The younger two are away at camp, a favourite place surrounded by Muskoka beauty and lifelong friends. Muskoka Woods holds many memories since the time my husband was a camper, then employee. and for me as well. I had the privilege of working in 1990 and that summer changed my direction in life, I met him there by the flagpole. We became friends and later began dating, engaged and married in 1996. Camp does not always mean you meet your spouse, but for so many I know that is exactly what happened!

Back to my younger two girls…

Camp has had an alumni program for many, many years. So we have been blessed to be able to come to camp and volunteer and stay on site. When the older ones were in camp, the younger were with me all day. I have such precious memories of how Sara (and Samantha) took such gentle, adoring care of her younger sister. Dressing her, applying sunscreen, reading books to her, playing with the few toys we managed to fit in and lots of crafts on rainy days. I have been reflecting on this gift a great deal lately. It was heightened lately when my oldest daughter took the time to write a note to S and K to read on their first day of camp. This sisterly love just exploded in front of me and my heart just burst with gratitude. Each one of my girls has drawn closer to one another in unique ways over the years. Each time I see it displayed in front of me I marvel and just thank God. Trust me, there are days it appears the love is, how shall I say it, somewhat suppressed?! But the love they have trumps the frustrations! Siblings fight, irritate and annoy one another! I have personal experience with my three sibs! Now, they are my dearest most loved friends. It’s true you learn to love, argue, cry, laugh and build character at home. This does not happen overnight and often takes years away from home for this to be cemented! Home can be a hard place to learn life lessons. My hope has always been that our home is a safe place to fall, fall hard but have many hands to pull them to safe and solid ground.

 

With only two at camp this year and the others doing different things, I am confident that a new layer of bonding will occur with the youngers sisters sharing in a week of camp life that they will be able to treasure, just for them. I am so thankful for this place and all it offers for youth. Thank you to all the staff working so diligently to make this a safe, fun and incredible place!

To my girls away this week, I am praying God’s richest blessing of friendship, joy and beautiful memories to behold. To my oldest daughter loving on her sisters through a note of encouragement, you set them up with a sisterly love that is unmatched! 

These sisters are united and a I am a grateful mom!

Song of blessing today!

Brandon Lake – Gratitude