Florida Summer Camp - Session Two Update

Florida Summer Camp at Circle F Dude Ranch couldn’t be more exciting and more “Funtastic” than it has been this past week. Everyone seems to have more energy then ever. Blake at the waterfront along with Teresa and Hula and of course Molly and the rest of the crew are helping each camper enjoy every bit of the toys like the Wibit and the Sumit and jumping off the Blob. I get so thrilled watching Bubba show the boys in his cabin how to jump really high after they climb to the top of the Wibit. Kevin even did a special turn when he knew we were all watching over 4th of July weekend. Saturday we got to help the campers do extra activities in celebration of the weekend. We even had corn dogs for lunch with burgers and fries.



Sunday was lazy Sunday to start the counselors brought breakfast to the cabins so the kids who wanted could sleep in the it was an all out soccer game or volleyball or basketball you name the game and it was being played somewhere at camp on Special Sunday. Then Sunday afternoon was Carnival Day- cotton candy and lots of water slides. All the campers were having a blast!! I know I was tired by nightfall so I’m sure the youngsters were as well!


Then on Monday we had Special schedule because it was the fourth we even had a dance on the field with music streaming out of the Roundup everyone was dancing and having some good old-fashioned fun. Then Jarred and Mark light special fireworks just for us and we all gathered around to watch.


Logan and Sherry keep us busy at the barn since most of the kids ride regularly. The horses are always so friendly and Spirit and Kiki watch as we go put on rides all day long.


Monday Travis took cabin photos of everyone and yesterday he took all the campers pictures with a horse to be given to them as they head for home at the end of a session.


I’m sure you are getting the idea of how many activities go on throughout the day but we all look forward to siesta then cantina followed by more fun then most of the campers thought possible.


Every night Jarred has a different program planned and I know he posted it on Facebook for all the Moms and Dads to see. It’s amazing how many different events he can think up and the stuff he gets to make everything so special.


I spoke with Tom on Sunday and he promises for next week he will fill me in on his vantage point as head of boys and I promise to tell you everything he says.


Mia is having a great time as head of girls and she said to make sure and say hi to all of you.


This blog wouldn’t be complete with me telling you what Paul has been saying every time I see him. He has been loving how many campers come over to chat and tell him about their day-- getting to know everyone’s name and what they like doing and some special food they tried has made this year very special. He has been busy making sure there is room for every youngster who wants to come to camp. So tell Mom & Dad to hurry as there are only a few spots left


Checkout our Florida Summer Camp website call the office.


See ya Jessie!

Florida Summer Camp has gotten off to an amazing start!

Hi to all of you campers, Moms, Dads, Grandparents and friends. Summer camp at Circle F Dude Ranch has gotten off to an amazing start. First session is already over and many campers stayed for the next three weeks as they were having so much fun they didn’t want to leave. Everyday has been filled with activities that has challenged and excited each and every one of them and us. This year at the water front “The Wibit” is filled with campers climbing, jumping then swimming to the “Summit” of course the blob has an endless number of kids being tossed in the air and the fun never seems to end as Blake and Teresa watch over everyone. The new horses have fit in just fine and every camper enjoys riding on a regular schedule. Logan, Sarah and Natasha are experts, which makes learning to ride all the more special. But wait till you see baby horse Kiki he is loosing his baby hair and turning out much darker then any of us had expected.


Arts and Crafts is also a big hit this year Deven, Jessica and Ali have dreamed up so many new projects that some campers try and stay all day. But the waterfront always gets a visit at some point. Photography has turned out to be a big hit with Apple computers and Photoshop kids are being taken all around the camp to create amazing photos then learning to edit. This year everyone taking photo with Holly and Travis get to take home their own images on a CD so they have them forever as a memory of what they learned.


Holy is taking daily photos so checkout our Florida Summer Camp website for the link to the photo site and catch up on daily fun. She is even posting photography student work which is really great to see. Oh, and I can’t forget to tell you about the Circle F Dude Ranch summer camp videos this year Patrick Munoz and Chris Moon are doing an amazing job. We first met Patrick during spring break camp and he was the greatest with the little ones and he knows how to use a camcorder really well since that’s what he studies. So we are really happy he wanted to come back this summer. Chris Moon has a degree in communications so he is also great at mixing editing and adding music. I’m sure you all thought he was born to the rock wall! Saying all that the night of the banquet every camper watched the video and hooted and laughed and they watched themselves have a “fantastic” time during first session. Then the dancing began and the “disco ball “ light up the Roundup and the night was magic.

On Saturday the Rodeo was just great if I do say so myself! Of course since I help with the horses it is special to see how much each camper learned over the last two weeks. The bending pole competition or watching western riders jump is a perfect ending for a camper going home. But moms and dads come to visit the kids that are staying and watch them compete so everyone has an amazing time.

