Welcome Home to Camp

A Note from Aaron and K.C. Morris, Ranch Co-directors continued from pg. 1 bunkhouse parent. Summer looks forward to the continued grounding in spiritual goodness and making that even more apparent in camp life while learning about God together through all that camp offers.

Since stepping into our roles, we’ve been so grateful to hear from a wide array of people who love the A/U Ranches – people who have reached out to share their ideas about camp and all the possibilities for the continuous unfolding of good that camp holds. It is clear to us that support for camp runs wide and deep. We have loved connecting with people who have been connected to camp for many, many years and from others who attended camp for only one session, yet still identify the lasting impact that camp had on them.

In Science and Health (p. 58), Mrs. Eddy writes, “Home is the dearest spot on earth, and it should be the centre, though not the boundary, of the affections.” What a wonderful thought to consider in anticipation of the summer, when camp becomes “home away from home” for each camper, staff member and program participant joining together for God-centered, growthfilled opportunities and experiences.

This thought is especially precious to us at this particular moment as new Ranch Co-directors preparing for our first summer. Our home and family are dear to us. We are intentional about raising our young boys in a home filled with joy, kindness, good humor, principle and unconditional love (and some needed boundaries, too!). Already, camp is dear to us also, a place that lies within the expanded boundaries of our affections. Each day, we are embracing camp within our sense of family – and thinking deeply about how to ensure that your camp experience is anchored by a sense of belonging to this camp family, a family united by one Father-Mother God and His great love for all His children.

We are ready to welcome you home to camp. We can’t wait to see you!

Whether it’s program activities, the Christian Science community, friends or the beautiful surroundings, the ongoing good of camp is summed up by Clayton, who writes he is excited to “meet new people and try new things and activities. I have been going to [the A/U Ranches] for 5 years and I cannot wait to begin my 6th year. I am so excited for camp!!!!” So are we, Clayton, so are we.

Welcome Christine Bailey!

Our New Sky Valley Camp Director

I am so happy to be joining the A/U Ranches team as the Sky Valley Camp Director. I have lived in Buena Vista for the past 12 years with my family (husband Dave and sons Josh and Micah), spending my time working at the Link School and at the alternative high school in town. I have developed a deep respect for camp as I have gotten to know its staff at church and as I have watched my own boys spend time here as campers the past few summers.

As an alternative school teacher and principal, I loved witnessing kids deepen their understanding of their true nature as they let go of labels and preconceived notions of themselves. This growth came through caring relationships, through atypical learning environments and through opportunities to engage with nature. At camp, I see opportunities for this same type of growth, with the added depth that comes from blossoming as students of Christian Science.

I am excited to witness all the good that happens at Sky Valley Ranch, to support campers and staff in their spiritual and adventurous growth and to be part of the love and joy that permeate the A/U Ranches!