Teen Week Heroes

“The world is an uncertain realm, filled with danger. Truth despoiled by broken promises. Honor undermined by the pursuit of gold. Freedom sacrificed when the weak are oppressed by the strong. But there are those who oppose these powerful forces. Those who dedicate their lives to truth, honor, and freedom. They are a constant reminder to all of us. That such a life is not just possible, but necessary to our continued survival.”* These heroes are known as Teen Campers 2010.

            Teen week was filled with incredible young men and women, with people who had the courage to change the world. One young teen camper who struggled with his weight was with his cabin at the rock wall. No one seemed excited. Determined to uphold the enthusiasm of camp, the boy decided he would attempt the seemingly impossible. Through much sweat, diligence, and encouragement from his cabin, the unlikely hero reached the top of the wall. Who would have known that scaling a rock wall would be a proclamation? The teen’s valor was a reminder that it’s not the exterior, but the courage within that makes us heroes.

            Sabbath morning we saw another heroic scene. A boy was afraid he could not participate in the activities of the day. During a vigorous session of BMX, he had hurt his knee, and a hike sounded like a painful experience instead of a peaceful one. However, his cabin decided they wanted him to be a part of their activities. So, out came a stretcher, and though the hike was long and tiring, no one in the cabin minded the extra weight of caring their friend. “No man should be left behind, it just wouldn’t be right,” they said. Putting others before one’s self, that is a true example of greatness.

            Josh was one of those guys who everyone seems to respect. His charismatic aura made him a likeable leader. Popularity can easily get to someone’s head, but Josh didn’t misuse the adoration. Counselors do their best to uphold Christian standards at camp, but often friendly reminders are taken with defensive attitudes and anger, especially during teen camp. So, when in a moment of absentmindedness a kid misused God’s name, staff took a deep breath preparing for the repercussion of addressing the matter. Josh beat them to the punch though, “Hey, we don’t talk like that, okay?” Staff were dumfounded at the response, “Totally my bad, sorry Josh!” It was inspiring to see a camper stand up to his peers for his beliefs. His peers saw him as someone worthy of their respect, a guy not afraid to do what was right, and as an everyday hero.

            Hero. Common first thoughts after hearing the word range from the three musketeers with wars and chivalry, to costumed Spiderman with webs and bravery. I wonder though,  if we have completely skewed the idea of being a hero. Were not we all called…called to stand up, to fight for what is right, and to be noble and courageous for God? Teen camp reminded me of vital a truth- I can be a hero. Each and every one of us is called for something great, we do not need swords or superpowers to make a difference, we have something far superior. All we need is God, with Him in our hearts, we can change the world!

*"The Three Musketeers Movie Script, Trailer and Download at MyMovieScripts.com."

MyMovieScripts.com - Movie Script Database. Web. 02 Aug. 2010. .  

Last and Loving It

Growing up in America, competition is something that seems to be bred into us. To get a good job, good spouse, good life, we are told we have to climb our way to the top. The survival of the fittest and the weakest link are examples of ideas all around us, pushing Americans forward, to gain success at any cost. Here at Sunset Lake we haven’t escaped this way of thinking, there is evidence of it all around us. Yet in the competitions, we are reminded that there is a power that trumps all without contention.

Meals are inevitably a time for competitive spirits to show. Counselors do their best to keep campers quiet, in hopes that as the letters are passed out for order of eating, they will receive a first slot. One supper, a boy’s counselor was very disappointed as they received a “G”. There was almost a sense of failure as he realized how long it would be until he could pile his plate with Ramon’s delicious food. But while sitting there dejectedly waiting for food, a conversation was sparked. The campers started asking their counselor about his relationship with God and why he believed. After an amazing chance to witness it was suddenly their turn to eat. The counselor realized that if they had gotten their food earlier, the campers might have been too preoccupied with their food to ask him about God. Suddenly, “G” was a perfect letter and the counselor was reminded that some things are more important than eating first.

