Summer camp has had such a positive impact on my life, and I couldn't ask for a better place to help me grow up. Returning to my camp, Camp Bountiful, is something I will forever look forward to because it is such a beautiful and peaceful place. Having no cell phone signal there really sucks sometimes, but I wouldn't want it any other way. The campfires and other adventures are so great mostly because of the beautiful scenery we're given. I love that this campground that's "tucked in the hills of Ohio" can become such a spiritual and sacred place for many.

To my counselors,

You are real troopers for putting up with our shenanigans for this many years. I love you all for the wonderful people you are. I've never felt so safe opening up to someone until I met you guys. Every one of you has influenced who I am in some way or another and I know I can always count on you. Thank you for the prayers and the constant, unconditional love. Who would've thought that the people I've looked up to for so many years would also become some of my best friends?

To the campers that I'm now on staff for,

Don't take this time for granted. Know that we're all here for you and want to help you with anything you need help with. Life is going to be hard sometimes and that's okay, but you'll soon learn that everyone that you are with do care about you and want to help you make it better. Try to follow the rules because they're put there for you to have a good time, especially the "cell phones stay in the cabin rule." Really though, it's just one week. I know that you think sometimes that we're annoying and want us to go away, but we just want you to find the same love and experiences that we've all found. Take advantage of every moment you get as a camper because the time is limited and you will miss it.

and last of all,

To my friends,

I'm so happy that I've gotten to grow up with you guys. We may have met at camp, but our friendships extend so far past that. Looking back, all of my best summer memories are with you all. Throughout all of the fights, hugs, tears, and laughs, there isn't a single thing I would take away. We've been through it all together. You have been the most supportive and loving group of people and I'm so lucky to call each of you my friends. Thank you for all of the vacations, holidays spent together, 3am phone calls, and random trips just to visit. Although we have done a few too many things we probably shouldn't have, when we look back twenty years from now, we'll be glad we did.

Lots of love,

Me