Royal Family Kids' Camp Boise

Day Five–Camp Wraps Up

2011-07-02T23:28:00.001-06:00

We had the final installment of the story of Joseph in Breakfast Club. Yesterday, we left Joseph at the spot where he’d just been made second in command to the pharaoh. A famine had struck the area, just as God had foretold through Joseph, and Joseph’s family was forced to go looking for food in Egypt. They were brought before Joseph to ask for food. Joseph puts them through several test to see if they’re still of bad character or if they’ve changed.

Campers portray Joseph’s brothers heading off to Egypt in search of food.

Camper portraying Joseph

Joseph learns that his brothers have had a change of heart and are no longer of a jealous and murderous nature. He forgives his brothers, offers them food and invites them and his father to come to live in Egypt. We learn from this story that throughout our lives, we can rely on God to be with us and will watch over us, regardless of our situation, whether it be good or bad and that we must forgive those who have hurt us and treat us poorly to ensure bitterness doesn’t overtake our lives.

The rest of the day was taken up with lunch, the trip home and our Welcome Back presentation for the campers’ caregivers. The songs for the program were, Jesus Is Our Super Hero, Rain or Poor and Absolutely Nothing. We also watched a video of our campers having fun throughout the week.

2011 RFKC Boise Staff and Counselors

2011 Drama Team

The less serious side of the Drama Team

We want to thank our campers’ caregivers for allowing us to spend the week with their foster children while at camp. We’d also like to thank our camp sponsors and those who have made donations through the year.

It’s time to start planning our next year’s camp.

Day Four- At Least There Wasn’t Ice On The Dock

2011-07-01T00:25:00.001-06:00

Though the morning was crisp, the weather couldn’t stop our Polar Bears and Penguins from their annual camp swim. Early this morning the campers marched down to the waters edge to take their early morning dip. Many of the campers, counselors and staff joined in on the event. What’s the definition of a Polar Bear and Penguin in camp Lingo? Polar Bears dive into the cold water from the end of the dock, while Penguins wade into the cold water until the water reaches their knees. After the swim, campers warmed up by taking a warm shower and then heading into the Dining Hall for waffles.

The Sun peaking through the clouds, just prior to the Polar Bear Swim & Penguin Wade

Campers and counselor heading down the trail to the lake

Counselors dive in and start their swim

Spectator at the event

Our camp Grandma and Grandpa traveled from Australia to be a part of the camp. They along with some of the staff members, watched the Polar Bear Swim and Penguin Wade from the balcony.

At Breakfast Club, we learned more about the ordeals and triumphs of Joseph’s life. As mentioned yesterday, Joseph was accused of crimes he’d not committed, which had resulted in the loss of his job, goods, and a place in his household. We learned today that these false accusations also led to his being imprisoned. But through it all, Joseph never lost his trust in God. Joseph was blessed by God while in prison and rose through the ranks of their “White Collar” prison to one of administration over the prison. It was while he was there that he met servants of the Pharaoh,and through one of them was able to predict a famine (with God’s help) and advise the pharaoh on steps he should take to prepare for it. The lesson of this story is that God is always with us whether we’re experiencing an ordeal or a triumph.

The afternoon’s water activities consisted of more kayaking, sand castles building, and speed boat rides. The campers were thrilled to skim across the surface of the lake in the boat. They also enjoyed playing in the water and on the sandy beach.

The after swim activity was working with a parachute. This type of activity promotes teamwork as well as improving fitness. An added benefit is that it’s a lot of fun.

Campers huddle under the parachute

The final event of the day was the Award’s Ceremony and Graduation.

Co-Camp Directors and Dean of Women distribute awards

Each camper receives an award certificate that highlights something special about him or her. The awards can vary from “Best Smile” to “King of the Bug Catchers”; the sky’s the limit.

Our graduation ceremony is for those campers who have reached the upper limit of our age bracket (ages 6-12). Each graduating camper receives a Bible and Graduate medallion. Their counselor says a special prayer for them as a part of the ceremony.

Graduating camper receiving graduation hat from the camp Director (The picture has been blurred to respect the privacy of the camper)

However the Graduation Ceremony does not signal the end of camp. We still have one more day of fun to go.

Day Three- Rain, Rain Go Away

2011-06-30T13:58:00.001-06:00

Today we woke to the sound of rain and discovered everything was soggy outdoors. The day didn’t start out too promising but as to day wore on we found that the rain would clear up when we were ready to go out and enjoy the activities set up for this for the day. By the afternoon we were actually seeing patches of blue.

Blue Skies on the horizon

In fact the afternoon warmed up enough to enjoy some swimming and go for a sailboat ride.

For those who have been following our camp activities for a while, you will know that we always celebrate everyone’s birthday while we’re at camp.

This is the way it works; we group the campers together by month and sing the Happy Birthday song to each group, including all the names of campers of that group, which can make for a very long song, depending on the size of the group. Once we’ve completed singing to each group, the campers open their presents, which were distributed as a part of the process, on the count of three. It was evident that the campers were pleased with their gifts, cupcakes and ice cream that followed.

We had another installment of Joseph’s story during Breakfast Club. As you might have read yesterday, we left off where Joseph had been taken from his home and put on a caravan to parts unknown. Today we learned that Joseph’s fortunes had gone from bad to worse. Joseph reached Egypt where he was sold as a slave. Although Joseph would be in what many would call unfavorable circumstances, God still blessed him in his situation and he was soon put in charge of the whole household of which he was a member. Just as things began to look up, Joseph loses his position due to slanderous accusations. Once again Joseph has everything taken from him and he must move from his home.

Our teachers, Sue and Carolyn pointed out that there was one thing that could not be taken away and that was Joseph’s trust in God. We’ll be looking forward to learning more about Joseph’s adventures this morning in Breakfast Club.