Nolan Baker, the canoe instructor, is sure to be the next Eric B. Hare. His story telling is superb, his sound affects and creative voices could turn even the dullest story into a great adventure. But Nolan enjoys telling fun exciting stories. While taking his canoeing class on a trip, he decided to fill some time by telling them a story. While they road in the back of the hay wagon, he told of Goldilocks turned Red Riding Hood. He wove a hilarious tale that all the campers we enraptured by; understandably, Nolan was rather proud of his success. The next day however, when Nolan was asked for another story, nothing popped into his head. So, he told the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Even though some knew the story well, every camper was on the edge of their hay bale when the three were thrown into the crackling fire, and there was a simultaneous sigh of relief as they walked out unsinged . At the end of the week, it was the three Hebrew that campers were still talking about instead of the three bears. Nolan was reminded that no creativity or humor can compete with the awesomeness of God.

Competition is something that greatly plagues our day and age. Even within the church there seems to be competition: who shows up at church regularly, who volunteers the most, or donates the most money. But when we take a step back we are reminded that there is something much greater than “winning” here on Earth. Mark 10:31 say, “But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” God’s plans far exceed any of our short viewed ideas of winning. At Sunset Lake we are all learning that in God’s plans, sometimes getting “G” is better than an “A.”

Child of God—Energy

As staff at Sunset Lake, we have a mission to change lives and show children God. But often the shoe ends up on the other foot, and it is our lives that are changed. Children, in all their innocence and sincerity, often are some of the brightest examples of God.

                Only kids would excitedly rush to take each other’s trays to the counter. The enthusiasm during recreation period is contagious as giggles echo through the ball field. Kids have a liveliness  to be marveled at.  Though their physical energy is astounding, I wonder at their spiritual energy even more.  Their passion for God, for others, and for life in general is inspiring.

                Last week, during a wakeboarding class, the boat had a problem. Stuck in the middle of the lake, wet and not able to wakeboard, the situation seemed prone to a bout of complaining and unhappy children waiting to be rescued. Quickly, though, it became obvious we had poorly underestimated these kids. There was no crying or murmuring; in fact, there was an extremely optimistic, helpful spirit. Instead of waiting to be towed out, the children volunteered to swim the boat ashore. Their valiant act was greatly appreciated.

                Understandably, I have been moved by the children’s zeal. Watching them run up a hill to get front row seats for worship made me wonder —why we are not the same way at church? Have we lost the excitement for Jesus? Why do we drag our feet when the VBS at our church needs volunteers? How come we have to dutifully schedule in that time for devotions? Why? …I think a big part of it is we have lost that child-like enthusiasm.

                Luke 18:17 says, "Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it at all." Often we take this text as referring to children’s unquestioning faith and trust, and I believe those are important. Yet, perhaps Jesus was also talking about the passion of children. Their excitement and wonder for Him are qualities I believe as Christians we should all strive for. Working here at Sunset Lake Camp, my life has been touched through the smiling faces of God’s children.

Fabulous First

Hi, my name is Shelina. My exposure to blogging is limited…perhaps that is an understatement. I have rarely read blogs and definitely never written one. “So why did they pick her for this job?” you might be wondering. Well, it’s because Sunset Lake is a place for adventures, growing, and new opportunities. And so I begin my first blog.

The “firsts” of our lives are often moments that shape us forever. From little things, like trying a Paw-Paw fruit, to more significant, like the first time I preached a sermon, new experiences are bright spots in our lives. Sunset Lake is where I first got up on a wakeboard. Within minutes of my triumphant water flight the entire staff knew of my success; how could I not share the thrill? The exhilaration of firsts is irreplaceable.

Adventure Camp was a week of new experiences for staff and campers alike. Caitlin taught her first class of basketry. Michael braved his first week away from home. And thirteen campers left Sunset with a very special first, their first Bible.  

