Aloha Hive’s Newsletter
the buzz
spring 2021
Hello Hivers! It has been a looong time since we’ve had the chance to be at Hive and I am so excited that we’ll be together very, very soon! I’m finding myself dusting off memories from summers past these days. Remembering all of the sights, smells, favorite things, and feelings I associate with Hive. We asked some counselors and campers what they are most looking forward to doing at camp and you’ll find their answers in this edition of The Buzz. Perhaps you are looking forward to the same things too — or maybe you’re looking forward to totally different things! I’m counting down the days until we make our triumphant return to the shores of Lake Fairlee — and in the meantime, I’m basking in the knowledge that soon we will get to experience some of my all-time favorite things. Here are a few of them: 1.) T he butterflies-in-my-stomach-feeling during breakfast on Opening Day. The counselors cannot wait to meet their campers and the excitement in the air is palpable. 2.) S eeing campers arrive looking a bit nervous and then watching their shoulders relax and smiles appear after meeting their new counselor and tentmates. 3.) N ights on the hillside hearing giggles, trunk lids clanking shut and excited shouts just before bed and then the happy, contented quiet (and whispers) after Taps is played. 4.) Sharing meals with campers and hearing all about their days, singing (dining room songs only, please!), learning new jokes, and speculating when Mississippi Mud might surprise us while the scent of grilled cheese wafts through the air. 5.) Walking around camp and finding eleventy million hair ties on the ground (just kidding!) 6.) L ooking out over the many beautiful views of — sailboats on the lake, an assembly of campers and counselors, a hot air balloon over Aloha Hill, a gaggle of Lolanders making mudpies in the stream, the determined face of a Hiver aiming an arrow at a target…
7.) Dressing up for just about anything. There are never enough occasions to wear costumes! 8.) Singing the loudest, most raucous song (like Rattlin’ Bog) as we dance or the quietest, most serene song (like Helen Shaw Song) that makes my eyes leak with love for Hive. 9.) Hugs. Just all the hugs. 10.) Being part of this big, loving community in person. I’ve missed being with all of you so much. Whether this is your 10th summer or your 1st, there are so many wonderful things to look forward to and celebrate. What a year it’s been! Aloha,
Ellie Pennell Director of Aloha Hive