As Session 4 wraps up, Camp is filled with the kind of joy that comes from knowing every moment together counts. Campers are soaking up these final days – fitting in one more swim, one more game of Gaga, one more campfire song, and one more laugh with friends who, just two weeks ago, were strangers. It’s a bittersweet time, but one that reminds us just how quickly a camp session can become a home.
Tonight’s Banquet Dinner, a Tawonga tradition, will be the perfect celebration of an unforgettable session, with Thanksgiving favorites served by Unit Heads in hilarious costumes. Later, our closing campfire will bring campers together for talented performances, heartfelt sing-alongs, and, as always, a final rendition of “Friends, Friends, Friends.” With two weeks of memories behind them, campers will sway arm in arm with new and old friends alike, soaking in one last magical evening.
As campers celebrate the end of the session, they’re also leaving a lasting imprint on Tawonga. This summer, campers, staff, board members, and friends of the community painted new mezuzah cases that are now being installed on cabins and buildings across Camp. Each contains a handwritten scroll with the Shema and Amidah prayers, bringing a centuries-old Jewish tradition (and commandment) to spaces where future campers will gather, learn, and grow. While the mezuzot (plural) reflect the individuality of campers, they also embody an ancient Jewish custom.
“This is such a beautiful way for kids to leave their mark because it’s a ritual object,” said Song Leader Devin L. “It’s kind of like a mini plaque.”
As campers reflect on their time at Tawonga, many shared that the friendships they’ve built, the confidence they’ve gained, and the memories they’ve made are what they’ll carry home long after the buses leave Camp.
For campers Sebastian D. and Avery P. in B-10, backpacking to Chilnualna Falls was a major highlight of their camp experience.
“Once we got to the top of the mountain, the view was so beautiful,” Avery said. “It was so rewarding.”
Lilah S. in G-2 shared that bonding with her bunk mates through various activities has been her highlight.
“At the river, we got to see fish swimming!” Lilah shared.
Other meaningful moments Lilah reflected on included having “laugh attacks” with her friends, crafting at A&C, and listening to Tawonga’s anthem: Country Roads.
Zeke P. in B-Aleph, a second year camper, said he has especially enjoyed making new friends this year.
“The first few days you get to meet new people, and then suddenly it becomes super fun,” he said. “Camp has a lot of community.”
As for his favorite activity, he eagerly mentioned silent disco during the end-of-camp Carnival.
For camper Lev G. in AG-4, making sushi in the Garden Kitchen and playing Gaga ball were two main highlights. He noted these are two things he doesn’t often have the opportunity to do when he’s not at Camp, making them all the more special.
But most meaningfully, Lev appreciated support from counselor Meirav during a moment of missing home.
“Meirav made me feel like Tawonga’s a safe place and reminded me that people would always be there to help me if I was feeling sad,” Lev said. “It’s a bittersweet feeling going home, because you’re really excited to see your family, but you’re also sad to leave Tawonga.”
Tomorrow morning we’ll sing “Leaving on a Jet Bus” before leading campers through the staff-made Tunnel of Love and onto the buses home. We can’t wait to welcome these Session 4 campers back next summer, and we hope they’ll bring a little bit of that Tawonga magic home in the meantime.
P.S. Campers, families, and all Tawongans can keep the summer magic going next week at “Bay Mitzvah” on August 11 – a celebration of Jewish life at the Oakland Ballers Game! More info here. And after that, we hope to see you at our High Holiday Celebrations next month!
