 |
| Lined Up |
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| Exiting the Pit |
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| Good to go |
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| On Track |
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| Finished the race |
~Jeremy
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
Wednesday: Teen Week
~Jeremy
Monday, July 28, 2014
Monday: Teen Week
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| Basketball Camp |
MONDAY
Breakfast: French toast was our main course, we also had a selection of cereal, granola, fruit, and juice available.
Lunch: Vegetarian chicken nuggets, scalloped potatoes, green beans, jello, fruit, & salad bar.
Dinner: Tostadas with beans, vegetarian protein, lettuce, cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, chopped tomatoes, olives, salad bar, fruit, and more!
MY TOP THREE
#1: Late last night we completed our camp rotation schedule in order to ensure program variety for campers. We try to get every camper into as many activities as possible so they can try them out. It's not a perfect science and we try to minimize the amount of times that cabins have to repeat an activity. Here is a list of our activities:
Morning Classes
Basketball, Self Defense, Marksmanship, Drama & Theater, Teen Skateboarding, Team Water Sports, Junior Chef, Ropes Course, Soccer Camp, Small Engine Racing, & Crafting Art.
Afternoon Rotations
Archery, Arts & Crafts, Climbing Wall, Go-Carts, Field Games, Junior Chef, Mountain Biking, Nature, Skateboarding, Sports, & Swimming.
#2:Check out these photos from today!
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| Cake Decorating |
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| Small Engine Racing |
#3: Crafting Art met today for it's first class this week. We did another set of experimental pieces of art using Starburst candy. Tomorrow we'll be working with more traditional mediums, but the candy art was lots of fun!
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| Flamingo, Rubber Duck, & Butterfly |
We always have parents calling to come visit on Saturday, and we are able to accommodate most requests. Please remember to call us in advance to let us know you're coming to visit. Thank you!
STAFF & CAMP
It's out final week of camp and our staff are still on track to finish the summer strong. We are praying that they can keep up the good work!
TOMORROW
We'll be sending out our second 'Day Away' Trip to Wet 'N Wild in Palm Springs...
Our guest instructor for the basketball class is going to put the campers to the test...
We'll be finishing up our second night of the outpost (for the final time!)...
Wishing all of our parents, grandparents, and camp family a good night!
~Jeremy
Saturday, July 26, 2014
Thursday & Friday Photos: Tween Week
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| Hanger 18 in East Riverside is a great place to climb and belay for our campers. |
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| Taking a break. |
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| Bouldering @ Hanger 18. |
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| Smile for the camera! |
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| Reaching the top. |
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| Group photo: Ropes Course @ Hanger 18. |
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| The campers who are standing at their seats decided to recommit themselves to Christ. The campers who are standing on the stage made the decision to study for baptism or accept Christ into their lives for the very first time. |
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| Praying with those who made special decisions at camp. |
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
Wednesday: Tween Week
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| Wednesday's 'Day Away' Trip to an indoor go cart track! |
Breakfast: Waffles, with assorted fruits toppings, syrups, canned fruit, fresh fruit, and juice.
Lunch: Hot Dogs, macaroni salad, vegetables, and a full salad bar.
Dinner: Chilli cheese fries (with optional cheese, onions, sour cream, etc...), ice cream cones, jello, fruit, and salad bar.
MY TOP THREE
#1: The 'day away' trip today was such a blast. The campers had the opportunity to do two races (24 laps each) the second one was timed (so technically we had a winner), but everyone was just happy to be on the course. Keep scrolling for more photos!
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| 2014 Small Engine Racing Activity @ PSR Camp |
#3: Marksmanship is going well on our new course. As many of you know our former course was destroyed by the Mountain Fire in 2013, but our new course is pretty impressive and has lots of places to hide and shield yourself. Our campers are already getting better at finding their counselors.
PARENTS & CAMP
If you're planning on coming up on Saturday, please let us know soon. If you are trying to contact your camper, they may be involved in activities so we'll make sure you have the opportunity to talk to them at the earliest possible time. We still discourage calls home, but we also understand that things can happen where you need to communicate with your child.
STAFF & CAMP
The staff have been asking about the outpost program, and I think that once camp has ended I will write a few short stories that provide more information about the characters in the play. This might also be interesting to our campers and maybe even our camp family, so please look forward to that in the future.
TOMORROW
More ultimate cabin points are up for grabs...
Campers will get a nice treat at Town Hall...
We'll be getting ready for more big events, special family group times, and so much more!
Wishing all of our parents, grandparents, and camp family a good night!
~Jeremy
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
Tuesday: Tween Week
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| @ Wet N' Wild in Palm Springs! |
Breakfast: Breakfast potatoes, cheesy eggs, peaches, bananas, apple sauce, toast, selection of cereal, and juice.
Lunch: Enchiladas, Spanish rice, corn, churros, salad bar.
Dinner: Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, tomato soup, jello, salad bar, and assorted fruits.
MY TOP THREE
#1:I know everyone is probably tired about my consistent pattern of blogging about the Crafting Art Class but today they did this:
We handed out tiles of this poster to all of our campers, and then had them (1) duplicate, (2) or color shift the image, (3) and they weren't allowed to trace. Then we placed all of the tiles together on grid paper to assemble the final image. Considering that they didn't know what the final image would be, I think they did very well.
