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Alumnae Spotlight – Megan Grinder

Alumnae Spotlight - Megan Grinder

Interviewer: Rachael Groves

Name:  Megan Wellford Grinder

How many years & which years were you a camper? 
I was a camper for 7 summers 1984-1990.

Valk or Zon?
Valk!

How many years & which years were you a counselor? Which activity did you teach?
I was a 2 week counselor in 1991 and a 6 week counselor in 1992 and 1993 and taught riding.

What’s your day job?
I’m an artist.

What’s something you’re proud of (personal or professional)?
I’m most proud of raising two decent humans with whom I enjoy spending time.

Is there someone at camp who influenced you or made an impact on your life?
So many, but Jan Harper stands out.  I was a dining hall aide almost every summer, and she was in charge of the dining hall.  Jan had high expectations of us but never had to do more than raise an eyebrow to inspire us to meet them.  She was also our TR Mama. 

Any advice for younger campers/counselors (personal or professional)?Keep in touch with your camp friends as years go by.  Friendships formed at camp are so special.

What’s something that’s not on your resume?
Oh Lord! What is? I haven’t updated my resume in years!

Did you ever pull any pranks? 
I think we were always planning pranks – not sure how many we actually pulled off, though.  We short-sheeted counselors’ beds, started barnyards, etc.  As a counselor, I painted a mural in the hayloft of the barn and, with several others, attempted to “steal” the canoes of a group that was on an overnight to Carson’s Point in ’88.  I’m sure there were others.

Favorite camp memory:
So many, but the simple ones stand out:
-Dance parties in cabin 13 with counselor, Stephanie Robinson
-Hanging in the hammock behind Ann and Pepe’s with friends
-Walks to the gate or dam
-Sunset in the field with Katie Hansen Heckel

Favorite camp meal:
Taco lunch and Saturday supper.  Oh my goodness, I love frozen fruit salad!

Favorite camp song:
So hard to narrow down – I love them all!  But, if I had to choose, I’d say the rival songs – both Amazon and Valkyrie.  I loved singing “We never knew we could love any rivals…,” and I loved hearing “Hail dear old Valkyries…”  Such a great way to end healthy competition.

Memorable devotion:
One year a counselor taped a piece of paper to each of our backs, and we all wrote something we liked about each bunkie on the paper taped to their backs.  At the end, everyone had a sheet full of love and kindness to treasure.

Favorite camp activity/special event:
I really loved a good Evening Entertainment game – Human Bingo was a favorite!

Did you ever break any camp rules?
Certainly not any big ones!
I definitely talked after taps…

Dream job:
If not what I’m doing right now maybe landscape architect or forest ranger.

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Alumnae Spotlight – Tent Row 1979

Alumnae Spotlight - Tent Row 1979

Interviewer: Rachael Groves

Name:  
Cynthia Jones O’Kelly
Margaret McWhorter King
Florine Robinson Klussmann
Laura Ward Gruber
Ginny Bass Carl

How many years & which years were you a camper? 
Cynthia: 7 years. 1973-1979
Margaret: I attended camp for 7 years as a camper (1972-1979) – GO ‘ZONS AND MINNIES!!! – and 3 years as a “mom” counselor in junior camp when my daughters, Maggie and Adelaide, were there (2001-2003). I taught tennis and lived in “The Hut” with Nancy Brucker. Fun fact: My sister Marjorie is a Valkyrie, as was my mother (Gordon Jackson), so we’re a divided family. My nieces, Hollis and Ruthie, had the opportunity to choose their teams.
Florine: 9 summers
Laura: 1972-1979. 8 years of 7 to 5 weeks, but I think my first summer was 8 weeks. One of the girls in my age group, Nancy Ewing from Maine, came to camp late because her school wasn’t out yet. Tuition at camp was $700. My dad said he couldn’t keep us at home for $100 a week. 
Ginny: 1974-79 6 summers

Valk or Zon? 
Cynthia: Valk! Whoop!
Margaret: ZON!
Florine: Valkyrie
Laura: Valk
Ginny: Valk, of course

What’s your day job? 
Cynthia: Director of Bariatrics for a hospital
Margaret: I’m a foreign language professor (French, Italian)
Florine: Retired
Laura: I loved my work! I’m retired now. I counseled as an RD, mostly women and some men, about nutrition and helped them recover from eating disorders. I got to really know them and their families. It was very rewarding. I definitely received more than I gave. Seeing my clients work so hard to change their eating habits and work to restore a healthy relationship with food was a gift to me. 
Ginny: Nonprofit consultant. For last 2 1/2 years have led a team of 150 administering the Emergency Rental Assistance programs funded through US Treasury for the state of Oklahoma, providing $334,000,000 to over 83,000 families across the state helping them stay housed in the midst of a pandemic and its economic fallout for so many. Bonus fact: my daughter, Rachael Groves (TR 14) is our project manager and works next to me everyday!!!

What’s something you’re proud of (personal or professional)? 
Cynthia: I love what I do. I help caterpillars become butterflies.
Florine: Being a stay-at-home mom who raised 4 children
Ginny: My kids, without a doubt. Besides the fact that I genuinely enjoy them more and more every year, they have both been off the dole since college graduation. Sitting for (and passing) my 3rd bar exam 21 years after I graduated from law school (three states is more than enough licenses!).

Is there someone at camp who influenced you or made an impact on your life?
Cynthia: Frazier Outlan Kelly
Margaret: Many people and many things about camp influenced my life. Since the longer camp sessions used to last 7 weeks per summer, the camp ethos became a formative part of my character. I learned to set goals, strive for excellence, appreciate nature, compete in a friendly way, lose gracefully, win graciously, be thoughtful towards others, form deep friendships and get along with cabin mates. As an adult, I appreciate Camp Nakanawa’s comparative old fashioned, unplugged, and feminist essence. One of my greatest joys has been participating, sharing, and witnessing the experience of Camp Nakanawa throughout the generations of my family. 
Florine: Beverly Bryan Darlington, Junior Camp counselor. Beverly is so kind and caring. Once I was on the Senior side of camp, she sought me out to buy ice cream for Ginny and I at the circus. That’s a big deal! She made me feel special. She and I are Facebook friends and I admire her still.
Laura: I think Mitch gave us all so much. She was calm and she could be very stern. All campers respected her. She showed us sportsmanship when she would play tennis. Her church services were delightful, and everyone sat still and listened to her message. She wore a beautiful light blue and red tie. She often wore a white skirt with pleats.  She knew us and our families. She would report to me about my sister in senior camp. She knew my grandmother who did not go to camp and always asked about her. She was a great networker and knew how everyone found out about camp. For example, she knew Bitsy Kirby, Laura and Martha’s mom, told my mom to send us to camp. My mother and Bitsy had gone to school together in San Antonio. She had a great laugh and would love to kid with us when we helped with cabin requests after Rock Meetings. I remember her saying you will always run into someone from Camp wherever you go. It’s so true! When we recently moved to Atlanta, I had two women from Camp in my neighborhood and several others in the area. That always feels good. There are many things she said that have come true in my life. 
Ginny: Sounds cliche, but how could Mitch not be the answer. Plus the older captains, esp. when you’re last year Jr. or Intermediate camp. They were beautiful, smart, kind, kinda untouchable. What you aspired to. If I hadn’t named Rachael her name, I would have chosen Walton (for Walton Estes). Our own kind of celebrity.

