By: Bri Cavion
As the female head counselor for the girl’s line this summer, my day is filled with laughter and joy of spending my time with all of the ladies and also learning how to resolve many of their self-made “camp dramas” that develop here in our closed lives. I have found in my experience with adolescents and children that nature has an uncanny way of bringing to light our true colors as human beings and revealing our abilities to problem solve - our Pioneer Campers this summer have been experiencing this very thing.
P.A.T.H. (Pioneer Adventure Teambuilding Hike) was developed by my good friend and coworker here at Circle F, Steven Murray, as a response to the lack of an interactive overnight experience for the Pioneer Campers. He brought me on board while we were both still working in wilderness therapy in Utah, and the idea seemed magnificent- taking a group of Pioneers into the “Back 40” (Circle F’s back property) at set up sights, teaching about nature, ourselves as people, and developing team building activities that put the campers in situations where they have to problem solve, communicate, and work as a singular unit.
Before the journey begins, I as the female P.A.T.H. coordinator instruct the girls that complaints will be met with a request for one positive acknowledgment, that we will provide everything they could need while we are out on P.A.T.H. and that their job is to maintain open minds and hearts for what they are about to experience. There are four phases to P.A.T.H. each relating to a different natural element. The first phase, led this last time (2nd session girls P.A.T.H.) by Pioneer 1 counselor Liz, was Water. Here she split the girls into three teams based on random counting. The challenge was to get the entire “team” onto a single log, then to organize themselves by birthday without falling off of the log. The team to complete the challenge first, wins. I then talked about water essence, how we as females can either create beauty in our own and other’s lives, or choose to destroy what is around us by word or deed. The journey continued to the next site.
Wind came next, with a teambuilding activity led by Sarah and Emily, the two other Pioneer 1 Counselors. Their game of “group juggle” gave the girls the opportunity to work together while learning each other’s names. We finished up this site by discussing what is most important in our lives and how we should pursue it, for our lives are truly as fleeting as the wind.
Fire would have come next, but the weather decided to create a different activity for us. The Pioneer 2 Counselors Mia and Rachel were in charge of distributing the jobs of collecting the firewood, food, and water and taking it to our final site. Though it was pouring, the girls donned their “rain jackets” (trash bags) held their heads high, and managed to get all of the provisions to the sleeping site. They ate their sac burgers and smores while the rain fell around us, we protected by our tarp shelter we had just put up. I personally, was very proud at how the 30 girls maintained their composure, and survived together as a single unit.
At the final resting site of Earth, I read a Hopi Native American story about taking the advice of our families, and learning to be satisfied with the simple things in our lives. We slept with the soft pitter patter against our tarp shelter as we huddled in close to stay warm.
We woke up and greeted the sun at 6:00 a.m. and the girls began to chat and giggle about how exciting the previous night was. Tiff and Allison, the Pioneer “0” girl Counselors organized the site cleanup and prepared the girls for their trek back into camp.
But what is a journey without a proper ceremony? The girls were then led into a “borra ground” a sacred site where I painted their faces with native symbols signifying their growth during their outdoor adventure. They then were each given a leather band to help them remember their experience in the wilderness and how they worked together to survive. We then packed up our bags and journeyed back into camp.
The official end of P.A.T.H. only comes however with the now-traditional jump in the lake following breakfast. We held hands as we scampered into our lake, now ready for a shower and a nap. The Journey ends here, but what was learned and developed while on P.A.T.H. is something that we can hold on to for much longer.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Sunday....not just another day!
Hi Families,
What a fantastic day we had today. We all got to sleep a little later than usual,believe me, we all needed it after the first week of non-stop action. After wake-up at 8:00 the campers enjoyed a picnic breakfast of bagels, cream cheese, granola bars, bananas and milk. It was such a beautiful morning. After breakfast we have the big Sunday morning clean up. Everyone takes their trunks outside and reorganizes all of their stuff...yes, your child actually did that! They also changed their sheets and helped to get the cabin clean. You would be amazed at the team effort that goes into getting that done. You would be proud. I know we are! After breakfast we have an extended morning thought. It was Roger's turn this week (we rotate the administation.) His was based on the Dr. Suess book about the Lorax. For those of you not familiar with that, it is basically about the environment and what happens if you don't take care of it. We are trying to make the campers more aware of taking care of "Mother Earth." We then did an all camp clean up followed by the ever popular general swim. A favorite lunch of chicken tenders was enjoyed by all. By that time everyone was ready for a siesta! The afternoon was sooooooo much fun. We had a Carnival with 2 bounce houses( one looked like a monster truck), a huge blow up slip and slide and a big waterslide. We also had apple bobbing, face painting, weight guessing, basketball toss and more. The kids had a blast and so did the staff. We followed Carnival with another general swim (a great way to get some dirt off) before heading to cabins to shower for dinner. Of course, Sunday night is everyones favorite PIZZA! You would think they had not had pizza for a year. It really is fun to watch them go crazy for it. We ended the evening with a movie, Enchanted, then store. It is raining lightly and I am listening to the sounds of laughter, conversation and children being children. I cannot explain how much pleasure we all get from that. Thanks for allowing us to enjoy your children. We really do have the best job in the world. Your kids are being kids and we love it! Have a fantastic week,
Diana and the whole Circle F Gang
What a fantastic day we had today. We all got to sleep a little later than usual,believe me, we all needed it after the first week of non-stop action. After wake-up at 8:00 the campers enjoyed a picnic breakfast of bagels, cream cheese, granola bars, bananas and milk. It was such a beautiful morning. After breakfast we have the big Sunday morning clean up. Everyone takes their trunks outside and reorganizes all of their stuff...yes, your child actually did that! They also changed their sheets and helped to get the cabin clean. You would be amazed at the team effort that goes into getting that done. You would be proud. I know we are! After breakfast we have an extended morning thought. It was Roger's turn this week (we rotate the administation.) His was based on the Dr. Suess book about the Lorax. For those of you not familiar with that, it is basically about the environment and what happens if you don't take care of it. We are trying to make the campers more aware of taking care of "Mother Earth." We then did an all camp clean up followed by the ever popular general swim. A favorite lunch of chicken tenders was enjoyed by all. By that time everyone was ready for a siesta! The afternoon was sooooooo much fun. We had a Carnival with 2 bounce houses( one looked like a monster truck), a huge blow up slip and slide and a big waterslide. We also had apple bobbing, face painting, weight guessing, basketball toss and more. The kids had a blast and so did the staff. We followed Carnival with another general swim (a great way to get some dirt off) before heading to cabins to shower for dinner. Of course, Sunday night is everyones favorite PIZZA! You would think they had not had pizza for a year. It really is fun to watch them go crazy for it. We ended the evening with a movie, Enchanted, then store. It is raining lightly and I am listening to the sounds of laughter, conversation and children being children. I cannot explain how much pleasure we all get from that. Thanks for allowing us to enjoy your children. We really do have the best job in the world. Your kids are being kids and we love it! Have a fantastic week,
Diana and the whole Circle F Gang
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Happy Un-Birthday!!!
Howdy Circle F Family,
Happy Un-Birthday!!! Today is the Un-birthday dance (imagine a big birthday party). We had piñatas, party favors, pin the tail and the donkey, clowns and great music. Campers love the dances because it gives them a time to be silly and to have a lot of fun. Be sure to check out the pictures tomorrow to see the festivities.
One of the funnier moments of the day happened when the Buck 2 Girls (B2G) Cabin staged a protest to save a turtle. The girls had come up with signs, songs and chants to demand that a turtle that was caught in Nature Lore be set free. Of course the turtle was never really captured, but that did not matter to the B2G's who wanted to make sure that their little animal friend was treated kindly. It felt like we were at a 60’s protest. Things like this can only happen at camp. The protest did force Diana to make a proclamation declaring that all turtles will be treated with respect and love (lol).
Yesterday we had a visit from Howie Mandel and the models from Deal or No Deal (see picture). Campers were competing to win prizes ranging from Ice Cream for the Whole Camp, Choose a Counselor to Throw in the Lake to Pie in the Face and Get Squirted by the Hose.
There was a request for the evening program schedule so here it is:
Sunday: Carnival/Movie Night
Monday: Men’s Beauty Review
Tuesday: 80’s Masquerade Ball (Dance)
Wednesday: Counselor Showdown (Kind of like Newlywed Game)
Thursday: Swim Meet
Friday: 4th of July Celebration (Olympics/Water Battle/Red White & Blue Dance)
Saturday: Mid-Summer Campfire
Sunday: Build-A-Boat/Islands of Adventure/What’s the Movie
Monday: Nerd Dance
Tuesday: Earth Day
Wednesday: Circle F Feud
Thursday: MTV Night
Friday: Banquet and Final Dance
Saturday: Rodeo/Good Bye
Wow, I can’t believe we still have that much fun to have.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger and the Gang
Friday, June 27, 2008
PATH (Pioneer Adventure Team-Building Hike)
Howdy Circle F Family,
As promised, here is a blog written by a couple campers. Five Year Camper, Serena Collins and, two year camper, Nicole Raabe, recentley took part in our PATH program. Here is a blog they wrote about their experience:
It began w/ a circle of frightened yet excited pioneer girls. As we all told each other who we are and where we lived the bond finally began. As we sat off on our 2 mile hike, we had a total of 3 stops, each that had team building activities. We each learned how to connect to the elements of nature, but soon learned as it started to pour, that water over-powered them all. However, the rain didnt stop us.
Our head-counselor Bri taught us many ways to survive in the outdoors. For example, we used garbage bags as raincoats, our backpacks as pillows, and a tarp as a shelter. As we reached our 3rd stop, we realized we had to prepare our own food, and transported the grill, wood, and coolers to our final destination, out shelter. As the rain let up, we all sat around the fire and ate our food. The night ended with a lot of laughter and an awesome story told by Bri.
As the rooster calls woke us up, we cleaned up our final ceremony. We each got a bracelet and a tribal sybol on our face to remind us of the bond we built with each of the cabins.
We set off on our hike back to camp where we made it just in for breakfast. All in all, PATH was a great experience that build a lot of character.
As promised, here is a blog written by a couple campers. Five Year Camper, Serena Collins and, two year camper, Nicole Raabe, recentley took part in our PATH program. Here is a blog they wrote about their experience:
It began w/ a circle of frightened yet excited pioneer girls. As we all told each other who we are and where we lived the bond finally began. As we sat off on our 2 mile hike, we had a total of 3 stops, each that had team building activities. We each learned how to connect to the elements of nature, but soon learned as it started to pour, that water over-powered them all. However, the rain didnt stop us.
Our head-counselor Bri taught us many ways to survive in the outdoors. For example, we used garbage bags as raincoats, our backpacks as pillows, and a tarp as a shelter. As we reached our 3rd stop, we realized we had to prepare our own food, and transported the grill, wood, and coolers to our final destination, out shelter. As the rain let up, we all sat around the fire and ate our food. The night ended with a lot of laughter and an awesome story told by Bri.
As the rooster calls woke us up, we cleaned up our final ceremony. We each got a bracelet and a tribal sybol on our face to remind us of the bond we built with each of the cabins.