#2: We had our Tuesday 'Day Away' trip to Wet N' Wild in Palm Springs. While we only had two participants, it was still an exciting experience and everyone got back to camp safe and sound. Tomorrow we'll have twelve campers and six staff members going to an indoor cart racing track. The photos will be posted tomorrow night!
#3: We have so many campers away at Lake Silverwood that we took them another boat this morning. With two boats they'll get more time out on the water and spend more time learning to tube, wakeboard, and maybe even kneeboard. We already have some talented campers who clearly have some skills, and we're looking forward to going back out on the lake for another day of fun tomorrow.
PARENTS & CAMP
We love your feedback. Thank you for all of your emails of encouragement. Today our blog reached over 10,000 VISITS from our camp family. We hope you enjoy reading how things are going at camp and we will keep posting information to keep you informed. If you like the blog let us know, we're already planning to make a few improvement next summer.
STAFF & CAMP
Our camp counselors are amazing. Our staff awards are coming up soon and we started discussions today about which employees have been impressive and deserve some special recognition for going above and beyond the call of duty. It was quite a discussion, with all of the supervisors considering so many different staff. It's always a good thing when we have many different staff to consider.
TOMORROW
Navajo, Nez Perce, and Mohawk are in the pool during our afternoon rotations...
Hopi and Arapaho will be doing arts & crafts...
& Iroquois and Mojave are going to be at the PSR Camp skate park...
Wishing all of our parents, grandparents, and camp family a good night!
~Jeremy
Monday: Tween Week
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| 'Day Away' Trip to the Aquarium! |
MONDAY
Breakfast: Biscuits & Gravy was our main course, we also had a selection of cereal, granola, fruit, and juice available.
Lunch: Vegetarian chicken nuggets, mashed potatoes and gravy, vegetables, jello, fruit, & salad bar.
Dinner: Macho Taco Monday, with beans, vegetarian protein, lettuce, cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, chopped tomatoes, olives, salad bar, fruit, and more.
MY TOP THREE
#1: Late last night we completed our camp rotation schedule in order to ensure program variety for campers. We try to get every camper into as many activities as possible so they can try them out. It's not a perfect science and we try to minimize the amount of times that cabins have to repeat an activity. Here is a list of our activities:
Morning Classes
Basketball, Self Defense, Marksmanship, Discoveries in Nature, Drama, Short Film, Teen Skateboarding, Team Water Sports, Junior Chef, Ropes Course, Soccer Camp, Mountain Biking, Small Engine Racing, & Crafting Art.
Afternoon Rotations
Archery, Arts & Crafts, Climbing Wall, Drama Games, Go-Carts, Field Games, Junior Chef, Mountain Biking, Nature, Skateboarding, Sports, & Swimming.
#2: Check out the photos from our 'Day Away' Trip!
#3: Crafting Art met today for it's first class. We did experimental pieces of art using Starburst candy. Tomorrow we'll be working with more traditional mediums, but the candy art was lots of fun!
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| Crafting Art Experimental Project |
PARENTS & CAMP
We always have parents calling to come visit on Saturday, and we are able to accommodate most requests. Please remember to call us in advance to let us know you're coming to visit. Thank you!
STAFF & CAMP
The departments of the day were Nature. Basketball, Soccer, and Crafting Art. They were the most engaging, fun, and interesting activities for our campers who are looking to learn or improve existing skills.
We were also very glad to see some of our staff coming back from important family events the often occur during the summers. We're glad you made it back to camp safely.
TOMORROW
We'll be sending out our second 'Day Away' Trip to Wet 'N Wild in Palm Springs...
Our guest instructor for the basketball class is going to put the campers to the test...
The marksmanship range will be open for our campers for the first time this summer...
Wishing all of our parents, grandparents, and camp family a good night!
~Jeremy
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| Jellyfish Time |
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| Touch Tank |
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| Birds! |
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| Ocean Cruise: Sea Lion Sighting |
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| Discoveries in Nature Class 2014 |
Saturday, July 19, 2014
Friday: Junior Week #2
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| Soccer @ Super Big Event! |
FRIDAY
Breakfast: French toast, veggie sausage, toast, melon, fresh strawberries, yogurt, various toppings, selection of cereal, and juice.
Lunch: Vegetarian chicken nuggets, scallop potatoes, vegetables, jello, salad bar, and ice cream sandwiches.
Dinner: Taco salad, toppings, fruit, chip selection, & salad bar.
MY TOP THREE
#1: We had all the campers choose their Friday morning activities again! We started doing this special for this year, so that our campers could choose activities they hadn't tried yet or do the classes they loved over again. We are so happy to be able to offer this option to all our guests. The most popular activities for the past two weeks have been skateboarding and drama.
#2: Today was super big event! We had cabins in the following locations:
A. Pool;
B. Soccer (football);
C. Laser tag;
D. Kickball;
E. & Waterslide!
I spent a lot of time setting up the water slide, but then only one cabin chose it as an activity area. Everyone wanted to go to the pool or do laser tag. The campers played until it was 5 pm and then it was time to get cleaned up for dinner.
#3: Pageant really is something I look forward too. there were so many tears, decision to follow Christ, and decisions for baptism this week. They staff had the opportunity to offer prayers for the campers and sing while the met with their counselors and reflected on the program. We can't wait to do it again next week for our tween campers.
