LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth |
CAMP Babies |
byBridin Reynolds-Hughes |
CAMP Not Camp
Approximately a million questions have been raised in my mind since giving birth to my beautiful twins but ironically I am consistently asked only one thing when I am spotted alone"Where are those baby boys?" Well, the truth is if I manage a little time without my adorable appendages the answer quite often is, "They are at CAMP." Those not in the know will quickly ask, "Camp? Aren't they a little young for camp?" Yes, at 18 months Keegan and Nolan are a little young for your average archery or horseback riding camp, but thankfully they have always been welcome at CAMP Rehoboth. Judging from the amount of people around town who know me primarily as "the mother of the twins" I don't really need to ask, but perhaps you've seen their ornery grins smiling out on the courtyard, waving happily at the passers by? Others give me reports of Nolan learning to type intently on an old keyboard while Keegan is busy coaxing someone into a Barco lounger position for a good story. So far I don't think we've been responsible for a late deadline but it is amazing how they seem to have the run of the place! Wondering how this all happened? In a wordKathy. Of course I had the auspicious fate to become friends with the whole crew upon moving here with my husband and working for the Cape Gazette. True to their acronymCreating a More Positive Rehobotheveryone of them treated me kindly when I encountered them at work assignments, church functions and social events. They were all very supportive and thrilled for us when we announced my pregnancy, but it was Kathy Weir who sent me a simple little note when the twins were born stating, "Call if you need anything, I'd be happy to help." If she regrets it she never says so and I'm certainly not going to tempt fate by asking. It goes without saying that everyone could use a "Kathy- type" in their life and I am fortunate enough to have the genuine article. There just are not words to describe the relief that folds through my shoulders when she calls and ASKS to watch the boys for a bit. While I am of course envious of their walks on the boardwalk or lunches at Lori's Cafe, I have to admit the time it gives me fosters some sanity. Their CAMP days have also given the twins a true sense of extended family. It always bolsters my faith in people when I pull the infamous green Durango down bustling Baltimore Avenue and the doors of CAMP spring open. Whether it is Uncles Sal, Steve, Murray or Rob or Aunts Andrea or Lynn, there are many helping hands and warm greetings. Of course I imagine the situation raises other questions. Will they grow up and ask me difficult questions about the definition of relationships? First of all, I hope so because clearly the world could use more candid discussions on the matter of sexual orientation. But honestly, I just think they will simply come to know that love comes in many forms and in an age of glorified war and political mayhem that can only be a positive thing. If their time at CAMP leads not only to wonderful childhood memories but also to a broader, more compassionate view of the world then my only real question is, "How could a mother ask for more?" Bridin Reynolds Hughes is a regular contributor to Letters from CAMP Rehoboth. E-mail her at bridin@camprehoboth.com |
LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth, Vol. 14, No. 15 November 24, 2004 |