Day Two- Swimming And Splashing And Having A Good Time…

2011-06-28T23:33:00.001-06:00

We have a theme song for Royal Family Kids’ Camp. The song starts out this way, “Heading for the Royal Family Kids’ Camp, heading for a lot of fun. It’s great just knowing I am a part of God’s family, playing under the sun. swimming and splashing and having a good time….” We definitely lived up to the part about “swimming and splashing and having a good time.” Swimming at the lake is a part of the daily schedule and it was a hot day, which made it all the more enjoyable.

Tonight we had a pop quiz from resident worm Larry Funzel. Earlier in the day, we’d learned about how Joseph had been treated badly and had been neglected by his family. Each question Larry put forth was met with the correct answer for the campers. The Joseph story is one of which our campers can relate. Those who are familiar with Joseph’s story know that he has had many highs and lows throughout his life. But ultimately those experiences enabled Joseph to become one of the most respected Egyptian rulers. We’re hoping Joseph’s story will bring hope and encouragement to our campers, who too have experienced many highs and lows in their lives.

Our night was capped off by a concert given by The Waiting Kind. The campers immediately connected with the band and the message of the music. We’re thankful to The Waiting Kind for traveling a long distance to share their music and message of hope with us.

Link: The Waiting Kind

Day One–Ready, Set, Go

2011-06-27T21:31:00.001-06:00

The counselors and staff arrived last night and started prepping for the arrival of the campers. Meetings were held, rooms were decorated and Welcome signs were crafted to make sure the first day of camp went smoothly and make known to the campers how excited we were to have them at the camp.

Pre-camp Counselor and Staff Meeting

Eagerly anticipating the arrival of the campers, knowing the bus is just minutes away

Counselors and Staff Cheering the campers as they depart the bus

Quickly unloading the bus so the fun can begin

Relationship building beings immediately

Next on the agenda was lunch and then out to the Activity Center to let the creative juices flow. Campers had their choice of crafts including face painting, bead animals, and painting plaster forms. One of the new crafts this year is building wooden boats, which can later be taken to the lake for an impromptu regatta. Boat building was definitely a hit with the campers this year.

This boat, made by one of our boy campers, is a Prince Cruise liner. It is NOT a Princess Cruise liner.

It’s a camp tradition to give each new camper a quilt made by the Linus Project. Our Dean of Women will meet many of our campers years later and these quilts are always highlighted by them as one of their prize keepsakes. We offer our thanks to the Linus Project for

their continued support of our camp.

Dean of Men and Dean of Women distribute quilts to the campers

Our Final Event was distributing stuffed toys that have been donated from various groups in Southern Idaho. The campers really enjoy their new toys as they settle into their first night at camp. RFKC is grateful to all of the organizations that support our camp and make this experience possible for our campers.

One More Sleep And Then Camp

2011-06-25T17:17:00.001-06:00

Yesterday, I was reading a Facebook post shared by one of our teacher’s Carolyn. in her post she wrote, “ Two more sleeps til RFKC - an amazing camp for some amazing Idaho kids.” Her post brought a smile to my face. It was filled with excitement and anticipation of another great camp. The staff and counselors look forward to the camp every year, much like the campers themselves. So with that, I’ll say one more sleep and it will be time for camp.

Day Five – Saying Good-Bye

2010-07-02T23:08:00.001-06:00

Counselors and staff pray for a safe journey back to Boise

It’s always hard to say good-bye to our campers. Bonds and friendships are quickly made at camp. The final day of camp starts out with Breakfast Club and then chapel. Campers, staff and counselors sign each other’s camp shirts in-between meeting times. After lunch, it is time for us all to make our way back to Boise where we put on a Welcome Home presentation for the foster parents which included songs and a video that showed what life was like at camp. With that, the our camp for 2010 has come to a close for this year.

2010 Counselors and Staff

Day Four – It Was A Crisp, Clear, Morning

2010-07-02T00:13:00.001-06:00

It’s a camp tradition to hold the Polar Bear swim and the Penguin wade. At the early hour of 7:30 am, courageous campers, counselors and staff make their way to the lake for the swim and wade. The rules are simple, to officially be a polar bear, you must dive in over your head and swim for the beach. To be a penguin, you must wade into the lake up to your knees and then make your way back to the beach. We had a record number of swimmers and waders this year.

During Breakfast Club, we had another installment of the puppet skit. In this morning’s skit, Hannah, LeeRoy and their friends encouraged us to take our problems to God and ask for his help in solving them.

We were back on the lake this afternoon. In addition to the swimming and beach activities campers, counselors, and staff had the opportunity to going sailing. The excited campers came back from the sail and informed me it was really cool and scary.

Throughout the week, the RFKC Boise players have been putting on a production of Esther. Our campers can relate to Esther since she grew up in similar circumstances to those of our campers. Esther’s mother and father had died and she grew up in her cousin Mordecai’s house, which made her a foster child of sorts. As I am sure you know Esther is later chosen to be the queen of Persia. In her role as queen, she prevents the genocide of her fellow countrymen. Her part in the plan to save her nation could have cost her life, but she had the courage to undertake it none the less.

This story can be an inspiration to our campers. The knowledge that a woman of similar circumstances to theirs garnered such great achievements can be a great encouragement. The story also tells us that we should do the right thing despite the cost.

Day Three – Boats, Birthdays And Assorted Other Activities

2010-06-30T23:43:00.001-06:00

As promised in the previous day’s post, I wanted to give you an update on the story of Hannah and Ricco. The plot took a sidetrack and We heard from a new character today, LeeRoy. LeeRoy finds it difficult to make decisions. At the end, we learned that it is best to use God’s values when making decisions rather than leaving the decision making up to chance.

