Barn dance is an exclamation point to our trail pace day.

Every cabin either taught a dance or introduced one.

Saturday afternoon we all slept. There's something about the trail pace that is relaxing. We go until we're done and then have a late lunch. Afterwards, we have an extended rest hour, giving all of camp permission to sleep until supper. Yup, and supper isn't until 7 p.m. because of the late lunch.

I relish that long afternoon nap on a summer afternoon. In fact, the kids take advantage of it, recharging their batteries so they are good to go later on. I think that's why the Saturday night barn dance is filled with energy and fun. The kids have slept and so they are ready for a late night party.

Everyone gets in on the fun. Line dances rule.

Circle dances make it into the evening.

Then there is music for singing and just feeling good.

We set up our camp store in the aisle of the indoor arena. To expand the offered delicacies, we bring in a popcorn machine so that popcorn is available as part of the evening's snack. What a treat! The Hill Parents and our cook are wonderful about making the evening special for us all.

Dancing happens for an  hour or an hour and a half. All kinds of music is played and every cabin is responsible for introducing a dance.That way everyone has a say in the dances done and songs sung.

There were line dances and circle dances. The hokey-pokey made it onto the list as did the chicken dance. Then if I'm not mistaken there was the Electric Side and dances with names I cannot spell!

The YMCA song was a positive hit with the entire bunch.

Some of the fun comes from giving the kids freedom to play their music and bellow out the words. I'm amazed at how many songs they know by heart. One right after another. They grab the rhythms and run with them, shouting and singing as loud as they can sing. What an awesome release!

At the end of the evening we gathered everyone together for a group photo. When they're all having an absolutely great time, it's a moment to remember. Most everyone tosses out a smile because they are totally in the mood. No grumping about having their photo taken.

Now here's a handsome bunch.

It is better to light just one little candle than to stumble in the dark....

The evening ended late. Then our circle gave closure to the day. We always sing our end of the day songs, pass a hand squeeze around the circle, and share hugs before going to our cabins for eventual lights out. You can well imagine everyone was wound. On the other hand, what energy was expended from the afternoon's rest left behind a bunch of pretty content, tired campers and staff. So eyes closed quickly once heads found a pillow.

Sunday morning, breakfast isn't until 9:30 a.m. All of us can come in our pj's. That's such a welcome change from the regular routines of the weekday. Feels like we are all family and this is like home.

Comments from you folks at home are forever and always welcome.