We set off on our hike back to camp where we made it just in for breakfast. All in all, PATH was a great experience that build a lot of character.
Yee Haw
Talent Show
Howdy Circle F Family,
Wow, time is flying. The campers are in the camp groove and things are going great. A lot has happened since the last blog and I will try to catch everyone up. Two nights ago we had Water Mania. This is the second year we have this evening program and it is turning into a camp favorite. Water Mania consists of five games: Slip and Slide Tug of War (where you play tug of war on a soapy slip and slide), there’s a hole in my bucket relay race (where you pass a bucket of water (that has holes in it) to your teammates over your head), battleship (a version of the classic board game where the campers are the boats and the missiles are wet sponges) and slip and slide races. It is as wet and fun as it sounds.
Yesterday was a cold day at camp. I know in the last blog I said that you shouldn’t write too much about the weather, but, it was freezing here. We had a few cold showers in the afternoon that made the temperature drop so much that we had campers coming in wanting to buy sweatshirts. You may be wondering, What do you do when it rains at camp? If it is just raining we keep going with normal activities and sometimes we get a big game of GatorBall going. Yesterday we had a big game of Gatorball going. This is played like soccer but with some strange rules. You can pick up the ball and run with it if the ball is over your waist. When someone picks up the ball it becomes a two hand touch game. The game is fast, wet, dirty and a ton of fun. If there is lightening at camp, we have all of the campers get to either the Round-Up or Lasso Lodge where they will play inside games with the counselors. Luckily in Florida it hardly rains more than 30 minuets in a row.
Last night was our Talent Show. One of the greatest things about camp is that camp is a place where children (and counselors) can gain self confidence. The Talent Show really highlights this. There is nothing like a camper getting up in front of 176 peers and singing, dancing, telling jokes, acting out a skit, performing an instrument, or doing a magic trick and then being supported by their peers. I am always amazed how loud the audience will cheer for the campers who participate in the Talent Show. Even if the camper didn’t hit every note, or forgot the punch line to the joke, the audience will still show amazing support. We believe that everyone is a Superstar in camp and the Talent Show is a great way to drive home this point.
I have had some requests for the daily schedule, so here it is:
DAILY SCHEDULE
7:30 AM Reveille
7:50 AM Waiter’s Call
8:00 AM Flagraising
8:10 AM Morning Thought
8:20 AM Breakfast
8:50 AM Clean-up
9:20 AM Bell---Begin First Activity
Bunkhouse Inspection
10:30 AM Bell---End First Activity
10:45 AM Bell---Begin Second Activity
11:55 AM Bell---End Second Activity
12:10 PM Waiter’s Call
12:25 PM Lunch
1:05 PM Siesta/ Infirmary Call
2:15 PM Cantina Time
2:35 PM Bell---Begin Third Activity
3:45 PM Bell---End Third Activity
4:00 PM Bell---Begin Fourth Activity
5:10 PM Bell---End Fourth Activity
5:30 PM Waiter’s Call
5:45 PM Supper
6:30 PM Infirmary Call
7:15 PM Evening Program
8:30 PM Evening Medications
8:45 PM Co-Buck Vespers
9:05 PM Buckaroo Vespers
9:25 PM Wrangler Vespers
9:45 PM Pioneer Vespers
10:00 PM Taps
Now you know what you campers are up to at anytime in the day.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger and the Gang
Howdy Circle F Family,
Wow, time is flying. The campers are in the camp groove and things are going great. A lot has happened since the last blog and I will try to catch everyone up. Two nights ago we had Water Mania. This is the second year we have this evening program and it is turning into a camp favorite. Water Mania consists of five games: Slip and Slide Tug of War (where you play tug of war on a soapy slip and slide), there’s a hole in my bucket relay race (where you pass a bucket of water (that has holes in it) to your teammates over your head), battleship (a version of the classic board game where the campers are the boats and the missiles are wet sponges) and slip and slide races. It is as wet and fun as it sounds.
Yesterday was a cold day at camp. I know in the last blog I said that you shouldn’t write too much about the weather, but, it was freezing here. We had a few cold showers in the afternoon that made the temperature drop so much that we had campers coming in wanting to buy sweatshirts. You may be wondering, What do you do when it rains at camp? If it is just raining we keep going with normal activities and sometimes we get a big game of GatorBall going. Yesterday we had a big game of Gatorball going. This is played like soccer but with some strange rules. You can pick up the ball and run with it if the ball is over your waist. When someone picks up the ball it becomes a two hand touch game. The game is fast, wet, dirty and a ton of fun. If there is lightening at camp, we have all of the campers get to either the Round-Up or Lasso Lodge where they will play inside games with the counselors. Luckily in Florida it hardly rains more than 30 minuets in a row.
Last night was our Talent Show. One of the greatest things about camp is that camp is a place where children (and counselors) can gain self confidence. The Talent Show really highlights this. There is nothing like a camper getting up in front of 176 peers and singing, dancing, telling jokes, acting out a skit, performing an instrument, or doing a magic trick and then being supported by their peers. I am always amazed how loud the audience will cheer for the campers who participate in the Talent Show. Even if the camper didn’t hit every note, or forgot the punch line to the joke, the audience will still show amazing support. We believe that everyone is a Superstar in camp and the Talent Show is a great way to drive home this point.
I have had some requests for the daily schedule, so here it is:
DAILY SCHEDULE
7:30 AM Reveille
7:50 AM Waiter’s Call
8:00 AM Flagraising
8:10 AM Morning Thought
8:20 AM Breakfast
8:50 AM Clean-up
9:20 AM Bell---Begin First Activity
Bunkhouse Inspection
10:30 AM Bell---End First Activity
10:45 AM Bell---Begin Second Activity
11:55 AM Bell---End Second Activity
12:10 PM Waiter’s Call
12:25 PM Lunch
1:05 PM Siesta/ Infirmary Call
2:15 PM Cantina Time
2:35 PM Bell---Begin Third Activity
3:45 PM Bell---End Third Activity
4:00 PM Bell---Begin Fourth Activity
5:10 PM Bell---End Fourth Activity
5:30 PM Waiter’s Call
5:45 PM Supper
6:30 PM Infirmary Call
7:15 PM Evening Program
8:30 PM Evening Medications
8:45 PM Co-Buck Vespers
9:05 PM Buckaroo Vespers
9:25 PM Wrangler Vespers
9:45 PM Pioneer Vespers
10:00 PM Taps
Now you know what you campers are up to at anytime in the day.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger and the Gang
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Letter Writing Day
Howdy Circle F Family,
Wednesday is letter writing day at Circle F Dude Ranch so you can expect at least one letter from camp (lol). Letter writing is a skill that is being lost quickly as texting, facebook, email, and cell phones all give us 24/7 instant connection. Why would anyone write a letter anymore? By the time it gets there it is already old news. Camp may be one of the last times that your camper is disconnected from their cell phone/computer for the rest of their lives. Treasure this time and use it grow your relationship with you camper through writing. Writing makes us sit down and really think about what we want to say. Sure we could srcibble off a quick "I miss you and the dog is good" message. Or we could also use this time to write some meaningful messages to our campers about what our hopes and dreams our for them. What we want them to get out of camp. What you are learning about yourself from being away from them. Write them a story about when you went to camp or when you had an adventure. Here are some letter writing tips that I stole from a website and updated:
1.) When writing to children under 12 years of age, print (not cursive writing)
2.) Writing letters takes time.
3.) Form a mental picture of your camper, and the things that you enjoy or appreciate about them.
4.) Be specific and be descriptive. Try being funny.
5.) Don't spend a lot of time describing the current weather. Exceptions would be abnormal weather conditions for the day.
6.) Highlight information you don't want your reader to miss.
7.) Attach stickers to emphasis a point or just to add fun.
8.) What you share should be fun and interesting, but, most importantly, a part of you. Your interests and experience matter.
9.) Include a photograph, draw a picture, be creative.
10.) Find time to write another letter. Make it a habit.
I have found that the more your write the easier it becomes. It's like when you talk to a friend you haven't seen in some time you can run out of things to talk about. But when you see the person everyday, you never run out of things to talk about. Be as specific about your day as possible and your letters will start to come alive.
You can send your letters to:
Circle F Dude Ranch Camp
Attn: Camper Name (Cabin #)
PO Box 888
Lake Wales, FL 33859
If you do not have your cabin # it is ok. It just helps us disperse the mail faster.
Today I am writing to you during Siesta. Siesta is a time after Lunch where we take a break. All the campers go to their cabins and either take a nap, read, listen to music or write a letter. During siesta today we had a monsterous lightening storm. It rained over an inch in an hour. Campers and Counselors love it when it rains during Siesta. It is perfect napping weather. I just had a camper come in and complain of being cold. Luckily, right at 2:15, when Siesta is over, the storm cleared and now the campers are at Cantina.
Last night was a ton of fun. Our program director Murray came up with a new program called game show night. We had the dating game where counselors played funny characters on the classic question and answer game. Some of the characters included a robot, a pirate, Mary Catherine Gallagher (super star), and a Polk County country girl. The second game was "are you smarter than a co-buck." I variation of the Jeff Foxworthy game "are you smarter than a 5th grader." We had an incoming high-school junior try to make it through elementary school questions, with some help from some of our younger campers. I had a lot of fun as the sound effects guy. I had the sounds from some of your favorite game shows, canned laughter, canned cheering, and other funny sounds and songs to play during the event. The game show night was a huge success and will be a crowd favorite for a long time.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger and the Gang
Wednesday is letter writing day at Circle F Dude Ranch so you can expect at least one letter from camp (lol). Letter writing is a skill that is being lost quickly as texting, facebook, email, and cell phones all give us 24/7 instant connection. Why would anyone write a letter anymore? By the time it gets there it is already old news. Camp may be one of the last times that your camper is disconnected from their cell phone/computer for the rest of their lives. Treasure this time and use it grow your relationship with you camper through writing. Writing makes us sit down and really think about what we want to say. Sure we could srcibble off a quick "I miss you and the dog is good" message. Or we could also use this time to write some meaningful messages to our campers about what our hopes and dreams our for them. What we want them to get out of camp. What you are learning about yourself from being away from them. Write them a story about when you went to camp or when you had an adventure. Here are some letter writing tips that I stole from a website and updated:
1.) When writing to children under 12 years of age, print (not cursive writing)
2.) Writing letters takes time.
3.) Form a mental picture of your camper, and the things that you enjoy or appreciate about them.
4.) Be specific and be descriptive. Try being funny.
5.) Don't spend a lot of time describing the current weather. Exceptions would be abnormal weather conditions for the day.
6.) Highlight information you don't want your reader to miss.
7.) Attach stickers to emphasis a point or just to add fun.
8.) What you share should be fun and interesting, but, most importantly, a part of you. Your interests and experience matter.
9.) Include a photograph, draw a picture, be creative.
10.) Find time to write another letter. Make it a habit.
I have found that the more your write the easier it becomes. It's like when you talk to a friend you haven't seen in some time you can run out of things to talk about. But when you see the person everyday, you never run out of things to talk about. Be as specific about your day as possible and your letters will start to come alive.
