eight things i learned from camp.

As many (read: all) of you know, I've worked at two different summer camps since the summer of 2009. Once you work at summer camp it changes your life. After you leave, the things that you learned just ooze out of your every poor. My life changed just a little bit more every time I came home at the end of the summer. The things that you learn or pick up at camp stick with you for a long time.

I've been thinking of (missing) camp so much over the past couple of weeks, so what better way to commemorate that then make a list of the things I learned from camp. Life changing, gross, you know.

1. A swim in the lake can totally take the place of a shower. It's summer, embrace nature, leave the shampoo in your toiletry bag, and go for a jump of the lifeguard tower. Just do it.

2. Shorts are okay to wear. I went into my second summer of camp counseling having not worn shorts for a LONG time. Bring them, buy them, wear them, love them. You'll be glad you did.

3. Sleep in on the weekends. You've been taking care of 8 children all week long, for 23 hours a day, give yourself a break and recharge.

4. Nothing can compare to weekends at camp. Nothing. Laundromats and Target trips suddenly seem so much more fun to take part in. And while you're in town, stop at the local coffee shop and get your favorite cold caffeinated beverage. You can thank me later.

5. You will suddenly be famished at 8:00 am, 12:00 noon, and 5:30 pm. Like clockwork. Accept it, embrace it. It's wonderful! And indulge in those delicious sweets. Walking by the rack? Grab a brownie. You'll be glad you did.

6. Get away from camp for a whole weekend. While you love your fellow camp staff people, it's always nice to get away, recharge with people who really understand you, and then come back and dive into the craziness of camp again!

7. Talk to everyone when you first meet during those staff training days. Find out what you have in common with people, see who you click with the best, and stick by their side. It's important to find one or two people who you can confide in. It's entirely possible for these people to become your best friends. And it's entirely possible that it will happen within two weeks of knowing each other.

8. You will look back on your time at camp fondly. Not matter the trials you experienced while there and the laughs you experienced. If you allow God to come into your heart and work out the things that hurt you, He will give you a new pair of eyes. Allow the hurts, allow the challenges, allow the healing, and allow the happiness.