The first full day of Session 3B is here, and what an adventure it’s already been! The excitement around camp was electric long before the sun peeked out and over teh mountains. We kicked off the morning with a hearty breakfast of biscuits, sausage links, breakfast potatoes, and fluffy scrambled eggs, washed down with orange juice or apple juice. But of course we never forget a glass of water, because hydration never takes a vacation.

Energized and ready to roll, campers launched straight into the morning yell, which echoed across Timberlake like a rallying cry you could probably hear all the way down in Black Mountain! Chapel followed shortly after, complete with the very popular songs “Pharaoh, Pharaoh” and “Banana Song” that had everyone singing along. 

Next up came one of camp’s fiercest daily competitions: cabin clean-up. Today’s reigning champs were none other than the mighty men of Big Piney! Well done boys, you set the bar high! Second place was Turtleback and the cabins of Greybeard and Tomahawk tied for 3rd place today. 

The morning continued with campers diving into their first activities of Session 3. There were plenty of standout moments: Oliver G got his Bronze in Riflery and Christopher J,  got his in bronze in Guitar. Not just individual moments but in fencing class, campers learned basic footwork and bladework.

Lunch kept spirits high with cheesy slices of pepperoni and cheese pizza, crisp Caesar salad, and fresh fruit. As plates emptied, the results of last night’s tribal sock war were announced: the Golden Eagles took the victory! Don’t worry, Black Bears, redemption is just around the corner. 

As the afternoon continued, Senior campers enjoyed a refreshing dip in the lake while the rest of camp enjoyed gaga ball, tether ball, and other exciting free time activities! There were also 3v3s in airsoft today! We also sent out some exciting off-property adventures. A group of campers took on a whitewater rafting trip, including Ford C, Banks D, Russel M, Chance M, Titus W, Jack C, Liles F, Mason L, Tommy W, Powers T, Kai J, and Pierce S. Another trip we had was for fly fishing, and the Boys who got to go on that trip are David L, Tyler R, Cole E, Evan F, Ben R, and J. Taggart A.

Dinner was the perfect way to end such a big day, with Brisket sandwiches, corn casserole, and baked beans, followed by a delicious red velvet cookie. With bellies full, campers gathered to play one of camps favorite games, El Presidente. Who will win? Black Bears. Golden Eagles. We find out tomorrow.

From conquering rapids to hitting bullseyes and discovering new strengths, Timberlake campers are off to an incredible start. Here, every challenge turns into a triumph, and every laugh, meal and accomplishment shared brings us closer together. The magic of camp is just beginning, stay tuned for even more adventures and memories to come!

Briyon McGhee

Finch’s Landing Counselor

Proud Black Bear