PARENTS & CAMP
Parent survey time is coming up soon (next week!). If you're interested in communicating what you'd like to see us do in the future, what you think we're doing well right now, and the traditions you want us to preserve you'll be able to tell us all about it. Some people think that the parent survey doesn't change things here at camp but here are some examples of the things we've done because parent overwhelmingly requested them:
A: Price stabilization. Parents have asked us not to raise the price of camp and we haven't made an increase in the cost of base camp in two seasons.
B: Provide more opportunities for campers to practice and develop skills. We created tiered classes and a curriculum in order to see if our campers are advancing in knowledge and practical applications of the things they do.
C: Make programs a big priority. Parents often get to hear all about or plays, skits, and activities (that happen outside of morning classes) and the feedback has been to maintain and advance our programs to communicate Christian values, advanced decision-making, and behavior modeling. We do this in a way that is consistent with our camp traditions and is therefore something that returning campers get to look forward to year after year.
STAFF & CAMP
We love our staff. Today we went around at room check (again!) and delivered a special treat to the staff. Our village coordinators also had a snack time for the counselor & counselor assistants in the cafeteria (girls) and art building (boys). Sabbath really is the best day and starting it off with a 'thank you' to our staff helps us to remember that.
TOMORROW
Sabbath breakfast baskets...
Pastor Josie is going to deliver his final message to our campers...
Campers will have the opportunity to walk on the straight and narrow path, or listen to the tempters as they try to distract them...
Wishing all of our parents, grandparents, and camp family a good night!
~Jeremy
Thursday, July 17, 2014
Thursday: Junior Week #2
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| Happy Wakeboarders |
Breakfast: Egg omelettes, crisscut fries or potatoes, fruit, toast, cereal selection, and juice.
Lunch: Spaghetti with red sauce or white sauce, vegetables, bread sticks, and salad bar.
Dinner: Vegetarian hot dogs, beans, assorted condiments, watermelon, and salad bar.
DAY OFF REPORT
It was a nice, cool day at the Ranch and it sent everyone scrambling for a jacket after the sun went down. Right now, I am listening to campers walk past my window (after having been to the store and therefore burdened with trinkets and snack food) as they are looking up at the sky and gazing at the stars.
Here, on a moonless night, you can see a lot of things up in the sky. You can see the Milky Way, which looks like a cloud in the sky but is actually stars in our galaxy that are so close together they form an almost billowing appearance in the heavens. Also with the naked eye most of our guests will be able to see light reflecting off of satellites in low-Earth orbits. The trick is to stare at a single point in the sky, when something that's moving enters your field of vision (and its not a plane) it's probably something man-made orbiting the Earth at high speeds. Finally, you'll also probably see a few shooting stars burning up above during high velocity entry into the Earth's atmosphere. They often burn in different colors, intensities, and some extend for several dozen miles. Each one is a wonder to behold.
I am glad we are able to host your camper up here in the mountains, away from the lights of the city and the pollution that comes along with the progress we achieve as humans. However, nights like these remind me that we were always meant to be among the stars, with our creator. I hope that we can teach our children and their children to stop, come away into creation, & marvel at the universe and it's Master Designer.
Wishing all of our parents, grandparents, and camp family a good night!
~Jeremy
Wednesday: Junior Week #2
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| Wednesday night 'Campfire' @ PSR Camp |
Breakfast: Pancakes, with assorted fruits toppings, syrups, canned fruit, fresh fruit, and juice.
Lunch:Vegetarian Chicken Parmesan, plus macaroni salad, vegetables, and a full salad bar.
Dinner: Pizza night (as per camp tradition, we had a lot of campers in line for second helpings of everyone's favorite meal).
MY TOP THREE
#1: Today I saw the boys from Navajo lining up for the camp store and they bought quite a few items. What makes this my number one favorite thing of the day is that they were sharing their store account money with other boys who didn't have any money. The boys were happy to share! They never said 'You can only get this or that,' or 'I'll buy you something cheap,' they said 'go ahead, get something you want.' It was really awesome.
#2: For big event we played capture the flag. Almost all of the campers played with the staff (and then against the staff) during our most popular event of the week. Campers sometimes forget to go to the jails, but then again sometimes our staff do too. We were just really proud that everyone played with dignity and aplomb.
#3: Cabin Mohawk lowered the flag today and it was my favorite presentation of the summer. Counselor Michael and the campers really did a great job representing how camp is fun, spiritual, and inspiring.
PARENTS & CAMP
If you're planning on coming up on Saturday, please let us know soon. If you are trying to contact your camper, they may be involved in activities so we'll make sure you have the opportunity to talk to them at the earliest possible time. We still discourage calls home, but we also understand that things can happen where you need to communicate with your child.
STAFF & CAMP
Things are always at the PSR Archery Range. They keep their area clean, organize a fun activity for campers, and don't mind digging through bushes for lost arrows. Today I saw cabin Hopi practicing their skills during the morning rotations. Our ropes course program was equally impressive with their morning class. All of the campers were wearing helmets, and climbing up the climbing wall to showcase their abilities. That's why our ropes course is a wait list only activity for the rest of the summer!
TOMORROW
More ultimate cabin points are up for grabs...
Campers will get a nice treat at Town Hall...
We'll be getting ready for more big events, special family group times, and so much more!
Wishing all of our parents, grandparents, and camp family a good night!