Any advice for younger campers/counselors (personal or professional)? 
Cynthia: Be in the moment. The memories will last a lifetime. 
Margaret: TR girls can be great role models and mentors! Also, camp songs will be running through your brain forever.
Florine: If you can make it through summers at Nakanawa (making the best of it of course), you will be prepared to go away to college. 

What’s something that’s not on your resume? 
Cynthia: I have 5 stepchildren and 2 grandchildren
Margaret: I enjoy consistently earning masterpoints as a duplicate bridge player. I’m also a first-time grandmother to a 10 month old grandson. Like a lot of women my age, I adore playing pickleball.
Florine: I was onstage with the Backstreet Boys when I was 9 months pregnant with my youngest, Rees.
Laura: Camp is not on my resume and it’s where I learned to get along with people. It really prepared me for going to college and being away from my family. 

Did you ever pull any pranks?
Laura: I didn’t do pranks: (I was a goody two shoes)
Florine: Ginny knows 
Ginny: Yes – Florine and I cut Katherine’s hair in Intermediate camp. Her mom came to visit and DIDN’T recognize her own daughter. Yikes! There may have been one or two others, but we’ll save those for a happy hour!

Favorite camp memory?
Cynthia:  I was a member of Octet my Tent Row year. I loved going around and singing to the award winners or special events.
Margaret: Camp Nakanawa is such a special place because of its unique traditions. I remember getting goosebumps when, in bed, late at night, I heard the eerie song announcing the approach of the Valkyrie Surprise party. I also remember being willed Snoopy and feeling elated. It brings me great joy to think of all the amazing memories future campers will make year after year. I think camp is going in a terrific direction and I’m optimistic about its future.
Florine: Receiving my first silver letter
Laura: My favorite memories are being in a canoe and nighttime blinks. It was so fun to paddle around and blade. Watching Florine handle a canoe so gracefully was also a great memory. At night during blinks, it was so fun to be in Egypt with everyone at those sinks brushing our teeth and laughing. Then heading to the cabins from being silly and then serious for devotions and lights out. I loved going to visit Lynne and Alice in Cottage Cheese before bed. They had it fixed up like a cute little house with chairs on the front porch. Memories created of going to get my daughter and meeting her friends have also been wonderful. The big bonus to the process of picking up my daughter was getting to see my friends from camp. We’ve reconnected and it’s wonderful to know what their lives are about.

Favorite camp meal?
Cynthia: Shepherd’s Pie
Margaret: I relished the weekly Saturday Hershey chocolate bar
Florine: Shepherd’s Pie
Laura: Shepherd’s Pie
Ginny: Sunday breakfast – coffee cake, bacon and applesauce

Favorite camp song?
Cynthia: Save Your Memories
Margaret: Even though it wasn’t popular when I was a camper, “Barges” became my favorite song when my daughters attended camp.
Florine: The Rainbow Song
Laura: “We’re at Nakanawa” has to be my favorite with “Walk Along the Lake” as a close second. Songs were such a lifeblood of camp. One time in Junior all the Valkyries went away for free day and the Amazons stayed to work on the wiener roast. The buses for the Valks broke down and Carson had to come get us with his huge truck. We all got in the back with towels and blankets around us. I have a recollection that it was dark. I think it was Margaret but maybe it was Lynne but we started singing in the back of that truck on a long rainy night! It was probably 15 minutes from camp but that’s what I remember. Carson rescuing us and singing!

Memorable devotion? 
Cynthia: Valkyrie Vespers
Florine: Having “The Little Prince” read to us
Laura: I don’t remember a specific devotion, but I remember adoring my counselors who did prepare something or read to us. As I said, it was the part of the day – I thought we had the most sense of community.
Ginny: The Little Prince – always!

Favorite camp activity/special event?
Cynthia: 4th of July events!
Margaret: As a camper, I adored Evening Entertainment, especially Bunk Stunts skits. I feared the Wild Woman, smeared with ketchup, at the circus. As a counselor, I appreciated the non-denominational and creative church services, especially Pepe’s poems. As both a camper and a counselor, I detested the lost and found assemblies!
Florine: Canoeing
Laura: I loved Valkyrie Vespers! I still remember singing As I walk through the Garden, we sang in Junior Camp. Seeing it from both sides of the lake was enchanting. 
Ginny: The Circus – and all that ice cream!

Did you ever break any camp rules? 
Margaret: I was never a rule breaker even though I daringly engaged in cabin barnyards. I also ate apples from the orchard in Sr. Camp
Florine: When we were on an overnight, a couple of girls used a pay phone in the state park to call home. I didn’t tell. Until now!

Dream job?
Cynthia: I think I am currently doing my dream job, but I would love to win the lottery and start some non-profits.
Margaret: My dream job would be a mind reader so I could know Karen’s thoughts during the camp sessions! Karen was in my TR, so we go way back.
Florine: Go back to Nakanawa to be a counselor
Ginny: Exactly what I do, but only half the time

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Dock Update

Nakanawa Dock Update from the Committee

The 2023 camp sessions will be an exciting time for campers and counselors alike as they welcome the addition of new Junior Docks for all to enjoy. The Waterfront Project has been a top priority for the Board of Directors.

A year ago, when the decision was made to replace both Junior and Senior dock systems, Camp was able to acquire an estimated cost for replacement of the current footprint of the dock systems.  In early 2022, a Dock Ad Hoc Committee was formed to research, discuss and redesign.  The layout, and materials selections for the new dock system will last for decades to come while reducing the need for annual maintenance.  Through the discussions, a decision was made to move to floating docks as they will do just that with the additional advantages of better swimming and canoe access. It was an exciting decision until the Request for Proposal was sent out to vendors for their bids.  The committee knew they could count on the price increasing some, but could not anticipate how much the escalation of materials and labor had shot up over the year.  Camp has entered into a challenging time for the much-needed capital improvement.  The initial estimate of $200,000 to complete both Junior and Senior dock systems has now become less than what is needed to complete just one side.  Thanks to the hard work of the Development Committee and the generosity of our community, Camp has the funds to cover most of the costs associated with completing the Junior side at this time. The goal moving forward over the next several months is to raise the additional funds needed to cover the costs for Junior and raise the funds needed to secure and schedule the replacement of the Senior docks. The Facilities Committee which is now overseeing the Waterfront Project is currently working to acquire a solid estimated cost for the Senior side. 

A special thanks to those who served in the preliminary research and discussions on the Dock Ad Hoc Committee: BJ Jenkins, Tiny McPhillips, Kayla Blouin, Jeff Blake. And to Karen Hale, Pepe Perron, Bree Patillo, Jeff Blake and Georgia Mattern for their guidance and diligence with the behind the scenes needs of the Waterfront Project.

Sincerely,
Georgia Mattern
Secretary, Board of Directors

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2022 Holiday Letter

2022 Holiday Letter

December 2022

Happy Holidays campers, counselors, parents and friends!

Thinking of Nakanawa and the peaceful beauty of the surrounds, I am overcome with gratitude for those who walked the grounds before me.  For 103 years, Colonel Rice, Mitch, Ann and Pepe, all forged ahead to advance the Nakanawa mission ensuring young girls develop into the leaders and women they are meant to become in a fun and safe environment.

In today’s society, it remains even more important than ever to have a place where young women can hone their leadership skills, have face to face social interactions, and gain awareness of their unique talents all while building confidence through trying new things.