Last week I told all of you I would try and catch up with Paul and see what he had to say. Well as I followed him through part of his day he seems to be everywhere at once! First meeting and chatting up campers asking how they are enjoying the new and improved areas at the camp this year. Taking time to talk to as many of you as possible he told me has added to the pleasure he feels owning Circle F Dude Ranch. So if you see him make sure to say hi. Of course when checking in or out make sure mom and dad meets him as well as he especially told me how great it was meeting and helping parents this year. Then making the rounds to each activity speaking with counselors, checking equipment and overseeing to make sure things run smoothly. Even the night of the banquet and dance he told me what a great time he was having. Thank Paul for letting me follow you a bit!

Well guys and gals moms and dads and everyone else stay with me as we try to keep up with this “Funtactic” summer at Circle F Dude Ranch. Remember if you need more information check out the website www.circlefduderanchcamp.com or call the office


863) 676-4113 third session is almost filled so if you were making plans don’t wait to call.


Take care


Yee ya Jessie!

Our Florida Summer Camp Kicks Off!

We are going strong! Summer Camp registration went off without a hitch.  Parents and campers started arriving as early as 8 am even though it doesn’t start till 9:45. The line moved quickly as campers couldn’t wait to check in and get with the “funtastic “ time they knew was planned for everyone of them.

Sunday afternoon in the Lasso Lodge was filled with song, good food and a new drink machine which was only a few of the surprises. Energy was running high as campers and their counselors got acquainted and old friends told each other about their adventures since they were last together. Even Boo Who came out once he realized the kids were back. I saw some of the photographs taken by the kids in the new photography class and Boo Who tried being in most of them.

The weather really cooperated the sun was shinning all day but at night as all the campers were in the Round Up the thunder storm was loud and the rain which has been much needed came down in buckets! But it stopped just in time for everyone to head back to their cabins and ready for their first night at camp.

Monday morning was amazing first flag raising then Afton lead us in some very thought provoking words about how we were all going to enjoy ourselves at Circle F Dude Ranch.  Then it was on to activities. The new “Wibit” was filled with kids sliding climbing and jumping then swimming to the Summit and the Blob – the Banana boat was filled with kids laughing as they were pulled around the lake.

Tonight dinner was wonderful mashed potatoes chicken tenders and we are all loving the salad bar.

As you can see I have lots I will be telling you all about as the week goes by. I haven’t even told you about the horses or the new art counselors Deven is head of art and Jessica is one of her assistants Ali is back and everyone was so excited to see her. Lots of new projects and Deven even hung up the drawings that the campers did. Check out the photo of her and Jessica and Ali and Travis on Shutterfly at http://circlefduderanch.shutterfly.com

 it’s the easiest way to keep up on what’s happening. Jarred, Chris Moon and Travis will be talking photos every day and posting every night. I just know everyone will love seeing all the happenings each session.

So that’s  it for now girls and guys and please tell mom and dad to check out the blog and of course any questions just ask and I will do my best to help get answers.

Look forward to seeing all my old friends and can’t wait for all the new campers that are coming.

See ya Jessie.

Spring Into Summer Camp!

SPRING INTO FUN!
MARCH 13-18 & 20-25, 2011

After last year's success, Circle F Dude Ranch Camp will be hosting our 2nd annual Spring Break Camp. Come and enjoy a week at camp with all the fun & excitement of our time honored Summer Camp. This is a great opportunity for new campers to be introduced to Circe F Camp!

ONLY $425 Per Person

Including all meals & activities below:

 

•Summit Slide
•Rockwall-Zipline

•Horseback Riding
•General Sports
•Kayaks
•Canoes

•Banana Boat

•Evening Programs

•Paintball (additional fees apply)

•Skate Park (must bring own equipment)
•& more!

Call Now to Register

863-676-4113

Register Before February 20th, 2011 & Receive a 5% Discount

circlefduderanchcamp.com

Summer Camp Photos

Terrific Tuesday

How long? All day long! We hope so............... It's a beautiful morning here at Circle F Summer Camp. Hope everyone is doing well back home. Please check out our photos on the web and be sure to call us if you want your camper to stay for second session. We have limited spaces available.

American Camping Association Convention

Howdy Circle F Family,

Diana and I went to the American Camping Association National Convention again this year. The convention was held at Disney World so we did not have to go quite as far as last year. There were a ton of great classes on everything from new games, counseling skills, camper safety, creating communities, expanding the reach of camp, training staff, and making camp a year round philosophy. As you might imagine, we have a ton of great new ideas for the summer. Going to the convention always reminds us of the importance of camp in this new digital age.

It might seem that camp is just a fun place and that is the main ingredient. In truth, we design our programs to be both fun and to have a deeper impact on a persons life. At camp campers learn independence, creativity, self-confidence, decisions making, community living, and many other extremely valuable life lessons. Campers can explore themselves and try new things in an physically and emotionally safe environment. The best part is that we learn all of this while having an absolute blast. Diana and I truly believe in the power of camp to change lives and we see it happen every summer.

Our pregnant horse, Lightening, is showing signs that she is extremely close to giving birth. I am always checking in on her hoping to see her new baby. We will let you know as soon as she does and we will be sure to put up new pictures.

Also, as some of you may know, I have been raising chickens. My wife, Emily, and I have three hens (female chickens), two of which are laying eggs. The chickens are named Mary, Shirley and Flow (the three stooges). You will get a chance to meet the chickens this summer. I think the chickens love living at Circle F just as much as I do.