~Jeremy
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| We hope you enjoyed the show! |
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
Tuesday: Junior Camp #2
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| Drill! |
Breakfast: Waffles fries, eggs, peaches, bananas, apple sauce, toast, selection of cereal, and juice.
Lunch: Enchiladas, Spanish rice, corn, churros, salad bar.
Dinner: Baked potatoes, broccoli, liquid cheese, beans, jello, salad bar, and assorted fruits.
MY TOP THREE
#1: I went to visit cabins Hopi, Shoshone, and Dakota in the pool this afternoon. They had a bit of trouble listening to the rules because they were so excited to get into the pool. It took a little longer but eventually they were able to get swim tested and then start leaping off the diving board.
#2: It was the one year anniversary of the Mountain Fire, and we had a short commemoration during our camp council. The staff from 2013 had a moment to reflect and all of our new staff had the opportunity to see what happened. This week we have about two dozen campers who were here in 2013 and it was an opportunity for them to also share with their new friends about all the pizza we ate together at the Hemet SDA Church.
#3: Pastor Josie talked about deception after our outpost program tonight. She told the campers about the story of Jacob and Esau and how God was able to overcome all of the lies to use Jacob according to His purpose. Every week the camp pastor brings out a different theme in the outpost play and our staff are really benefiting from each new perspective. I know the campers are listening and enjoying hearing her short talks each night (one more to come tomorrow night!).
PARENTS & CAMP
I had a parent ask me about the pictures on Ultracamp, and why they're not being posted every day. My goal is to get photos up every day, but our internet connection is a bit slow and office/administration duties take priority during the day time. At night we try to do uploads, but our staff are often getting ready for the next day at the same time. We will try our best to continue posting for and parents, grandparents, guardians, and friends of camp. Please bear with us as we do our best, thanks!
STAFF & CAMP
The staff are working hard getting ready for health department inspection tomorrow. We don't just want to impress the people who conduct this annual event, we want to do our best for all of our campers, staff, and guests.
TOMORROW
Cabins Cheyenne and Arapaho are learning archery...
Arapaho and Dakota will be at go carts...
Everyone is going to be having a lot of fun...
Wishing all of our parents, grandparents, and camp family a good night!
~Jeremy
Monday, July 14, 2014
Monday: Junior Camp #2
Breakfast: Biscuits & Gravy was our main course, we also had a selection of cereal, granola, fruit, and juice available.
Lunch: Macaroni & Cheese, bread, vegetables, & salad bar.
Dinner: Macho Taco Monday, with beans, vegetarian protein, lettuce, cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, chopped tomatoes, olives, salad bar, fruit, and more.
MY TOP THREE
#1: Late last night we completed our camp rotation schedule in order to ensure program variety for campers. We try to get every camper into as many activities as possible so they can try them out. It's not a perfect science and we try to minimize the amount of times that cabins have to repeat an activity. Here is a list of our activities:
Morning Classes
Basketball, Gymnastics, Junior Chef, Photography, Ropes Course, Soccer Camp, Trail Biking.
Morning Rotations
Archery, Arts & Crafts, Drama Games, Go-Carts, Nature, Skateboarding, & Swimming,
Afternoon Rotations
Archery, Arts & Crafts, Climbing Wall, Drama Games, Go-Carts, Field Games, Junior Chef,
Nature, Skateboarding, Sports, & Swimming (we removed hiking from the schedule this week due to concerns about the weather).
#2: Today we had some dry winds, clouds, and we saw some rain falling on Garner Valley to the south of us. Rain can be an inconvenience to our schedule, but with the drought in full-swing we wouldn't mind moving everyone in doors for a nice light drizzle.
#3: Ultimate cabin is in full swing. Today's big event was double dodge ball (you have to dodge the ball, but you also have to make sure your team's base isn't knocked over). I don't have the list of who did well yet, but if I can get that information I will post it tomorrow.
PARENTS & CAMP
We always have parents calling to come visit on Saturday, and we are able to accommodate most requests. Please remember to call us in advance to let us know you're coming to visit. Thank you!
STAFF & CAMP
The department of the day was basketball. Even though the class is small I still saw the campers playing their hearts out with several of the staff this morning. I also stopped by skateboarding in the morning and Hopi & Nez Perce were there practicing skateboarding skills. After putting on pads and helmets we let them loose on the course. They were there for over an hour playing on our brand new equipment.
TOMORROW
We'll be commemorating the one-year anniversary of the Mountain Fire...
We'll be watching the second night of our outpost play at the tepees...
We'll be doing another Ultimate Cabin challenge withe the campers...
Wishing all of our parents, grandparents, and camp family a good night!
~Jeremy
Sunday, July 13, 2014
Saturday: Junior Week #1
Breakfast: Breakfast baskets (continental breakfast).
Lunch: Special Sabbath Lunch (list of menu options was extensive).
Dinner: Sandwich bar (build your own sandwich from over a dozen different options), chips, & salad.
OUR TOP THREE
#1: We had a baptism today! With her parents, the campers, and the staff looking on a camper made the public decision to follow Christ as we all watched. This is not the first baptism of the summer, and it won't be the last. If you'd like to arrange for your camper to be baptized at camp please contact the camp office for more information. We'd love to host your family and friends for this very special event.
#2: I was even happier with our Sabbath programs today than last week. We've really hit our stride on our programs, and I got a lot of compliments from parents (who were visiting). We had a great church service, and we had a counselor/camper team do special music (they also happened to be a brother/sister team).