The campers have continued to enjoy the good weather we’ve been having at camp. As is typical most afternoons, the campers went for a swim. We have many water toys, with which the children can play. The ring pictured here was a big hit today. Some of the campers and counselors were having a contest to see who could make it into the center of the ring by jumping into it from the dock.

Of course for those who didn’t feel like competing, a casual swim was just the ticket for a relaxing time in the water. If being in the water is not the campers’ thing, there’s always the option of sitting on the sandy beach and building a sandcastle.

Today had several special events for our campers. One of the host camp staff member took each of the campers for a speed boat ride. It was quite a sight seeing the campers skimming across the smooth water in the boat and I noticed that each camper exited the boat with a huge smile on their faces.

Every year, we have a Birthday Party to celebrate each child birthday. Organizations from around the valley have donated small toys and other items to fill the Birthday Boxes . At the Birthday party, we group the children by the month of their birth, call the children for that month up to the front of the gathering, and sing Happy Birthday to them. They’re also given their Birthday Box and then the campers are asked to go back to their tables to wait (sometimes a little impatiently although who could blame them) until everyone has received their Birthday Box. On cue, each camper excitedly opens their boxes to see what they’ve been given. The party is topped off with dinner and cupcakes.

The final event of the evening was the Give It A Go Show. This is similar to a talent show, but we would rather say “Give it a go” and pretty much anything goes at this show. We had a Field Goal Kicker, which was on video since we’re indoors, pianist, puppeteers, singers, dancers, joker tellers, karate demonstrations….. the list goes on. The Give It A Go Show is a safe environment to test out your skills and a place where you know you will always been cheered and receive a standing ovation.

It’s been another great day and we’re looking forward to what tomorrow holds for us.

Day Two – Jumping, Catching Bugs, And A Reminder Of Why We Are Here

2010-06-29T21:50:00.002-06:00

Day two marked the first full day of camp. The campers have settled in and are now about the business of having fun. The bug boxes that the campers built yesterday and early today were put to good use. The camper with the red shirt (pictured left) had captured a caterpillar in his bug jar and was on the hunt for a prize dragonfly to add to the collection. He was awfully proud of his caterpillar and was eager to show it off. The capture gave him a great sense of achievement.
Today was also the first day we brought out the jumping house for the campers to play in. It always brings some fun to the party. The campers were very creative as they played in the house. They weren’t just content to jump but decided to make up games to play while they were in the house.

Camp runs on a schedule to make sure we can get to all of the activities during the day. First up on the schedule is Breakfast Club. Breakfast Club helps us start the day out right with music, games, and object lessons. We had an introduction to a story with Hannah and Ricco, two friendly puppets who are facing many of the challenges our campers face. Each day we have an installment in the story and in today’s installment Ricco talks with Hannah about wanting to try out for the baseball team. Even with Hannah’s encouragement, Ricco is afraid to try out for the team because of his fear of not being chosen. In fact Ricco feels that he would not be chosen by many of the people in his life. Hannah ends the day’s skit with telling Ricco God demonstrates the he has chosen Ricco through the love God gives him. I’ll be sure to post each day’s installment so you can hear how the story progresses.
It was during Breakfast Club that I met one of our new campers. All of the children had been allowed to chose a new stuffed toy the night before and this little camper, a boy, had chosen the bull pictured left. I noticed that once he’d picked it out, he’d always had it in his possession as he went about doing the camp activities. I asked him, “What’s your bull’s name?” and he told me and pointed out a few other things about his bull. As I started to turn my attention back to the object lesson, the camper continued on with more information. Not looking at me and staring intently at his bull he told me that his bull’s mother had died and that he was going to be the bull’s father. Whether this is his story or the story of someone who is close to him i don’t know, but his comment was a hard hitting reminder that while the Jump House and bug catching can be fun, we’re here for a deeper purpose which is to let’s these children who have been abuse, neglected or abandoned some time during their young lives, know that they are loved by God and of great value. This is why we are here.

Day One - What's In A Name?

2010-06-29T00:16:00.005-06:00

The sign read Tony, a fairly common name, but for us it’s a very special one. Tony is one of the many campers who arrived today to participate in our camp. One of the things we want to promote is the notion that each child who comes and spends the week with us is unique and special. Included on the children’s name tags is the meaning of their name. The exhaustive list of the names and their meaning for all of our campers would fill this post but to give you an idea, some names mean adventurous, others noble, joyous, strong, steadfast, to name a few. We use the meaning of their names to further reaffirms that they have the potential to live up to the positive attributes that are linked to their names. You maybe asking yourself, “Why is this counselor holding up a sign with Tony’s name on it?”

Upon arrival, each camper leaves the bus, and exits onto a red carpet while one of our staff members announces them. The counselors and staff cheer their arrival to make sure they know they are welcomed and that we are excited that they will be participating in our camp. The sign helps each camper more easily identify their counselor, which speeds their way towards lunch and a fun afternoon of activities. Speaking of the camp activities, here’s a sampling of what some of our campers did today.

Building Bug Boxes in preparation for

tomorrows bug hunting down at the pond.

Learning how to hold the bow and

arrow while aiming for the target.

Looks like our campers are pretty quick studies.

There’s always opportunities to be creative either

through painting plaster forms or face painting (below).

Counselors and campers kayaking on the lake.

Camp is off to a great start and we’re looking forward to a spectacular week.

It’s Almost Here

2010-06-23T21:12:00.000-06:00

Final preparations are underway. Royal Family Kids’ Camp 2010 is almost at hand. Actors are rehearsing their parts, musicians are practicing the songs and the hand motions that go along with them, trailers are being carefully packed with crafts and games, and all involved are preparing their hearts and minds to serve the children who will be soon exiting the bus and heading for fun and adventure in the forest of of central Idaho.

