Days: Pieces of the Camp Gilgal experiences in three vignettes

Jon A., Age 15

1. Orientation
    It’s been a long drive today. Starting off from LA, we have twisted and turned ourselves almost 1/3 of the state.
    As we drive up, we are greeted enthusiastically by all who have come up before us, with window bangings and the joyful cries of reunited friends.
When assigned to cabins, the new arrivals look around pensively, not knowing yet what to expect from their freshly assigned companions.
We eat our first meal, getting to know our fellow tribesmen a little better.
Later in the evening, we hear from some of our leaders’ life stores, specifically of their experiences with camp.

2. Yosemite
After we eat breakfast, we are instructed to pack our own lunches.
                              Speculations abound about what the day will hold.
We pile up into vans. The fuss over who sits with whom is ever present.
We finally drive up into Yosemite itself, and veer left unto Glacier Point.
Half Dome awaits us – tall, majestic and unmoved.
               We squirm our way through a camp photo.
                              We eat our lunch.
Quick detour for souvenirs, and then it’s a hike down Glacier Point to Yosemite Valley.
                A whole 4.6 miles.
Depending on constitution and energy, the hike is either     
                massive fun or a grueling march.
                              Sometimes, a little of both.
At the end, we return home, hungry for a very late supper.

3. Vons

Thinking of grocery shopping, several words may come to mind:
                                        Dull
                                        Well-Stocked
                                        Efficient.
Rarely would anyone call a grocery outing ‘fun’ – that is, unless one is a Camp Gilgal camper.
We are in the pool when it starts.
     Lunch had been wonderful, and most were enjoying a swim.
Thus, when greeted by a sign telling us to grab clothes, money and shoes and to flee to the cars,
it takes us completely by surprise.
As we board up and drive, speculations of where we are going are shouted like cheers at a race.
After the veteran campers recognize the venue, EVERYONE is excited – first time or not.
We overran the store with our fun. 
               The independence of shopping for one’s self is a novelty.
As purchases are made, treats are shared;
                           ice cream, sorbet, sushi, chips and cookie dough.
                                           A feast.
We finally leave, laden with our purchases and on our toes for the next surprise.