You can send your letters to:
Circle F Dude Ranch Camp
Attn: Camper Name (Cabin #)
PO Box 888
Lake Wales, FL 33859
If you do not have your cabin # it is ok. It just helps us disperse the mail faster.
Today I am writing to you during Siesta. Siesta is a time after Lunch where we take a break. All the campers go to their cabins and either take a nap, read, listen to music or write a letter. During siesta today we had a monsterous lightening storm. It rained over an inch in an hour. Campers and Counselors love it when it rains during Siesta. It is perfect napping weather. I just had a camper come in and complain of being cold. Luckily, right at 2:15, when Siesta is over, the storm cleared and now the campers are at Cantina.
Last night was a ton of fun. Our program director Murray came up with a new program called game show night. We had the dating game where counselors played funny characters on the classic question and answer game. Some of the characters included a robot, a pirate, Mary Catherine Gallagher (super star), and a Polk County country girl. The second game was "are you smarter than a co-buck." I variation of the Jeff Foxworthy game "are you smarter than a 5th grader." We had an incoming high-school junior try to make it through elementary school questions, with some help from some of our younger campers. I had a lot of fun as the sound effects guy. I had the sounds from some of your favorite game shows, canned laughter, canned cheering, and other funny sounds and songs to play during the event. The game show night was a huge success and will be a crowd favorite for a long time.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger and the Gang
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Welcome Dance
Howdy Circle F Family,
Things are going Fantastic!!! The campers are having an absolute blast. Yesterday was the first day of activities. At the barn the campers were put through a skills test and then assigned to a ring. We have 3 rings at Circle F: yellow ring is for beginners, red ring is for intermediate and blue ring is for advanced. Now that the campers have been assigned to a ring and now have a horse (we have over 60) they will alternate between ring work (where they work on skills) and trail rides (where campers get to use their skills out on our 400 acres of trails). Campers who sign up for horseback riding get to ride everyday except for Sunday. It is definitely one of the most popular areas of camp.
For the first day of the Rock Wall/Zip Line, campers do an activity called the trust fall. The trust fall is done by standing on a platform about 3 or 4 feet in the air and free falling backward into the hands of fellow campers and counselors. You have to have absolute trust in your friends to catch you. This activity is mentally challenging and a lot of fun.
The evening activity was the First Timers Ice Cream Social and Opening Dance. The Ice Cream Social is for all of our first time campers. It is a chance for them to meet other first time campers and it is also a chance for us to teach them some of our traditions including our songs. After the Ice Cream social the First Year campers run through the welcome tunnel (which is made up of second + year campers) into the dance. This is to symbolize that they are now part of the Circle F Family. Then they dance.
Tuesday is picture day at Circle F. All of the campers get a Circle F T-Shirt (which looks awesome if I do say so myself) and then they get both cabin and individual pictures. The cabin photos will be posted later today. We will also be sending a printed copy of the cabin photo to the parents/guardians at home. The individual pictures will be for sale at check-out.
Tonight we have game show night. I will write more about that later.
Tomorrow we start allowing parents to call in at meal times. As I have said before, Diana and I are not big fans of having parents call campers. Often times it does a lot more harm than good. It happens almost every day: A camper, who seconds ago was laughing and singing with their new friends, is now crying and missing home even more because of a phone call. For a homesick camper a phone call from home is one of the worst things that can happen. Homesick campers need to realize that they are in charge of whether they have fun at camp or not. When parents call it opens the flood gates and it stunts their growth. Also, I think many children want to please their parents. One way they do this is by acting upset for a phone call home to show how much they miss you. If you really feel like it is important to call here are some things to remember:
1) Meal Times are at 8:10AM, 12:25PM and 5:45PM.
2) Please keep calls short (2 mins. or less)
3) We only have one phone line so it can be very difficult to get through (use redial button)
4) Please try to limit how many times you call so other parents can get through
5) The meals are very loud
6) The phone number to call is 863-676-4113
So now that I have convinced you not to call you campers at camper you are probably wondering what you should do to feel connected to your campers? WRITE. Letter writing is a lost art nowadays. This could possibly be the last time that you are unable to reach your child by phone. So pick up a pen or pencil and write a meaningful letter. Ask questions, give observations. Campers love mail at camp.
You can also fax. The fax number is 863-676-5263. Faxes go out at lunch everyday so there is no need to send more than one fax a day. We also do not need a cover letter on the faxes. Just make sure that the cabin number and or name is on the fax.
It is just about dinner time. I will talk to you y'all soon.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger and the gang
Things are going Fantastic!!! The campers are having an absolute blast. Yesterday was the first day of activities. At the barn the campers were put through a skills test and then assigned to a ring. We have 3 rings at Circle F: yellow ring is for beginners, red ring is for intermediate and blue ring is for advanced. Now that the campers have been assigned to a ring and now have a horse (we have over 60) they will alternate between ring work (where they work on skills) and trail rides (where campers get to use their skills out on our 400 acres of trails). Campers who sign up for horseback riding get to ride everyday except for Sunday. It is definitely one of the most popular areas of camp.
For the first day of the Rock Wall/Zip Line, campers do an activity called the trust fall. The trust fall is done by standing on a platform about 3 or 4 feet in the air and free falling backward into the hands of fellow campers and counselors. You have to have absolute trust in your friends to catch you. This activity is mentally challenging and a lot of fun.
The evening activity was the First Timers Ice Cream Social and Opening Dance. The Ice Cream Social is for all of our first time campers. It is a chance for them to meet other first time campers and it is also a chance for us to teach them some of our traditions including our songs. After the Ice Cream social the First Year campers run through the welcome tunnel (which is made up of second + year campers) into the dance. This is to symbolize that they are now part of the Circle F Family. Then they dance.
Tuesday is picture day at Circle F. All of the campers get a Circle F T-Shirt (which looks awesome if I do say so myself) and then they get both cabin and individual pictures. The cabin photos will be posted later today. We will also be sending a printed copy of the cabin photo to the parents/guardians at home. The individual pictures will be for sale at check-out.
Tonight we have game show night. I will write more about that later.
Tomorrow we start allowing parents to call in at meal times. As I have said before, Diana and I are not big fans of having parents call campers. Often times it does a lot more harm than good. It happens almost every day: A camper, who seconds ago was laughing and singing with their new friends, is now crying and missing home even more because of a phone call. For a homesick camper a phone call from home is one of the worst things that can happen. Homesick campers need to realize that they are in charge of whether they have fun at camp or not. When parents call it opens the flood gates and it stunts their growth. Also, I think many children want to please their parents. One way they do this is by acting upset for a phone call home to show how much they miss you. If you really feel like it is important to call here are some things to remember:
1) Meal Times are at 8:10AM, 12:25PM and 5:45PM.
2) Please keep calls short (2 mins. or less)
3) We only have one phone line so it can be very difficult to get through (use redial button)
4) Please try to limit how many times you call so other parents can get through
5) The meals are very loud
6) The phone number to call is 863-676-4113
So now that I have convinced you not to call you campers at camper you are probably wondering what you should do to feel connected to your campers? WRITE. Letter writing is a lost art nowadays. This could possibly be the last time that you are unable to reach your child by phone. So pick up a pen or pencil and write a meaningful letter. Ask questions, give observations. Campers love mail at camp.
You can also fax. The fax number is 863-676-5263. Faxes go out at lunch everyday so there is no need to send more than one fax a day. We also do not need a cover letter on the faxes. Just make sure that the cabin number and or name is on the fax.
It is just about dinner time. I will talk to you y'all soon.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger and the gang
Sunday, June 22, 2008
First Day of Session Two
Howdy Circle F Family,
Today was the first day of Session 2. I would like to welcome all of the new friends and families who are reading this blog for the first time.
I realized something this weekend. People are stalking this blog. On multiple occasions this weekend people told me that they could not sleep without their daily blog. One mother even told me that she would read my blog with, one eye open, in bed on her Iphone. I will try to write everyday and give you a run down of the day and some of my observations of camp. I am also going to try to get some guest bloggers (campers and counselors) to write as well. If you have any questions or comments I will be sure to respond. So let us begin.
Today was the opening day of the second session. It was so great to see so many returners and a lot of new faces as well. We have moved back check-on to 10am to allow us a little more time to prepare camp and it has resulted in a longer line. We want to apoligize for the long wait time today. Please know that we work hard to make the line move as fast as possible. This year we added a new medical form that really added to the time spent in line. However, everyone made it through and everyone made it their cabins and met their counselors.
We had an awesome lightning storm that really cooled down the day. After the rain we had our swim test and then a general swim. A general swim is when the entire camp goes swimming. It is such a great way to start the session.
For dinner we had fried chicken (trans fat free), mashed potatoes, broccoli, rolls, salad, and there is always peanut butter and jelly. During the meal there are tradition "knit one pearl twos", singing and dancing and general merriment.
The first part of our evening program was the photo scavenger hunt. The object is to take pictures around camp that are worth points. The 4 cabins with the most points win a ice cream and movie party. Not only is this a great way to learn where everything is, it is also a great cabin team building event. Here are a couple of the examples of the pictures on the scavanger hunt: A pyrimid of campers in front of the barn, spell out the word camp on the beach, do the trust fall at the rock wall, a group hug at the climbing tree, and they had to do the Aroostasha with me (the Aroostasha is a very funny song where you contort your body, there are some pictures of campers doing the dance under pictures). In the end the winners were the Wrangler 2 Girls, Wrangler 2 Boys, Buck-a-roo 4 Girls, and Buck-a-roo 2 boys.
After the photo scavenger hunt were the Counselor Skits. This is a chance for the different activity areas to perform skits that may, or may not, introduce themselves and their activity areas. Rock Wall had a skit involving Tarzan and Jane, The office girls had Miley Cyrus (spelling?) (sorry I am not a 12 year old girl) (you will find that I like to write in brackets) (I think it is hilarious)(are you laughing yet?), riding did a Wild Wild West dance, and the strangest was by our Nature Lore/Camp Craft who threw pennies on the stage. It was so camp.
Now the campers are in bed. Lying down for the first night of camp. I wish you all a great night sleep. Please know that your campers are in good hands.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger and the Gang
Friday, June 20, 2008
Final Day of First Session
Howdy Circle F Family,
Today was the longest day of the year, literally, and we were so happy to share it with your campers. The last day of a session is always a magical day. We have a special day on the last day with rodeo practice,a general swim, pack out and a very special banquet.
The banquet is a Circle F tradition going back 57 years. It is a special dinner where we present ribbons to campers who excelled at the different activity areas. We also hand out the year awards. First year campers receive a bandanna, second years get a horseshoe, third year campers get a hat, fourth years get a lasso, fifth years receive spurs and sixth year campers can choose between a horse (yes a real one), a free fourth session of camp, or cash. The banquet always has a lot of crying, cheering and general merriment.
After the banquet we do our closing dance. We started by showing the DVD (which will be available for sale at check-out). Then we party like rock stars. In fact the oldest campers are still dancing.
