Third session is officially underway! The sky was cloudy and overcast today but that couldn’t dampen our spirits as we kicked off what is sure to be a great session of camp. All morning long we had the opportunity to see so many familiar faces and also to meet many new ones. It’s exciting to watch old friends reuniting and just as exciting to see the seeds of new friendships being sown. After checking in and enjoying a picnic lunch with their cabin, all of the guys headed down to Lake Newcomb for the swim check. 

After the swim check we all made our way to the council ring where we held our tribal initiation ceremony. This is a very special time where first year boys join either the Black Bear or the Golden Eagle tribe. Our two tribes at camp are a huge part of camp life and they represent a great opportunity for our new guys to find a sense of belonging and camaraderie right away. Each night the two tribes come together to compete in legendary games as they strive for the ultimate prize at camp, the banner. The Golden Eagles are eager to continue their winning ways after securing the second session banner, while the Black Bears are hungry for redemption. The slate is wiped clean and the competition begins anew tonight. We were thrilled to welcome a great new group of guys into their tribe this afternoon. 

Our new Black Bears are: Joaquin G, Hays B, Daniel N, Ellis D, Wells B, Pipe RC, Preston R, Ryan W, Gibbs C, Jake L, Christian N, Pace R, Rodrigo RC, Charlie P, Jack VT, Nico GV, Mateo GV and Porter B

Our new Golden Eagles are: Declan H, Whit A, Reed S, Collier C, Zimmer W, Franco G, Sam R, Brooks A, Beckett B, Ryan C, Alejandro G, Will C, Max S, Graham N, Luke W and Easton H

After devouring a delicious dinner of spaghetti and meatballs, breadsticks and broccoli, listening to the rules talk and doing a quick fire drill, we were ready for the games to begin! Our first competition of the session was the world famous game of Sock War! Picture a giant, capture the flag style game where you throw socks at your opponent to tag them out and you can get a basic idea of how it works. With both tribes vying for an early lead in the banner competition, tonight’s game was spirited and tightly contested. 

As the boys settle down for a well earned night’s rest, I’m struck by how lucky we are here at Timberlake to be in this special place together among such great campers and staff. The fun is just getting started here. Please be sure to check back in each night for updates on all the adventures here at camp, and thank you for sharing your sons with us this summer. 

John

Director, Camp Timberlake

Sultan of Fun Emeritus

Ozzie Albies Enthusiast

Sock War Strategist

Proud Golden Eagle.