The kids were at camp from July 23rd till August 18th. My weeks without the kids in the house were very restful. Without taking on any big projects that consume all of my time, I enjoyed the lazy days of summer. It was delightful and I got very complacent in the art of doing nothing.
I had some time to reflect on what it means to me that we are able to give our kids this experience. We've somehow made it a possibility to send them for 4 Summers, with more in the works for years to come.
We've seen amazing transformations in Samantha. She has been able to be to grow emotionally and socially. She adapts to living life in a bunk with 11 other girls and develops bonds with girls that are strengthened each year. Her self esteem and self-confidence are on the rise. Samantha knows she can tackle new situations and take care of herself. Samantha won't be afraid to take chances in the future and isn't afraid to leave our side to explore a new world. She is a brilliant thinker and comes up with creative out-of-the-box solutions to whatever dilemma she is facing.
Ian has a group of kids that he gets closer to with each passing Summer. They pick up like no time has been lost. And it is wonderful to know these friendships will last a lifetime, no matter where life takes them. This is a bond that transcends time and geography. Ian has asked if he can go for the full Summer in 2020. This is something Jeff and I are hoping to make happen for him.
One of the best things about camp is the no technology rule. Anything that can connect to the internet and/or phone is prohibited. And you know what? The kids don't even miss it. They get to be kids and enjoy running around, playing games, doing arts & crafts, singing songs, dancing, and telling stories.
It's a Jewish sleepaway camp and therefore, they are surrounded by kids who are just like them. We do not live in a very big Jewish area, it's nice to know they are a part of this community.
I absolutely love how Samantha and Ian will randomly tell a story of something that happened months ago at camp.
A lot of sacrifices and compromises (with help also from financial aid) are needed to make sleepaway camp a reality. It is not easy, but so worth it. I know in a few years the kids will be too old to go, but the memories, experiences, boost in self-confidence, problem-solving, socialization, and being in a Jewish environment will last a lifetime. That, in my opinion, is priceless.
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