I look forward to seeing all of our 1st session parents and families tomorrow. Please be sure to stop by the announcing booth for the rodeo to say hi.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger and the Gang
Today was the longest day of the year, literally, and we were so happy to share it with your campers. The last day of a session is always a magical day. We have a special day on the last day with rodeo practice,a general swim, pack out and a very special banquet.
The banquet is a Circle F tradition going back 57 years. It is a special dinner where we present ribbons to campers who excelled at the different activity areas. We also hand out the year awards. First year campers receive a bandanna, second years get a horseshoe, third year campers get a hat, fourth years get a lasso, fifth years receive spurs and sixth year campers can choose between a horse (yes a real one), a free fourth session of camp, or cash. The banquet always has a lot of crying, cheering and general merriment.
After the banquet we do our closing dance. We started by showing the DVD (which will be available for sale at check-out). Then we party like rock stars. In fact the oldest campers are still dancing.
I look forward to seeing all of our 1st session parents and families tomorrow. Please be sure to stop by the announcing booth for the rodeo to say hi.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger and the Gang
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Circle F Feud
Howdy Circle F Family,
We had our last day of activities today :(. We are going to miss all of our friends. Tonight's evening activity is a camp favorite: Circle F Feud. It is kind of like Family Feud but the questions are about camp and there are consequences for getting the answer wrong. Questions range from favorite food to favorite activity area. There were three rounds, campers vs. campers, campers vs. counselors, and counselors vs. counselors. The game ended with the boy counselors beating the girl counselors and giving the girls a pie to the face. You have to love camp.
I have to share a story with you that just happened to me. This story really captures how amazing Circle F can be. I spend a lot of time outdoors; it is my favorite thing to do. I have seen a full Moon rise many times and I was super excited to find out that I was leading the Wrangle 4 Girls, Wrangler 5 Girls and Wrangler 3 Boys on the hay ride and campfire tonight because I knew I would get to see the moon rise. During our s'mores and storytelling, we looked over and saw this magnificent moon rising in the East. Everyone dropped everything to go and look at the moon. However, and this is where it got kind of weird, there was a small object in the sky with the moon. The best way to describe it would be a star on fire. It was much bigger and brighter than a star, it pulsed like a star, but it was certainly not a star. Of course this led all of the campers (and staff) to start guessing as to what this phenomenon was. Just when I thought people would get bored with the fire ball and the discussion would change to something else, it disappeared. Whoa, I have never seen anything like it. The ball of fire just disappeared into thin air. Again the campers (and staff) starting guessing as to what it was. Just when I thought the campers were going to get bored again, it came back. This is truly the strangest thing I have ever seen. And it all happened at camp. The best part was that we got share this experience with each other. We did not run to the computer to see what it was, we did not turn on the TV, we only had each other to share this moment. No one else in camp even saw it. It was a unique moment just to that group at that time. Those campers will always remember the night when they saw the ufo/blimp/gas/satellite/star/planet/etc... That is the cool part about camp, all the unique moments that shape who we are and bring us together as people.
Just another reminder. Pick Up time for session 1 is from 9am-12pm on Saturday. Drop off for Session 2 is from 10am - 2pm on Sunday. For more information on pick up please see my previous post.
I can't believe that this is my second to last post for session 1. I will miss all of the parents, friends and families of our session 1 campers. Please check-in on this blog from time to time as I will continue to blog everyday of summer camp and throughout the year.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger and the Gang
P.S. What did the ocean say to the beach? Nothing it waved!
We had our last day of activities today :(. We are going to miss all of our friends. Tonight's evening activity is a camp favorite: Circle F Feud. It is kind of like Family Feud but the questions are about camp and there are consequences for getting the answer wrong. Questions range from favorite food to favorite activity area. There were three rounds, campers vs. campers, campers vs. counselors, and counselors vs. counselors. The game ended with the boy counselors beating the girl counselors and giving the girls a pie to the face. You have to love camp.
I have to share a story with you that just happened to me. This story really captures how amazing Circle F can be. I spend a lot of time outdoors; it is my favorite thing to do. I have seen a full Moon rise many times and I was super excited to find out that I was leading the Wrangle 4 Girls, Wrangler 5 Girls and Wrangler 3 Boys on the hay ride and campfire tonight because I knew I would get to see the moon rise. During our s'mores and storytelling, we looked over and saw this magnificent moon rising in the East. Everyone dropped everything to go and look at the moon. However, and this is where it got kind of weird, there was a small object in the sky with the moon. The best way to describe it would be a star on fire. It was much bigger and brighter than a star, it pulsed like a star, but it was certainly not a star. Of course this led all of the campers (and staff) to start guessing as to what this phenomenon was. Just when I thought people would get bored with the fire ball and the discussion would change to something else, it disappeared. Whoa, I have never seen anything like it. The ball of fire just disappeared into thin air. Again the campers (and staff) starting guessing as to what it was. Just when I thought the campers were going to get bored again, it came back. This is truly the strangest thing I have ever seen. And it all happened at camp. The best part was that we got share this experience with each other. We did not run to the computer to see what it was, we did not turn on the TV, we only had each other to share this moment. No one else in camp even saw it. It was a unique moment just to that group at that time. Those campers will always remember the night when they saw the ufo/blimp/gas/satellite/star/planet/etc... That is the cool part about camp, all the unique moments that shape who we are and bring us together as people.
Just another reminder. Pick Up time for session 1 is from 9am-12pm on Saturday. Drop off for Session 2 is from 10am - 2pm on Sunday. For more information on pick up please see my previous post.
I can't believe that this is my second to last post for session 1. I will miss all of the parents, friends and families of our session 1 campers. Please check-in on this blog from time to time as I will continue to blog everyday of summer camp and throughout the year.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger and the Gang
P.S. What did the ocean say to the beach? Nothing it waved!
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Dun da dun daa, dun da dahh, dun da duhn daa, dun da dun da da!!!
Howdy Circle F Family,
Indiana Jones was at Circle F today in search of his Random Stuff (hence the Indiana Jones theme music in the title of this blog). This was a game of physical, mental and all-around skills. Campers competed in Canoe Races, Rock Wall Climbing, Archery and Puzzle Solving. Music from the movies rang through camp as the campers ran from obstacle to obstacle trying to unlock the mystery. In the end, all had a great time and all found the treasure at the end of the rainbow: evening store.
Each meal we start with a song. After the meal we sing some of the most outrages songs you have ever heard. We have the "Banana Song," "Um-Oht," "The Canoe Song," "Little Red caboose," "the froggie song," "the welcome song," "good morning campers," "down by the bank," "hi my name is Joe," "tarzan," "arustacha," "Johhny Rebec," "the beaver song" and a whole lot more. As the names suggest, these are some crazy songs. A lot of them involve different hand motions and dances and others make you contort your body into hilarious positions. This is one of the wonderful things about camp. Nobody ever questions whether or not we should be singing these wacky songs. If someone were to, at home after the meal, stand on our chair and break into a loud,rambunctious song about a person sticking their head into a skunk whole, we would probably call the looney bin. At camp all of us are crazy and that is what makes camp so much fun.
I really have to throw a shout out to our counselors. They are working so hard to put on the best camp possible. If you were to ask me to choose in between my staff and all of my fun camp toys such as the blob, rock wall, etc... I would take the staff in a second. Many of our counselors are former campers and they are trying to give these campers the same great experiences that they had when they came to Circle F. This is always impressive to me because it shows that they have matured enough to realize the benefits they received by going to camp. I wish that all of you reading this blog could really get to know the counselors. We have the future movers and shakers right here at Circle F. They have so much energy and passion for life. It is part of my job to keep them inspired and motivated, however, I feel like that often times they are the ones who are motivating and inspiring me to reach my full potential. The work they are doing with the campers is truly inspiring. The first goal of Circle F is to help campers grow more independent and more self confident. It is an amazing byproduct that our counselors (and administration) also grow in the process of growing our campers.
If you have any questions about camp, camp philosphy, camp history, or if you have a funny joke please comment on the blog and I will try to answer your questions.
As we come near the end of the first session (sigh), there are some FAQ's that parents normally have:
Q:What day is Pick-UP?
A:Pick up is on SATURDAY June 21.
Q:What time is Pick-Up?
A:Campers will be ready for pick-up by 9:00AM. All campers should be on the road by Noon unless prior arrangements have been made.
Q:When is the Rodeo?
A:The Rodeo is at 10:00AM.
Q:Will my camper be in the Rodeo?
A:The rodeo is open to all campers, however, some campers choose not to participate.
Q:What if my camper wants to stay another session?
A:We do have availability for our 3 remaining sessions. We can arrange for your camper to stay for our next session or to come back for our 3rd or 4th session. There is a 5% discount on you additional session and you also receive a 5% discount on the current session.
Q:How do I sign up for next year? When will you have the dates available? Will the prices go up?
A: I am glad you asked. We have set the camp schedule for 2009 and we will have registration forms available at check-out. If you sign up for Summer 2009 before November 1st with your $500 deposit you will lock in the 2008 rates. You will also receive the early bird discount of 5% off tuition. I highly encourage you to sign up your campers for next summer before November 1st to take advantage of this huge discount.
Q:What is the deal with tipping counselors?
A:We neither discourage or encourage tipping. Our counselors are primarily college students working for money for tuition, books and extra spending money. If you feel the desire to tip your counselors you are allowed to, but it is not expected. Counselors appriciate any type of recognition, and are happy to know that you you, as parents and guardians, appriciate the hard work they have done.
Q:Should I tip the Assistant Director?
A:YES!!! (just kidding)
That is all for tonight. I wish you the happiest dreams of all time.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger Hanafin and Gang
Assistant Director
P.S. your text language lesson for the day is "B4N" meaning "Bye For Now."
Indiana Jones was at Circle F today in search of his Random Stuff (hence the Indiana Jones theme music in the title of this blog). This was a game of physical, mental and all-around skills. Campers competed in Canoe Races, Rock Wall Climbing, Archery and Puzzle Solving. Music from the movies rang through camp as the campers ran from obstacle to obstacle trying to unlock the mystery. In the end, all had a great time and all found the treasure at the end of the rainbow: evening store.
Each meal we start with a song. After the meal we sing some of the most outrages songs you have ever heard. We have the "Banana Song," "Um-Oht," "The Canoe Song," "Little Red caboose," "the froggie song," "the welcome song," "good morning campers," "down by the bank," "hi my name is Joe," "tarzan," "arustacha," "Johhny Rebec," "the beaver song" and a whole lot more. As the names suggest, these are some crazy songs. A lot of them involve different hand motions and dances and others make you contort your body into hilarious positions. This is one of the wonderful things about camp. Nobody ever questions whether or not we should be singing these wacky songs. If someone were to, at home after the meal, stand on our chair and break into a loud,rambunctious song about a person sticking their head into a skunk whole, we would probably call the looney bin. At camp all of us are crazy and that is what makes camp so much fun.
