I can’t believe there’s only one more day of camp. I may be more exhausted than I’ve ever been in my entire life, but I kind of want this to last forever. It’s amazing to see how much the boys have learned since Monday. They schooled the coaches in the adults versus kids scrimmage today. The campers even took turns pitching, which really impressed me. How many ten year olds do you know that can at least somewhat consistently throw strikes?
Thursday was also water day, which was super fun. The water balloon launcher was exciting, but no one could get enough of the slip-n-slide. Complete with soap to increase speed, it kept the boys and coaches entertained for hours. Returning campers informed me of the correct way to slide and how to go the fastest. I didn’t win any races, but hey, if I ever wanted to slide into home plate, I’d know how.
Tonight was one of the favorite activities of camp: the Curve game. The Altoona Curve is a double A baseball affiliate for the Pirates. Not only was there an all-you-can-eat buffet, but the boys also got to be introduced with the players, run onto the field with them, and get a baseball signed. Because this wasn’t an outing that happened last year, it was a new experience for the vast majority, and they loved it. Throughout the actual game, two foul balls were retrieved, a bunch of stadium food consumed, and lots of crazy cheers created. It was a total blast.
One of my favorite parts of the game was hearing the boys instruct players using what they’d learned throughout the week. From Run through first base! to That’s a double play, I loved seeing the kids recognize the things they’ve been taught and try to teach others. And it’s not just baseball either. From how to receive free food (“Where’d you get that funnel cake?” “I found it.”) and correct outside playing preparations (“Hey, I didn’t get any sunscreen.”) to how to make new friends and not to be discouraged through an unfortunate situation, these boys teach us so much. The coaches and other staff instruct in base running and keeping score and being kind and playing fair, but I’m pretty sure the boys show us two new things for every one they learn. These campers are so smart. They’ve brought so much to my life. I don’t even know exactly what; just so, so much. I will truly miss them; I already do just thinking about it. There’s only one more day of Camp 2016, but 2017 is just around the corner. That’s a good thing; there’s so much more I need to learn.
