Picking Up the Kids from Camp

Monday morning we went to pick up the kids from camp. As soon as we got parked, Ashley and her three people came out to see us. She was mainly interested in getting in our car. I think she wanted to make sure we didn’t leave without her. Her counselor said they had ups and downs, but overall she did well and enjoyed some things about camp. This is more than we hoped for with Ashley, especially with not having air conditioning. They reassured me that the main campsite is fully air conditioned and would probably be a better placement for her. Then one of the girls stayed with Ashley in the car, while I went to find Hailey and Josh. Hailey was happy and excited; she said she didn’t want to leave. The first thing out of Josh’s mouth was, “Can I come back next year?” Evidently they made a lot of friends and had a blast. Camp Barnabas gives each family a DVD with highlights from the week. So we were able to watch clips of the activities and see our kids having fun. Everybody we met there was so happy and friendly. There was a great energy to the camp. Nobody looked overwhelmed. Many people came up to me and said how much they enjoyed our kids and that they hoped to see them again next year. It was just an amazing experience. My children were well cared for and had a great time being in a wonderful Christian environment, I couldn’t ask for anything more. I’m certain some of the greatest people in the world work for and volunteer at Camp Barnabas. I’ve never seen so many people that enthusiastic to be with special needs children. The presence of God was evident from the first phone call to the camp office; all the way through picking up our children on the last day of camp- every interaction was uplifting, positive, and encouraging. We went into it looking for respite for us, but I truly believe every special needs child and their family should have the opportunity to be blessed by Camp Barnabas. I cannot say enough good things about the experience. I told Hailey and Josh that they would definitely go back next year. In the meantime they have all, including Ashley, been watching the camp DVD and remembering all the fun they had. And I am happy to report Ashley not only survived, but actually did really well, and I don’t see any signs of her being traumatized by the experience. Originally posted July 2011