The Merrie-Woode Values: Challenge

Our Main Session came to a close today, but we cannot help but continue to celebrate our campers and all of their accomplishments! Yesterday was filled with some of our favorite end-of-session traditions: Awards and Final Shows. From passing levels and earning certifications to performing in front of the entire Camp, campers had the chance to showcase weeks, and in some cases years, of hard work. We loved watching performances that included Merrie-Woode-themed songs from our Ukulele classes, Bieberchella-inspired Hip Hop, Michael Jackson dance routines, Mamma Mia! Musical Theatre numbers, and both a High School Musical-themed Drill Team and Tumbling performance. The afternoon also featured the final Tennis and Pickleball matches, where campers put their skills to the test one last time. Watching girls reach goals, cheer on their friends, and celebrate their achievements was the perfect reminder of one of Merrie-Woode's core values: Challenge.

At Merrie-Woode, girls are encouraged to step outside their comfort zones every day. Whether they are trying a new activity, learning a difficult skill, or taking on a leadership role, campers are constantly discovering the extent of their capabilities. Just as importantly, Camp is a safe place to try, to learn, and sometimes to fail. Growth often comes from the moments that don't go exactly as planned.

Children naturally seek challenge. They climb higher, go faster, and test their limits because they are learning about themselves and the world around them. By taking appropriate risks and trying new things, they build confidence, judgment, and resilience.

Throughout the summer, Merrie-Woode offers challenges that meet campers where they are. For some girls, that might mean jumping off the dock for the first time or learning to roll a kayak. For others, it could be cantering on horseback, running a whitewater rapid, climbing a rock face, or even holding one of Science Steve's snakes. Every challenge is different, but each one helps campers learn that they can do hard things.

Of course, growth does not always come with immediate success. A camper may need several attempts to master a skill or reach a goal. Those moments build perseverance and teach an important lesson: setbacks are not failures. They are opportunities to learn, adjust, and try again.

One of the unique things about Camp is that these challenges happen in a supportive environment. Our counselors and instructors help campers take on exciting new experiences while providing the guidance and encouragement they need to succeed. This support allows girls to take healthy risks, learn from mistakes, and gain confidence along the way.

Many of our most meaningful accomplishments come through skills progression programs that take years to complete. Whether working toward a King's Player necklace, a Horsemaster bracelet, or a Captain's hat, campers learn that worthwhile goals require patience, dedication, and hard work. These achievements represent not only technical skills, but also determination, growth, and resilience.

As we watched campers receive awards and perform in Final Shows yesterday, we saw the value of challenge on full display. Every dance, song, tennis match, riding demonstration, and performance represented hours of effort, persistence, and growth. We have had the best time with this group during Main Session and feel so grateful for the weeks we've spent together under Old Bald. While we are sad to see the session come to a close, we are incredibly proud of all these campers have accomplished. We know they will leave Merrie-Woode with new skills, lasting friendships, and the confidence that comes from doing hard things. We already can't wait to welcome them back next summer.

Safe travels home!

Chug-a-wump, 

Robin & Frost