#3: Saturday Night @ at the Ranch started a little late but the campers aren't ready to leave yet! We had a bunch register for next week in the past couple of days and we're actually almost full. We never turn away walk-ins, but camp is going to be approaching capacity for Junior Camp #2 & Tween Week (we do still have space in our Teen Week session).
PARENTS & CAMP
We're glad you trusted your children with us this week. We really do our best to make sure things run smoothly at PSR Camp. I was able to meet even more parents today who were so excited to see the changes that happen in their children when they come to camp and experiment with decision-making and a bit more independence under the watchful eyes of one of our counselors.
If you were a first time parent, we really can't wait for you to hear all about the things that happened at camp this week from your camper tomorrow.
THE STAFF
The staff aren't as tired as last week, but they are looking forward to a break tomorrow between our Junior I & Junior II sessions. A little bit of rest and relaxation and they'll be ready for the next round of campers tomorrow at 4:00 pm. We had the Sabbath trolley visit all of the staff lodge rooms and pass out snacks, next week we'll see if we can do some more nice things for them.
TOMORROW
To our new friends...
We'll say goodbye...
But only until next summer...
Wishing all of our parents, grandparents, and camp family a good night!
~Jeremy
Saturday, July 12, 2014
Friday: Junior Week #1
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| Line Call |
Breakfast: French toast, veggie sausage, toast, melon, fresh strawberries, yogurt, various toppings, selection of cereal, and juice.
Lunch: Baked potatoes, broccoli, beans, jello, salad bar, watermelon, and apple crisp.
Dinner: Grilled cheese sandwiches, tomato soup, fruit, chip selection, & salad bar.
MY TOP THREE
#1: At the top of my list was when we decided to let camper sign-up individually for their own AM rotations (specifically campers who weren't assigned to a specific class already). It was a little crazy but we're glad that the campers got to try something new, or choose to do something over again. We had a few stay in drama for both rotations! (Those drama staff are really awesome and make the class fun).
#2: Today was super big event! We had cabins in the following locations:
A. Pool;
B. Soccer (football);
C. Laser tag;
D. Kickball.
We're still hoping to open up the camp waterslide as a rotation in the future! I spent a lot of time chasing down campers who had left things behind. I reunited one camper with his hat, another with his waterbottle, and another with his jacket. One of the boys left his wet clothing at the pool, (please note: most of the things left behind belong to guests in the North Village) and we'll be trying to reunite him with his stuff soon.
#3: We also had Pageant tonight. These campers (ages 10-12) are a bit older and have a lot more questions and things they want to talk about with their counselors. I was surprised when almost every camper went down when the Pastor did the alter call. At first, I thought no one was going to stand and walk down to the stage, but in a sudden flurry of activity they made their way down to join him. Pastor Larry gave his own personal testimony about working at PSR Camp (in the past) and how that experience made him into the believer he is today. Larry went from camper, to staff, and then to an employee of one of our Adventist Colleges. We were so glad to host him this week, he's been a real inspiration to our staff, campers, and guests.
PARENTS & CAMP
Parent survey time is coming up soon. If you're interested in communicating what you'd like to see us do in the future, what you think we're doing well right now, and the traditions you want us to preserve you'll be able to tell us all about it. Some people think that the parent survey doesn't change things here at camp but here are some examples of the things we've done because parent overwhelmingly requested them:
A: Price stabilization. Parents have asked us not to raise the price of camp and we haven't made an increase in the cost of base camp in two seasons.
B: Provide more opportunities for campers to practice and develop skills. We created tiered classes and a curriculum in order to see if our campers are advancing in knowledge and practical applications of the things they do.
C: Make programs a big priority. Parents often get to hear all about or plays, skits, and activities (that happen outside of morning classes) and the feedback has been to maintain and advance our programs to communicate Christian values, advanced decision-making, and behavior modeling. We do this in a way that is consistent with our camp traditions and is therefore something that returning campers get to look forward to year after year.
STAFF & CAMP
We love our staff. Today we went around at room check and delivered special snacks to the staff. Our village coordinators also had a snack time for the counselor & counselor assistants in the cafeteria (girls) and art building (boys). Sabbath really is the best day and starting it off with a 'thank you' to our staff helps us to remember that.
TOMORROW
Sabbath breakfast baskets...
Pastor Larry is going to deliver his final message to our campers...
Campers will have the opportunity to walk on the straight and narrow path, or listen to the tempters as they try to distract them...
Wishing all of our parents, grandparents, and camp family a good night!
~Jeremy
Friday, July 11, 2014
Thursday: Junior Week #1
 |
| Nachos, Ice Cream, & Popcorn |
Breakfast: Egg omelettes, crisscut fries, fruit, toast, cereal selection, and juice.
Lunch: Macaroni & cheese, rice, peas, salad bar, and brownies for dessert.
Dinner: Vegetarian hot dogs, beans, watermelon, and salad bar.
DAY OFF REPORT
I left this morning on my day off, but not before ensuring that campers made it to their morning activities. When I got back to camp this evening I watched the camper do laser tag, eat the items in the photo caption, and play basketball.
Tonight I also went to cabin Mojave and told a bedtime story (don't worry, it wasn't scary) but otherwise the leadership team and the staff report it was a relaxed and nice Thursday afternoon. I am really looking forward to seeing the wakeboarding campers arrive back at PSR tomorrow afternoon, (I want to see if they used enough sunscreen) and then engage everyone in our camp pageant program.
