A Place of Rest
On my last day at Oshkidee I found some time to relax in one of the two hammocks stretched alongside the path headed down to the beach. It was a beautiful day - sunny and warm... the kind of day to be in or on the water. My choice of activity, relaxing in a hammock, was an acknowledgment, to myself, that what I really needed was to slow down and take the time to consider just how wonderful it is to be at Camp Oshkidee.
One's view of the world is a little different from a hammock. My view reminded me of the many steps I put in while serving as Facility Manager for our first and fourth weeks of Family Camp - I should have worn a step counter! Serving at Oshkidee is something that my wife, Kelly and I look forward to every year.
The hammock is quite different from a lawn chair or towel on the sand; as it wraps around you - it hugs you. Regardless of your shape or size, the hammock seems to fit everyone perfectly. While it can be a challenge getting in and out, once settled in the hammock quickly accommodates you. Funny how a standard hammock becomes tailored to each user…
Camp Oshkidee is a little like a hammock. For first time users, it can be a little tricky finding your way into its unfamiliar form. We all kind of know how a hammock works, but until you've been in one, you don't really know what it's like nor how good it can feel. For many, once they become comfortable the hammock provides a warm embrace, comfort, and rest. Some find it so relaxing that they drift off to sleep, blissfully unaware of the noise and activity all around them.
A week at Oshkidee is not so different. For first timers it can be a little tricky getting there and getting settled. But once campers have found their way, they soon feel at rest in the warm embrace of God's love expressed through family and friends as part of our camper community, and the comfort of God’s Spirit - which is present each day.
This year our Family Camps were filled to capacity with approximately 400 campers on site throughout the weeks. Our accommodations, food services, and equipment were stretched to the limit; and apart from the untimely demise of both of our ski boats along with two of our pedal boats - or is it paddle boats? - the hammock that is Oshkidee, held up very well.
After some time I carefully crawled out of the hammock and as I walked past the second of the two I saw a little one who, worn out by the sunshine and playtime, had also crawled into his own cocoon for a much-needed nap.
I hope that you too, along with your family have found rest and renewal while at Oshkidee. Thank you for your continued support and encouragement, I look forward to seeing you again soon.
On behalf of the Board of Directors and the members of our Family Camp Committee, we want to thank you for attending and supporting the Ministry of Camp Oshkidee.
Along with the need to replace our ski boat, we have also become aware of some major repairs required to our Chalet and Lodge heating/cooling systems. The Board's maintenance committee is currently obtaining quotes to replace the Chalet's HVAC system and water heater. The Lodge main floor heating system (in-floor heat) was rendered useless after an unfortunate freeze-up a few years ago. Completing these repairs is a top priority for the Board to ensure that our facilities remain usable throughout the year.
The Ministry has need of your support through the donation of your time, effort, financial resources, and your prayers. We ask that you please pray for wisdom and consider making a donation to help fund these projects as we work to secure the sustainability of our Ministry for many years to come.
Blessings on you,
Milton Block