One of my most favorite things during the holidays is listening to the sounds of the season.  I love holiday music of all kinds!  Every year when Christmas comes around, one song in particular turns my thoughts to the campers and women of Nakanawa and every year I think “if there is anything I could give to campers, it would be the sentiments this song provides.  From Amy Grant (or for some of you, it may come from Kelly Clarkson or Michael Bublé) the words from My Grownup Christmas List wrap up my desires so precisely:

 “No more lives torn apart

That wars would never start

And time would heal all hearts

And everyone would have a friend

And right would always win

And love would never end,

This is my grown up Christmas list

This is my only lifelong wish

This is my grown up Christmas list.”

 It was the beautiful sounds of people saying good words to each other, laughing and singing that made the star, in the Dakota legend, want to stay inside the cottonwood tree.  Our 2022 sourwood tree ornament is designed, as always, by Ann, and is a representation of the star located in a cottonwood tree branch.  This is from the legend from Pepe’s church this past summer.  May you use your words to spread kindness and help others so you can all be Stars!

The beginning of winter also means we are halfway to summer!!  Those of us at camp are working diligently like Santa’s elves to get camp ready and so many things have been happening since we last were in touch.  We love that so many of you have already enrolled and we are really looking forward to the best summer yet!

While Christmas is a great time to be reminded of the generosity people are capable of, I am also led to think of Camp. Through staff, volunteers and campers, Nakanawa has been cared for by many generations of people.  Whether it’s putting on a new roof, cutting the grass, cooking meals, washing dishes, serving on committees, becoming counselors, people commit their love and energy to Camp. The care at Nakanawa can be felt at all times. It is truly encouraging to me to see the spirit of giving strong and alive at Camp.

It has been a busy year.  For everyone who have already contributed to Camp this year, in any way, and those who will play a part in the future thank you.  Without your patronage, volunteering, labor and love, Nakanawa wouldn’t be the community it is.

This time of year can be very chaotic but I wish for everyone to be able to find peace, friendship, and love and of course, plenty of hot chocolate and cookies.  Have a very Merry Christmas and share that feeling with as many as you can.

With love,

Karen and Scout, Ann and Pepe and Bolt, Corie, Annette, Apryll, Bunk, Donathan and, of course, Dinkleman

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2021 Four Week Junior Final Newsletter – Week 4

Greetings from Camp Nakanawa!

This last week of camp has been full of so many adventures and smiles and we wouldn’t have it any other way! This session is coming to a close but plenty of brilliant memories and moments were made here and we hope that plenty more will be made next season! We can’t wait to see you again next year! 
 
Monday: Monday was a regular class day.  As we began to wind down our classes the campers strived to achieve their class goals.  Free swim allowed campers some extra time to work on new skills in swimming, archery, or diving and time to complete art projects or have fun in nature.  Monday evening Valkyries and Amazons each held their Rock meetings.

Tuesday: We did not wake up to the bell on Tuesday.  We got to sleep a little late and go to the dining hall in our pajamas.  We loved the pancakes and drinking hot chocolate!  Because of storms on Sunday, Valkyrie Vespers was moved to Tuesday evening.  We walked the hemlock trail down to the lake carrying candles and singing Follow the Gleam. It was a beautiful evening sitting on the dock singing. We could see and hear Valkyrie Vespers across the lake in Senior Camp.

Wednesday:  Wednesday we awoke to a sunshiny day and our last day of regular classes.  Laughter could be heard throughout camp as we enjoyed our last classes for the summer. Our Evening Entertainment was the Ms Nakanawa Pageant.  Counselors dressed up in costumes and performed a talent before an appreciative camper audience and our official judges.  Performances included dancing solo and duet, playing the recorder with your nose, and some funny skits.  Oakley and Makenna were jointly crowned Ms Nakanawa for the 2021 summer!

Thursday: First thing Thursday was our Horse Show.  The Olympic-themed 2021 Horse Show included classes of riders in fourth, fifth and sixth grades and a top group of five riders traditionally called Tally Ho who ride a short drill for the audience and compete for our riding cup to be announced at the final ceremony.  Tally Ho until 2022!
Next we all went to the Council House for our final operetta run through.  We are so excited for the Friday performance for Senior Camp! At our milk break, we enjoyed drinking some refreshing root beer that our 4th grader made in Nature class. Our morning ended with the Tumbling meet with campers competing for the Tumbling medal. After rest hour and our juicy cup break, we went to the tennis courts to watch the finals of the tennis meet.  We watched to great matches!  Next we traveled to the Archery field to watch the archers compete for the archery medal.  Our final meet of the day was Nakanawa form swimming. Our Evening Entertainment was our final council ring.  It was a beautiful night in the woods with the full moon shining overhead.

Friday: After breakfast, we raced to Egypt and then our cabins to get ready for our big Oklahoma! performance.  We excitedly put on our boots, costumes and makeup.  We got a coke too!  Senior Camp arrived and we had a lovely dedication to Ann and Pepe.  The Senior campers really loved our performance! Inspection runner up cabins went to Ann and Pepe’s for a coke float and the winner cabins went to their home for lunch. In the afternoon we went to the waterfront to watch the Diving and Canoeing meets.  Then we had the exciting cake races! The 5th graders hosted a Salute to 6th Graders banquet.  We enjoyed the great food and fun entertainment.  Then teams held rock meetings.  This year the Valkyries hosted the joint rock meeting attended by Amazon’s and counselors.  After taps, we fell asleep to the beautiful songs of our counselor serenade.  

Weekend Fun: Saturday we awoke to our final day of the 2021 summer.  We are so sad to leave our friends, but excited to see our families.  After breakfast, we had our team pep meetings.  Then our final Games meet where we played mass soccer.  Everyone cheered loudly for their team!  Next we went to the Council House for the most improved assembly.  We enjoyed cheering for our friends who were named most improved in the various classes. After our Grunch lunch it was time for the final camp event:  Trophy assembly.  This event began with the counselors singing the traditional “Trophy Night” song.  Then Ann and Pepe named activity runner ups and medal winners.  Our camp time ended with Ann and Pepe naming the Lady of the Braclet.  Then we sang the camp almamater as we faced the lake.   After a wonderful four weeks we look forward to next summer!

Activity Highlights 

Archery – During our final classes of archery, the girls continued scoring and achieving new classifications.  Campers had extra time at free swim to improve their skills. Thursday was the archery medal meet.

Arts and Crafts – Campers finished up watercolor sketchbooks by painting a picture of their cabins and Nature’s fairy gardens. What a fun walk! The 6th graders sketched and painted Lake Aloaloa.

Canoeing – This week we did adventure canoeing around the lake! The girls got to canoe to the floating dock, swim, and go off the slide! We had two girls become bladettes! It has been such a fun summer down at the canoeing docks.

Diving – This last week of classes the girls were able to learn whatever dive they wanted to learn. We had a fun last day of classes with free swim and free dive where they played games and learned new dives. We had a great medal meet on Friday where 6 girls participated with 3 dives each.

Games – The final week of Games was so fun.  On Monday and Tuesday half the class went to Wall and the other half played lawn games.  The lawn games included Bocce ball, Mollkey, and Kan-Jam.   Then the next day we switched places. We ended our Games classes with a lively day of kickball.

Glee Club – Glee Club was full of activity this last week!  We practiced many camp songs, emphasizing our end of camp tunes.  We learned Lady of the Bracelet which we will sing to the outstanding 6th grade camper on the last day.  We also learned our special song to honor Ann and Pepe before the operetta.We put the finishing touches on our choreography and vocals for the operetta. Oklahoma! has been a fun and exciting operetta.  It is so special to see the 90+ campers learn the art of musical theater! Introducing the girls to the performing arts is valuable in making them well-rounded and giving them the experience of cooperation within a cast.  They performed beautifully and everyone was so proud! You will love the video and watch it over and over at home!