Tomorrow the cabin rotation groups will have an opportunity to sign up for activities in the morning, we are trying this out this summer so campers have more opportunities to practice decision-making skills. I have seen campers negotiating with each other regarding the AM Friday rotations, with some success (and a bit of frustration). I think they'll be able to work it out tomorrow during breakfast.
Wishing all of our parents, grandparents, and camp family a good night!
~Jeremy
Wednesday, July 9, 2014
Wednesday: Junior Week #1
Breakfast: Eggs, tater tots, toast, veggie patties, canned fruit, selection of cereal, and juice.
Lunch: Full pasta bar with tortellini, spaghetti, red & white sauce, salad bar, bread sticks, and ice cream bars.
Dinner: Pizza! need I say more?
MY TOP THREE
#1: I almost went swimming with cabins Mohawk, Mojave, and Blackfoot today. They were really having a great time and I didn't want to interrupt them by making my own splash in the pool.
#2: The girls were up at the archery range today! Cabins Cheyenne and Arapaho were all shooting for the bullseye and acquitted themselves well. I hope that someday these campers will decide to work at camp and pass on the things their learning to the next generation of campers.
#3: It was Iroquois vs. Comanche (aka boys vs, girls) today at field games. I watched them all play for a bit, and both teams were pretty into the game. I didn't stick around to see who won, but I did see both groups really playing their hearts out!
PARENTS & CAMP
So far I haven't received a lot of personal requests to check on specific campers/or cabins. I do closely monitor the nurse's station (I saw a camper pull out his own loose baby tooth today without any hesitation or even a flinch), reports of bullying/teasing, unsporting behavior, etc... but so far the campers are very well behaved and generally a pleasure to be around. As the week continues this may change, but I am happy to report that things really are running well.
Tomorrow I will be going on my day-off, but I will still try to post some information to help lessen any anxieties.
STAFF & CAMP
Today Hazel and Indiana arrived at camp! Hazel is a rabbit (i.e. Watership Down) and Indiana is a corn snake (Indiana is named after a character from a famous four part tetralogy). Indiana is only a few weeks old, but he's very calm and nice. Hazel isn't particularly brave like his namesake but we're still hoping that they'll both bring joy to our campers. Hazel and Indiana are joining Miss Velvet (a fancy mouse) and our camp turtle (who also now has a name that escapes me).
TOMORROW
The camper will be part of our secret Thursday Night relay program...
Laser tag anyone?...
Cabin Seminole decided to stay in the camp tepees tonight, we'll let you know how it goes tomorrow...
Wishing all of our parents, grandparents, and camp family a good night!
~Jeremy
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
Tuesday: Junior Week #1
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| Big Event under the clear blue sky |
Breakfast:Breakfast waffles, eggs, grapefruit, toast, selection of cereal, and juice
Lunch: Vegetarian Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, vegetables, chocolate pie, & salad bar.
Dinner: TACO TUESDAY! We had a full taco bar with all of the vegetables, cheese, etc... associated with such an event.
MY TOP THREE
#1: The photo above is of our Big Event relay. Cabins competed for ultimate cabin points utilizing teamwork, positive attitudes, and sportsmanship. The kids loved it and had a great time.
#2:Pastor Larry Graack delivered a wonderful worship thought today, his message revolved around the idea that we shouldn't expect people to serve us, we should serve other with no expectation of receiving anything in return. Then, later on in the evening, he talked about the choice we have between doing the right thing or following along with other people's gossip, negativity, and even evil plans. It was the perfect thought to end the day and cause me to reflect on my own camp experience.
#3: What can I say about the weather except that it was fairly nice for the entire day. It was a bit hot last week but we've been graced with cooler temperatures so far. The breeze kicks in during the afternoons and by the time the sun goes down we all need jackets.
PARENTS & CAMP
Campers love mail! Every camper will receive mail at summer camp this week thanks to our counselors who take the time to write special letters.
STAFF & CAMP
Arts & Crafts just received a new shipment of paracord and plastic craft lace spools to make camp friendship bracelets and lanyards today. Our awesome staff in this department are working their fingers non-stop to teach campers how to make these intricate creations.
TOMORROW
The campers will see the final night of our outpost programs...
We're all hoping for delicious breakfast burritos in the morning...
The girls in Delaware will make chocolate chip cookies, and the boys from Hopi and Shoshone will be at our Go-Cart track.
Wishing all of our parents, grandparents, and camp family a good night!
~Jeremy
Monday, July 7, 2014
Monday: Junior Week #1
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| Outpost night one @ the fort |
Breakfast: Biscuits & Gravy was our main course, we also had a selection of cereal, granola, fruit, and juice available.
Lunch: We had the full enchilada plus rice, beans, churros, & salad bar.
Dinner: We had some awesome bean dip, with broccoli, and salad bar.
MY TOP THREE
#1: Late last night we completed our camp rotation schedule in order to ensure program variety for campers. We try to get every camper into as many activities as possible so they can try them out. It's not a perfect science, but this week our cabins rotating in the afternoons won't be assigned to an activity area more than once. Here is a list of our activities:
Morning Classes
Basketball, Gymnastics, Junior Chef, Photography, Ropes Course, Soccer Camp, Trail Biking.
