If anyone knows me at all, you know that Camp Longhorn holds a special place in my heart. You also know that I could talk about this place for hours. As I got on to the bus, 13 years ago in Dallas, Texas, terrified of what I had gotten myself into, I had no idea how my whole life would be altered from such a special place for years to come. For those of you who have been to camp, you understand that special connection. For those who have never been to camp, that’s okay, you probably think it’s crazy, rightly so haha, but so be it. I without a doubt would not be who I am today without camp, as crazy as that sounds, it is so unbelievably true.
It’s kinda funny because as a kid I feel like I sort of took it for granted the fact that I would be going back every summer, because I never thought it would actually end. Well, here we are. The end has come and it doesn’t even feel real. Knowing that I will not be on the shores of Inks Lake this summer is truly heartbreaking. This place was my rock, and my constant home growing up. Knowing that every single summer I returned would be filled with endless laughter, merits, sailing, dance nights, d-merits, mile swims, Barney’s chow, campfires, sing-songs, dirty-blobbing, best friends, the countless attawaytogo’s, and unforgettable memories. The people and the traditions truly are what make this place so special.
I loved being a camper, but becoming a counselor was one of the most rewarding things I have ever experienced. You honestly have no idea what the next day is going to bring. You get to watch these kids learn, grow and become who they are supposed to be. Knowing that you get the opportunity to even have the smallest part in their experience is something like no other. As I got older, I realized that the true reason I found myself going back was because of the kids, but the beauty about camp is that even though I won’t be there this summer, I know they will be, and the traditions will continue.
The greatest gift my parents have ever given me is sending me to camp, and for that I will be eternally grateful. One day I hope my children will attend and experience everything I did and more. Tex and Pat Robertson truly created a heaven on earth, a paradise like no other, a home away from home, and a place I will never forget. I’m waiting for the day, when back to you I’ll go…Camp Longhorn.
then & now 