The morning comes, creeping into cabins like a silent invader. As children wake, they see friends, once strangers, all part of a large family. They smell fresh morning dew clinging to the grass. A bell rings excitedly, calling all to the warm, steaming food of breakfast: golden pancakes, browned sausage and bright yellow eggs, each delicious in its own special way. After everyone eats, the morning's games commence: thrilling, fast and fun. The activities come next, with something for all: arts and crafts, archery and riflery, horseback riding and canoeing. Time flies, and noon draws near.

Lunch--another gathering of people, both young and old. Into the dining hall bursts laughter, singing and shouting. Sounds of eating fill the gigantic room: silverware and dishes clacked together, and soup slurped from spoons. For an hour afterwards, the children digest their food, talk with friends or listen to loud music pounding in the cabin, making people's ears throb to the beat. Soon after more activities comes free swim, an opportunity to jump into an icy cold pool during the hot summer day, and float on top or swim to the bottom. Water covers every body part, refreshing and soothing.

The summons to dinner rings out, the bell sending its sound bouncing across the camp. What will the cooks serve tonight? Maybe everyone will dine on spicy BBQ ribs or crunchy fried chicken. With every plate cleaned, the dining hall empties and the Tribal Game begins. The object? To have competitive fun, running with the wind as it whips through tall grasses at the edge of camp. Cunning Indians, warrior Dragons, stealthy Tigers and daring Panthers all compete in the game, to play as best they can and win points for their tribe. They charge onto enemy turf like attacking Vikings of old, dodging defenders, their minds focused on their goal.

After the exhilirating game, the campfire roars to life. Finished with their candy and soda, everyone joins together once more. Singing nonsensical songs and yelling silly chants, they release their noisy energy into the evening sky, allowing it to blow away anywhere the wind will take it. Shortly, with brushed teeth and washed faces, the children will settle into bed. As cabin lights go out, they fall asleep, waiting peacefully for tomorrow and all that it holds.

this essay was originally written on 4.18.95 as an english assignment when i was in eighth grade. the object was to "write a paragraph in which you describe your favorite place. describe in detail all the images associated with this place... sound, smell, taste, touch, sight." i have slightly revised a few sections.

calvary page back home