Each day’s activities will be chronicled here so be sure to check back with us to see what new and exciting things happened at camp as Kid Royale and his friends strike out for fun and adventure.

2009 - In Their Own Words

2009-07-05T14:44:00.000-06:00

One of the last activities of camp is to ask the campers what they liked about camp. each camper diligently wrote down what were their favorite parts of camp. Some of the campers' responses are below:

[girl camper] I like Royal Family Kids Camp because you get to know more people and you get to have a better relationship with the Lord and plus you don’t have to be embarrassed because most of the kids have gone through what you have gone through so you can have a better relationship with the kids too. Plus your counselors are the best and they understand you, laugh with you, and they love you. I love the food!!! I also love J-zone and Breakfast Club because of Maaartha and Kid Roayle. That is why I like Royal Family Kids camp!!!

[boy camper] I like playing with basketball and singing in chapel. I like painting faces, friends, swimming, fishing, kicking the ball, and dancing. Tom is my best friends. Royal Family Kids Camp ROCK!

[girl camper] The reason I like Royal Family Kids Camp is because I am in the best place in the world. This is the best place in the country and everyone cares for me.

[boy camper] I like camp because we get to go and fish in the lake. I enjoyed doing the Polar Bear swim. Furthermore, I enjoyed having dinner, breakfast, and lunch. I really enjoyed the jumping house. I liked to not steal and not take stuff from others and having fun without being mean. I leanred that God loves us and He tries to help us.

[ girl camper] I like the polar bear club swim and I like the counselor I got. I really lie the zipline. I like my room and all the stuff I got. I like the signs I got when I first came off the bus. I like all the activities there are. I like the people in my cabin and I like how they’re not all bossy… and there’s a bunch more reasons I like camp too.

[boy camper] I really liked building things, swimming, the zipline, breakfast club, archery, and the birthday party. I liked fishing too.

[girl camper] I really like the zipline and the high heels. I like all the presents because they are cute. I like to play all the activities. I don’t like mean people, I only like nice people and everyone here is really nice. I like the food its yummy. The birdhouse Uncle Bryon made and I go tot paint it. I liked seeing all my friends from foster care. I like Katie’s bedtime stories when I’m the princess.

[boy camper] I like camp because it’s fun. I like the zip line. The bow and arrow target is fun. And building and swimming and the bounce house. Something I like is listening to the staff and listening to CJ. And living to the Spirit and God and Jesus.

[girl camper] I have always loved Royal Family Kids Camp because I have always had fun here! I love LOVE the zipline because it goes fast. I like face painting and make it like make-up with lipstick and eyeshadow! I also like dress-up and I love J-Zone and all the songs. I also like Kid Royale. Just to tell you I am saving the best for last and it is so cool! I love crafts and activities and also when we sing on stage.

[boy camper] I liked the zipline because you can slide down the line and it’s just really fun. Archery because I short Bambi on accident. And I liked the ropes course because it takes practice. CJ is a cool guy and the nicest man.

We are thankful that we have been given the opportunity the work with these children and are looking forward to another successful camp next year.

Wrapping Up Camp

2009-07-03T22:41:00.001-06:00

Royal Family Kids' Camp Boise 2009

The last day of camp has come and gone. We had the final installment of the sheepfold drama. You may remember from yesterday's report, that one of the young sheep was enticed by a wolf to venture out of the fold and he is now in the the clutches of the wolf. The shepherd, who watches over the fold has gone in search of the young sheep.

The shepherd finds the wolf and the sheep in the wolf's den. The shepherd battles the wolf for the sheep and although somewhat battered, comes out the victor. The sheep of the fold can always depend on the shepherd to watch over them and seek them out whenever they stray from the fold. We learned that we have a shepherd in Jesus who watches over us as well and he's someone on which we can always depend.

Campers, counselors and staff members had lunch on the lawn and signed shirts. This has been a camp tradition and gives us an opportunity to relax and recognize the friendships we've made. Once we were returned to Boise, the campers, counselors and staff put on a Welcome Home performance for their care givers. Everyone returns to their normal lives now, but in our hearts we are gearing up for next year's camp.

Day Four

2009-07-03T01:02:00.001-06:00

Nothing jolts someone awake like a 7:30am swim in a cold mountain lake. It's been a RFKC Boise tradition for many years to take such a swim at least once during the camp. We call this early morning ritual the Polar Bear Swim. Camper, counselor and staff members brave the cold morning air and even colder water temperature to swim the length of the camp swimming area to win the title of Polar Bear. For those who do not wish to win this distinction, they can wade into the lake, up to their knees and gain the coveted title of Penguin. This activity isn't compulsory and many of us are happy standing on the dock and cheering the swimmers and waders on while they accomplish their feats.

After a hot shower and breakfast, we head off to Breakfast Club. In addition to our standard programs, our teachers, Sue and Carolyn teach us good life principles through, games, skits and puppet shows. In today's puppet show we learned that each of us is dealing with difficult issues, whether it be loneliness or fears, and that we can overcome these issues by helping one another.

The drama team has been presenting a play this week that is staged within a sheepfold. The sheep have been dealing with the issue of the grass being greener on the other side. There, to encourage one of the sheep out of the sheepfold is a wolf, who is promoting the idea that in fact the grass is greener on the other side. Of course his ultimate goal is to spirit the young sheep away to his den for a mutton meal. Today we left our story with the Good Shepherd, who looks over the fold, rushing off to save the poor sheep. Hopefully he's not too late. The final installment is tomorrow and we will know if the young sheep is safe or a stew.

