One weekend in the winter of 1981, my parents took the entire family on an excursion to Camp Tamarack, which was about two hours north of Toronto. It was an overnight camp that had been recently purchased by Howie, the director of a day camp that we had attended and loved. My parents were thinking about the summer ahead, and sending all four kids to Howie’s new camp, so they wanted to check It out for themselves. Going to overnight camp would be a huge change for us. Leaving my parents for the summer was foreign to me, but I didn’t realize how quickly I would get used to the idea!
Who would have thought, that one visit in the winter of 1981, would profoundly affect mine and my sibling’s lives forever?
For the next 16 years I would say goodbye to my parents at the beginning of every summer, sometimes for seven weeks. When I turned sixteen, I became staff and then I’d be gone for over three months. I loved seeing my parents once a summer on Visitors Day, but I also couldn’t wait for them to leave. Camp was my place. My happy place. The place I felt the most comfortable in my own skin. Pun intended.
I met my wife, Tamar, at camp. My brother Adam also met his wife Michelle, there. I felt heartbreak, loss, had many ‘firsts’ and created memories that have and will continue to last a lifetime. So, I’m really excited for Jonah and Jamie (my kids) to continue building their memories at camp too, but I will miss them.
Kind of.
i’ll (kind of) miss them
From time to time I travel for business, and just between us, I look forward to those trips. A few days in a hotel away from the family, is nice. I’ve also taken trips on my own to sunny destinations to soak up the sun, and find some relief for my Psoriasis. But as much as I look forward to those solo trips, inevitably by day two, I miss Tamar, the kids, and my routine. I like being away, but I like the comfort of a routine more, and being surrounded by those I love. Call me crazy.
The other day I mentioned to a client that my kids were leaving for camp and staying for seven weeks. He was floored. I swear, he looked at me as if I had two heads. Though he was probably more shocked when I relayed it wasn’t a punishment, but rather something they were both doing by choice. And LOVE.
In two days, my kids leave for summer camp. Admittedly, I’m excited for them. But I’m also excited for me and Tamar! We have some amazing trips planned for just the two of us this summer, and I’m really looking forward to spending time together, alone. I love being ‘dad’ and I know Tamar loves being ‘mom’. And she is one hell of a mom, but to be us, just Jordan and Tamar for seven weeks, brings us back to where we need to be and once were. Reminiscent of the times we spent at camp together, just being with each other and falling in love.
Inevitably though, I know that after a few weeks, I will yearn for my routine, and I will miss the kids. I know the experiences they are having, and the memories they are creating will make missing them worthwhile, but I will miss them all the same.
influencers
Today, when I think of the word ‘influencer’ I typically think of someone who helps draw attention to online products, services, or a cause. But back in 1981, and for the subsequent sixteen summers, there were many people and experiences that influenced my life. Although not all of those experiences were positive, there was always a silver lining, or something to learn. From coping with intense heartbreak and profound loss to canoe tripping, which ultimately led me to a career in the culinary world.
There were also amazing people that supported and celebrated my accomplishments, and those who helped me through the tougher times. There were many staff members that influenced my life, but two councillors, Shael and Dunks, and unit head Jack, truly stand out. They were always there for me, and they’re both people I connect with and still love, to this day.
That long-lasting relationship, that incredible bond…that’s what camp is really all about.
Two days from now my kids will potentially meet their lifelong friends – their Mitch and Rob, Lisa or Moose. They may go on a canoe trip with a ‘Segal’ or a ‘Buff’ or argue with their Danny or Kim. But no matter the experience, they will be better off for it. I know, because I sure am.
Am I going to miss my kids?! You bet. But I couldn’t be happier to miss them while they’re enjoying their summer at camp.
Have the best time, be safe, and create your memories. Mom and I will see you on Visitors Day, but don’t worry, we won’t stay long.
– Chef Dad
