Nearly a year ago today I filled my hummingbird feeders and prepared to send out a message that we would not be able to open camp for the summer of 2020. The beautiful spring weather served as a bit of a balm for my soul, but no longer forecasted the arrival of eager campers and staff members coming from across the world to laugh, learn and be in community together. The weeks and months that followed were punctuated with sadness for the opportunities that we would miss, and the challenges that the world was facing. This year, as I prepare sweet sugar water for the hummingbirds, I’m THRILLED to look forward not only to their arrival, but to the arrival of Eagle’s Nesters back on our campus on Hart Road. I think that this year’s opening day might be the most joyful one we’ve seen in many years.
Over the past year we have been attending webinars and meetings, reading guidance from the CDC, American Camp Association and other peer and health organizations, and reviewing and creating plans for a healthy summer at Eagle’s Nest. We feel confident and excited about bringing our community back together at camp this summer. We know that things will look a little different than past years, but we also know that “difference” and newness is fun and exciting! In some ways we think this summer could be one of our most magical (and we even have a staff member whose job description includes being in charge of “magic making”)! We also know that after a year of social distancing and absence or abbreviated periods of in-person school, children and staff are looking forward to coming together with a community of people in a meaningful way. So as we plan the measures that help keep our campers and staff safe, we are also considering the ways that we will continue to build and nurture a community that is inclusive, empathetic, joyful and FUN!
This morning I filmed a short video message for our Eagle’s Nest community. I hope you’ll take a minute to watch it. Thank you for the support that you have given to Eagle’s Nest this year. We are grateful for all of you!
By Paige Lester-Niles, Camp Director