Nature – We had a super final week in Nature. The 5th and 6th graders practiced fire building skills and learned to cook individual cinnamon rolls over the fire. Our Nature scavenger hunt had teams of girls scurrying all over camp trying to catch a butterfly, scoop something live from the lake, catch a fish on a pole, find a tiny toad and much more. The annual TRY-athalon encouraged girls to take a chance and hold a daddy long legs, beetles, a snapping turtle, a six-foot rat snake and other critters we have learned about this summer.  We were impressed with how far these girls have come in learning what camp creatures to avoid (red velvet ants, stinging caterpillars) and that so many are nothing to fear. During the final days, the remaining two girls ratcheted up their courage so we ended up with 100 percent snake holders. We were all excited when the Nakanawa fairies left some tiny letters and gifts to thank the creators of their villages. On the last day of classes, we visited the Magic Maple tree which leans out over the lake and is perfect for jumping off. A big adventure for all! We hope the girls will continue their enjoyment of nature throughout the year.

Riding – During our short fourth week of classes at the Junior Camp barn, campers reviewed skills in the arena and were allowed freedom of choice for final lessons. Girls chose the horses they wanted to ride, then took turns riding independently in small groups steering short courses and learning to trot safely; other small groups washed and groomed horses or enjoyed jogging the ring alongside our ponies – racetrack style. The time with soapsuds, mane combs, and bouncy ponies increased comfort level and enjoyment with horses that translated into trust and confidence in the saddle. What a fun way to finish!

Swimming – For the last few swimming classes, campers worked on building their skills for the cake races.  The campers worked on kicking and strokes in hopes to be the winner of a cake!  Extra practice and swimming for swim-a-mile continued during free swim.

Tennis – For the last week of tennis, we focused on going over everything we learned and working on serves. The girls learned how a formal tennis game is played and got to play each other applying all that they learned throughout the month. For our medal meet, we had our two finalists play each other for first place. The girls played a formal tennis match and the whole camp got to watch and appreciate the game.

Wall – Being the last week in Wall, the girls have enjoyed having some fun, bouldering however they like, practicing for the medal meet, & playing four square while they wait their turn to boulder! Each girl has tried very hard to achieve around the world, & a lot of them have done so, or come very close.

What a great summer!  See you next summer.

Love from the Junior counselor staff.
2021 Junior Medalists
2021 Junior Clubs
Recognitions Week Four Week
Silver Letter Girls

2021 Four Week Junior Runners Up

2021 Four Week Junior Medalists

2021 Lady of the Bracelet
Polly Olita

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2021 Four Week Intermediate and Senior Final Newsletter – Week 4

Greetings from Camp Nakanawa!

This last week of camp has been full of so many adventures and smiles and we wouldn’t have it any other way! This session is coming to a close but plenty of brilliant memories and moments were made here and we hope that plenty more will be made next season! We can’t wait to see you again next year! 
 
Monday
Monday brought the second to last day of classes here at Camp Nakanawa. Girls were preparing for the Final Events that would start on Tuesday and continue throughout the rest of the week. Drama put the finishing touches on their play. Wall climbed at the Outdoor Wall. Nakanawa Outdoor Adventure held fire-building competitions. All the girls enjoyed the chicken patties for dinner! The highlight of Monday were the “Specials” Rock Meetings in the evening. Each team met on their respective rocks, and the girls got to read letters to their teammates communicating how special their team and friendships are. This was a very tender evening for each team, and the girls enjoyed the chance to share kind words with one another after a summer back together.
 
Tuesday
On Tuesday, classes continued, but special events were held throughout the day. In the morning, girls competed in the Sailing Regatta, a race around the floating dock. Golf also held their Medal Meet. After lunch, all of the girls who helped aide in the Dining Hall and in activities were invited to the “Aides’ Party” with special treats in the Dining Hall after lunch. It was a great way to reward all the campers that have worked hard and devoted time to helping out around Nakanawa. In the afternoon, the Archery Meet and the Wall Meet took place. Right before dinner, girls ran the 5k Fun Color Run. Evening Entertainment was full of giggles as Tent Row presented their Bunk Stunt parodying “Shrek” to end another busy and exciting day at Camp Nakanawa! 

Wednesday
Final events continued all day Wednesday. The Horse Show kicked off the day in the Riding Ring. Campers showcased both their talents and Camp’s beautiful horses. Next, spectators gathered at the Tennis Courts for the singles and doubles Medal Meets.  The Final Swim Meet followed down at the Waterfront! Girls glided through the Lake in the Cake Race for the chance to win a cake for their cabin! Nakanawa Form swimmers gracefully showed their skill in the water hoping to win Form Medals. Finally, we saw speedy laps from the Competitive swimmers. The afternoon brought the Riflery Medal Meet as well as a lovely Diving Meet. The day culminated with the Canoeing Meet and the Fencing Meet. Girls were excited to attend Council Ring after dinner where counselors recognized campers for their outstanding work in the activities for the week. Campers returned to their cabins for Devotions and lights out. The Amazons quietly walked through camp singing songs to honor their fellow teammates, captains, Ladies of the Cup and Valkyrie friends in Amazon Serenade. 

Thursday
Tent Row woke camp up with their traditional chants and cheers Thursday morning. Pep Meetings were held in the morning for Valkyries and Amazons to prepare for their Varsity Soccer Meet. Valkyries processed in from the Kiosk, chanting in their chain. Amazons performed their opening procession as well on the Games Field. Apple Break was eaten on the field at half time. After the game, campers ate lunch and relaxed during Rest Hour. Following Free Swim was Fine Arts Day. Drama performed their rendition of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” in the Little Theater. Next, Handbells performed with Choir in the Wigwam. Dance and Aerobics showcased their numbers in the Kiosk to the delight of Camp. The Table Tennis Medal Meet wrapped up the afternoon before lunch. The night ended with the Slide Show in the Kiosk where campers met in their pajamas to watch memories of this year and years’ past at Camp Nakanawa. Counselors sang campers to sleep, walking through the cabin area by candlelight for Counselor Serenade. 

Friday
After Tent Row Wake Up, campers canoed and rode the bus over to Junior Camp to watch the much-anticipated Operetta, “Oklahoma.” After returning to Senior Side, campers met with their Apple Break in the Wigwam for the Lost and Found Assembly before heading back to their cabins to begin packing. Inspection Runners Up and Winners enjoyed special treats and lunch at the Big House for their hard work this summer in maintaining their cabins. All of Camp met back in the Wigwam again in the afternoon for the Final Assembly. Campers were recognized for the Clubs they had earned in their activities throughout the summer. Valkyries and Amazons met on the Games Field for their Pep Meetings and the Softball Meet. Girls cheered on their bunkies and teammates, jumping up and down with spirit. The evening ended with Final Rock Meetings where Teams revealed their Silver Letter Girls for the summer. The Joint Rock Meeting was held on Amazon Rock. Amazons, Valkyries, and counselors met to hear both teams’ Silver Letter Girls announced and sing together before the “Goodnight Song.” Octet sang Taps for the night, serenading the newly selected Silver Letter Girls. 

