We dropped Sarah off at church camp Sunday, and I’m missing her so much.  I haven’t been able to teach at camp the past few years because of scheduling, then the birth of Camille.  This year, I was planning to stay the whole week – but then the move happened.  Last year, Rachel was a jr. counselor, so Sarah wasn’t there by herself.  It’s tougher on me this year.  Rachel isn’t a counselor this year because I couldn’t commit to anything for July way back in April.  By the time I knew we’d still be here for camp, they didn’t need her as a counselor.  She’s upset about it – feeling left out again.  She’ll be okay.

Usually, I visit camp at mid-week, but since the fourth of July is this week, we’re going to spend it with DH, then return on Thursday.  We'll pick Sarah up on Friday.  I hope she’s using her insect repellant and drinking plenty of water.  She’s so prone to getting sick when she’s away from home.

I love our church camp.  It’s dreadfully hot… and the bugs are a real pest… but it’s such a relaxing experience.  The week is full of singing, bible study, games, skits… fun stuff.  The only thing I dislike about camp is the awards ceremony on Friday night.  For some reason, the camp directors insist on giving “Best ______” awards.  This really makes my skin crawl from memories of PS.  The same kids usually get awards - either the “perfect” kids or the “troubled” kids who need encouragement.  Everyday, good, well-behaved, “normal” kids get no recognition and leave wondering why they weren’t chosen as “Best Cabin Camper”, etc.  Even if/when my kids are recognized, I fail to see the good in it.  Usually, the contest is based on popularity.  In fact, one year when I was a camp staff member, we met to discuss the children who would receive awards.  Many of the kids were voted as “Best ____” more then once.  In past years they received awards, so the directors decided to rotate them to other awards since they received so many in the past – to one they haven’t received yet.  On the other hand, there are many children who’ve NEVER received an award.  I just wish they’d do away with all the “recognition” awards.  No child should leave camp feeling inadequate.  I will make that known this year – even though we’re moving – for the benefit of other kids who will be there in future years.  So, there's my gripe of the week.

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Posted by mijubrifarms

My oldest (20yoDS) is doing an internship in DC this summer and I miss him so much! And I can't stop worrying about him. Are you getting enough to eat? Did you make any friends yet? Are the other kids being nice to you?....It doesn't change. Tonight I'm worrying about him to the extreme. He was going to a concert on the Mall and he hasn't returned my email yet? My brain's wondering if he got beat up and which hospital is he lying in!!! How silly. This is a great opportunity for him, and I know he'll be successful.

Reading your more recent posts, my heart aches for you and Rachel. You said in one blog "But can I meet her needs when we’re so opposite? Surely if the Lord brings me to this realization, He will equip me to do what I need to do." He has and he will. You are her mother. If G-d thought someone else could do a better job preparing Rachel, he would have given her to them. You may have hit the nail on the head that you're trying to her like YOU. Both of you are "fearfully and wonderfully made", but not to be the same person. Help Rachel become Rachel.
Maybe you both just need a rest. Let her put away the school books for a while and spread her wings; you might be suprised where she flies.

I know I'm a stranger and just one of a million people in the blogospher, so I have no right to give you unsolicited advice, bu I beg you to please, please consider your options before putting Rachel in PS. I know you're tired and feeling like a failure but that's not true. You may just have to do things differently. Just don't give her up with out researching all your options and ideas. If you need some encouragement, someone to talk to more, or even just some ideas from past experiences, just pop on over, read some of my blogs, email me, anything. I'm not perfect, neither are my kids, but we've been there.

Keeping you & Rachel (and Sarah) in prayer.
Julie

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Posted by floridasunsets

I am so with you on that award thing. I worry sometimes that kids are being taught that there's no reward for being average or "normal." Or worse yet, if there is no reward at the end, why bother even trying. Like, If I can't be volunteer of the year, then I don't want to volunteer at all. Too much emphasis on material treasure instead of spiritual.

By the way, have you hugged Rachel today? Give her one from us, too. Fourteen is a tough age these days.

Betty
Galatians 6:9

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