The newly designed Camp Alleghany entrance awaits your arrival. Photo: Camp Alleghany
Ever since I was a little girl I’ve looked forward in the spring to spending each summer at Camp Alleghany.
Over the years I had different reasons for looking ahead as the summer drew closer. But whether it was being a camper myself, meeting up with my cousins for family camp, or eventually becoming a counselor, one thing remained constant: That was the excited anticipation of another season spent at my favorite place in the whole world!
All grown up (sort of)
Now that I’m an assistant director, I find that those feelings are as alive as ever, only now I’m excited not only for myself and my family, but for each and every camper headed our way—to see old friends and make new ones.
Just last week I went down to camp to help get things on the ground ready for everyone. A great group of volunteers was ready to meet me on site. They did some of the really heavy lifting by getting the tents set up, aired out, tied on and otherwise made ship shape. This is always an inspiring sight to me. It’s when I can truly visualize that camp is really coming together and only weeks away!
Something that made this year especially exciting is seeing the new entrance finally completed. The beautifully laid stone and rustically carved Camp Alleghany sign were just such a delight to see fully finished. You’re going to love being greeted by this when you arrive.
Now that the weather is pretty warm, I couldn’t resist swimming in the Greenbrier River. Mason, my eight-month old son, went in with me. I’m sure you can imagine how thrilled I was to see him taking his first dip in my favorite river spot! Watching his sweet face light up and his little hands splash around made it clear that he’s going to love this special place just as much as me.
Down to work
But it wasn’t all fun and games. I also set up and strategized my office. Now I’m not saying this isn’t fun. But it’s a little more functional. It helps me figure out how to set up spaces to chat with counselors, get to my computer quickly, have a place for Mason should he stop by with his summer nanny, and craft that perfect system for having all my essentials—paperwork, walkie-talkies, the daily schedule—literally right where I need them right when I need them. And a few pictures on the walls to brighten up the place! (Okay, it actually was a little fun!)
Finally I checked in on a remodel that we’re psyched about. We redid the Infirmary—which looks amazing I might add. There’s a brand new bathroom in it and an overall remodel on the inside, with new ceiling fans on the front porch. When I say it’s very cool I mean it in more ways than one. Our full time doctor and nurse are sure to enjoy the comforts of the updated Infirmary.
Adding to my pre-camp pleasures were our nighttime campfires. This really got me in the summertime camp mood as I planned activities and pictured the camp full of ‘Ghany girls singing, laughing and having a blast under the twinkling West Virginia sky.
I can’t wait to see you!
—Elizabeth Dawson Shreckhise, Assistant Director, Camp Alleghany
Hi Elizabeth,
I enjoyed this blog..I could almost feel your excitement about the camp! I’m not a camper or mother of a camper, but am the proud mother of the one who designed the new entrance. He’s very creative if I say so myself! I’ve also heard alot about Mason and his excitement for the camp. 🙂 I hear he is a delight! Last year was the first I knew about the camp and this year I have a bitter/sweet feeling because one of your devoted workers from last year sits in my living room with a heart towards Camp Allegany! 🙂 He misses it. We hope this is a wonderful season for all the staff and campers alike!
Donna O’Dell
Donna, we truly miss Gary too and we are praying for him! Garrett has been such a blessing to camp, the new entrance is just a fraction of the amazing work he has done here. And he’s not only a hard worker, but such a KIND person! A testament to how he was raised :). I hope to meet you in person soon!
Elizabeth,
I loved reading this entry today! Bennett and I just went to get supplies for her first mini camp adventure! She is SO excited. She’s been asking me for several days when we are heading down there! I can’t believe this time next week she’ll be there! Can I just say that Hutch is VERY unhappy you all don’t take boys! Can’t wait to see you all soon! Give Mason a big hug!
We can’t wait to see you, either! Can’t believe the last time you saw Mason he was 6 weeks old. Safe travels and see you soon!
7 summers at Camp Alleghany were the best summers of my childhood!!
Tina, come join us at Family Camp to relive some of those memories!
Hi Elizabeth! I’ve been reminiscing about my years at ‘Ghany and catching up on this fun new blog…so many wonderful memories from the summers spent at camp! Hope you have a wonderful summer! 🙂 (Oh yeah, and go Grays!!)