Saturday
Luggage was set outside cabins first thing in the morning. Camp gathered for the last Flag Raising before heading into breakfast. War Canoe Drill was held immediately following. Intermediate and Senior boats from both teams performed their Drill routines to music out on Lake Aloaloa. Campers then had some free time to spend their last day enjoying Camp and their friends. Second-Year Seniors prepared the Dining Hall for Banquet, before meeting with Tent Row in the Wigwam for the Rite of Passage. Campers and counselors enjoyed a “Charlie Brown” themed Banquet. Chicken nuggets, cake, and ice cream were served before campers let loose on the dance floor. Tent Row performed their dance one last time on the Waterfront for campers to enjoy. Trophy Night was held in the Kiosk where awards for the summer were given. Campers tearfully hugged each other goodbye as counselors loaded cars with luggage before they left through the gates, carrying their new memories with them and looking forward to the next summer when they can come back to Camp Nakanawa. 
Thank you for sharing your daughters with us this year. 
 
See you next summer!
 
Your Intermediate and Senior Counselors
2021 Intermediate Medalists
2021 Senior Medalists
Recognitions Week Four Week
2021 Senior Clubs
Silver Letter Girls

2021 Four Week Intermediate Runners Up

2021 Four Week Intermediate Medalists

2021 Ladies of the Necklace
Nox Heidt and Eleanor Jones

2021 Four Week Senior Runners Up

2021 Four Week Senior Medalists

2021 Lady of the Cup
Grayson Hall

We are beginning to plan our 2021 Fall Slide Show Tour to all of our regular stops.  If you would like to host a gathering of potential campers, please let us know.  This past year we held several “Zoom Meetings for Potential Campers and Counselors.”  They were very successful so please let us know if we can host a Zoom meeting for any potential campers that you want to learn more about Nakanawa.  We would love to include you in our travels.  If you know of particular camp fairs in your area that would be a good fit for Nakanawa, please let us know. If you are a counselor attending or teaching at a college or university, please let us know if you would like to have a booth at your school to recruit new and wonderful counselors.  Click here to email Camp Nakanawa with information on any or all of these things. THANK YOU!

CategoriesNewsletters by

2021 Four Week Junior Newsletter – Week 3

Greetings from Camp Nakanawa!

We can hardly believe we only have one week of camp left!  Time has flown by these past three weeks. We are so busy in our classes and preparing for the operetta.  We are having a great time!

Monday: This Monday began with sending out our laundry.  It was a regular class day.  We are experiencing new things such as holding a baby rat and practicing war canoe.  For Evening Entertainment, we met in our team meetings. The 6th graders got the special surprise of traveling to Senior Camp to attend Senior Camp rock meetings.  It was a little preview of the fun ahead in Senior Camp next summer.

Tuesday:  Tuesday continued with a regular class day schedule. Classes as usual were fun, even when a little rain or thunder caused us to have rainy day classes.  An evening rain storm kept our Valkazon Party at the dining hall instead of Valkazon point.  We enjoyed eating hot dogs and sitting together by our age groups instead of assigned tables.  Octet came over from Senior Camp to beautifully sing our special team songs and the Lady of the Bracelet song. The team captains presented Ann with the bracelet.

Wednesday: On Wednesday, we awoke to a beautiful day. We had a regular class day.  At breakfast we were excited to hear that tonight would be our overnight! After our final class of the day, 6th graders canoed to the dam for the overnight.  At the dam, they swam, had a Grunch dinner, a dance party and talked and giggled late into the night.  The younger girls enjoyed a Grunch dinner and then changed into their pajamas.  Next we met in the Council House for a group devotion.  Laura Ellis read Pickles and the Pea Flock, and we sang camp songs.  Then we took our sleeping bags to our assigned spots around camp.  The 3rd graders were on the Games field, the 4th graders on the archery field and the 5th graders were at the Teepee.  We loved cooking and eating s’mores!  Then each grade helped Margaret Matens release some now grown possums back into the wild.  We all fell asleep snuggled up next to our cabin mates under a beautiful starry sky.

Thursday: We awoke early on Thursday as we were asleep outside.  We loved going to the dining hall in our pajamas!  Ruby made us pancakes, French toast, sausage and hot chocolate. It was so yummy!  Our free day activities included hiking to Senior Camp, canoeing to Senior Camp, learning to Salsa dance, making a necklace in Arts and Craft and practicing for our operetta.  The campers who travelled to Senior Camp had a scavenger hunt in the Senior barn and library.  A few campers checked out books to read.  The 3rd graders decorated and beaded wooden necklaces that Val had carved.  After rest hour, we gathered at the garden for the Garden Party.  Pepe talked about gardening and showed us lots of different vegetables that we enjoy eating.  Some are growing in the garden by the nature hut.  Then we all enjoyed a snack of fresh veggies and ranch dressing.  Next all the 6th graders went to Senior Camp to zip line.  The younger campers had fun playing bucket ball on the Games field.  For Evening Entertainment, we had a run through of Oklahoma!. It was wonderful to see how all our songs and dances fit together for the operetta. 

Friday: Friday was a regular class day.  As we come closer to the end of camp, we are working hard to learn new skills in our classes and meet our activity goals even as we have lots of fun.  For Evening Entertainment, we lined up on the Games field for our walk to Council Ring.  In our legend (acted out by Cabin 5), Narcissa learns to clean up after herself and be responsible for her own belongings.  We cheered for our fellow campers in the fun challenges.  It was rewarding to see so many girls being recognized for their hard work during classes.  Pepe ended our time together reminding us that our time at Nakanawa will end soon, so enjoy our final week.

Weekend Fun: This Saturday we awoke to a rainstorm. Luckily it was just a brief one.  After cabin cleanup, we went to our team pep meetings.  Then we went to an Archery meet.  We enjoyed watching the archers shoot.  After the meet, we walked to the waterfront for our milk break and a waterfront meet.  We had fun swimming and cheering on our teammates!  Some campers participated in a canoeing tug-a-war game.  Last was the diving meet where we all watched as divers worked hard to make their dives correctly.  After rest hour, we all went to the Playhouse to watch the tumbling meet.  Then we all played mass soccer.  Evening Entertainment was the always popular sock hop.  We had fun dressing up and dancing the night away! On Sunday, we slept in for an extra 30 minutes and then enjoyed a yummy breakfast of Nakanawa coffee cake.  Next we had our third tennis meet, where we were divided into stations: volleys, jailbreak with forehands and backhands, serves and scramble! We enjoyed Counselor Church where the counselors shared a history of Lake Aloaloa and the spirituality of water.  After a long rest hour, we had a run through of Oklahoma!.  We got to wear our hats and costumes. It is so fun to see the production coming together.  At the end of the day, we all participated in Valkyrie Vespers.  On the Junior side of camp, we formed a bracelet while Senior Camp formed a necklace. Vespers ended with campers floating their candles in the lake and sitting on the Crows Nest singing camp songs. What a lovely evening.

Activity Highlights 

Archery – During archery, the girls continued scoring as well as improving their skills.  Campers can still achieve the different classifications.  Campers worked to prepare for Saturday’s meet.

Arts and Crafts – For the 3rd week of camp, campers went on a nature walk to the waterfront gazebo by the crow’s nest. The girls sketched the gazebo and then watercolored it.  There were many unique perspectives! The 6th graders were busy completing their lap boards.

Canoeing – During canoeing, the girls started working on lines and landings. Two campers  achieved Blade and are learning the strokes to maneuver a canoe solo. The younger girls continue adventure canoeing as they explore the lake and strengthen their paddle strokes. The 6th graders worked on paddling together in the war canoes.

Diving – We continue to work on front dives with 3 step approaches. We have also started learning back dives and other more complicated dives. More girls have successfully gone into the water head first.