I really have to throw a shout out to our counselors. They are working so hard to put on the best camp possible. If you were to ask me to choose in between my staff and all of my fun camp toys such as the blob, rock wall, etc... I would take the staff in a second. Many of our counselors are former campers and they are trying to give these campers the same great experiences that they had when they came to Circle F. This is always impressive to me because it shows that they have matured enough to realize the benefits they received by going to camp. I wish that all of you reading this blog could really get to know the counselors. We have the future movers and shakers right here at Circle F. They have so much energy and passion for life. It is part of my job to keep them inspired and motivated, however, I feel like that often times they are the ones who are motivating and inspiring me to reach my full potential. The work they are doing with the campers is truly inspiring. The first goal of Circle F is to help campers grow more independent and more self confident. It is an amazing byproduct that our counselors (and administration) also grow in the process of growing our campers.
If you have any questions about camp, camp philosphy, camp history, or if you have a funny joke please comment on the blog and I will try to answer your questions.
As we come near the end of the first session (sigh), there are some FAQ's that parents normally have:
Q:What day is Pick-UP?
A:Pick up is on SATURDAY June 21.
Q:What time is Pick-Up?
A:Campers will be ready for pick-up by 9:00AM. All campers should be on the road by Noon unless prior arrangements have been made.
Q:When is the Rodeo?
A:The Rodeo is at 10:00AM.
Q:Will my camper be in the Rodeo?
A:The rodeo is open to all campers, however, some campers choose not to participate.
Q:What if my camper wants to stay another session?
A:We do have availability for our 3 remaining sessions. We can arrange for your camper to stay for our next session or to come back for our 3rd or 4th session. There is a 5% discount on you additional session and you also receive a 5% discount on the current session.
Q:How do I sign up for next year? When will you have the dates available? Will the prices go up?
A: I am glad you asked. We have set the camp schedule for 2009 and we will have registration forms available at check-out. If you sign up for Summer 2009 before November 1st with your $500 deposit you will lock in the 2008 rates. You will also receive the early bird discount of 5% off tuition. I highly encourage you to sign up your campers for next summer before November 1st to take advantage of this huge discount.
Q:What is the deal with tipping counselors?
A:We neither discourage or encourage tipping. Our counselors are primarily college students working for money for tuition, books and extra spending money. If you feel the desire to tip your counselors you are allowed to, but it is not expected. Counselors appriciate any type of recognition, and are happy to know that you you, as parents and guardians, appriciate the hard work they have done.
Q:Should I tip the Assistant Director?
A:YES!!! (just kidding)
That is all for tonight. I wish you the happiest dreams of all time.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger Hanafin and Gang
Assistant Director
P.S. your text language lesson for the day is "B4N" meaning "Bye For Now."
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
It's Tuesday Already!?!?!?!
Howdy Circle F Family,
I can't believe it is already Tuesday of second session. Tomorrow is the last day of activities for the Monday, Wednesday, Friday track. How did it go by so fast. It is amazing, a camp day can seem like 3 or 4 days combined into one. But when you get close to the end, it always feels like camp just started.
In the last two days we have had our Special Sunday program, Build-A-Boat, Islands of Adventure and the Granny/Grandpa dance. Some of the costumes for the dance were hilarious. All of the campers who went to Islands said it was awesome and almost no wait for many of the rides. Build-A-Boat (where campers build a boat out of cardboard and duct tape and then enlist two campers to row the boat in our lake) was hysterical and an absolute blast.
Tonight was MTV night!!! This is a long time favorite where each cabin creates a dance/music video to their favorite songs. The skits are normally very funny and creative and tonight was no exception. The co-buck cabins had a huge pillow fight, the wrangler 4 girls sang YMCA, there was an interpretive dance from the Pioneer 1 boys, and a whole lot of other funny skits. I wish you could have been there to see it.
Getta Lombard is our photographer and videographer. She has been posting a ton of picutres each day. She is also editing the camp DVD. There will be takes from all of the performances from MTV night and from most of the evening activities. The DVD will be available during checkout on Saturday. I have seen experts of the video and it looks like it is going to be awesome.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger and the Gang
I can't believe it is already Tuesday of second session. Tomorrow is the last day of activities for the Monday, Wednesday, Friday track. How did it go by so fast. It is amazing, a camp day can seem like 3 or 4 days combined into one. But when you get close to the end, it always feels like camp just started.
In the last two days we have had our Special Sunday program, Build-A-Boat, Islands of Adventure and the Granny/Grandpa dance. Some of the costumes for the dance were hilarious. All of the campers who went to Islands said it was awesome and almost no wait for many of the rides. Build-A-Boat (where campers build a boat out of cardboard and duct tape and then enlist two campers to row the boat in our lake) was hysterical and an absolute blast.
Tonight was MTV night!!! This is a long time favorite where each cabin creates a dance/music video to their favorite songs. The skits are normally very funny and creative and tonight was no exception. The co-buck cabins had a huge pillow fight, the wrangler 4 girls sang YMCA, there was an interpretive dance from the Pioneer 1 boys, and a whole lot of other funny skits. I wish you could have been there to see it.
Getta Lombard is our photographer and videographer. She has been posting a ton of picutres each day. She is also editing the camp DVD. There will be takes from all of the performances from MTV night and from most of the evening activities. The DVD will be available during checkout on Saturday. I have seen experts of the video and it looks like it is going to be awesome.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger and the Gang
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Opening Campfire
Howdy Circle F Family,
Saturday always has a funny feeling at Circle F because the world is celebrating a day off and we just keep on truck'n. We had normal activity periods today. Arts and Crafts had a sand castle building class, Softball learned a new game called "over the line," people blobbed, and there were dance classes. BOOOOM BOOOOOM!!! That was the sound of the sonic boom from the Space Shuttle re-entering today. Some people jumped, some people ran, some people ducked for cover. If you have never heard one it sounds like two cannons going off right over your head. Last year we were able to watch a launch from camp and we could see the exhaust/fire coming from the booster rockets.
Here is our daily schedule so that you know what your campers are up to:
7:30 AM Reveille
7:50 AM Waiter’s Call
8:00 AM Flag Raising
8:10 AM Morning Thought
8:20 AM Breakfast
8:50 AM Clean-up
9:20 AM Bell---Begin First Activity
Bunkhouse Inspection
10:30 AM Bell---End First Activity
10:45 AM Bell---Begin Second Activity
11:55 AM Bell---End Second Activity
12:10 PM Waiter’s Call
12:25 PM Lunch
1:05 PM Siesta/ Infirmary Call
2:15 PM Cantina Time
2:35 PM Bell---Begin Third Activity
3:45 PM Bell---End Third Activity
4:00 PM Bell---Begin Fourth Activity
5:10 PM Bell---End Fourth Activity
5:30 PM Waiter’s Call
5:45 PM Supper
6:30 PM Infirmary Call
7:15 PM Evening Program
8:30 PM Evening Medications
8:45 PM Co-Buck Evening Thoughts
9:05 PM Buckaroo Evening Thoughts
9:25 PM Wrangler Evening Thoughts
9:45 PM Pioneer Evening Thoughts
10:00 PM Taps
Now you always know what your campers are doing.
Tonight for our evening program we had our opening campfire. This is a serious campfire that the entire camp attends. First we line up by age group. Then Diana leads the campers quietly to a huge bonfire (you could probably see this thing from space). We choose 12 counselors to deliver speeches on the 12 virtues: Courage, Courtesy, Sportsmanship, Honesty, Friendship, Positive Thinking, Godliness, Patience, Kindness, Loyalty, Love, and Happiness. The counselors each have a torch that they light from from each other. By the end there is a full circle of light around the fire. It looks super cool. Each 2+ year campers and counselors get a piece of bark to add to the fire. We also add the ashes from the closing campfire of 2007. This is a tradition that goes back to 1952; so theoretically there are ashes from all 57 opening campfires all together. We finish off the night by singing the Alma Mater (our singing made Beau (the dog) howl(lol) (that means "laugh out loud" if you don't speak text) (how many bracketed thoughts can I put in one sentence) (lots)(lol).
Right now the campers are in their campers doing there Evening Thoughts. This is a time for the campers to unwind and to take some time for reflection. An Evening Thought can be anything from "roses and thorns" where each person says the best and worst thing that happened to them that day, "say something nice about each person in the cabin," "what 3 things would you bring to a paradise island," "first impressions,"what would the name of your autobiography be," "book of questions," and a whole lot more. This is most of the campers favorite time of the day because they get to share their feelings in a safe environment.
I'm going to sign off. I will TTYL (you are learning) later.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger and the Gang
Saturday always has a funny feeling at Circle F because the world is celebrating a day off and we just keep on truck'n. We had normal activity periods today. Arts and Crafts had a sand castle building class, Softball learned a new game called "over the line," people blobbed, and there were dance classes. BOOOOM BOOOOOM!!! That was the sound of the sonic boom from the Space Shuttle re-entering today. Some people jumped, some people ran, some people ducked for cover. If you have never heard one it sounds like two cannons going off right over your head. Last year we were able to watch a launch from camp and we could see the exhaust/fire coming from the booster rockets.
Here is our daily schedule so that you know what your campers are up to:
7:30 AM Reveille
7:50 AM Waiter’s Call
8:00 AM Flag Raising
8:10 AM Morning Thought
8:20 AM Breakfast
8:50 AM Clean-up
9:20 AM Bell---Begin First Activity
Bunkhouse Inspection
10:30 AM Bell---End First Activity
10:45 AM Bell---Begin Second Activity
11:55 AM Bell---End Second Activity
12:10 PM Waiter’s Call
12:25 PM Lunch
1:05 PM Siesta/ Infirmary Call
2:15 PM Cantina Time
2:35 PM Bell---Begin Third Activity
3:45 PM Bell---End Third Activity
4:00 PM Bell---Begin Fourth Activity
5:10 PM Bell---End Fourth Activity
5:30 PM Waiter’s Call
5:45 PM Supper
6:30 PM Infirmary Call
7:15 PM Evening Program
8:30 PM Evening Medications
8:45 PM Co-Buck Evening Thoughts
9:05 PM Buckaroo Evening Thoughts
9:25 PM Wrangler Evening Thoughts
9:45 PM Pioneer Evening Thoughts
10:00 PM Taps
Now you always know what your campers are doing.
Tonight for our evening program we had our opening campfire. This is a serious campfire that the entire camp attends. First we line up by age group. Then Diana leads the campers quietly to a huge bonfire (you could probably see this thing from space). We choose 12 counselors to deliver speeches on the 12 virtues: Courage, Courtesy, Sportsmanship, Honesty, Friendship, Positive Thinking, Godliness, Patience, Kindness, Loyalty, Love, and Happiness. The counselors each have a torch that they light from from each other. By the end there is a full circle of light around the fire. It looks super cool. Each 2+ year campers and counselors get a piece of bark to add to the fire. We also add the ashes from the closing campfire of 2007. This is a tradition that goes back to 1952; so theoretically there are ashes from all 57 opening campfires all together. We finish off the night by singing the Alma Mater (our singing made Beau (the dog) howl(lol) (that means "laugh out loud" if you don't speak text) (how many bracketed thoughts can I put in one sentence) (lots)(lol).
