All set and ready to go!

Introduction

Some time ago now, I decided that something special was in order for the completion of my hellish time at University. During my time in education, I was advised of the significance and importance of self reflection and the ongoing evaluation of myself. It is therefore my last minute idea to initiate a "blog" (as everyone is talking about it) for myself for a completely new experience, possibly even a turning point in my life. Despite this opening paragraph being pedantic, I believe that if this blog can be fulfilled, a diary of my experiences may enrich my life and allow me to progress into the future in an educated way. 

My adventurous nature took me on the route of Camp America, the summer experience working with children. Thinking nothing of it, I jumped at the opportunity of a summer in the USA with the prospective of the ultimate travel program across the states. Some time in the cold nights of winter, I received a phone call from the states, and a telephone interview was conducted. I was happy to accept an offer to work at the Jewish summer camp, Camp Modin, in Belgrade, Maine (Near Waterville). I had never really taken the time to recognise Maine as a state, obviously not hearing much about it in the past, however, it is now the state I associate the most with the USA! 

My past experience as a rock climbing instructor and my degree at university (apparently finally coming in handy) finally gave me the ability to go forth and attain a fantastic job for the summer. The aim of this blog (hopefully) is to a) Give me something to do in my downtime. b) Allow for self reflection (to see if it is actually useful) and c) to show people out there how awesome the camp America and Camp Modin experience really is. Obviously, I cannot really comment on the validity of this statement thus far, but the blog will hopefully establish this!

Tuesday 12 Jun 2012. 

The last few days has consisted mainly of packing for the states. Prior arrangements have been made making contact with a number of people on facebook who will be heading to camp. There are 2 "waves" of people that will be turning up at camp. The advanced councellors and the general councellors with a weeks gap in between. Being a "pioneering" staff member (rope specialist) I am part of the first wave. The Northen "contingent" of us Modin'ers plan to meet in Manchester later to day for drinks, sleep and a 4am coach to London (the cheapest way to travel!). Something I am obviously looking forward to! 

 The last few weeks have consisted of contact over the internet with these lovely people, and I now cannot wait to meet up and let the good times roll. 

 Skype conversation between Me, Nathan (AUS) and George (GBR). These conversations started months ago and have continued ever since! 

Packing for this trip has been a logistical operation running for a number of months. I have tried my best to remain organised, making lists, writing what I have put in bags, etc. In the hope that a system may actually get me somewhere. So far, it seems to have worked! The use of vacpacs has been a valuable addition to the packing process (so much so, I still have space left in my back pack!) 

The extent of my organisational skills. Laying out the "kit" on the floor prior to vac-packing. No doubt I'll find out what is missing when I unpack in the States! 

Now on the final night prior to leaving my hometown, all I can do is hope that everything is in my bag and ready to go. Excitement is an understatement, and I feel confident but slightly nervous that everything is ready to go and is set for an amazing summer!