I really pray for good weather for the opening days of camp sessions.  Kingswood must not have too many sinners as the past several days have been spectacular.  I had to remind boys at breakfast this morning to wear sun block, drink plenty of fluids and wash those hands at each meal.  “Do these three simple chores and you will not wear down,” I told them.

We talk as a staff about the importance of using good humor (among other things) as an ice breaker.  The following pix attest to the success of that strategy.  Parents should also know that we insisted on the campers listening closely and respectfully to a bunch of announcements regarding the simple rules of the road here at Kingswood.  Again, the word “simple” applies as the kids were told “Kingswood is a rocking camp but does not toss rocks,”  for example.   Common sense, eh?

The council fire gathering at 4:30 yesterday featured some hilarious bits.  I was more intent on capturing reactions in the grandstand than any of the grandstanding by the performers.  But, it was funny stuff and I could see the tension melting before my eyes.

Then, at dinner, I was delighted to learn that we had three birthdays to celebrate.  Nick, our ferocious (proper word) Birthday Tsar was once again on his A game.  A spelling bee, of sorts, was the feature.  Ben got words like “milk” and “park” while counselor Jack got “antidisestablishmentarianism.”  The best outcome possible occurred as counselor Xander stumbled on an easy one, while Jack was right on the money with the above challenge.  The boys howled with delight and that’s where we stand this bright sunny Monday morning for the first full day of the session.