Candlelight My Way to the Future

Another week has passed in the forests of Northern California. Many challenges were put in my way this week: losing a staff member, a friend being fired, being incredibly sick for 2 days and fighting to move past all of these obstacles. I ended the week with a positive attitude and the hope for next session, so something went right...?

I was honored to have the chance to light a candle at the CIT's graduation this week. Walking up to a rock on the piccale of Deer Lake (Toyiabe Rock) while following the eerie light of cans of candles on the path I was grounded by the memories upon memories. The CIT that chose me for her candle-lighter truly looked up to me as a leader and as a person. Wow, what a privilege to be such a role model. This is my second time as a candle-lighter in my 4 years here at CDL. The last time I lit a CIT named Scout's  candle. This year I lit Thistle's candle.

After many tears and as many laughs, the group left the rock and headed to the dining hall where the after-party began. Memories washed over me of the times with Scout at her ceremony. Then it hit me, she's gone now. I held back a bay of tears and pushed them away to be able to celebrate the moment and not the past. I was there for Thistle, not Scout.

Next week brings more girls into my life, more challenges (ACA) and more good, fun positive times. Here I come session 4!

Break? What do you mean time off?

Who knew that when you get 20 camp counselors together that a nuclear bomb would explode in a cloud of alcohol, sex and laughter? Standing on the sidelines fending off dive bombs of kisses and grind-ons I stated numerous times, "Is this happening???"

Well it happened. Yes, it did. What a great memory to tell in future years; sitting around a campfire, laying under the stars and giggling like little girls under the swaying trees. This is going down in the history books people.

What amazing people I am surrounded by to be able to come together and to make such great events happen in my life.

Today is the day after, many are being told of the occurrences and others are quietly crawling away to a dark corner to nurse the massive hangover. Me, I sit in a cafe drinking espresso, eating a bagel while quietly smiling to myself in the wonder of the beauty of last night...

Starting our break off right with a glass of summer wine and hand tossed pizza.

Girls, Girls, Girls

My life in the mountains of the Sierra Nevadas in Cali have progressed quickly. The past 13 days were filled with lake showers, funyaking, canoeing, swimming, windsurfing, hiking, candy, and amazing memories. The girls came in a whirlwind of energy and excitement. Then left just as quickly. Walking through the trails of camp between program blocks girls would shout my name and run to quickly give me a hug. Yes, the reason I am here has been fulfilled. Every year that I am granted the privilege to work in these mountains with these girls I am taught so much. I am honored that these wonderful young ladies can still shape me and teach me ways.

Being a supervisor of other staff this year is different. I am learning the ways of a leader: boundaries, support, direction, self-care, and maintenance. My waterfront runs smoothly, but I still believe I can do more.

Craziness in the office, Waffle made a butcher paper skirt. Is that my hand down your skirt?? ;)

Floating campfire on the lake, one of the best ways to end a great week with amazing girls.

Protein? I gotta climb ladders to get me some drive thru...

The opportunities in life have shaped me. This opportunity has changed me. I feel different this year, in a new, bright and shiny way. Every blessing I am learning to take in and feel the significance of it. Without those moments how can one live life in peace and joy?

Lessons to be Learned

Life sometimes hands out particular lessons, or pills, that are hard to swallow. Those big ole horse pills are shoved down, waterslide down or gracefully descend of their own accord. Well dammit I want the power to determine that. But I suppose God thinks otherwise.
In the event of a hardship, a person has two choices: to either turn the bow of their ship towards the giant wave and hope to end on the other side in one piece or to throw their anchor out knowing they won't make it through. I have made the first choice at the last second sometimes, and other times right away.
I choose to grow from these pills and waves. Sometimes with pain, others with resistence. I also have depended on others around me to guide me through these moments and to help me point the bow of my ship the correct way...
Lord grant me the strength I need in these moments. Amen.

The Week of Creating Life Savers

I arrived in Cali the 13th of June. From the 15th to the 24th I circumspent 3 facilities' waterfront staff to prepare them for a summer of campers. It began with Skylark to Bothin to Sugar Pine and now it ends with my facility Deer Lake. Those 9 days were the most demanding days I have experienced for awhile. While pushing my physical and mental boundaries I met and learned about some amazing people. Some people that will continue to be in my life past this summer. I am glad for the opportunity to come out to Cali early and do what I love and share my passion with others. I am grateful to receive this opportunity.
Last night I arrived at Deer Lake. This morning I hiked my waterfronts and revealed in the beauty of the Sierras. I am excited for the summer and am peaceful to be doing what I love.
My plan is to buy a mountainbike, sling my hammock and set up a laundry line to set up my 2 month home here. Life is content, my surroundings goregeous and my peers sarcastic and welcoming. Come on summer!