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Hey guys so this blog is a little different to my others. I've now completed phase 1 of my trip and though I will miss camp life, I feel like I'm ready to move on to my exploration of the rest of America. So here's a short reflection on camp Merrie-Woode. Hope you like! Xx
I've decided it's true what they say. "When the end is near, you start reflecting back to the start and the road along the way." It's also true that "time flys when you're having fun." It's now been seventy three days since I left Australia and first stepped into the world of Merrie-Woode. People often ask me how I found Merrie-Woode, but the truth is Merrie-Woode found me and for that, I am forever thankful. I had never heard of the place nor did I have any idea what to expect. When I first drove through those gates, I just thought I was going to an all girls camp in North Carolina that was in the hills and set on a lake. Seventy three days later, I realize I was wrong. Merrie-Woode has become more then a simple means to a gap year. I took a gap year for two reasons: One, discover the world, and two, discover myself. I believe at Merrie-Woode part of this goal has been completed. I have called Merrie-Woode my home for the last two and a bit months, it has pushed me to limits I never knew I had, it's helped me learn things I never would have otherwise, and most importantly, it has changed me. Two months ago I never would have had the courage to stand in front of three hundred people and embarrass myself on purpose. Merrie-Woode is an atmosphere where you just get to be a kid again. You don't wear makeup and you don't have to impress anyone. How often do you get to dress up and have dance parties on tables and wear spandex and wacky accessories just because you simply feel like it. Also Two months ago I never thought that I would be able to teach people things and have them actually listen to me. I now understand that feeling teachers get when they see that lightbulb go on when a kid finally gets what you've been trying to teach them. Lastly, two months ago I never thought that I would have been a role model. I realize now that these kids actually look up to me and that I am having an impact on their lives. They hang off every word you say and they imitate what you do. It's remarkable watching these girls progress and grow throughout the summer and knowing that you've contributed to it brings a smile to my face.
So as I leave camp in a few days and go back into the "real" world, I know that camp will never leave me. It will always hold a special spot within my heart, as will also the friends that I have made here. To you guys, I cannot thank you enough for contributing to the best summer of my life. We've shared countless days of memories, laughter and even tears. love y'all and will miss you lots! <3 Remember, "It's not goodbye, and just goodnight."
- comments
Nadine T fizzle. I can't believe your finished at camp already ! Sounds Like you had an amazing time. Miss you ! And keep us posted !x
Diane Wow Tarryn that was really nice, and yes you are going back INTO the "real" world but you are not going back TO the "real" world, you have still got a great adventure in front of you, try everything you can and see the most of everything. Don't rush back, cos when you do you WILL be back TO the real world. Enjoy
Lynette It has always been a pleasure reading your blogs but i must say that I totally enjoyed reading this one, your experience at Merri Woode will always be part of you, now you must go and explore more of the real world as you call it and enjoy new adventures. Safe travelling and have a great time. x
Jo-anne A well written piece from the heart. Another chapter of your life about to close and a new door opens to the next chapter travelling America and Europe. Enjoy the experience. Look forward to the next blog. Love mum xo