Morning Rotations
Archery, Arts & Crafts, Drama Games, Go-Carts, Nature, Skateboarding, & Swimming,
Afternoon Rotations
Archery, Arts & Crafts, Climbing Wall, Drama Games, Go-Carts, Field Games, Junior Chef,
Nature, Skateboarding, Sports, Swimming, @ Hiking.
#2: This morning we sent off our first trip campers of the season to the lake for their wakeboarding lessons. We had campers of all different skill levels just waiting to get out on the water. They called me as soon as they arrived, and everyone made it to the campsite safely.
#3: Today I watched cabins Seminole & Shoshone play some field games during PM rotations. They were very competitive, but I also saw them working together and (for the most part) being good sports when it came time to tally up the score.
PARENTS & CAMP
No special requests yet. We have a few campers who need lots of sunscreen and we're doing our best to keep up. Nurse reports that our campers are in pretty good shape, today wasn't too hot and we all had plenty of water.
STAFF & CAMP
Today a camper told us how much he loved the drama games! We have to give a big thank you to our drama department, they really are incredible.
TOMORROW
Even more of our campers will meet our new camp turtle!
The campers will see our second night of the outpost play (I think it gets better every week).
Boys (cabins Seminole, Shoshone, & Pueblo) will be taking over the pool for their afternoon rotations...
Wishing all of our parents, grandparents, and camp family a good night!
~Jeremy
Sunday, July 6, 2014
Saturday: Discovery Week 2014
Breakfast: Breakfast baskets (continental breakfast).
Lunch: Special Sabbath Lunch (list of menu options was extensive).
Dinner: Sandwich bar (build your own sandwich from over a dozen different options), chips, & salad.
Most popular meal item: Difficult to say, probably sliced cheese or apple turnovers.
OUR TOP THREE
#1: On Sabbath we don't do any of our normal activities, instead we plan out a special day and today was all focused on our theme of service. Campers had the opportunity to learn how to serve, who we should serve, and why we should serve. We hope we had an impact with our campers as they ponder and reflect on their experiences learning about service this past week.
#2: More and more clouds hovered above, providing shade and the threat of rain. No rain fell, but we wished it would have rained just a bit. The clouds helped keep us cool so no one had to see the nurse today for any heat-related issues.
#3:Tonight (@ 8:00 pm) was our Saturday Night @ the Ranch program and we staged one of the most special events at camp: our glowstick fireworks! (the use of the work 'fireworks' in the previous sentence really is a misnomer. We throw glowsticks in the air by hand to simulate a fireworks display. It's really neat and we love doing it year after year.) Ask your campers about it when they get home tomorrow!
PARENTS & CAMP
We're glad you trusted your children with us this week. We really do our best to make sure things run smoothly at PSR Camp. I was able to meet a few more parents today who were so excited to see the changes that happen in their children when they come to camp and experiment with decision-making and a bit more Independence under the watchful eyes of one of our counselors.
If you were a first time parent, we really can't wait for you to hear all about the things that happened at camp this week from your camper tomorrow.
THE STAFF
The staff are a bit tired, but are looking forward to a break tomorrow between our Discovery & Junior I sessions. A little bit of rest and relaxation and they'll be ready for the next round of campers tomorrow at 4:00 pm.
TOMORROW
To our new friends...
We'll say goodbye...
But only until next summer...
Wishing all of our parents, grandparents, and camp family a good night!
~Jeremy
Saturday, July 5, 2014
Friday: Discovery Camp 2014
Breakfast: French toast triangles, hard boiled eggs, melon, syrup, cereal, canned pears & juice.
Lunch: Corn dogs, corn on the cobb, salad bar, and 4th of July cupcakes!
Dinner: Enchiladas, beans, Mexican rice, sour cream, and cracker jacks.
Most popular meal item: Corn dogs!
OUR TOP THREE
#1: Our Indian campers completed their final challenge today and everyone earned all five of their feathers. I know I already talked about Indian Camp this week, but as the instructor for the class I am very impressed with everything they've accomplished. We don't just pass out awards after the class is over, when you see your campers with their feathers in their headband, its because they passed unique challenges and earned those awards.
#2: We had rain clouds overhead today, which really helped us cool off after a warm morning. We even had a little sprinkling from a summer storm, but it was over pretty quickly. It was very nice weather after 5:00 pm and it almost didn't seem like summer.
#3:Tonight (@ 8:00 pm) was our Pageant program and dozens of campers made the decision to dedicate their lives to Christ for the very first time! We had several also decide to rededicate their lives to Jesus, and even a few who have some questions about baptism. We'll be following up with their local church pastors so they can contact the parents.
PARENTS & CAMP
2014 may go down in history because no south village resident went home this week on account of illness, homesickness, or because the parents came to get them early. To my knowledge this has never happened before. Please note: this doesn't mean that your children don't miss you! Once the boys and girls see their parents on Sunday, all bets are off when it comes to tears and hugs.
THE STAFF
The staff celebrated a successful week and shared about the challenges watching 5-7 little boys or girls for a week can pose. Over all they were in good spirits and ready for a good nights rest (tomorrow morning they have a chance to sleep a little longer... theoretically, of course. When I was a counselor my campers always woke up when the sun peaked over the mountains at 5:58 am).
TOMORROW
Some of our campers will decide to walk the "Radical Road"....