Leading Bible study this week, I was blown away by the excitement of some of the kids. I found that for many children the Bible Study brought firsts. New stories were enthusiastically received, from the fiery furnace to Nehemiah. Friday night the play depicted Paul’s story. Staff had been working hard and planning all week for this special night and with a heavy bout of rain expectations seemed dashed. The play had to be quickly relocated inside, and with the change things did not run as smoothly as had been hoped.

One of God’s first lessons for us at camp happened that night. When the play closed campers were invited to come to the feet of Jesus. Campers flocked to the front kneeling at the cross to give their lives to God. The play had not gone as perfect as planned but God taught us that His Spirit can more than make up for our short comings. Looking around at the sincerely bowed heads I thought of all the firsts that week, first canoe ride, first time riding a horse or climbing a wall… so many firsts. But at that moment I was privileged enough to witness the most important first of all, giving your life to God. It was an incredible beginning to what will be a wonderful summer here, at Sunset Lake.

Summer Road Trip Launched -- Watch for Weekly Updates

Camp is underway. the staff have arrived and are in training, registrations are keeping the office staff busy and campers will be arriving in just a few day. And best of all it is finally getting warm. This summer, Shelina Berglund, our Spiritual Director and Parent Liaison will be keeping our blog maintained. If you want to be part of the fun and keep in touch with all the amazing stuff going on at camp, be sure to keep this site close by.  At least once a week this blog will be updated with pictures, posts, stories and more. We'd love to have you join us for our summer Road Trip. See you on the road!

Sunset Lake Camp ... The Road Trip Begins

Welcome to Sunset Lake Camp's blog site. For those of you just joining us, feel free to look back over all the archived posts to catch up with all that has happened in the last several months at camp.

I am so excited about our upcoming summer season. After much hard work our camp brochure was released on March 25 and should be in mail boxes any time now. If for some reason you don't receive one, please contact the camp at 360-829-0311 and we will get one out to you.

Right away you'll notice some differences in this year's brochure. Rather than simply being an informational piece, this year's brochure tells the story of one camper's cross-country road trip to come to camp. Along the way you'll discover what makes Sunset Lake special and learn about some of the great new stuff happening at camp this year.

Missing in this year's brochure is the DVD. Don't worry, it didn't fall out . Instead, all of our video content will now be on the internet on our new YouTube channel. Here is the link. http://www.youtube.com/user/SunsetLakeCamp  Within a few days our 2010 promotional video will be posted. But that is just the start. Each section of the brochure is linked to a corresponding informational video online. These will be up in the next couple of weeks. We will also be posting a series of devotional messages that will prepare campers fo for their week at camp. Then during the summer we will have a continuous stream of video updates being posted. We encourage you to subscribe to our channel and watch and share the videos however you like.

This blog site will also be an important communcation link as we prepare for summer. Look for new posts at least once or twice a week and more frequently than that during the summer. On this site we will be sharing stories of how God is working at Sunset Lake as well as news and information that will be helpful  as you prepare for your summer camp experience.

The final piece in our communcation network is our facebook page. You can find this at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sunset-Lake-Road-Trip-2010/262455555016?ref=mf  The facebook page will give you instant updates and be a great place to share photos, video, and fun camp memories. We encourage you to become a fan of this page and stay connected with us as we prepare for summer.

I can't wait to see you at camp this summer. As you look over the brochure, we encourage you to decide which camp your our your child would like to attend and then sign up as soon as possible. Registration opened February and we are already experiencing record enrollements. Family Camp and some our our speciality and summit camps are filling fast. In fact we already have over 100 registrants for family camp. If you need financial assistance, please let us know. Our funds are limited, but we will do all we can to help.

Have a wonderful spring ... and we'll see you at Sunset Lake this summer.

Thoughts on the Staff Hiring Process

Today is the best day and the worst. It's a day I look forward to all year and a day I dread. This afternoon emails were sent out to the 2010 staff applicants notifying them of their summer employment status. For two months I have traveled over 17,000 miles to 5 colleges and universities and three academies. I have interviewed more than 150 applicants. The young adults I have talked with are some of the brightest and best out there. Every year I am amazed at their courage, their passion for Christ and their desire to serve him. Even though I only get to spend 20-30 minutes with each of them I get to know them -- I learn from them -- I remember them -- and they impact my life.

