Posted by: Birch Rock Camp

At 12:31 PM EDT, the last camper rolled up the driveway, past the wall and out the front gate, officially bringing the 90th summer season at Birch Rock to a close. It was a good one; we laughed, we cried, we streaked our bodies with red and black paint and chased each other all over the field yelling “SHAMAN!” at the tops of our lungs. We did so much that a daily 300-500 word summary cannot even come close to adequately explaining everything that happens here. Yes, it’s amazing how much we manage to cram into seven weeks on this shady little hillside in western Maine.

Now it’s time for the campers to filter back out into the homes and schools and communities from whence they came and bring back some of that Birch Rock magic with them. You’ll know it when you see it — in the confidence of a firm handshake and a clear voice, in the respect shown for self and others, and in strange new behaviors like making beds without being told and asking politely for things to be passed at the dinner table. Brace yourselves.

But don’t worry, I’m sure you’ve heard all about camp on the ride home. On behalf of the entire staff, thanks for letting us have your boys this summer. We had a blast with them.

Just as soon as they arrived, it seems, the hillside is suddenly much quieter. Soon the leaves will fall, the snows will come, and the only sounds around here will be those of the wind whistling through the bare trees and empty cabins and Charlie plowing the road. But in our minds it’s always summer at Birch Rock, and will be again soon enough.

Be well, do good work, and stay in touch.

– Russell “Coach” Wilson

Today’s Superlatives

Best Bed: Head Counselor Bob

Best Cabin: Woodshop

Super Camper: Ollie

Tomorrow’s Action

Sleep; sleep; sleep.