Dear Mackenzie,
When I asked you if you wanted to go to camp last summer, you said no because you wanted to stay home with me. You and I then had a fun and relaxing few weeks together taking walks, reading, making crafts, baking and just hanging out. Your siblings love camp, though, and I wanted you to experience it, too, so I signed you up for camp this summer. When I told you, you cried because you didn't want to go. A few days before camp started last month, you told me you were nervous and scared. Fast forward to today, which is your last day of camp, and you are so sad that it's ending and already looking forward to returning next summer!
When you came home on the first day of camp, the first thing you chirped when you waked through the door was, "It was so fun!" You loved every minute of it and couldn't wait to tell me about swimming, cooking class (you made apple dumplings), arts and crafts, science and the friends you'd already made. You went to camp for four weeks and each day, you came home with the biggest smile on your face. You had a blast learning how to swim, making bracelets in arts and crafts, riding the go-karts, learning different styles of dance in drama and cooking things like monkey bread and latkes. You made friends with several girls in your group and really liked your counselors. By the end of the first week, you already asked if you could go back next summer!
Every Friday at camp, they celebrate counselors and campers who have exhibited generosity, empathy and kindness. On your first Friday, you were recognized for being a helpful camper. And then last Friday, your head counselor Leah actually called me to tell me how amazing you'd been at camp that day. There is an Adventure Park ropes course at camp (I've seen it and it's pretty high up!) and Leah said that you'd really stepped out of your comfort zone when you went on it. She said your feet were shaking on the bridges but you looked so determined and you completed the entire course! She said everyone was cheering you on and that they were all so proud of you! She also added that you are "an absolute joy to have in the group," that you are a "sweet, sweet girl" and that you are a "tough cookie." Daddy and I met Leah at Visiting Day yesterday and when we told her we are your parents, she said, "Mackenzie is amazing. Good job, Mom and Dad!" I am so proud of you, Kenziebear!
I am also proud of how much you learned in the pool these past few weeks! You started camp not knowing how to swim at all and when Daddy and I visited you yesterday, we watched in amazement as you effortlessly glided in the water and floated on your back. You looked to comfortable and confident in the water. You are a rock star!
I'm so happy that your first camp experience was such a positive one. I hope you have many more memorable camp summers!
Love,
Mom
