What’s up TimberSquad,

We’re glad you’re tuning in to another epic blog documenting the exciting news here at Camp Timberlake! The day kicked off with the essentials: French toast sticks and crispy bacon. Afterwards, the daily morning yell had a familiar, yet breathtaking loudness. Some say it was heard all the way on the moon.

Following the yell, the boys headed up to an electric chapel, featuring Timberlake hits like “In His Name,” “Sing Hosanna,” and of course, the legendary Camp Hymn. John closed us out with a powerful story from his time in Nicaragua, recalling the start of the rainy season when his house flooded. He tied it into the reflective question: “Who is man?” John compared mankind to a leaky roof, a structure weakened by sin that reminded us that only the Lord above is a perfect roof for us.

While chapel was in full swing, several groups set out for exciting off-campus adventures. First up: whitewater rafting! Christian C., Owen S., Johny R., Hayden D., Henry L., Will W., Davis M., Carter S., Luke M., and Parker S. hit the rapids, and judging by their smiles on the way back, it was a great memory made. Meanwhile, a group of mostly Greybeard and Little Piney campers, Mac S., Richard F., Thomas R., Bay J., Cian M., Eli V., Geo P., Matthew A., Oliver G., and Will B. explored the underground world on a spelunking trip, a brand-new adventure for many. Lastly, another crew went hiking and rock-sliding at Upper Creek Falls, with Weston E., Micah J., Allen B., Mica A., Patrick H., and Charlie H. soaking in an epic day of natural waterslides and jumps.

Back at camp after an intense cabin cleanup, the boys were off to morning activities! A few highlights: Robert R. completed his fitness bronze. Over at archery, Harrison C. knocked out his 20-yard silver groupings and landed a few at 30 yards. Ryan H. continued his quest for gold, securing multiple 40-yard groupings.

Then came lunch, and the energy stayed high because jambalaya was on the menu! One of camp’s favorites, served alongside fried okra, cornbread, and, of course, WATER! After the feast, we had a round of exciting announcements. John opened with cabin inspection scores, ending in a three-way tie between Turtleback, Little Slaty, and Greybeard all scoring a phenomenal 9.75! After some announcements about free-time activities (and a moment where John almost forgot!), it was time for the big reveal: “The winner of Ultimate Basketball is… THE GOLDEN EAGLES!!!” The Tuck erupted in a thunderous celebration as the Eagles sang their tribe hymn in victory. The Black Bears will surely be plotting their redemption.

Following rest time, the guys scattered across camp for free time: bullseyes at archery, intense pickleball matches, and all the beach classics such as gaga ball, tetherball, 9 square, spikeball, and beach volleyball. Everyone brought the energy.

In the afternoon activity block, Liles F. and Henry M. both caught fish in their first-ever fishing class! Despite some rain, the water activities pivoted into spikeball showdowns, and Ryan H. returned with a completed silver in the new activity of Cricket. The archery range kept up its momentum, with Reid S. earning his bronze and Asher C. entered “the zone” stacking up several bronze groupings. Grant B. took down some counselors in 1v1 basketball as well. All across camp, boys were getting their first taste of the Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday activity lineup and the vibes were sky-high as they transitioned through each new experience. Dinner wrapped up with an amazing meal of chicken fajitas with rice which is the perfect close to a packed and exciting day. 

As I write this, all of camp is heading up to the Mark for the infamous Battle Ball! Tune in for tomorrow’s blog to find out which tribe dominates in both Junior and Senior Camp, but for now, the anticipation must rise.

Until Tomorrow,
Charlie Vedder
Turtleback Counselor
Proud Golden Eagle
“Cheddar”