The RFKC Boise Players

Today's events were capped off with awards and a graduation ceremony. Each camper receives an award that has been specially crafted for them. You may not recognize awards such as "Best Bug Catcher" or "Best Air Guitar" but at RKFC Boise, they are highly valued.

Once all of the awards were distributed, we began our graduation ceremony, which is for those campers who have reached the upper age limit for attending our camp. Each graduate receives graduation gifts and their counselor says a special prayer for them. The day ended on a thoughtful note.

It can be somewhat difficult for the graduating campers to accept that they will no longer be eligible for camp. The staff and counselors have become equally attached to the campers and the day can be difficult for them as well. I think the silver lining is that this reluctance to part ways is a further sign that the camp has made a huge impact on the camper, counselors and staff members alike and that the year long effort to produce this camp is worthwhile.

Let's Give It A Go

2009-07-01T23:59:00.000-06:00

Our first event of the day is named Breakfast Club. As promised, Great Scott came to Breakfast Club and taught the campers a trick where seemingly, a rubber band jumps from the first two fingers to the last two fingers. If you know one of the campers or staff members of our camp, be sure to ask them to show it to you. The trick is amazing. We've also been learning through stories and activities that we need to help one another. it may not be the easiest thing to do, but it's always the right thing to do.

Sue Carpenter and Larry Funzel teach
the campers

Campers were also treated to speedboat rides. A photographer went along for the ride and took pictures of the campers as they experience the thrill of skimming across the water. The smiling faces beaming in the photos were a testament to the great time they had this afternoon.

The excitement continued to build for the campers as they attended their joint birthday party. These children aren't always able to celebrate their birthday. We try to remedy that by having a birthday party where every camper receives a Birthday Box filled with gifts and the whole party attendees sing Happy Birthday to each of the campers until everyone's named has been mentioned. Just to make sure we have that total "Birthday" feeling, the host camp staffers make cup cakes and distribute them to the party goers.

You've probably deduced by now that one of our camp goals is to build the campers confidence in themselves. This year, rather than having a Talent Show, we decided to have a "Give It A Go" show. Giving it a go opens up the field for campers who would like to try to entertain the audience, but might not think their offering would constitute the name talent. We had plenty of takers this year with entertainers ranging for singers to actors in skits. The applause and cheers for each entertainers resulted in a lot of smiles and signs that everyone had a good time.

Nothing Up My Sleeve - Presto!

2009-06-30T23:03:00.001-06:00

Breakfast club started off with a big game of King Of The Chairs. For those of you who haven't had the chance to play a couple of rounds of King Of The Chairs, the rules are somewhat simple. There's a line of chairs, five or so, and the kids line up on each of the chairs with the first person in line competing with the person sitting in the chair. The person in the chair and the next person in line do a round of Rock, Paper, & Scissors. You can stay in the chair as long as you win that round of the game. If you lose, the next person becomes the king and the process goes on. Our teachers, Sue, Carolyn and Larry the Worm helped us learn through the story of David that we shouldn't judge people on the outside but instead look at their heart.

It was a great day at the fishing hole today. The weather was good and the fish were biting. Each of the campers were able to catch at least one fish. Many of the campers caught more than one fish with the record being one held by a girl camper who caught seven.

More importantly it is a time for the counselors and campers to sit in the beauty of nature, the warmth of the sunshine, and talk. The campers will enjoy eating the fish tomorrow.

The evening was capped off with a magic and ventriloquist show given to us by Great Scott. Great Scott taught us about David who as a child had a faith that changed a nation. He definitely made us laugh and learn along the way. He will teach all the campers a magic trick in the morning.

The Red Carpet Treatment

2009-06-29T23:35:00.000-06:00

Today is the first day of camp for RFKC Boise. For those of you who have been following the camp blog over the years, you've probably seen a couple of photos of our arrival party where each of the children are announced and cheered as they leave the bus, ready to begin their camp experience. This year, we've added a new twist. A red carpet and ropes have been added to the walkway in hopes that we can give each child the "Your Special" treatment right from the start. On our red carpet, we don't ask who you are wearing, but rather say welcome, we're so glad you're here.

Red Carpet walk

Counselors and Staff Welcoming The Campers

For several years, the Project Linus organization has provide beautiful quilts for our first year campers. These campers cherish these quilts and take the quilts with them wherever life leads. The quilts are picked by the camper's counselors and sometimes the choices can be difficult due to not knowing what the campers may like in terms of patterns and colors. The picking of the right quilt was particularly agonizing for one of our counselors who did not want to let her camper down. Her perseverance paid off, her little camper wrapped herself snuggly in the quilt, even though it was a hot day, and exclaimed, "You made a good choice."

Dean of Men & Dean of Women distribute quilts to the campers

The campers are now safely in bed , likely covered with their quilts and dreaming of the big fish they are going to try and catch tomorrow.

In Their Own Words

2008-07-28T21:40:00.001-06:00

This year's camp has come and gone and we're left with very fond memories. One of the camper activities is to write about their favorite parts of the camp. Below are a few examples of what our campers thought of their RFKC experience.

Why I like Royal Family Kids Camp

Boys' Comments

I like swimming, sailing, quilt, bug boxes, canoes, food, birthday boxes, speed boat, Camp grounds Staff.
The pond, archery, zipline, rope course, fishing, swimming, J Zone, lunch, dinner, breakfast, making bug box, birthday face painting, crafts, game room, staff, and counselors.
I like swimming, crafts, ropes, archery, activities, birthday boxes, chapel, speed boat and in room crafts, and exercises. I like Kid Royale and the songs.
We get to play in the jumping thing. We play a lot. We play games. We get to have time to play in our room. And we get to have a talent show. I like the presents that all the Royal Family Kids’ camp gave me.
I really liked the fishing, foot ball stuff, plus basket ball. I enjoyed building (he built a boat and a rabbit trap) and the celebration of birthday.
Games, archery, fishing, prizes, building, clowns, parties, food, the counselors, the painting, swimming. The puppets and the talent show.