Games and Tumbling – For week 3, the girls prepared for the Tumbling meet on Saturday.  Their preparation included a variety of stretches, rolls, cartwheels and round-offs.  The girls played a mass soccer game of Amazon’s versus Valkyries on Saturday.

Glee Club – We are keeping busy as we enter our third week of Glee Club. We continue to practice for the operetta and have learned several camp songs for Valkyrie Vespers this coming Sunday. We have also finished the set for Oklahoma and started to distribute costumes. Our musical endeavors are beginning to come together!

Nature – Week three in Nature was very eventful. Each of the four age groups completed their special projects: 2nd/3rd graders finished their fairy villages (Pinecone Hill, Blossomtown, Ivy Wild Wood and Shady Shores) complete with zip lines, gardens, pools, swings and other features. A favorite activity is letting the baby rats explore the fairy villages. After collecting the sassafras roots, 4th graders built a fire and cooked the roots to make a syrup which will be used to make ROOT beer. 5th graders built two survival shelters, a flat roofed pavilion and a teepee, and then learned to build a one-match fire. The 6th graders finished their hiking sticks (which they whittled with pocket knives, sanded and then wood burned with their names.)  The Nature classes held a birthday celebration for Ann Perron on Wednesday with a tour of the fairy villages, a decorated throne and a flower crown. On July 16, World Snake Day, we released one of the big rat snakes who slithered up a huge oak tree! We also welcomed ten new orphaned possums.

Riding – As a change from riding in the ring, Junior campers have taken short trail rides this week. Gaining awareness of surroundings and steering without fence rails nearby are two ingredients to safe trail riding which have been part of our lesson periods. Some girls have also continued to work on steering, calm hands, and trotting in the ring. As we take turns on different horses, counselors give instruction in saddling and bridling a horse correctly and let the campers try their hands at tacking the ponies. Campers’ enjoyment and confidence at riding has grown, and the older girls even had a bareback afternoon during which they rode double, without saddles, and giggling abounded.

Swimming – We are loving this amazing weather at the lake this week. We are working on breaststroke with both the form swimmers and competitive swimmers. Everyone is working hard to make sure they are doing the proper kick and have the timing correct. We are looking forward to the cake races at the end of camp! 

Tennis – We had lots of fun playing tennis during the third week of camp! The girls have really improved their skills and have started matches for the sixth grade tournament. We practiced serves and learned the formal scoring of a tennis game so we could start playing matches and apply all the new skills to an actual game. 

Wall – Being the third week of the wall, we have tirelessly been working on achieving around the world. This is the hardest route on the wall, and it must be completed by each camper to be in the medal meet. Many girls have achieved this route already, and many are still working hard to achieve it. We continue using the ropes to belay campers, and we have played Sharks and Minnows, a game that is fun and intriguing for everyone to play on the wall!

We have had a wonderful summer with your daughters!
 
Love,
 
Your Junior Counselors
Recognitions - Week 3
CategoriesNewsletters by

2021 Four Week Intermediate and Senior Newsletter – Week 3

Greetings from Camp Nakanawa!

It is hard to believe that this is our last week at camp!  We are enjoying every minute that we have here!  Here is a look at the happenings of last week!

Monday, July 12 
Monday marked the beginning of the last full week of classes, and all the campers started with their summer goals in sight. Many campers are working hard at reaching an achievement like American Archer or Dolphin for Form Swimming. Everyone was excited for tacos at lunch! The night included Rock Meetings with sixth grade Junior Campers as each team’s special guests. It was a wonderful opportunity for the older campers to mentor the younger girls in the traditions of Senior Camp Rock Meetings. At the end of the evening, the Valkyries held their Ice Cream Social at Ann and Pepe’s house where they got to enjoy special ice cream treats with their teammates. 

Tuesday, July 13 
Tuesday brought another sunny day to Camp Nakanawa as girls hurried off to classes. Tent Row was thrilled to finally depart for their much anticipated Canoe Trip at Apple Break. Meanwhile, girls in Wall ziplined across the lake with huge smiles on their faces. Intermediate War Canoe boats could be found on the lake practicing for the big race on Sunday. The Amazon and Valkyrie soccer teams were also gearing up for another Soccer Meet on Saturday. With Tent Row gone, the Second Year Seniors took the lead of Camp and put on a special Evening Entertainment. All the Second Year Seniors dressed up in wacky costumes and hid around camp for a giant game of hide and seek! It was a hit with all of the girls, and everyone went to bed tired and ready for a good night’s sleep. 

 
Wednesday, July 14
Wednesday started sleepily for all of Senior Camp. Girls got to enjoy delicious biscuits and bacon as a buffet breakfast in their pajamas! After breakfast, girls changed into their Free Day clothes and got ready for the third free day of camp. Some got to shoot at the Riflery Range while others enjoyed free swim and hanging out on the Docks. Many girls started playing their tennis matches for the Tennis Medal Meet. War Canoe boats hit the lake for another hardy practice in preparation for the big race on Sunday. The day concluded with a Grunch dinner and then Cabin Night! Cabin Night was the perfect Evening Entertainment for all the bunkies and their counselors to bond and enjoy a fun, chill night. Cabin Night activities included stargazing, night swimming, spa nights, card games, and other activities. It was a great free day at Camp Nakanawa!

Thursday
Classes met Thursday morning, solidifying skills developed throughout the summer. Diving practiced on the boards for their upcoming meet. Wall classes went on the Big Swing, and their shouts and laughter rang through camp. Tent Row returned from their Canoe Trip at Apple Break.  After a hamburger lunch, Rest Hour, and Free Swim, campers headed back to classes. Handbells rang out sweet melodies from the Wigwam.  Sailboats moved peacefully on the Lake, and Octet practiced in the Library. Following dinner, campers and counselors met at Council Ring to celebrate the week’s achievements. After songs, games, a legend, and more Camp returned to their cabins for Devotions and lights out.

Friday
Friday morning brought more classes. Canoeing went adventure canoeing to the coves of Lake Aloaloa. Archery worked on scoring and continued improvement and progression in difficulty levels. Campers enjoyed Free Swim during the warm afternoon before returning to their classes. Campers rode horses in the Riding Ring. Dance practiced routines in the Kiosk, and Table Tennis played matches out at the Pavilion. Evening Entertainment wrapped up the day with Former Rock Meetings. Amazons and Valkyries welcomed former campers on the counseling staff to their Rocks for the meetings, uniting past and present Team members.  

Saturday
Amazons and Valkyries met Saturday morning in Pep Meetings to prepare their cheers for the morning of Meets. First came the Waterfront meet. Canoeing held a JV War Canoe Race, followed by a Tent Row special War Canoe Exhibition that included one lucky camper tubing behind the canoe to the glee of the audience. Diving followed up with synchronized diving where partners performed together. Swimming finished the Meet with Form and several races. Apple Break was held on the Waterfront before campers changed and headed to the Games Field for the Senior Soccer Meet. Senior Amazons and Valkyries competed even through there was a  light rain as their teams cheered them on proudly. In the afternoon, campers enjoyed an extended Rest Hour before preparing for the Valkyrie Surprise Party (VSP)! VSP was held at Valkyrie Point, where Tent Row Valkyries performed their skit, delicious biscuits were eaten, camp songs were sung, and the Valkyrie Captain presented Ann and Pepe with the Necklace to be awarded on Trophy Night.

