Summer Camp

Lydia and Kiera waiting for Chapel
 

Sweet Lydia went to Summer Camp for the first time this year.   She has been talking about it for a long time, counting down days and planning.  Our church did a Dessert Auction and this sweet girl wanted to auction a plate of Chocolate Chip, Molasses and Sugar Cookies. 

The day finally came, one which my heart had been excited for but dreading, and we drove her to Lake Retreat.  We hauled her stuff up to the cabin and were greeted by most of her cabin mates and her Leaders, Karissa and Olivia.  She was excited beyond belief.  We got her settled in and finally I asked the question..."Do you want us to leave, now?"   She looked at me very sweetly, not wanting to hurt my feelings, and said "Yes."  I was sad, but so happy that in that moment there were no tears only joy, anticipation and excitement in her.  I knew this was the right time, right moment that she was ready to be on her own for a whole week.

Poor Elyanna cried and cried as we left her and on the drive home.  She said, "I am going to miss her, she is gone for a whole week, 5 days."  This little sweet heart caused me to cry too, but not enough for her to see.  Not that it was the first time I had cried.  Before we left for camp, we stopped by to see Daddy at work and as I gave Jaime a hug, cries just came out of both of us.  We both knew that this was going to be so good for her, but were going to miss her so much.

When we didn't get a call on the first night, I knew that everything was going to be alright.  She did amazingly well.  She loved Chapel, even sensing the presence of the Holy Spirit and activities which included swimming, campfire making, song writing and of course crafts.  She even enjoyed the food, amazing!!!

Finally the time came when we got to pick her up. We all were so excited to see her and hear all the stories.  We joined the kids at campfire and then met them at the basketball court.  As all the kids were coming to meet their parents, we saw sweet little Lydia's face.  Elyanna ran to her and gave her a huge hug.  Lydia came to us, hugged us and cried and cried.  It probably was the first time she cried all week.  All the emotions, tiredness and excitement flooded her little heart and overwhelmed her.  It was one of the greatest moments in my life, to hold that little girl in my arms again.

I am so thankful for Summer Camp.  For all the great experiences that Lydia had;  the fun, the independence and the coming to know God for herself.  And for all that it did in me; teaching me to trust and depend on Jesus more and more.   We are excited for next year!