Girls' Comments

I liked R.F.K.C. because it’s fun. You get to go fishing. They have great songs to sing. There is great councelors. R.F.K.C. is a great camp. I hope anyone who comes next year has fun.
I like camp because you can have quilts. And I like camp because you can swim all week and on Monday’s you can do activities too! You can always have fun!!!! Do fun things!
I like beads, painting, dress-up, and desserts. I like Katy, my counselor and the song DESTINY. I like swimming, the birthday party, cookies, cup cakes, the quilt, and my roommates.
I like camping, swimming, polar bear swim. I like [camper's name], Katie, Jerrilene, [camper's name], [camper's name], “Grandma”, Vikki, Jenn, fishing, Miss Attitude, and the Bunk beds. I like the birthday party, b-day gifts, Canada and Canada Day. The talent show, crafts and activities, play dough, all of camp everyone in camp and Jerrilene again.
I like swimming, play catch, Birthday Party and my presents and the cupcakes, hair stuff, my bunny, the zipline, JZone and singing “Destiny” and “I’m A Star”. I like my blanket and water bottle, being in my room with my counselor and the other girls. I like to trust the Lord. I like the projects and my bed, the stickers, dress-up, I like being here at camp. I like being brave. I like the sombreros and boas in the bedroom. I like to run. I like to paint my fingernails. I like the puppets and Kid Royale. I like the talent show and the food. I like the new shoes too. That’s it.
I like painting, beads, and swimming. I like the songs “Pharaoh” and “Destiny”. I like the birthday party, cupcakes, dinner, lunch, snacks, and breakfast. I like counselors. I like the zipline and my beautiful bear with the kitty. My quilt, shoes, what my name means, daily surprises, my Bible and my story about Moses.

Day 5- Camp Comes To A Close

2008-07-05T20:26:00.003-06:00

2008 Royal Family Kids' Camp counselors and staff.

RFKC 2008 has come to a close. The campers, counselors and staff members said goodbye and signed each others' shirts ( a tradition similar to signing school yearbooks at the end of the school year).

Our final activity was a Welcome Home presentation for the Foster Parents and the family members of the camp counselors and staff. We had a great camp and are very thankful to the Foster Parents for allowing their children to come to camp, to the hosting camp for all the extra things they did, such as boating, great food, and water safety, and to all of the volunteers who worked to make the camp a success.

Day-4 Polar Bears Spotted In McCall

2008-07-04T00:50:00.001-06:00

I don't know if it has made the local news, but Polar Bears were spotted in McCall. They're not the white furry kind you see on nature programs. Polar Bear is the title we give any campers, counselors or staff members who has dive into the ice cold water of the swimming area and swim back to the beach. The title of penguin goes to those campers who wade into the cold water of the swimming area, up to their knees. The whole event, known as the Polar Bear Swim takes place at 7:30 in the morning which adds even more difficulty to achieving this feat.

An on-going activity that promotes serving others is know as Random Acts of Kindness. These Acts of Kindness are helpful things the campers do for each other, counselors or staff members. Kid Royale (pictured in purple cape & crown) and Sue (white shirt & black hat) reward these random acts with small stuffed toys. The campers are called to the front, and with the help of Sue, are able to receive their prize in the color of their choosing. When all is said and done, every camper will have been recognized for their kindness. This year's prizes were stuff frogs.

This evening, campers participated in the RFKC triathlon. The first event was the egg and spoon relay race. This event requires individual effort and has individual results. Campers traveled from goal to goal while carrying an egg on a spoon.

The second event was the three legged race. Campers, counselors and staff members formed teams of two and with dual effort gained results as a small team with the goal of crossing the finish line first.

The third and final event was the balloon toss. The teams were made up of a team of boys with their counselors and a team of girls with their counselors. In this event, balloons are tossed from team member to team member emptying one bucket of water balloons up the line until they reach another bucket at the opposite end if the line. After this has been completed, the process is reversed until the original bucket is filled again. At the end of the triathlon, each camper receives a necklace with a trophy on it.

As well as being fun, the triathlon has an object lesson to be learn.

The point of this lesson is:

-Sometimes we walk alone

-Sometimes we walk together

-Sometimes we have a community

It is not important how well we run the race, but when we fall, we have those around us who can pick us up.

Day-3 RFKC's Got Talent

2008-07-03T00:18:00.001-06:00

As with most camps, the RFKC campers have many opportunities for outdoor adventures, One of the big draws today was the archery course. Lee, our archery instructor lead the campers through the correct way to hold and fire a bow and arrow. Within a matter of a few tries, our campers were hitting targets ranging from printed turkeys attached to bales of straw to a life size replica of a deer. This activity is not only fun for the campers but helps them quickly gain a sense of accomplishment and can help build their self esteem.

Another outdoor activity that the campers really enjoy is sailing. Our host camp goes out of their way to make our RFKC camp very special for our campers. This is the second year a member of our host camp staff has offered to sail our campers around the lake. The campers came back from the lake tour with excitement written all over their faces.

The excitement continued with the Birthday Party. This party is an annual event where each child's birthday is called out and the whole group sings Happy Birthday to each of the campers. Of course any birthday would not be complete without presents and cake.

After dinner, it was time for the RFKC talent show. Each camper has a safe, risk free environment in which to share their talent. We have singers, puppeteers, dancers and a few talents you might not likely see at any other talent show. It makes no difference all performers receive cheers and applause when they've finished their performance.

