Off to Camp

Last January 4 2017, my kids went to Word of Life Camp for their school’s annual retreat. My kids always enlist for this yearly event... a highlight in their school.. My eldest is now 12 years old and had been going to this camp since 6 years old... while for my bunso (youngest).. this is his second time to go there. They are both totally ecstatic to join this camp, thus preparation was done weeks in advance. I checked what bags they are supposed to bring, the clothes to wear, rubber shoes and black shoes to use for the chapel hour, extra snack food and water... I doubled checked the list provided by the school... change the batteries for their hand flashlights.. notebooks.. pens.. and their bible of course. Provided extra plastic bags and ziplock to keep important items dry. Aside from that, I tried to keep them healthy prior this event so that they will be fully prepared.

Coincidentally, I have to file for a leave from work the day before their departure for camp due to a very important reason.. a blessing in disguise because I was able to spend the day bonding with the kiddos..

Just the same, I was afraid that the kids will experience separation anxiety before camp but I guess it was the other way around. I will be spending the nights alone for two nights in a row...home alone... 

So how do you spell CAMP?

C-onnect.. First and foremost, connecting with them prior their camp is one vital thing for me... I brought them to school and  fetch them after class. We then had lunch some place new  for a memorable bonding time. Since my eldest is big on calligraphy these past few weeks.. I borrowed and utilize her art stuff and prepared colorful small notes that each of them will read while in camp. Each note is personalized for the intended time it is supposed to be read, whether before bedtime or prior breakfast.. a simple practical way to connect with the kids while away from home.

A-ffirm.. I affirmed my love for them by giving quality time prior their camp... something that will make them miss me.. hehehe! This includes gift of service wherein I personally prepared their stuff... prepared their favorite snacks and double checked all the items in their list. This includes words of affirmation too.

Motivate... I motivate them to be independent in their own way while gone from home.. I reminded them to be on a lookout and to take care of their selves.. their stuff and their friends' safety of course. I encourage them to be very responsible and tried to remember all my reminders for safety, at the same time enjoying their time in camp and learning as much as they can. This also includes being good stewards of their camp allowance with them..reporting their cash on hand once they get back home ;)

P-ray... I continually lift them up in prayers.. for God's provision for good health during their stay and their safety of course, not just for my kids but for all the campers and teachers that joined the retreat. I have full trust that the teachers will keep them safe... but still divine intervention from the Lord  is needed for a memorable and successful camp.

Hence, after having three days and two nights of deafening silence in the house, their  arrival from their retreat was a welcome respite ...The eldest came home with her pasalubong of Buco pie and special Espesol... the youngest one with his none stop chatters.. and lots of laundry.. and unexpected bruised knees .. but then,  I guess my kids, as the rest of the campers, had come home renewed... refreshed physically and spiritually... geared up for the year ahead.

(Special thanks to #Fairviewbaptistacademy teachers and staff for a memorable camp)