Well what a crazy 3 days we have just had. Camping started well in the humid heat on Wednesday, putting up the tents was a struggle but everyone worked hard. Everyone then had some time to relax,
this proved to be the calm before the storm, because as everyone worked on their reviews of the summer
the storm broke
tents were blown over or flooded, and scared couples huddled together
but we were brave and survived.
When Thursday arrived you would have thought the storm had never happened. Everyone took part in a gender workshop which showed up some extremely sexist views (and may have triggered some gender confusion amongst the group, more of that later).
The pool provided some wonderful relaxation and a great chance to cool down
Although some people really need to learn that when you fall asleep in the sun you shouldn't have your hand on your chest,
what a wonderful white hand print Marty has on his chest, although why is that middle finger so long????
I managed to maintain a dignified sense of decorum when it came to dressing for camp.
Thanks Phyllis for brining me that hat all the way from Australia...and yes the corks are for keeping away the flies.
Having missed a camp fire on Wednesday night we all settled down for some great discussions and even better marshmallows toasted by Zachary.
Friday was a busy day preparing for the Host Families arriving for our Farewell Supper and party. Groups of young people kept sneaking off with each others clothes as they prepared their party piece. The supper was excellent, (thanks Frank for the savoury stuff and as for Kevin's desserts...wow!!!!!). The entertainment was introduced by Nadeen and Heather, Chrissy kicked off the proceedings with some tunes on his flute
Then Steven and Mickey confused all with a very funny baseball skit (just Who was Where When I dont know scored???)
We has some great singing from Stephanie with backing by Alex and then they were joined by Janice and Emily for a dance display
Brian then showed that he can remember more than 4 words to a song (although PJ did have to help him along the way)
Liz then showed us all how to really sing
bringing tears to Heather's eyes.
Susan got in on the act with her poetry recitation
then got her own private party as the boys re-enacted The Full Monty
thankfully everyone retained their modesty, apart from a slight wardrobe malfunction with TJ (never mind no one saw it)
Frank presented his awards (the 21st annual Griffins), Heather and Leigh got their page 3 award for services to the beach community
Sara was reminded of her balloon mistake (its Red White and Blue NOT Green White and Orange)
and then things got very very confused.
First the girls appeared wearing the boys clothes to perform a little piece based on yesterday's gender workshop. Then the boys struck back to ressurect the Spice Girls, is this scarey or what....
...Chrissy I know an agency where you could earn a lot of money!!!
Random gentlemen were pulled from the audience but none seemed to be having as much fun as Frank and Kevin
Will their wives want them back???
All to soon the festivities came to an end, the NI young people got on stage to say goodbye
then everyone joined in for a farewell dance
there was much hugging and tears but a great time was had by all.
More blog soon
