Bridget - Age 13

Hello my name is Bridget, I'm 13 years and I've been going to camp Emerson for four years, 2014 will be my fifth. This is my camp story.

Some would say I'm obsessed with camp, my response is always "can you blame me?”. All the festivities going on there's never a dull moment. With over 50 activities to choose from, camp provides hours of endless fun. However, every year I find myself counting down to camp day by day not only for the amazing activities but, for the people.

Camp is a unique place where you can be you and you’re celebrated for it. There, I found out who I really was and who I aspire to be. From a young age I've been venturing to camp every summer and I find role models in not only the counselors but also some campers. Everyone there is accepting and truthfully just wants you to have fun. In time of sadness you never have to look far for open arms comforting you.

My first year was Azalea year, 2010 I was 10. That year I was very homesick. Whenever I felt sad my counselors would always be there; they became like family. I found my friends fast and they're my best friends today. Fast forward to today in 2013 four years from my first encounter with camp I can honestly say I'm campsick. I miss camp. You grow so close to counselors and campers that I can't picture my life without them. They're not my friends though; they're my sisters and brothers. Endless memories are created there that I know I will never forget. I don't think I can ever explain to anyone how much camp means to me. It's my oasis, my home away from home.

Camp Emerson is the highlight of every year for me. I could never explain enough how caring, loving, hilarious, kind, generous, amazing people surround camp and fill the camp atmosphere with nothing less than that; I just wouldn't give it justice. I strongly believe that camp friends are lifelong friends with no exaggerations. I think everyone should have the opportunity to go to camp and I consider myself very lucky to be able to go summer after summer.

Before camp I was a shy little girl, now I'm not afraid to be myself. I'm outgoing and frankly a little crazy, but in a good way. From daily activities to trip days, to special event days, color wars, or even a rainy day in the bunk there is NEVER a dull moment. Camp has framed my personality and has motivated me to do so much more than I ever thought was possible. Easily my favorite place on Earth.