeks here at Timberlake and we’re excited for the adventure to continue tomorrow.

 

John Menendez

Director, Camp Timberlake

Proud Golden Eagle