Pine Basin!

So Catelyn went to Pine Basin and didn't die.

☺

Really, she had so much fun. We were so proud of her because it was a little scary to send her on her own. She'd never done that before and she's had little experience with 'roughing it.' In fact, I think it's the first time she's ever been away from home, on her own, without family.  She didn't have anyone with her in the beginning, but she came home with 40 new friends.

On parent's night, when we arrive, she spotted us and came running up and hugged me so tight. Then she started bawling.

It made me cry. Kyle got a little choked up, too, but he mostly laughed at us.

We listened to Darrin (The Headmaster) tell us all about what the kids had been learning and doing, from water purification to the history of the Jackson Hole valley. We watched their skits and listened to their silly/catchy/annoying songs and each counselor took a minute to tell us about what he or she had been responsible for teaching the kids. I was impressed with these high school kids and slightly envious of their summer job. They're spirit and heart for the kids and Pine Basin was evident as they rallied around us all and talked with us and answered our questions. They were the kind of teenagers I want my kids to be like as teens. Confident, energetic, happy, helpful, kind, and all around great.

We got to see the menu and how they handled meals and clean up! (Nice work!)

We heard about night games and hikes, swimming, and Ga-Ga ball. We met the staff and laughed and laughed.

Cate showed us her sleeping quarters (girls only!) and where the boys lodged. We saw the forts and fire pit and all that.  

She didn't lose her belongings, either. Just her flashlight. Other than that, she came home in one piece and with everything else we sent. I think she fell in love with her counselors and the songs and the games.  We're so glad she had this experience. And I was really touched that she wants to do it again next year, with Landon. And I'm all for it. When else will they ever go to camp together? This co-ed thing can only last for so long.

And then when it was time to go. She started crying all over again. A sweet counselor grabbed her and helped her to overcome it, as we took off.

The only let-down? It rained. It was the only time they really had any poor weather, so that's good, but it was chilly and we were soaked. The kids didn't seem to mind one bit though as they headed off for the Staff Chase and Dance/Party. (Catelyn confirmed there were no slow dances. Haha.)