Sunday
The long-awaited War Canoe Race was held Sunday morning. Campers cheered on Intermediate and Senior boats as they competed in one of Camp’s favorite traditions. The Race was followed by Cabin Cleanup and then Counselor Church in the Kiosk. Cake and ice cream were enjoyed in the Dining Hall after a fried chicken lunch. Mass was held for Catholic campers during Extended Rest Hour. Following our afternoon snack, Tennis Medal matches were held as campers and counselors cheered on enthusiastically. The Archery Medal Meet was held in the afternoon as well, testing both skill and form. Grunch was served in the Dining Hall for dinner. The day ended with Valkyrie Vespers held In the Wigwam with beautiful songs from the Valkyries and Tent Row. Campers and counselors faced the Lake as the Alma Mater was song, before returning to their cabins for the night. 
We have had a wonderful summer with your daughters!
 
Love,
 
Your Intermediate and Senior Counselors
Recognitions - Week 3
CategoriesNewsletters by

2021 Four Week Intermediate and Senior Newsletter – Week 2

Greetings from Camp Nakanawa!

We have had a wonderful week full of classes and special activities! Here is what we did in our second week at camp!
 
Monday
After an eventful weekend, the girls were excited to relax back into classes on Monday. In Running, girls ran a timed mile. Soccer began preparing for the big Amazons vs. Valkyries meet that would be held on Saturday. Rest Hour was a celebrated break from the heat after delicious pimento cheese and chicken salad sandwiches for lunch. War Canoes hit the Lake during Free Swim so that girls could try out to be in their team’s race boats. In the evening, the Amazon and Valkyrie Teams had their Respective Rock Meetings after dinner. Amazons enjoyed ice cream at Ann and Pepe’s house after their Rock Meeting for this year’s Amazon Ice Cream Social before rejoining the Valkyries for Devotions. 

Tuesday
Tuesday was an absolutely beautiful day full of sunshine and fun at Camp Nakanawa! Classes continued. Girls did an enthusiastic workout and a meditation in Aerobics. There were giggles galore in Drama as the girls did improv and acting exercises. Tacos were a big hit at lunch for all of camp. It was a perfect day for sailing and swimming out on the sparkling water of Lake Aloaloa. After dinner, the intermediate campers departed to the Dam and Carson’s Point for their overnight stays! The girls lined their sleeping bags under the stars and got to roast marshmallows before a night spent outside. The senior campers concluded their day with a rowdy game of Bucket Ball on the Games Field where campers competed in their age groups along with the counselors. 
 
Wednesday
Wednesday started easy as girls got to sleep in a little later and attend a Pancake Breakfast in their pajamas. It was Free Day, so girls changed into free dress clothes after breakfast. Some girls hiked around the lake before the rain hit, but the rain didn’t stop anyone from enjoying the fun activities of the day. Girls got to choose to participate in cardmaking, reading in the Library, horse grooming, Riflery, and Arts and Crafts. After a lunch of baked chicken and a lovely Rest Hour, activities continued with Canoeing and Free Swim. Finally, the day concluded with the infamous Talent Show! We had acts as funny as whale calling and impressions to acts as beautiful as piano accompanied singing and graceful dancing. The whole camp loved to watch and cheer on their friends and bunkies perform. Camp gathered hands to sing the Goodnight Song before heading back to their cabins.

Thursday
Classes resumed Thursday morning following breakfast and Cabin Clean Up. Yoga met in the Little Theater for guided meditation and a gentle flow. Due to some light rain, Wall met at the Indoor Wall to climb. Dance practiced their routines in the Kiosk, while Archery practiced for their upcoming weekend meet. After a peaceful Rest Hour and afternoon snack, campers returned for afternoon classes. Outdoor Adventure completed a camp scavenger hunt, and Drama played improv games in the Little Theater. After dinner, camp grabbed their sit-upons and bug spray to head out to Council Ring. We celebrated the week’s accomplishments in classes, Inspection, and Posture. Campers sang camp songs, played games, and listened to a legend around the fire. Taps sang campers to sleep in their cabins after Devotions and another successful Nakanawa day.

Friday
Campers woke up early to make their way to Trip Day! After danishes and cereal in the Dining Hall, the different age groups headed out to their respective trips. The First-Year Intermediates left for the Hiawassee. The Second-Year intermediates hiked and swam at Fall Creek Falls. Finally, First-Year Seniors went rafting down the Ocoee. Tent Row and Second-Year Seniors stayed at camp to plan and work on their age group’s camp projects and to enjoy a quiet day. Everyone came back together for a Cookout on the Crows Nest to share about their day. Following dinner, campers returned to their cabins to get ready for Prom! The Kiosk was filled with music, laughter, and costumes Friday night. Tent Row was given their superlatives; campers competed in the serious-dance competition. The Prom King and Queen were named. Campers enjoyed cake and watched the Tent Row Dance before the night ended.

Saturday
Camp slept in Saturday morning after a full week, before enjoying a delicious French toast breakfast in the Dining Hall. This was followed by Valkyrie and Amazon Pep Meetings, where cheers were practiced in preparation for the Soccer Meet. After a rain delay and a sing-off competition in the Kiosk, Camp gathered on the Games Field for the Soccer Meet. Amazons and Valkyries cheered on their teams as the Intermediate and Senior Teams competed. Lunch was a buffet feast in the Dining Hall, followed by Rest Hour. After their afternoon snack, Camp prepared for the Amazon Weenie Roast. At the appointed time, everyone gathered on the Waterfront to listen to the Amazons’ legend before being invited to the Dam for the party. At the Dam, age groups gathered to enjoy their hot dogs, dessert, and roasted marshmallows. Amazons ended their party around the fire, where Octet performed.  Campers sang camp songs, and the Amazon Captain presented Ann and Pepe with the Cup for safe keeping until Trophy Night. 

Sunday
Sunday morning kicked off with Sunday Morning Breakfast—coffee cake, bacon, applesauce, and cantaloupe. State pictures followed breakfast. The Archery Meet was held out on the Archery Field, and Tent Row went to Junior Camp to host Tent Row Church. Senior Camp gathered in the Kiosk for Tent Row Church, before heading to lunch. Following their meal, Catholic Mass was held in the Kiosk, while the rest of Camp headed to an extended Rest Hour. Second-Year Seniors left camp to head to the overnight Cave Trip at Cumberland Caverns. Campers competed in the Tennis Meet as their bunkies cheered them on. Grunch was served that evening in the Dining Hall. First-Year Seniors hosted Vespers in the Wigwam to the sound of rain before counselors led an extended Devotions Cabin Night. 

Thank you for sharing your daughters with Camp Nakanawa this summer!
 
Love,
 
Your Intermediate and Senior Counselors
Recognitions - Week 1
CategoriesNewsletters by

2021 Four Week Junior Newsletter – Week 2

Greetings from Camp Nakanawa!

We have had a wonderful week full of classes and special activities! Here is what we did in our second week at camp!
 
Monday:  This Monday, we had a regular class day filled with learning new skills and having fun.  We also had laundry day so no one has to worry about stinky clothes in their trunk or cabin!  Monday evening campers had their first rock meeting.  During their meetings, team leaders talked about kindness and respectfulness.  The teams also learned new cheers in preparation for the weekend meets.

Tuesday: This Tuesday, we continued the regular class schedule, rest hour, and free swim.  During free swim, some campers practice for Oklahoma!, swim, canoe, complete Arts and Crafts projects or help out at the nature hut. For Evening Entertainment, we wore our pajamas and took pillows and blankets to the Council House for movie night.   We loved watching Oklahoma! By the end of the movie, all of us were singing along with the movie.  

