Our Second Session campers have arrived on Johns Island, and we could not be more excited to have them here!
After a long day of travel, everyone reached camp safe and sound before dinnertime. Some campers took a bus all the way from Portland, while others flew into SeaTac Airport and were bussed from there to North Seattle, where more campers boarded additional buses headed for camp. Several more campers and families met our travel staff at Skyline Marina in Anacortes. From Anacortes, all our campers embarked on the marine leg of their journey, boarding charter boats bound directly for Johns Island.
Campers dashed under the “welcome bridge” as they disembarked from their boats at camp.
Once the campers arrived at the camp dock, they disembarked to wild cheers from our awaiting staff, who beckoned them through the traditional arrival “welcome bridge” and onto shore. A Nor’wester tradition, the welcome bridge encourages campers to make a quick dash under the bridge of staff arms, accompanied by the staff clapping and cheering them on. It’s a loud and joyful experience!
Our staff, including directors Jill and Sheila, were on hand to welcome every camper as they arrived at the camp dock.
Following this jubilant welcome, campers made their way to the Lodge, where they completed their lice screenings and health check-ins with our nursing staff. Then there was just enough time before dinner for campers to gather in their units, where they received their tipi assignments and continued getting to know their counselors and their unitmates.
Campers traveled with their unit leaders and unit mates as they journeyed to camp.
Our first-night dinner was filled with energy and excitement, as we all sat down to a delicious meal of pasta and salad. Our directors welcomed everyone, making sure that all campers knew where they were sitting and how our meal etiquette operates here at camp. Administrative staff provided a “jumper” orientation as dinner progressed, demonstrating the expectations for jumping a meal – that is, setting, serving, and clearing tables.
Camp Director Sheila was thrilled to welcome our Second Session campers to their first meal in the Lodge!
After dinner, the whole Lodge took part in singing a few camp favorites, including “The Mermaid” and “Piney Wood Hills.” Then it was time for campers to return to their units to unpack and settle in. Tomorrow will be a busy day of program orientations, more unit bonding, and the opening campfire, so everyone will be heading to bed early tonight.
Campers and staff alike savored the after-dinner singing in the Lodge.
We’re thrilled to have our Second Session campers here, and we can’t wait to see what incredible adventures the next four weeks will hold!