Goodbye for 3 1/2 (long) Weeks

Annika really wanted to go to summer camp in Colorado this year. She went last year for just under two weeks, and this year, she wanted to stay for the whole 3 1/2 week session. We were a little apprehensive, but since we know the family and the camp so well, and since it is like my brother's second home, we decided to go for it.

So we had an amazing pancake breakfast at the Hungry Bear (This is what an American pancake looks like!) and dropped her off.

Last year, the drop-off was a bit tearful... but what can you do? Say "Gee, I'm sorry. This whole camp idea was a msitake. Forget the plan - she's coming home." Nope. You can't. And I heard that the first 24 hours were a bit rough, but after two weeks, we had to drag her away.

This year, she walked in the door, and a friend from last year said, "Annika! Where have you been? I've been waiting for you all day!" and all was well. We chose a bunk, spent 5 minutes making the bed, and then I started getting what my brother called "The Look" - the one that says enough, mom, you can go. So I went.

Somehow it seems much harder this year. Maybe it is because she is staying longer...maybe because I'm now a whole ocean away from her... maybe because I know I won't hear from her (she will have to write a letter home to get in to Sunday dinner, but by the time we get it on this end, we will already be gone)... but I'm sure she will have a great time, and I will still have to drag her away when it is time to pick her up.

(Blue Mountain Ranch - http://www.bluemountainranch.com/)