One of our cabins is doing a skit presentation for church (its a secret and I don't even know which cabin it is)...
Our campers will experience our Saturday Night program, which had been a mainstay here for decades...
Wishing all of our parents, grandparents, and camp family a good night!
~Jeremy
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Wednesday: Discovery Camp 2014
Breakfast: Pancakes, with various fruit toppings, syrup, cereal, fruit cocktail, & juice.
Lunch: Special K loaf, with mashed potatoes, gravy, salad bar, fruit & pudding.
Dinner: Taco salad, with salad bar, and over 10 different toppings (for campers to add as desired).
Most popular meal item: Jell-o (Again)
I saw a camper taking hot chocolate at dinner, he only had a sip before deciding that it was to hot outside to drink a steaming beverage.
OUR TOP THREE
#1: Today's big event was Ultimate Soccer, in which my team (Cabin Mohawk & Cabin Blackfoot) played three rounds. We tied the first two rounds, but lost the third round. I was really proud of my team, even the campers who weren't fully engaged in the game still paid attention and we all avoided getting injured by flying soccer balls!
#2: We had clear skies in all cardinal directions without a cloud to be seen and a breeze on our backs for most of the afternoon. The AM heat turned into a balmy afternoon. Some of our campers are starting to ask for nap time after lunch (especially after those mashed potatoes, and our counselors were more than accommodating.)
#3: In our final night of the outpost, our campers met the patriarch of the evil Gale family, a cruel and intelligent man who is afraid that his old enemy is after his most prized possession, a hidden son who is his last heir. In the final moments, we discover that one of the characters we've already met is the lost son, and he chooses to stand with the daughter of his father's enemy against injustice and strife. The play ends with the two main characters standing together as the unknown approaches (to be continued in summer 2015).
Pastor King came up after the program and again touched on the theme of family and how we choose all of the people in our lives except the families we are born into. She talked about how we often fight for the wrong thing, but when we try to help our family succeed, we are all blessed.
PARENTS & CAMP
Concerning posting photos on our blog: Some parents have asked us not to post photos on their children online until after our Discovery session is over, while other are asking for even more photos. We have decided to not post more photos at this time and we hope for your understanding in this wonderful information age.
THE STAFF
The staff opened up the camp water slide because of a special request from cabin Cherokee today. Three of the campers really wanted to do it, so props to our camp management team for making sure the resources were in place to be able to grant their request.
TOMORROW
The campers will be all be building a special project for our Thursday Night activity time...
The new (and temporary) camp store opens for it's second day of business...
Campers will have the opportunity to sign-up for Friday AM activities...
Wishing all of our parents, grandparents, and camp family a good night!
~Jeremy
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Tuesday: Discovery Camp 2014
TUESDAY
Breakfast: Scrambled eggs, fried crosscut potatoes, toast, breakfast cereals, grapefruit, melon, cereal, and juice.
Lunch: Spaghetti with red or white sauce (some campers had both), bread sticks, salad bar, & vegetable (and dessert).
Dinner: Grilled cheese sandwiches, tomato soup, assorted steamed vegetables, assorted chips, & salad bar.
Most popular meal item: Grilled cheese sandwiches.
Most popular drink item: Still water. (it really is required throughout the day.)
OUR TOP THREE
#1: Today I visited the archery range and watched Shoshone launch some arrows. Some of them missed the bale, while others hit the targets. One camper even hit the outer red circle after practicing only a few times. I'm sure when some of these campers return the next summer they'll be hitting the yellow bullseye!
#2: Today wasn't as hot as yesterday, but we added an additional 'sunscreen time' at our afternoon rotation time to make sure our campers don't experience the ill effects of too much sun exposure. The camp nurse is reminding all of us to drink lots of water (which results in many, many trips to the bathroom).
#3: For the evening program tonight (@ 8:00 pm) our campers learned more about the story they had seen the previous night. It turns out that a feud between two families that was settled long ago is alive again, and now a family has returned from exile for an unknown reason. Our captured soldier was freed by his Captain, but all of the characters are struggling to figure out who to follow and for what purpose.
Pastor King came up and talked to our campers about different kinds of families. The soldiers are one kind of family, adoption often adds children to other families like the ones in the play, and of course we have families with one parent or two. Then she talked about how no matter what kind of family we have, we are also blessed to be part of the family of God.
PARENTS & CAMP
Did everyone in cabin Cheyenne brush their teeth today?
Yes, after a short conversation (@ approx. 6:01 PM) all of the girls represented that they had brushed their teeth twice already, and it wasn't even bedtime yet.
We have some loose teeth in cabin Iroquois!
Today at the evening line call, I had two campers show me some very loose baby teeth that are about to fall out. Don't worry, nothing caused
THE STAFF
The activity of the day was definitely the Go-Carts! They've been working hard giving our campers rides in the carts up at our PSR Raceway. Most of our campers are to young to drive (most can't reach the gas pedal), but they are enjoying the laps around the track with all of their safety gear and an experienced driver at the wheel.
TOMORROW
Our afternoon line call interruption features a cast of characters who want to steal the camp mail...
The camp water-slide will be closed due to water restrictions, but will re-open later in the week (we hope!)...
In our outpost program one family will be reunited, another family will be challenged by conscious and conviction, and a secret twenty years in the making will finally be revealed...
Wishing all of our parents, grandparents, and camp family a good night!
~Jeremy
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