Back from RYLA

Just finished our two week, back to back RYLA session.  What a great success!  We hosted over 200 campers, and they all left with something special. I have not been able to post since late May because of the preparation for camp interspersed with getting some non-negotiable tasks accomplished.  I am very glad to be through this year's camp, and feel a tremendous sense of accomplishment.

Camp 1 was the most difficult by far.  This is normal because we are starting from a box logistically, and all the little problems that occur (missing name tags, last minute campers changes, etc.) cause more difficulty than in week 2 since you have not dealt with them in a year.  One thing that goes smoother (sort of) is the supplies.  Since we purchase for two camps, you have plenty of stuff...if you can find it!  Week 2 goes smoother since you have had a week of practice, and the supplies are all pretty much organized from the beginning.  Only problem was that we were nearly out of several key items, and had to "recycle" a few things to make things work.

For me week 1 was very very difficult.  Along with the normal kinks, I was a counselor and could not separate myself from the director's role.  It drove me crazy.  Second week was much more relaxing with only having to worry about keeping things running smoothly for the counselors and program directors.

Kim and I spent most of Monday inventorying, organizing, and packing the RYLA supplies.  It was a pain, but needed doing while things were still fresh.  Now it is all sitting out in a corner of my barn, under the stairs, with a tarp over the top waiting for next year!

That's All!