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Dear Families,

It was such a treat to see some of you over this last Visitor’s Weekend. As you could see, the campers are in full camp mode with routines, systems and greeting every day with a ‘Carpe Diem’ attitude, which was the theme of Chapel yesterday, hosted by the Vagabonds.

Our Big Trips all achieved great successes on their trips and celebrated upon their return, with many stories to tell – including run-away boats, miles of hiking in the hot sun, biking up Mt. Constitution and summiting Mt. Baker. We are so proud of all of them. It is a great opportunity to a trip of this length with a new group of campers and staff – for some it can be life changing. Our Little Big Trips will return on Wednesday and we will eagerly welcome them back with open arms for the end of our camp session.

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DSC_5493 DSC_5497 DSC_5765We’ve also had many eventful overnights with creative cooking, due to our fire ban that is in effect. S’mores can still taste good, even without the gooey marshmallow over the fire. 🙂 The Pioneers had an opportunity to do a two-night overnight over to Helsell Farms on Orcas Island.

DSC_5704DSC_5803 DSC_5729 DSC_5736 DSC_5742DSC_5731Campfires, activities, friendships and camp antics continue to move ahead as we kick off this final week. Drama in Madrona Theater, shopping and chill time at Trader Horn, Vertical Playpen at the ropes course and sailing the Picos on one of our beautifully breezy days…

DSC_5837 DSC_5848 DSC_5958 DSC_5864DSC_5890 There was even a clever prank pulled on the Troubadours by the Mountaineers for a little bit of fun, mealtime enjoyment. They found that their tables had disappeared and been replaced by miniature versions…

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And as promised, here a few pictures from the end of the short session with the Archers and Explorers, who we miss dearly. These were taken at singing time in the lodge after their last dinner, at the Farewell Campfire that evening and at the dock the morning they left.DSC_5538

DSC_5549 DSC_5542DSC_5578DSC_5566DSC_5619DSC_5626  DSC_5633DSC_5648We hope you are jumping into summer with the same vigor that our campers are! Warmest wishes to all of you and we’ll be back in touch soon!

In the Spirit of Camp,

Sheila and the Nor’wester Team

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