So ends another fun day at RFKC.

Day -2 Larry Avoids the Hook

2008-07-01T23:41:00.001-06:00

It has been another great day at camp. This evening, campers, counselors, and staff enjoyed a presentation made by Rainbow the clown and Larry Funzel, a fuzzy blue worm (picture top) . Rainbow and Larry used several things, such as juggling & stories to teach life lessons in a very entertaining way . One of those lessons was about dealing with our fears and Larry had a lot to share on this topic.

Earlier that day the campers went fishing at our favorite fishing hole. While Larry narrowly avoided the hook, many of his distant relatives were not so lucky. In total, the campers reeled in 56 fish. We are going to have plenty of fish for dinner tomorrow night.

You may be wondering what campers do while they are waiting for their turn to go fishing. In the case of our campers, they were treated to boat rides around the lake by one of the hosting camp staff members. You can imagine the wide smiles of our campers as they skimmed across the water. A lot of exciting stories were shared after the campers exited the boat. Yes, it has been another great day.

Day 1- Royal Family Kids' Camp 2008 Begins Today

2008-06-30T23:13:00.001-06:00

The roar of the bus as it took on the steep grade of the camp driveway announce that RFKC Boise had officially started. As is the tradition for RFKC, each child is announced as they depart the bus, amidst the cheers of counselors and staff members. There was a new twist this year, each name was called out with a bullhorn by staff member Jon. The bullhorn definitely added more excitement to the whole affair.

Some of the campers spent their first day hunting Dragonflies down at the pond and of course they had to build bug boxes first in case they caught anything. The afternoon was topped off with swimming and kayaking down at the lake.

This evening was devoted to handing out quilts to first time RFKC campers. These quilts are made by the Project Linus organization. This group has been faithfully supplying our campers with beautiful handmade quilts for a number of years now. Children who had received them in prior years told us how they have cherish their quilts. Regardless of the temperature, the camper sleep snuggled in their quilts all week.

I think one of our new little campers summed the day up best. As he made a leap into the lake swimming area he shouted, "This is AWESOME!"

Camp Is Over

2007-07-07T12:38:00.000-06:00

How did the time go so quickly? It seems that we were just getting the campers settled into the lodge and now the camp is over. The campers had a good last day with the completion of the play, lunch out on the lawn, and tee-shirt signing. One of the long standing traditions before returning home is signing each other’s tee-shirts, much like students sign yearbooks on the last day of school. This gives the campers another way to remember their camp experience and the people with whom they shared it. After lunch it was time for the campers to embark on their journey back to Boise where the campers were able to perform a Coming Home program of music for their foster families. The audience also viewed a camp video, which gave a sampling of the many activities at camp over the last week.

We want to thank the foster families for letting us have their children at our camp this last week and we want to thank the many partners who worked with us to make this camp happen. If you’re interested in our camp and want more information, you can start with our web site Royal Family Kids' Camp Boise.

X Marks The Spot

2007-07-06T07:12:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was a day of adventures. First we went on a treasure hunt. Each team was handed a treasure map, but unlike most treasure maps, this one was blank except for lines that resembled puzzle pieces. The teams of campers were taken to the first station where they had to earn a reward and the puzzle piece of the map that would lead them to the next station. The map took them to spots all over the camp and led them to their final reward, a small treasure chest to hold all of the rewards they’d earned along the way. Each station also had a positive message for the campers to take with them. The rewards the campers earned are listed below:

- Bean Bag Toss, had the reward of a compass, which represents God’s direction in our lives.
- Sing A Song, had the reward of a harmonica, which represents the music God use to give us peace & joy in our hearts.
- Archery Shoot, had the reward of a jungle wrist band that represents the courage God gives us.
- Tight Rope Walk had the reward of a stone engraved with the word Faith, which represents our trust in God.
- Rope Course had the reward of gold coins, which represents the treasure of God.
- Searching the sandy banks of the pond offered up sand dollars which represents God’s peace.
- Riding the Zip line had the reward of jewels for the girls and sword pens for the boys, which represents God's provison of beauty, strength and protection for our campers.
- And finally the Port of Hope held the treasure chests that held all of the rewards that were earned at each point on the map.

The other adventure our campers had today was to sail in a sailboat. Before we go too much further in this narrative, I have to mention the generosity and selflessness of our host campground. The staff of this campground really goes beyond expectations to make our camp a special one for our campers. The food is spectacular, and in fact the snow cone cupcakes pictured in July 5th's entry, are made and donated by the camp staff. They strive to anticipate our every need. They provided speedboat rides for the campers and today the host camp director spent the afternoon sailing with our campers. It’s hard to describe the laughter and excited discussions of our campers as they exited the sailboat and headed down the dock, but suffice it to say, it was a big hit. While we can’t mention our host camp by name, we do want to express a multitude of thanks for all they do for us.

BRRR – That’s Cold

2007-07-05T07:35:00.000-06:00

One of the traditions of our camp is the Polar Bear Swim. The swim starts at 7:30 am and any camper, counselor, or staffer who jumps into the cold lake and makes their way across the swimming area earns a Polar Bear Award. For those who can’t bring themselves to get their head under the water at 7:30 in the morning, there is the Penguin Wade. You can attain the Penguin award by wading into the cold lake up to the knees. Many brave souls took a morning dip or did the wade up to their knees. After a hot shower and a hot breakfast, thoughts turn to the talent show, another camp tradition.

The talents displayed at our talent show might not be the typical ones shown on television. Yes we have our singers, dancers and a few puppeteers, but it’s not unusual to have someone demonstrate how to build a bug box, shoot a basketball through a hoop or paint a plaster wall hanging. Almost anything goes at our talent show because we want the children to experience the thrill of having someone applaud their efforts and treat them like a star. We had to make sure the talent show stayed on track because right after the talent show was the Birthday party.

