Mike and I picked Erika up from her week at Camp Kemo today. It was an emotional day. I was determined not to let things bother me, but it didn't exactly work out that way. Erika had a great week, and it was very nice to watch her hug her way through the counselors, both past and present.
Woody got to me though! Woody Wolfe does the music at camp. Katie's first Camp Kemo was 10 years ago. We managed to get a cassette tape of his songs and we sang them constantly in my car, wore the tape out! Well, today, he sang her five favorite songs, and it really tore me up. Holly - thanks for the hug! I needed it. It was so overwhelming. Each child is divided by age group, and they each have a special name. Katie spent time as each special group - a feat I think that she can claim as her own. Jeannie Schmidt (the director of camp) may have to correct me, but I don't think anyone else has been a Peanut, Dolphin, Heartbreaker then in the Wolfpack.
The other thing that has had me weepy all day is the story of the campfire. I have never been there (parents only get invited to the final luncheon and singalong). But I heard... the first year Katie was at camp (10 years ago), she was asked to light the candle at the final campfire (it's the night before camp is over). She was six years old, just out of transplant, and such a tough cookie. Then, I found out that Erika was asked to light the candle last night - so I guess we've seen kind of the circle of light. Still chokes me up to even think about it.
Last year, Camp Kemo was Katie's last week of feeling pretty good. She had some problems (Meredith reminded me today about how bad her memory was back then), but still, she enjoyed her week. We're starting down that anniversary road this summer, and it is no fun. I miss her with my whole being...I know everyone does.
We'll be back at Camp Kemo (well, the Kinard Conference Center where Camp Kemo is held) in October for Camp New Horizons (the grief camp for kids like Erika). I'm glad we still have that connection, because next time Erika attends Camp Kemo, she will be a counselor in training. I want to name names for the people to thank for Camp Kemo but there are too many and I would feel awful if I left you out. Each one of you - from director to counselor to cook - is a special, special person.
Next week is a normal week, then on Sunday, June 28th Erika is headed to Camp Happy Days and Mike is going to Pennsylvania. Thanks for checking on us!
Love, Michele
