I went to Girls Camp

So, I got to go to Girls Camp this year.

Of the four years I have been in young women's this is the second time I've gone to camp - the other two I had new babies. But this was the first time I've gone as a stake leader. Things are a little different at the stake level. I am very glad that I am not in charge of camp - that is really a lot of work, but it was fun to be able to help. I was put in charge of music and photography, and helped out with the 4th year hike and certification.

One thing I did in preparation for camp was learn how to play the harmonica. This was my Knowledge Personal Progress goal and I was very excited to get to contribute to the camp atmosphere by playing. It was interesting to learn the harmonica. I wanted Brian to teach me, because he is good at it, but he does everything by ear, and I had a hard time learning like that. So I looked at some books and learned how to read music and play that way. I still want to keep practicing so that I can play by ear soon, but it was really fun to play at all the flag ceremonies and camp firesides and DEAR times - Oh, and a whole lot of prelude (its amazing how long it takes the girls to be where they're supposed to be, and do what they're supposed to do).

The fourth year hike was fun. I bought a backpack at a yard sale this summer just for this moment. And I borrowed other necessary supplies from neighbors. We hiked up a little ways and set up camp for the night. We cooked our dinner on "buddy burners" (I've never heard of them, have you?) and had a fireside (where I was the main speaker - yah, that's scary). I had one of my better night sleeps there while camping and we woke up before the sun the next morning to hike to the top of the mountain. It got pretty steep, but I'm glad the hike wasn't too far. Its nice to know I did it, even when there were a few times I wanted to pull off the trail for a minute to catch my breath and rest, I just kept going. The devotional at the top of the mountain and view looking down were the best part. I'm glad I got to participate in this hike.

Overall, it was a wonderful week at Girls Camp. I'm so glad I got to go. It took a lot of preparation to get the family ready for me to be gone. I rounded up 6 different helpers for the week, prepared many lists and schedules, stocked the pantry, wrapped up surprises for the kids - and a special surprise for Brian since I would be away on our anniversary (I was really excited about all the goodies I left for him), made my secret sister present, got my church calling stuff taken care of, paid the bills, and packed. I missed my family while I was gone, but luckily I was kept pretty busy so I couldn't dwell on anything too much. Mostly though, I found myself missing my mom for most of the week. I guess there's something about Girls Camp that makes you feel closer to heaven. I really had a great experience, and can't wait to do it again next year!