Fantastic Wishes,
Roger Hanafin
Assistant Director
Circle F Dude Ranch

New Website!!! New Brochure!!!

Howdy Circle F Family,

We have a new website and new brochure!!!

We know you are going to love the new features of our website. We are now able to host all of our pictures on our website. This means you will not have to sign in to see your pictures and you can download them for free. We have a new translator that translates the website into over 20 languages. There is an interactive map feature that shows you camp from space. You can even see what counselors are coming back under the "meet the directors" page. There is also expanded information on our Family and Women's Weekends. Of course you will see a ton of pictures. To visit the new website go to www.circle-f-duderanch.com. We hope you enjoy the new site and we would love to hear your feedback.

The new brochure went out on Monday. It is a whole new design and is earth friendly. Be sure to look and see if you are in the brochure. Because the brochure came out after the January 31st early registration date, we have extended the early registration discount to February 20th. If you have not registered for camp yet, be sure to do it before the 20th to take advantage of the discount.

Happy Valentines Day,
Diana and Roger

First Day of 3rd Session!!!

Howdy Circle F Family,

Today was check-in day for 3rd session. It was so great to finally meet the new camper families who we have been talking to all year. And, of course, we love to see all of our old friends. We have 159 campers for third session. This is a multi-cultural camp session. We have campers from Spain, Venezuela, Saudi Arabia, Italy, Columbia, Jordan, Poland, Guadalupe, Brazil, France, Chicago, Maryland, and the strangest place Las Vegas. It is such a great opportunity for our campers to form real relationships that cross boarders and cultures.

After check-in we had our swim test and then an all camp swim in our beautiful Sunset Lake. It looked like it was going to storm this afternoon, but we just had a few light rain drops that really cooled down the weather.

Meal times at Circle F are a blast. We start each meal with a song. At Circle F we eat family style, which means that all of the food is on the table. Different from buffet style, family style promotes talking, community and greater understanding. For dinner we had Fried Chicken, Broccoli, Salad, Rolls, Mashed Potatoes, and Pudding for dessert. We always have peanut butter and jelly for sandwiches and a fruit bowl at each meal for campers who prefer not to eat the main dishes. At the end of each meal we sing camp songs.

Some of the camp song names are: Tarzan, Ricky-Bam-Boo, Canoe Song, OM-OT, Bananas, Hole in the bucket, Old Austrian, Old Lady Leary, Little Red Wagon, Beaver Song, Skunk Song and a whole lot more. Songs are a big part of summer camp. It is very rare nowadays that people sing together. Camp is one of the few places where you can let loose and sing in a group without having to worry about whether people will laugh at you or think that you are not a good singer. Singing builds confidence and builds community.

This evening we have two evening programs. The first is our Photo Scavenger Hunt. This is a great activity because the cabins get to work together as a group (which builds unity) and at the same time they get a fun orientation to camp as they run to all of the different areas of camp. We will have some of the pictures from the event up on under photos this evening.

The second part of the evening program is the Counselor Skits. All of the counselors have prepared skits that introduce themselves and their activity areas. The skits are often hilarious and really help set the tone for camp.

The campers are now going to bed. The first night can be tough for some campers. Home sickness is often the name of separation anxiety. It is a natural feeling for campers to be sad when separated from their home life. At Circle F we do everything possible to help campers make an easy transition to camp life. As you can see, we have a lot of activities on our opening day. When campers are having fun and making friends, they do not have time to feel upset. The counselors use games and other fun ways to make sure that everyone in the cabin knows each others names on the first day. The counselors also look for campers who seem to be having a tougher time adjusting, and they will spend some extra time and attention to make sure that the camper is involved in the activities and friend making. In the end, the counselor is there to help the camper make the transition from home life to camp life. The camper will come out of "home sickness" a stronger, more independent person.

When I moved from being a counselor to administration, I thought that I would be dealing with a lot of home sick campers. The reality is that I work a lot more with home sick parents. For many of the parents who are reading this blog, this may be the first time that you have been separated from your camper for a significant amount of time. I have found that many parents prepare their campers for summer camp, but they spend very little time preparing themselves for summer camp. It is natural to feel anxious, empty or even scared when dropping your children off at summer camp. You want the best for your child and when your child is at camp you give up all control of your campers. You cannot protect them from bad decisions, or bad behavior. This is scary, but, it is a part of growing up as a parent. Allowing your children the space to be independent and to make their own decisions is probably one of the most humbling and frightening events you will go through. Have faith that your children are in an emotionally and physically safe place where we have counselors who will guide them and help them learn to make wise decisions. Camp is fun, but it is also one of the best ways for children (and parents) to learn independence.

I want to welcome all of the new readers to the blog. My name is Roger and I am the Assistant Director. I will try to blog everyday so that you have an idea about what is happening at camp. I will also try to get some campers and guest bloggers. If you have any questions or comments, please contact us and I will post the answers her.

Fantastic Wishes,
Roger and the gang

P.S. Thank you for sharing your children with us.

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

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.