Sparkling blue skies and a warm breeze today! It was the kind of summertime weather that Maine is best known for.
The kids were still talking about last night’s Staff Talent Show. It was a really fun time, and campers were especially proud of their own counselors. There were singers, dancers and so much more. Myke of Bunk 11 recited a poem that he wrote, dedicated to his campers. Jackson of Bunk 25 played the autoharp. Do you know what that is? Tommy of Bunk 7 juggled toilet paper rolls, and others juggled invisible balls. DRC whistled and Rob did 100 pushups in under a minute.
Most touching part of the night was when Cory and Suzie sang “Skylemar You’ll Linger” at the piano, with Mary Beth signsinging along with them center stage. It was a perfect way to end a happy night.
Intercamp update: 14U Hoops and 12U Lax. We won lacrosse 12-10, with Archie causing at least five turnovers. On the courts, we fought hard but lost the first game in OT, then took the second impressively in a 25- point blowout. Michael H was the MVP, energizing the rest with great effort and leadership on the floor.
Exciting new Clinics for the week include "Ryder Cup Competition" at Golf, "Tournament Play Tennis" and "3 v 3 Basketball". Shep’s "Skylemari Safari" is a backstage tour of Skylemar. They get to see the maintenance department, kitchen and other interesting spots. 15U Lacrosse has our top coaches preparing the boys for a big tournament coming up. Cutest part of this one is that Henry from Bunk 1 signed up. He understood that it’s for older players, but he wants to hang with the big guys. He’ll be the perfect mascot.
Those who select SkyDeck will be making Southeast Asian cuisine. "Upcycle Projects" at Chilltop include robot and musical instrument-making. The Ski Dock offers a "Mastery Clinic". It’s for guys who are working especially hard on taking the next step in the progression. SkyPhotos is the place to learn about taking, editing and organizing photos. Harry from Bunk 30 will help to lead that one. "Defensive Baseball" is all about fielding ground balls and shagging fly balls. There’s "Great-Plays-to-Run Football", Card Games, Low Ropes, Soccer Juggling, "STB Hockey" and "Ultimate Sportsman", which is about foraging and cooking food outdoors.
Once again the choice is the hardest part.
Deputy Brown, our local police officer, joined us for dinner. He spoke to the camp reminding all that if someone ever needed assistance here or off camp, he and his team was here to help. Afterwards, he met with kids who had individual questions, especially about the 30 pounds of gear that he needs to wear.
During the meal came a Cool2Care moment: We had brownies for dessert, and Spencer S asked Nick to make sure we saved enough for the kitchen crew.
SkyPines Overnights are always a hit. Each night a different bunk gets to spend the night at the Sky II Waterfront with Sid and Sam. They come either by foot or canoe, carrying their sleeping bags and backpacks. After fishing and snorkeling as the sun sets, it’s time to make dinner over the open fire. It could be a stir fry or grilled cheese hand pie. S’mores for dessert of course.
Sid and Sam always have lessons about the outdoors to pass on, as well as stories to share around the campfire. There’s something about staring into the flames together and squeezing into a 12-man tent that reminds us of the brotherhood we have going on here. Truly extraordinary.