Right now the campers are in their campers doing there Evening Thoughts. This is a time for the campers to unwind and to take some time for reflection. An Evening Thought can be anything from "roses and thorns" where each person says the best and worst thing that happened to them that day, "say something nice about each person in the cabin," "what 3 things would you bring to a paradise island," "first impressions,"what would the name of your autobiography be," "book of questions," and a whole lot more. This is most of the campers favorite time of the day because they get to share their feelings in a safe environment.
I'm going to sign off. I will TTYL (you are learning) later.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger and the Gang
Friday, June 13, 2008
Friday the 13th Dance
Howdy Circle F Family,
Thanks for all the nice comments through email and the blog. We had another awesome evening. Each Friday is paper awards night. This is a chance for counselors to give either serious or funny awards to campers at their activity areas.
After the awards we all got ready for the Friday the 13th Dance. My email to y'all must of worked because we had the best costumes I have ever seen at a Circle F dance. Kudos to all of you Moms (and Dads) who sent costumes along with their campers. Those campers who did not bring costumes either made a costume in Arts and Crafts or picked one out of the costume box. We had skeletons, cats, clowns, mummy's, bananas, brides (that was me), cave men, ninja turtles, star wars dudes, fire men, super heroes, and a lot more. The two pictures here are of DJ Murray and a sign made by campers in Arts and Crafts. For more pictures please click on the camera on our website.
Just a note on Father's day. While we would love to give every camper an opportunity to call home on Father's day, it is just not feasible. We only have one phone line and it would take the entire day to give everyone a chance. Please know that your campers love you and that they wish they could be there to wish you a happy father's day.
I am on Patrol tonight so I need to go. I wish you all a Fantastic night. If you have any questions or requests please post them or call me with them and I will do my best to make them happen.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger
863-676-4113
More Photos
Howdy Circle F Family,
You spoke and I listened. I went out during 3rd period today with my cheap digital camera and snapped a few pictures of your campers. You can view all the pictures by going to our website (www.circle-f-duderanch.com) and clicking on the small camera at the top of the home page. That will open a pop-up window so make sure your pop-up blocker is off. In the pop-up window pleas click on Session 1, then click on "Roger's Pictures." The first picture is of me with all of my camper friends (I am the kinda tall one).
TTYL (that means "talk to you later" if you don't speak text)
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Water Mania!!!
Howdy Circle F Parents,
Today was another Fantastic day. I know that I say that everyday, but it is true. The morning started with our normal flag raising. All the cabins were there on time except for the Pioneer Boys who were on their overnight adventure. Just before we were about the raise the flag, out came the oldest boy cabins with faces painted and beaming from their camping experience. It was such a fun way to start the day.
Everyday is an adventure at camp and I started off the day at 6:00am with a real thrill when the kitchen called and told me we were out of propane. This is the life of a camp director. Pancakes were on the menu with no way to cook them!!! What to do??? DONUT BREAKFAST!!! It was Duncan to the rescue. Along with cereal, fruit and our special donuts the day was saved.
The weather has been unspeakably cool over the last few days. We have been getting just enough rain to cool everything down, but not enough to get in the way of activities. You might be shocked to find out that we have had to deliver extra blankets to campers who are complaining of being too cold at night. It is amazing how you adjust to the warm weather at camp.
Today’s evening activity is one of my absolute favorites: Water Mania. Water Mania features 5 water filled games including: giant slip and slide races, battle ship (like the classic board game, but played with soaking wet sponges and people are the boats), bucket rely race (pass a bucket over your head to your cabin mates, the trick is that there are holes in the bucket that drip on your head), human sponge relay (jump in a kiddie pool, soak up as much water as possible and then run to a bucket and ring out as much water as possible into the bucket) and my favorite, slip and slide tug of war (a game of tug of war on a slip and slide). We split camp into 5 groups and rotated them through the 5 activities. It was guys vs. girls and I am sad to say the girls seemed to win the majority of the events. We ended the evening activity with the boy counselors vs. girl counselors tug of war. You would have thought it was the Super Bowl or NBA Finals (go Lakers). The kids were screaming for their counselors at the top of their lungs. The girl counselors got off to a strong start, but I am happy to say that boys “pulled” through and brought the girls down in a scene that would match any Three Stooges film.
Just a quick message about faxes: We only deliver mail once a day during Siesta after Lunch. If you send more than one fax per day, your camper will get both at the same time. Also, you do not need a cover page to send a fax. The fax number is 863-676-5263.
Tomorrow is Friday the 13th so we are having the Friday the 13th dance (don’t worry it is going to be very non-scary). We will be playing Thriller, the Monster Mash and some other Halloween favorites. I will write you tomorrow with the update.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger Hanafin
Assistant Director
Today was another Fantastic day. I know that I say that everyday, but it is true. The morning started with our normal flag raising. All the cabins were there on time except for the Pioneer Boys who were on their overnight adventure. Just before we were about the raise the flag, out came the oldest boy cabins with faces painted and beaming from their camping experience. It was such a fun way to start the day.
Everyday is an adventure at camp and I started off the day at 6:00am with a real thrill when the kitchen called and told me we were out of propane. This is the life of a camp director. Pancakes were on the menu with no way to cook them!!! What to do??? DONUT BREAKFAST!!! It was Duncan to the rescue. Along with cereal, fruit and our special donuts the day was saved.
The weather has been unspeakably cool over the last few days. We have been getting just enough rain to cool everything down, but not enough to get in the way of activities. You might be shocked to find out that we have had to deliver extra blankets to campers who are complaining of being too cold at night. It is amazing how you adjust to the warm weather at camp.
Today’s evening activity is one of my absolute favorites: Water Mania. Water Mania features 5 water filled games including: giant slip and slide races, battle ship (like the classic board game, but played with soaking wet sponges and people are the boats), bucket rely race (pass a bucket over your head to your cabin mates, the trick is that there are holes in the bucket that drip on your head), human sponge relay (jump in a kiddie pool, soak up as much water as possible and then run to a bucket and ring out as much water as possible into the bucket) and my favorite, slip and slide tug of war (a game of tug of war on a slip and slide). We split camp into 5 groups and rotated them through the 5 activities. It was guys vs. girls and I am sad to say the girls seemed to win the majority of the events. We ended the evening activity with the boy counselors vs. girl counselors tug of war. You would have thought it was the Super Bowl or NBA Finals (go Lakers). The kids were screaming for their counselors at the top of their lungs. The girl counselors got off to a strong start, but I am happy to say that boys “pulled” through and brought the girls down in a scene that would match any Three Stooges film.
Just a quick message about faxes: We only deliver mail once a day during Siesta after Lunch. If you send more than one fax per day, your camper will get both at the same time. Also, you do not need a cover page to send a fax. The fax number is 863-676-5263.
Tomorrow is Friday the 13th so we are having the Friday the 13th dance (don’t worry it is going to be very non-scary). We will be playing Thriller, the Monster Mash and some other Halloween favorites. I will write you tomorrow with the update.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger Hanafin
Assistant Director
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Letter Writing Day
Wednesday is letter writing day at Circle F Dude Ranch which means that you can all expect at least one letter from this week. Do not feel bad if you have not received a letter from your camper yet. It normally means that they are having so much fun that they don't want to miss out on all that is happening and write a letter.
While campers might not think to write you a letter until prodded by their counselor, remember that campers love mail at camp. Whether it is a letter, a package or even a fax, campers love to get news from home. Make your letters fun by clipping out comics or puzzles from the local paper. I always get a lot of questions on what should be sent in a care package. Here are some ideas that I think are a lot of fun: water balloons, glow sticks, mad libs, cards, uno, a travel game, a favorite toy from home, magazines, sun glasses, a costume for the upcoming granny and grandpa dance, novelty toys (nothing is funnier than a whoopie cushion or fake poop at camp), a book, a toy to sign for the end of camp (like a graduation toy), stationary to write you letters (pre-addressed and stamped), a squirt gun, wads of cash to give to their favorite Assistant Director (just kidding). It is Wednesday night so if you want your package or letter to arrive before the end of camp be sure to send it very soon.
If you are reading this blog it is probably because you are really missing your children. When I moved from being a Counselor to Administration I thought that I would be dealing with a lot of homesick children. However, I find that I am dealing with homesick parents a lot more than I am dealing with homesick campers. Most parents spend a ton of energy and time making sure that their children are ready for camp. At the same time, parents spend almost no time preparing themselves for their own journey. For many of our first time parents this is the longest you have been away from your children since they were born. It is a totally natural feeling to be missing your children and to want to be connected with them while they are away at camp. We understand that you want to feel connected to your children. However, just like your children are growing more independent and confident at camp, you are growing as a parent at home. You are starting to realize that your camper can survive without you for more than a few hours or days. You are starting to realize that you do not have total control over your child's actions and life decisions. This can be terrifying because 1) we want our children to make the best decisions and we fear that if we are not around they will make poor decisions, 2) we view our children as reflections of ourselves and when we send our children to camp we are afraid that we will be judged by our children's actions and that this will reflect poorly on us, 3) we have been told that we need to be connected at all times to our children and we need to be the "perfect parent". But, as we all know, there is no perfect parent, there is no guide book, and we are all amateurs constantly trying to keep up with our children as they grow and change. So we lay with our eyes open, unable to sleep, fearing the worst. This is where it is important to remember that this time is a growing time for you as a parent. With each passing day, you are growing into a more confident person/parent able to let go of control of your children and to feel more confident that we know we are doing the best we can do, but in the end, we only control ourselves and our actions. Camp is a time not only for your children, it is a time for you. Use this time wisely to reflect on your life as a parent and as an individual.
Thank you for all of your comments on the blog. I will try to write an entry each day. If you have any questions that you would like me to address about camp, activities, camp philosophy, myself,or anything else, please post your questions and I will do my best to answer them.
Well, it is 11:52 (have I really been working for 18 hours today?!?!?!) and camp is totally dark. You can hear soft breathing coming from the cabins. We are finally starting to wear them out. The campers are fast asleep, storing energy for tomorrows new adventures. I hope you all have a Fantastic night of sleep knowing that your children are safe here at the Circle F Dude Ranch.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger
While campers might not think to write you a letter until prodded by their counselor, remember that campers love mail at camp. Whether it is a letter, a package or even a fax, campers love to get news from home. Make your letters fun by clipping out comics or puzzles from the local paper. I always get a lot of questions on what should be sent in a care package. Here are some ideas that I think are a lot of fun: water balloons, glow sticks, mad libs, cards, uno, a travel game, a favorite toy from home, magazines, sun glasses, a costume for the upcoming granny and grandpa dance, novelty toys (nothing is funnier than a whoopie cushion or fake poop at camp), a book, a toy to sign for the end of camp (like a graduation toy), stationary to write you letters (pre-addressed and stamped), a squirt gun, wads of cash to give to their favorite Assistant Director (just kidding). It is Wednesday night so if you want your package or letter to arrive before the end of camp be sure to send it very soon.
