The first time I came to the US to be a camp counselor all I had was a large backpack and a carry on filled with everything that I thought I could possibly need for the summer. The internet was not yet a thing and Portland Maine was just a dot on the map. I had no idea what I was getting myself into, had never heard of Super Walmart and was certain that I would be living in the middle of a forest far from civilization.
Fast forward 25 years and I should have taken a leaf out of my old book when it comes to packing light!
It is complete chaos at my house as we try to finish up school and get ready for the next adventure – Camp! We are packing and cleaning and getting ready to be full time at Runoia. It is such an exciting time of year and also a little overwhelming as we transition to our summer home. There has been much anticipation and we have had weeks of talking everyday about seeing camp friends, playing in the woods and swimming in the lake. I am so glad that it is now finally time.
There are boxes and half packed bags waiting to be closed up and packed into the car. The pet carries are ready to be filled and we are nearly ready! It is amazing what one family needs for the summer, even though our house is only a little over an hour from camp we really don’t come back once we have moved north and I apparently forget every year that there are stores in Augusta!
In the past week it seems that everyone has shot up (or in my case out!) and desperately needs new Runoia uniform ordering. Thankfully Land’s End ship fast. Wellies for the wet mornings grass have been bought, bug spray and sunscreen ordered in bulk and a myriad of small items organized and checked off the packing list. Of course I’m sure a number of items that were not on the list have sneaked in too!
It’s now time to sharpie names into everything because who has time to order name tags? so will have to use a trusty pen to get the job done fast.
As you prepare your daughter for camp know that we are available to help with last minute questions, that if something is forgotten we will help trouble shoot making sure that she has what she needs. Don’t forget to sneak a little note into her trunk or duffle that she may fine when she unpacks. Don’t let the packing exasperate or overwhelm you it’s worth it.
We are so excited for the fantastic summer that is awaiting us on Great Pond and cannot wait to see our Runoia girls soon.