The Birthday party is held for all of the campers. Sometimes our campers don’t have an opportunity to have a Birthday party. The party attendees are honored with a rousing rendition of Happy Birthday with their names called out, grouped by the month in which they were born. Each is handed a Birthday box filled with toys.

This already exciting day was rounded off with a fireworks display. All in all it was a very good day.

Successful Fishing Trip

2007-07-04T06:55:00.000-06:00

One of the principles of our camp is we’re all winners and we don’t promote competition. Having said that, the boys and girls typically set up a friendly competition on who can catch the most fish at one of the local fishing holes. Since we don’t promote competition, I can’t say who won, but I will say the boys are very happy. It really goes beyond fishing; the counselors and campers have an opportunity to talk and further get to know one another in a beautiful setting.

Later that day, we were privileged to have a guest performance made by Central Mainstream Youth. This team led us in worship and then provided a fishing skit, very appropriate based on the day's earlier activity. The fishermen and fisherwomen in the skit were catching fish, which were considered trash fish. They threw these fish back into the pond saying that they were trash and not worth keeping. The narrator of the skit stopped midway into the performance and stated, that in God’s eyes, there are no “Trash fish” and those who were fishing should reconsider the fish they were catching. The skit ended with the narrator reiterating that everyone is worthwhile, highly valued and much loved in God’s eyes. One of the little girls in the front row with long brown curly hair, bright shining brown eyes, and a contagious smile, piped up and ask, “Do you mean we’re not trash?” Once again the narrator assured this audience of children, who have often times been told otherwise, that God loves them and that they are highly valued. This is the message of our camp; God loves and highly values all of us & especially our little campers.

The Warmth of Project Linus

2007-07-04T06:49:00.001-06:00

Monday night was the introduction to camp. New campers always receive a new handmade quilt provided to us by Project Linus. The members of this organization work tirelessly to provide soft, colorful quilts for our children. These quilts immediately become prize possessions for our campers. They encircle themselves in their quilts and their eyes glow with the physical and emotional warmth it brings to them, along with an ear to ear bright smile. These quilts are not esteemed just at camp. Our Dean of Women will visit some of the graduates of our camps in their homes and center stage in their rooms are the quilts they have received during their time at camp. If you’d like to read more about project you can find their web site by clicking here. For our part, we’d like to thank Project Linus, once again, for the hard work and beautiful quilts.

Camper with her quilt

They're Here

2007-07-02T21:26:00.000-06:00

Finally, the event we long anticipated is here. Our campers arrived this morning amongst the welcoming cheers and clapping of their counselors and the staff. With the opening of bus doors began our Royal Family Kids’ Camp 2007. Once the campers and counselors find one another, they begin sorting through the scramble of luggage. As they walk to the lodge to unpack their clothes and other belongings, you can hear the returning campers telling the new campers about the fun that waits. It’s not long before you can hear the whir of the zip line as the campers fly down it, and the laughter around the campus as they explore the crafts and woodworking stations.

The pond is always a big draw. At snack time, one of the boys told me he was only interested in catching one type of dragonfly, “The black and white ones.” Other less discerning dragonfly catchers proudly reported on the number of dragonflies they’ve caught.

As you can imagine, hard work like dragonfly catching and bug box building can make you very hot. It’s not a surprise that a dip in the lake before dinner was well received.

Speaking of dinner, I wonder what’s on the menu.

Setting Up Camp

2007-07-02T13:55:00.001-06:00

We’re here! The counselors and staff have made their way to camp to get everything ready for our campers. The day was spent setting up craft tents, getting the stage ready for this year’s play and decorating the rooms to provide a warm welcome for campers. The “Camp Players” have been rehearsing the lines of our new play and are set for the performance to begin. Everything is now ready, we’re eagerly awaiting the children’s arrival, and excited about what this year’s camp has to offer.

Color Blowfish suspended from the ceiling in mid-swim

A blue Blowfish stands watch from the upper bunk

A ship rides currents of air

Getting Ready For Camp

2007-06-24T23:13:00.000-06:00

The 2007 Royal Family Kids’ Camp (RFKC) is fast approaching and the RFKC staff and counselors have met over the last few weeks to prepare for it.

The counselors met to learn more about their campers and the support staff met to learn their roles and to understand how they can support the camp. This week will be spent packing and doing those last minute things that always seem to pop up just before departure. The RFKC team appreciates the support our sponsors and partners have given in preparing for this camp and would appreciate your continuing to remember us as we seek to provide postive experiences for our campers.

Please be sure to check back with us as we use this blog to provide daily updates of the camp activities.

Camp is Almost Here

2007-06-03T19:50:00.000-06:00

Camp counselor and staff are excitedly anticipating this year’s camp. We are joining with our sponsers and partners to prepare for a fun, harmonious & safe camp this year. We’ll be meeting this month to learn who our campers will be as well as going over the fine tuning of camp.

On another note, our last entry was about the Black & White Ball. We’re pleased to report that the funds raise from the Black & White Ball will send eleven campers to camp this year. Thanks to Alison & Mark Tilden for hosting this event.

What is RFKC Boise?

2007-01-15T16:52:00.000-07:00

RFKC Boise is a non-profit organization staffed with volunteers. The goal of RFKC Boise is to create hope and positive memories for children who have been victims of abuse, neglect, or abandonment. The children who attend our camp are in the care and custody of the state of Idaho. They range in age from 7 to 11. Many of these children will move several times, from foster home to foster home, in the short span of their child and adolescent lives. Often times, Royal Family Kids' camp is the only stable, consistent experience these children may have.