If you are reading this blog it is probably because you are really missing your children. When I moved from being a Counselor to Administration I thought that I would be dealing with a lot of homesick children. However, I find that I am dealing with homesick parents a lot more than I am dealing with homesick campers. Most parents spend a ton of energy and time making sure that their children are ready for camp. At the same time, parents spend almost no time preparing themselves for their own journey. For many of our first time parents this is the longest you have been away from your children since they were born. It is a totally natural feeling to be missing your children and to want to be connected with them while they are away at camp. We understand that you want to feel connected to your children. However, just like your children are growing more independent and confident at camp, you are growing as a parent at home. You are starting to realize that your camper can survive without you for more than a few hours or days. You are starting to realize that you do not have total control over your child's actions and life decisions. This can be terrifying because 1) we want our children to make the best decisions and we fear that if we are not around they will make poor decisions, 2) we view our children as reflections of ourselves and when we send our children to camp we are afraid that we will be judged by our children's actions and that this will reflect poorly on us, 3) we have been told that we need to be connected at all times to our children and we need to be the "perfect parent". But, as we all know, there is no perfect parent, there is no guide book, and we are all amateurs constantly trying to keep up with our children as they grow and change. So we lay with our eyes open, unable to sleep, fearing the worst. This is where it is important to remember that this time is a growing time for you as a parent. With each passing day, you are growing into a more confident person/parent able to let go of control of your children and to feel more confident that we know we are doing the best we can do, but in the end, we only control ourselves and our actions. Camp is a time not only for your children, it is a time for you. Use this time wisely to reflect on your life as a parent and as an individual.
Thank you for all of your comments on the blog. I will try to write an entry each day. If you have any questions that you would like me to address about camp, activities, camp philosophy, myself,or anything else, please post your questions and I will do my best to answer them.
Well, it is 11:52 (have I really been working for 18 hours today?!?!?!) and camp is totally dark. You can hear soft breathing coming from the cabins. We are finally starting to wear them out. The campers are fast asleep, storing energy for tomorrows new adventures. I hope you all have a Fantastic night of sleep knowing that your children are safe here at the Circle F Dude Ranch.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger
Photos Are Online
Hi Circle F Family,
We have posted pictures online!!! You can view the pictures by going to our website: www.circle-f-duderanch.com and clicking on the camera at the top right of the page. It will open a pop-up window so make sure that you enable pop-ups for our site. For some reason the picture site is saying there are 0 pictures under Session 1 2008, but I assure there are plenty of pictures there. If you have any questions please feel free to contact us.
Last night we had a thunder storm after dinner which caused the PATH to end early. They are going to try again tonight.
The rain did not slow down Deal of No Deal. I had a blast playing Howie Mandel complete with bald cap. We had three contestants for the game. The first round was Alex T. who decided to say No Deal to the end and paid the price as he was squirted by the squirt gun. Our second contestant, Vika, was at the final round and said No Deal trying to win a Pizza Party for her cabin, but her dreams were dashed and she took a pie to the face instead. Our last contestant had two of the top prizes on the board, a Pizza Party for her cabin or Ice Cream for the entire camp, when the evil banker offered double-store for the entire camp. The audience was in an uproar imploring her to take the deal. With much fanfare and whooping she took the deal hitting the "easy button." All in all it was a awesome event and everyone really enjoyed it (especially Vika's cabin who got to throw the pie).
Tonight we are switching things up and moving our Water Battle activity to tonight. I will write tomorrow with some details from this wet and wild activity. I hope this blog finds you doing well and helps paints a picture of the fun we are having at camp. Please feel free to contact me or Diana if you have any questions/comments.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger
P.S. I am interested to see how many people are reading the blog. Please write a short response so I have an idea of how popular this new addition is.
We have posted pictures online!!! You can view the pictures by going to our website: www.circle-f-duderanch.com and clicking on the camera at the top right of the page. It will open a pop-up window so make sure that you enable pop-ups for our site. For some reason the picture site is saying there are 0 pictures under Session 1 2008, but I assure there are plenty of pictures there. If you have any questions please feel free to contact us.
Last night we had a thunder storm after dinner which caused the PATH to end early. They are going to try again tonight.
The rain did not slow down Deal of No Deal. I had a blast playing Howie Mandel complete with bald cap. We had three contestants for the game. The first round was Alex T. who decided to say No Deal to the end and paid the price as he was squirted by the squirt gun. Our second contestant, Vika, was at the final round and said No Deal trying to win a Pizza Party for her cabin, but her dreams were dashed and she took a pie to the face instead. Our last contestant had two of the top prizes on the board, a Pizza Party for her cabin or Ice Cream for the entire camp, when the evil banker offered double-store for the entire camp. The audience was in an uproar imploring her to take the deal. With much fanfare and whooping she took the deal hitting the "easy button." All in all it was a awesome event and everyone really enjoyed it (especially Vika's cabin who got to throw the pie).
Tonight we are switching things up and moving our Water Battle activity to tonight. I will write tomorrow with some details from this wet and wild activity. I hope this blog finds you doing well and helps paints a picture of the fun we are having at camp. Please feel free to contact me or Diana if you have any questions/comments.
Fantastic Wishes,
Roger
P.S. I am interested to see how many people are reading the blog. Please write a short response so I have an idea of how popular this new addition is.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Updates
Howdy Circle F Families,
We are on day 3 at camp and we are starting to get into the camp groove. All of the first day jitters are gone and the campers are starting to find the rhythm of Camp. Last night we had our First Timers Ice Cream Social. The first timers enjoyed having a special time to get to know each other. They also were taught some of our more difficult camp songs. While the first timers were having their own special time, the "old timers" were busy preparing the opening dance and forming the Circle F Family Tunnel. When the first timers were done with their social they went through the Circle F Family Tunnel to symbolize that they are no longer first time campers and are now officially part of the Circle F Family. All in all, the opening dance was a huge success.
This morning the campers got their radical Circle F T-Shirt (designed by yours truly) and had their camp picture taken. We will be sending out the cabin photos and you should receive them sometime next week. There will also be individual camper pictures available at check-out for $5.
Right now the campers are at their afternoon activities. I can see campers being blobed, swimming and ridding on the the banana boat as I am writing this. I can also hear the music from the Advance Dance class. I know you all wish you could see this first hand.
Tonight the Pioneer Boys cabins will be going on their Pioneer Adventure Team-Building Hike (PATH). This is an overnight experience for our oldest campers where they cook and sleep out in our forest. The overnight is led by Steven Murray who has an extensive background in leading youth backpacking trips.
B2B, B3B, and B4B cabins will be taking part in our Horseback Cookout tonight. They will enjoy an evening ride and then cookout over a fire. Blake will show them how to make fire using a bow drill. Every cabin will get to take part in this activity.
Cabins W1B, B4B, W1G will be going on a Hay Ride and campfire tonight. At the campfire they will tell stories and eat marshmallows.
The rest of the camp will hang out Howie Mandel (me wearing a bald cap, black suit and tie) as we do DEAL OR NO DEAL. We have replaced the $1,000,000 with a Pizza Party for their Cabin and the 1 penny has been replaced with a pie to the face. It should be a blast.
Tomorrow we start phone calls. To be honest I am not a big fan of parents calling camp. Often time it can be more detrimental than helpful to the camper. If you really feel the need to call, remember that we only have one line, and the meals are short so we can only get so many phone calls in at one meal. I know that it can be frustrating to call for 20 minuets straight and to not get through, but, that is only way it works. Please limit your calls to 2 min and once you get through please do not call back until the next week so that other parents can get through.
I will keep y'all posted on the goings on, so be sure to check in every so often.
Cya,
Roger
We are on day 3 at camp and we are starting to get into the camp groove. All of the first day jitters are gone and the campers are starting to find the rhythm of Camp. Last night we had our First Timers Ice Cream Social. The first timers enjoyed having a special time to get to know each other. They also were taught some of our more difficult camp songs. While the first timers were having their own special time, the "old timers" were busy preparing the opening dance and forming the Circle F Family Tunnel. When the first timers were done with their social they went through the Circle F Family Tunnel to symbolize that they are no longer first time campers and are now officially part of the Circle F Family. All in all, the opening dance was a huge success.
This morning the campers got their radical Circle F T-Shirt (designed by yours truly) and had their camp picture taken. We will be sending out the cabin photos and you should receive them sometime next week. There will also be individual camper pictures available at check-out for $5.
Right now the campers are at their afternoon activities. I can see campers being blobed, swimming and ridding on the the banana boat as I am writing this. I can also hear the music from the Advance Dance class. I know you all wish you could see this first hand.
Tonight the Pioneer Boys cabins will be going on their Pioneer Adventure Team-Building Hike (PATH). This is an overnight experience for our oldest campers where they cook and sleep out in our forest. The overnight is led by Steven Murray who has an extensive background in leading youth backpacking trips.
B2B, B3B, and B4B cabins will be taking part in our Horseback Cookout tonight. They will enjoy an evening ride and then cookout over a fire. Blake will show them how to make fire using a bow drill. Every cabin will get to take part in this activity.
Cabins W1B, B4B, W1G will be going on a Hay Ride and campfire tonight. At the campfire they will tell stories and eat marshmallows.
The rest of the camp will hang out Howie Mandel (me wearing a bald cap, black suit and tie) as we do DEAL OR NO DEAL. We have replaced the $1,000,000 with a Pizza Party for their Cabin and the 1 penny has been replaced with a pie to the face. It should be a blast.
Tomorrow we start phone calls. To be honest I am not a big fan of parents calling camp. Often time it can be more detrimental than helpful to the camper. If you really feel the need to call, remember that we only have one line, and the meals are short so we can only get so many phone calls in at one meal. I know that it can be frustrating to call for 20 minuets straight and to not get through, but, that is only way it works. Please limit your calls to 2 min and once you get through please do not call back until the next week so that other parents can get through.
I will keep y'all posted on the goings on, so be sure to check in every so often.
Cya,
Roger
Sunday, June 08, 2008
First Day of Camp
Dear Circle F Families,
Today we started summer camp. We had an awesome day. After Lunch we did our swim test and had a general swim. There were over 150 children swimming, playing and building sand -castles. Our Waterfront staff performed magnificently running buddy checks and making sure that all the children were having safe-fun.
After swimming, the campers got ready for dinner and many of them played kickball and volleyball before our opening dinner. The opening dinner was started with a traditional song and we had chicken, salad, rolls, mashed potatoes and cake. There was also peanut butter and jelly and a fruit bowl for campers who did not want to eat the main course. During the meal there were the traditional "knit one pearl two" shout outs where a table will call on a camper or staff member to do a funny dance up on stage. The counselors also led the "give it to me one time" table clap. After each meal we sing songs and we sang some of the campers favorites including: The Welcome Song, Bananas, Hi My Name is Joe, and The Little Canoe.
The evening activity was a Photo Scavenger Hunt followed by the infamous Counselor Skits. For the Photo Scavenger Hunt, campers went with their cabin group and counselors all around camp taking pictures of themselves at different areas of camp. The goal of this activity is help campers learn where everything is while building a strong cabin group. Some examples of the pictures they took were: a group toe touch on stage, sit inside the soccer net, Robin Hood pose at Archery, take a picture with Beau (one of the camp dogs), make funny faces with the head counselors and a whole lot more. After the Photo Hunt, the counselors put on some hilarious skits. Some of the characters included a dancing banana, a pink gorilla, robots from the year 2080 and dancing cowboys/girls. The event was hosted by me (Roger - Assistant Director) and we ended by having everyone scream so loud that you could hear us at home (did you?.