Wednesday: Wednesday was our free day for the week.  We enjoyed wearing our free day clothes to breakfast.  Right after breakfast, the 6th graders left for the Caney Fork River.  All had fun canoeing down the Caney Fork River.  Halfway down the river, the 6th graders enjoyed milk break. Everyone returned to camp for a much needed rest hour.   Back at camp, 5th graders canoed to the dam.  They enjoyed swimming and eating milk break at the dam.  3rd and 4th graders enjoyed time at nature and glee club.  Each group practiced their songs and dances for the Operetta with Mrs. Tiny. In Nature, the girls had fun building rat mazes for the baby rats and making a God’s eye craft.  They learned the four corners represent the four earth elements: earth, fire, air and water.  After rest hour, we enjoyed free swim and fun time in big/little sister cabin groups.  We did fun activities such as spa time, swimming and playing games.   For Evening Entertainment, we continued in our big/little sister groups and played human bingo.  We loved the fun competition as we tried to figure out home buttons on our shirts or which states we are from.  

Thursday: Thursday we had another wonderful day of classes.  We enjoyed practicing all the skills we are learning at camp.   We had a peaceful rest hour and fun free swim period.  At lunch, we were excited to learn that we could wear our jeans, boots and bananas to dinner as tonight was the Camp Nakanawa hoedown!  After dinner, we sashayed down to the riding arena for the fun event.  We enjoyed line dancing, pole riding (on noodles), water pong and Corn Hole.   We had some guest visitors: two adorable Nigerian Dwarf goats and some fortune tellers.  We loved hearing our fortunes as the mystics, Miranda and Misty read palms and cards.   We will learn more about the care of the cute goats as they will stay at the nature hut.  The wonderful hoedown ended with a cake raffle.  Cabins 3 and 14 enjoyed eating their cakes at milk break on Friday.

Friday: This Friday we awoke to thunder and expected a rainy day schedule.  However, the skies quickly cleared for another regular class day.  The only difference was free swim was pushed back to right before dinner so we could enjoy a yummy, hamburger cookout.  After a full day of classes, swimming and diving in the lake was lovely.  Friday evening we walked to Council Ring.  We enjoyed the story of the five grateful butterflies and fun relay races.  It was great to see so many girls getting recognized for working hard in their classes.  Posture recognitions were last.  We love to see so many girls with great posture.  Pepe ended our Council Ring by reminding us all to show kindness to everyone we encounter.

Weekend Fun:  This Saturday began with pep meetings for the Amazons and the Valkyries before everyone went down to the waterfront.  A brief thunderstorm moved part of the swimming meet inside.  The skies cleared for canoeing and diving to continue at the lake. Saturday afternoon, campers participated in a rotation of Archery, Tumbling and Wall meets.  After a  pleasant rest hour, campers played mass soccer during the games meet.  For Evening Entertainment, campers had fun looking for counselors hidden around camp.  On Sunday morning, we had our tennis meet, where the big side played Queen of the Court doubles style with serves, the middle side played simple Queen of the Court and the little side played jailbreak. All the campers had lots of fun playing tennis!  We loved seeing the big girls from Tent Row as they came over for church. We enjoyed hearing their thoughtful service.  After our long rest hour, we had a fun afternoon of “Olympic” games including an entertaining watermelon race in the lake! We ended our day with a peaceful Counselor Vespers by the lake. 

Activity Highlights 

Archery – We started scoring in archery, everyone starts with the first classification Lady Cluck, 50 points at 10 yards. After the campers finish the first classification, they move on to the next one. On the little side it is Piglet. And on big side it is Friar Tuck. 

Arts and Crafts – We began this week, painting the frame on our watermelon painting. We also enjoyed exploring with watercolors.  We sketched Lake Aloaloa and then watercolored our sketch.  6th graders have been busy in class and at free swim, planning and painting their lap boards.  

Canoeing – This week, the 6th graders have been learning how to do lines and landings in the canoe in order to become qualified sterns. We have two new qualified sterns who are beginning to start blading, which is canoeing by yourself. Our other classes have been adventure canoeing around Lake Aloaloa and playing games such as tug-o-war and Hungry, Hungry Hippos. 

Diving – This week we have continued to work on our front dives and going in head first. We have started to learn new dives along with perfecting our front dives. We are continuing to work towards our goal of every camper being able to enter the water head first.all Junior campers diving into the lake head first.

Games – This week, we started our tumbling which involves warming up to increase flexibility.  The basic skills we use for this are log and tuck rolls. We also introduced Chinese jump rope.  Friday, we played mass soccer.  This type of soccer involves four goals instead of two.  All these activities are in preparation for Saturday’s game meet.

Glee Club – We are busy working on blocking scenes and choreography for our Operetta.  We are learning our lines and lyrics too. Oklahoma! songs can be heard spilling from the council house all day!  We loved watching the movie Oklahoma! for Evening Entertainment. The movie helped us with our character development. We continue to learn new camp songs each week.

Nature – This week we had fun fishing and scooping.  Once we got our feet in the mud, we enjoyed scooping for minnows and water bugs! On Thursday, we started our teaching group projects. 3rd graders are building fairy villages in hopes that some Nakanawa fairies might return to camp.  4th graders are making root beer from sassafras roots.  This week they picked sassafras seedlings and then cleaned and hammered the roots in preparation for making the root beer.  5th graders are learning survival skill. This week they made an outdoor shelter using saplings and spruce branches.  6th graders are making walking sticks. This week they cut saplings and learned to safely whittle their  walking sticks.  We are also busy finding creatures around camp such as a Wolf spider, a Swallowtail butterfly, a Velvet ant and loads of toads!

Riding – In our second week at horseback riding, campers encountered great variety.   All campers have worked on comfort and confidence on horseback, and riders with balance and steering experience have attempted the posting trot.  The physical strength, coordination and mental demand on the rider aboard a bouncy horse is considerable; campers of all ages and sizes have trotted courageously and worked to master the rhythm of rising with the up/down beat of their mount’s trotting feet. Other equestrian tasks and skills presented include independent dismounting and leading horses safely to their stalls.  Some girls still hesitant to ride have worked as lunge line trainers with our miniature horse, Biscuit, and have finished all smiles after that new activity beside our young, patient riding counselors.

Swimming – This week, 6th graders started on Nakanawa Form Swimming.  Now 6th graders may choose form or competitive swimming during class. The rest of the classes did drills to help improve their leg strength, timing and stroke for the freestyle meet this weekend. We also played games such as Red Light/Green Light.  Many campers reached the goal of swimming one mile during free swim. 

Tennis – In the second week of camp, campers really improved their skills and enjoyed playing tennis. We started off with volleys on Monday and overhead smashes on Tuesday, so the girls could improve their net strokes and prepare for doubles. On Thursday and Friday, we focused on going over serves and returns. By the end of the week, the big side and middle side were playing doubles with serves, volleys and all the skills from this week. We had lots of fun!

Wall – This week, we started learning how to use the belay system correctly. Campers were shown how the system works, as well as how to use it if they were the one belaying. Campers began practicing for their wall meet this Saturday, which included bouldering on the wall with a tennis ball in one hand to increase difficulty. Campers also had time to practice around the world, which they must complete to be in the medal meet. Around the world is the hardest route in the wall. 
Thank you for sharing your daughters with Camp Nakanawa this summer!
 
Love,
 
Your Junior Counselors