It is exciting to see how God brings just the right people that we need. My associate and I spend days in front a white board pouring over reference forms and interview notes praying for guidance. And God leads -- he opens doors and closes them. Often we don't know why. It's awesome to look at the white board when all the names have been chosen and wonder what God has in store for the summer. This year, like all the others I leave this hiring process with a sense of expectation. It's going to be a great summer!

But at the same time I have to tell the majority of the applicants that I don't have a spot for them. No one will ever know the how hard that is for me. I was the kid on the baseball field that always got picked last. I was the one stood on the sidelines and wondered if there was a place for me. If I had enough budget, enough housing and a big enough camp I'd hire them all. I'd help each of those 150+ applicants discover God's calling in their life and the value he's placed in them. And stand back in awe at what they could do. But in the end I only have 75 spots.

So for some, today will be a great day -- God has answered their prayers! For others, on our waiting list, their going to have to watch for what God is yet to do. And for still others today will be a very hard day as their dream is dashed.  I just pray that every person I have met over the past two months understands that the email they received today has no bearing on their infinite value in God's eyes and the calling he has placed on their life. Whether they were accepted or turned down God has an amazing summer in store for them as they look to serve him.

So as I bring another hiring season to a close it is my prayer for each person I have met these past two months that they will be confident of God's leading in their life. And I sincerely hope I will get to meet each one next winter as I go out recruiting once more. It will be great to see how God worked in their life. And who knows perhaps he will have a place for them at Sunset Lake sometime in the future. 

2010 Family Camp -- Filling Fast -- reserve your spot today.

This year's family camp is going to be an extraordinary event. We have brought in an all-star cast of presenters and great new activities to make this an unforgettable week. We'll be joined this year by Dr. John McVay, President of Walla Walla University. He'll be holding an early morning in-depth Bible study, particulary geared for the adults as well as teaching a morning class. Our family Camp Council will be led all week by Randy Fishell, the editor of Guide Magazine. Aside from great family-centered worships he will bring a whole host of fun activities from Guide Magazine, including their "Factory" quiz tournament. In addition there will be several other guests who will be teaching morning classes on a variety of subjects.

This is the first year that we are making a special invitation to the pastors of the Washington Conference and their families to be a part of our week of camp.

We want to encourage you to be a part of this great family event. You'll be hard pressed to find this kind of family vacation experience for this low price anywhere else. Even though registration just opened in February spaces are already filling fast with nearly 80 applicants registered already. We encourage you to sign up as soon as possible to reserve your spot for this amazing week. Go to http://www.sunsetlake.org/ for more information and to register.

Sunset Lake Camp Registration Opens

We've got some great news to share! Registration for 2010 summer camps is now open. We're excited about the camps we are offering this summer. We encourage to you go to http://www.sunsetlake.org/ and look over all the details and then register your child or your family for a great week of camp.

This summer in recognition of the difficult financial times that many are facing we have frozen our fees at the 2009 level. We are also committed to do all that we can to find scholarship money for those that need it. If you are interested in sponsoring a camper for a week of camp, please contact us.

Also this summer's family camp will include a wide array of new features. Great speakers, special seminar presenters and new family activities. We encourage you to get your registration in early as space will fill fast.

New to camp this year is the week-long Urban Youth Camp, the motorworks specialty camp, the Mountain Leadership Summit, the Ultimate Road Trip and the Specialty Week. Go online for all the details.

We look forward to seeing you at camp this summer.

