Surf City 2014 Day 1

Good Morning from the soft sands of Michigan. We traveled for what seemed to be forever on a bus full of loud screams, small bladders and our own versions of the hit songs from the movie Frozen...but we made it! I can't believe I am up here celebrating my 20th year of this amazing camp. I've seen so much over the years and I can't help but be excited about what this group is going to experience this week.

When we arrived we were ambushed by the Surf City "Hillbillies" who took us on an adventure complete with their own hillbilly firework show in an attempt to cook hot dogs. Many of us were glad they weren't actually our dinner after our long day of Arby's and Burger King. After the animated greeting we got our room assignments and unpacked our bags to get ready for the swim test. Let me just put the rumors to rest now... there were no sightings of the infamous Lake Monster.

After drying off we ate dinner and had our first Club of Surf City 2014. Club happens every evening around 8:00 and it's a time for the entire camp to gather to sing, watch a hilarious run-on skit and hear a message that we hope will greatly impact the lives of these students. This year our skit stars two famous mini-golfers who are looking to get their sport into the X-Games. Putt and Putt are their names and their "Mini-Father" created the great game of Mini-Golf. Unfortunately, there is an evil gopher on the loose looking to foil their ambitious efforts. Only time will tell if they have what it takes to elevate their dreams into reality.

This entire week we will be hearing from Surf City Veteran, Mark Steffey. Mark and his family are also part of our NorthBridge family! Last night, Mark shared with the students that the Creator of all of the world created each and every one of them...not only that but when God created them He said they were fearfully and wonderfully made. Mark challenged the students this week to think about what it means to be God's creation and know that when He created us, He saw us and said that we are good! What a great reminder of despite all the things we think we lack or all the the things about us that we think aren't good enough...our Creator says...no, you are good! I can't wait to hear how our students wrestle with this truth, that they are valued but God.

We ended the night with a run through Surf City Boot Camp. Don't worry...we all made it through basic training. It involved mud, obstacle courses, war paint and a giant slip n slide!

Well, that's all for now...I smelled bacon in the air as I walked passed the kitchen this morning in search for caffeine....so, we will see if I can get Caden Price to do anything else today in view of his obsession with the magical breakfast meat. Today is going to be a great day! Check back tomorrow for more updates!