The campers are now all in bed and we are doing our final check-ins and evening thoughts with the campers. It has been a day to remember. Pictures from today will be posted tomorrow morning. Be sure to check the blog periodically for more updates.
Cya,
Roger Hanafin
Assistant Director
Today we started summer camp. We had an awesome day. After Lunch we did our swim test and had a general swim. There were over 150 children swimming, playing and building sand -castles. Our Waterfront staff performed magnificently running buddy checks and making sure that all the children were having safe-fun.
After swimming, the campers got ready for dinner and many of them played kickball and volleyball before our opening dinner. The opening dinner was started with a traditional song and we had chicken, salad, rolls, mashed potatoes and cake. There was also peanut butter and jelly and a fruit bowl for campers who did not want to eat the main course. During the meal there were the traditional "knit one pearl two" shout outs where a table will call on a camper or staff member to do a funny dance up on stage. The counselors also led the "give it to me one time" table clap. After each meal we sing songs and we sang some of the campers favorites including: The Welcome Song, Bananas, Hi My Name is Joe, and The Little Canoe.
The evening activity was a Photo Scavenger Hunt followed by the infamous Counselor Skits. For the Photo Scavenger Hunt, campers went with their cabin group and counselors all around camp taking pictures of themselves at different areas of camp. The goal of this activity is help campers learn where everything is while building a strong cabin group. Some examples of the pictures they took were: a group toe touch on stage, sit inside the soccer net, Robin Hood pose at Archery, take a picture with Beau (one of the camp dogs), make funny faces with the head counselors and a whole lot more. After the Photo Hunt, the counselors put on some hilarious skits. Some of the characters included a dancing banana, a pink gorilla, robots from the year 2080 and dancing cowboys/girls. The event was hosted by me (Roger - Assistant Director) and we ended by having everyone scream so loud that you could hear us at home (did you?.
The campers are now all in bed and we are doing our final check-ins and evening thoughts with the campers. It has been a day to remember. Pictures from today will be posted tomorrow morning. Be sure to check the blog periodically for more updates.
Cya,
Roger Hanafin
Assistant Director
Monday, June 02, 2008
Meet Our Staff
Dear Circle F Family,
We are so excited for camp to start!!! We have been conducting our Administration and Head Counselor training for the past week and we have put together a Fantastic staff for the summer. Introducing your Summer Camp Administration:
Diana Yost – Director: Diana first came to Circle F in 1990 for a Women’s Weekend. Her Jazzercise instructor Deb and her husband Bill owned and operated the camp. She loves coming here. In 1993, she sent her 2 sons for summer camp. They loved it and couldn’t wait to return. She wanted to be a part of it all. Diana was offered to be Head Counselor and spent her first summer at Circle F in 1994. She is entering her 15th summer and 9th as Director. She loves the campers, staff, and Circle F itself. She cannot imagine not being here.
Roger Hanafin – Assistant Director: This will be Roger’s second year as the Assistant Director at Circle F Dude Ranch. Born and raised in California, Roger grew up going to summer camp and has almost 16 years of camp experience as a Camper, Counselor in Training, Counselor, Head Counselor and now as the Assistant Director. Roger graduated Magna Cum Lade from UCLA before meeting his wife Emily. Roger and Emily traveled through Central America and lived in Colorado before settling permanently at the Circle F Dude Ranch where they live full time.
Steven Murray – Program Director: Murray has been part of the Circle F Family since 2000. A graduate of Arkansas State University, Murray has worked as our Head of General Sports, Waterfront, and Rock Wall. He served two years as our Head Counselor before becoming Program Director this summer. Aside from his experience at Circle F, Murray has worked at Saddlebrook Golf and Tennis Resort as a counselor for their S’Kids program. Recently, Murray has begun working during the off season in Wilderness Therapy at Outback Therapeutic Expeditions in Utah.
Briana Lynn Cavion – Girls Head Counselor: This will be Briana’s first year at Circle F Dude Ranch. Bri has worked with children for over 6 years in multiple capacities. Some highlights include: CIT/Counselor at camp Nawakwar camp for underprivileged children in Southern California, teacher/researcher for Spanish integration in Bolivia, Hugh O’Brien youth leadership participant and three year counselor, teacher for street children in Oaxaca, Mexico, Senior counselor for Outback Therapeutic Expeditions in Utah and instructor with Salt Lake City Title 1Pre-K program.
Blake Yost – Boys Head Counselor: Blake has been a part of the Circle F Family since 1992. This will be his ninth summer. He spent six summers as a camper and this is his third as a counselor/administrator. He was the head of waterfront and will be the Head Counselor for the boy’s line this year. Blake attended Valencia College in Orlando and graduated with his AA degree. Having spent time in real estate and then in Rochester, New York, Blake is ready for another fun filled summer at Circle F.
Michael Langieri – Head of Riding: Mike has been part of the Circle F Family since 1992. He was a camper for six summers and this will be his sixth summer as a counselor. He is from Gainesville, FL and is an Environmental Engineering major at the University of Florida. This will be Mike’s fourth summer as head of the horseback riding program, and he looks forward to providing a fun and educational experience for all.
Matt Berg – Head of Rock Wall: This will be Matt’s third year as part of the Circle F Family. Matt was born into a military family and has traveled extensively. Different environments and experiences have taught him how to handle new or difficult situations. He has also found that he loves to meet new people and see new places. Matt first experienced climbing at 14 and loves to climb as much as possible. He enjoys working with children because there’s always something new going on and things to learn.
Joe Fernandez – Head of Paintball: Joe has been part of the Circle F Family since 1999 as both a camper and a counselor. He graduated from the University of South Florida in 2007 with a bachelor’s in communications. Joe has also worked for the city of Tampa’s Park and Recreation department. Joe is a paintball enthusiast and loves all things outdoors.
Luis Navarro – Head of Waterfront: Luis has been part of the Circle F Family since 2001. This is his 3rd summer as a counselor and his first time as head of waterfront. Luis has lived in Miami up until this last year when he moved to Utah. Luis’s passion is the movies and will be moving to LA at the end of summer to pursue a career in Hollywood.
Getta Lombard – Video/Photography: Getta has been part of the Circle F Family since 1991. She attended Saint Leo University, graduated in 2003, and currently teaches middle school science and math. While at Circle F, Getta was a camper for 7 years, and then became a counselor. She has taught horseback riding for several years, been office manager and Women’s Head Counselor. This year she is taking on a new challenge with the video and camp photography.
We can't wait to see you!!!
We are so excited for camp to start!!! We have been conducting our Administration and Head Counselor training for the past week and we have put together a Fantastic staff for the summer. Introducing your Summer Camp Administration:
Diana Yost – Director: Diana first came to Circle F in 1990 for a Women’s Weekend. Her Jazzercise instructor Deb and her husband Bill owned and operated the camp. She loves coming here. In 1993, she sent her 2 sons for summer camp. They loved it and couldn’t wait to return. She wanted to be a part of it all. Diana was offered to be Head Counselor and spent her first summer at Circle F in 1994. She is entering her 15th summer and 9th as Director. She loves the campers, staff, and Circle F itself. She cannot imagine not being here.
Roger Hanafin – Assistant Director: This will be Roger’s second year as the Assistant Director at Circle F Dude Ranch. Born and raised in California, Roger grew up going to summer camp and has almost 16 years of camp experience as a Camper, Counselor in Training, Counselor, Head Counselor and now as the Assistant Director. Roger graduated Magna Cum Lade from UCLA before meeting his wife Emily. Roger and Emily traveled through Central America and lived in Colorado before settling permanently at the Circle F Dude Ranch where they live full time.
Steven Murray – Program Director: Murray has been part of the Circle F Family since 2000. A graduate of Arkansas State University, Murray has worked as our Head of General Sports, Waterfront, and Rock Wall. He served two years as our Head Counselor before becoming Program Director this summer. Aside from his experience at Circle F, Murray has worked at Saddlebrook Golf and Tennis Resort as a counselor for their S’Kids program. Recently, Murray has begun working during the off season in Wilderness Therapy at Outback Therapeutic Expeditions in Utah.
Briana Lynn Cavion – Girls Head Counselor: This will be Briana’s first year at Circle F Dude Ranch. Bri has worked with children for over 6 years in multiple capacities. Some highlights include: CIT/Counselor at camp Nawakwar camp for underprivileged children in Southern California, teacher/researcher for Spanish integration in Bolivia, Hugh O’Brien youth leadership participant and three year counselor, teacher for street children in Oaxaca, Mexico, Senior counselor for Outback Therapeutic Expeditions in Utah and instructor with Salt Lake City Title 1Pre-K program.
Blake Yost – Boys Head Counselor: Blake has been a part of the Circle F Family since 1992. This will be his ninth summer. He spent six summers as a camper and this is his third as a counselor/administrator. He was the head of waterfront and will be the Head Counselor for the boy’s line this year. Blake attended Valencia College in Orlando and graduated with his AA degree. Having spent time in real estate and then in Rochester, New York, Blake is ready for another fun filled summer at Circle F.
Michael Langieri – Head of Riding: Mike has been part of the Circle F Family since 1992. He was a camper for six summers and this will be his sixth summer as a counselor. He is from Gainesville, FL and is an Environmental Engineering major at the University of Florida. This will be Mike’s fourth summer as head of the horseback riding program, and he looks forward to providing a fun and educational experience for all.
Matt Berg – Head of Rock Wall: This will be Matt’s third year as part of the Circle F Family. Matt was born into a military family and has traveled extensively. Different environments and experiences have taught him how to handle new or difficult situations. He has also found that he loves to meet new people and see new places. Matt first experienced climbing at 14 and loves to climb as much as possible. He enjoys working with children because there’s always something new going on and things to learn.
Joe Fernandez – Head of Paintball: Joe has been part of the Circle F Family since 1999 as both a camper and a counselor. He graduated from the University of South Florida in 2007 with a bachelor’s in communications. Joe has also worked for the city of Tampa’s Park and Recreation department. Joe is a paintball enthusiast and loves all things outdoors.
Luis Navarro – Head of Waterfront: Luis has been part of the Circle F Family since 2001. This is his 3rd summer as a counselor and his first time as head of waterfront. Luis has lived in Miami up until this last year when he moved to Utah. Luis’s passion is the movies and will be moving to LA at the end of summer to pursue a career in Hollywood.
Getta Lombard – Video/Photography: Getta has been part of the Circle F Family since 1991. She attended Saint Leo University, graduated in 2003, and currently teaches middle school science and math. While at Circle F, Getta was a camper for 7 years, and then became a counselor. She has taught horseback riding for several years, been office manager and Women’s Head Counselor. This year she is taking on a new challenge with the video and camp photography.
We can't wait to see you!!!