Recruiting Whirlwind

Scott Baker and I spent last week at Walla Walla University recruiting staff for Sunset Lake Camp. It was the busiest two days of recruiting I have had since becoming the director for Sunset Lake. Both Scott and I ran concurrent interviews from 7:30 in the morning until 5 or 6 p.m. We held over 60 interviews in two days and met with many promising staff candidates. I have been very impressed over the past two years with the changing face of Walla Walla University. Each year we are made to feel welcome and and the quantity and quality of interviews is increasing. At some point during the week members of the administration stop by to check in on the various camps. Hats off to all involved.Our interviews continue this week at Southern Adventist University. We have just arrived on campus and are looking forward to meeting former staff members and many new people.

Sunset Lake Photoshoot

This past Sunday, two photographers and 3 student models met at Sunset Lake for a summer camp brochure photo shoot. Everyone had a lot of fun and we got some great pictures. This year's camp brochure will be a marked departure from previous ones. Rather than simply an informational piece, the 2010 brochure will be in narrative form. It will chronicle the journey of several staff members to Sunset Lake. You can expect to see the finished product in the mail by the first week of April. Here's a few sneak peeks at some of the photos. Thanks to Heidi Martella and Jonathan Baumgartner for lending us their photographic expertise.

Kaleigh Bing was a natural in front of the camera!

Nolan Baker graced us with his guitar renditions. Check out Sunset Lake's YouTube channel for a sample of his musical genius.

Eric Yeagley spent most of his time behind the wheel wishing he could drive our classic VW bus. Here he is taking a break with the rest of the cast.

For a video of the photo shoot go to http://www.youtube.com/user/SunsetLakeCamp

2010 Summer Schedule

After a lot of planning, I am excited to announce the final schedule for the 2010 summer camp season at Sunset Lake. There is a lot that is familiar and a lot that is new. Take a look what we have to offer and then plan on joining us for a week of camp this summer.

Base Camps
Adventure Camp: June 27-July4
Junior 1: July 4-11
Junior 2: July 11-18
Tween Camp: July 18-25
Teen Camp: July 25-August 1
Urban Youth Camp: August 8-15

Specialty Camps
Cowboy Camp 1,2,3,4: July 4-August 1
Lego Robotics Camp: July 4-11
Motor Works Camp: July 11-18
Lifeguarding Camp: July 25-August 1
Specialty Week (Aquatics, Challenge Course/Rock Climbing and Equestrian): August 8-15

Summit Camps
Wed and Wild Aquatics Adventure: June 27-July4
Rock Climbing Excursion: July 4-11
The Ultimate Road Trip: August 1-8
Mountain Leadership Summit: August 8-15

Family Camp
August 1-8

Complete camp descriptions and summit itineraries will be available on our website http://www.sunsetlake.org/ by the end of the month. Online registration opens on February 1. We will also have a complete morning class list available shortly.

Can't wait to see you at camp this summer!

The Hidden Side of Sunset Lake

You may think you've experienced all there is to see and do at Sunset Lake, but come winter when the campers are all gone and the grounds are finally quiet, a whole new side of Sunset Lake Camp appears. here's a few things you might discover at camp in January.

• Sunset Lake buried in snow is an awesome sight!
• It's a strange feeling to stand in the middle of the lake when its frozen over and listen to the cracking ice reverberate under your feet.
• A mountain lion running down the entrance road is a great way to get your adrenallin pumping. Just ask Bart Soper.
• Sledding down the entrance road is a lot more fun than driving!
• The sound of trees crashing to the ground in the middle of a wind storm sends chills down your spine.
• Sometimes cross country skis are the best way to get around camp. Last year I skied from the entrance to the top of the pasture and back again.
• The camp can get really quiet when you are the only person in the entire 400 acres.
• The best way to beat the after school blues is to go ride a horse.
• Once in a while it's fun to have the camp all to yourself -- but I'll take it full of kids any day!

I can't wait for summer to start -- the sound of campers singing echoing off the lake, the bugle call at line call, the constant roar of the Air Nautique, the clatter of dishes in the dining hall -- that's what makes Sunset Lake a camp. Hope your planning to be there this summer to make some noise it won't be the same without you.