ask anything


the lowdown on camp romances, friends, and yourself


"What can I do about cabin co-counselor problems?"
Q. My cabin co-counselor and I just don’t get along! It’s really tough sharing a cabin with her. How can I provide a loving, Christian atmosphere for 10 kids when all I want to do is kick her butt?
---Angry in Asbury

A. Woah, girl! Your co-counselor may be unaware of how you’re feeling. You need to sit down and talk to her, tell her exactly what it is that bugs you whether it’s the way she makes you tell the kids to stop running all the time, the way she flirts like mad with your camp romance, or how her campers’ canteen cards have suddenly become your responsibility. Chances are she will try to meet you half way. If not, grab her evaluation sheet and write ‘once killed a camper’ under the space for ‘other comments.’ Then she won’t be back next year, and you can have a blast with a cool, fun co-counselor.

"I might lose my job if I tell my secret."
Q . I have a problem. I’m a lifeguard at camp, and I love working there. I have a blast with my friends. The thing is, I have a secret, and if I tell someone I’m afraid I might get fired. You see, I can’t swim. I’m afraid of water. What should I do?
---N.F.

A . I can understand why you’re so upset. I realize that you’re having fun with your buds, but maybe the thing to do in this situation is fess up to the camp manager that you can’t swim. Peoples’ lives are at stake here!

"What can we do to win the clean cabin award?"
Q . I’m in Hancock cabin this summer, and we’re trying really hard to win the clean cabin award. We spend the entire designated time working hard, and we even sweep under the beds. We can’t seem to win though! What should we do?"
---Frantic in Hancock

A . Hey, it sounds like you and your buds are trying really hard! You should be proud of the way you’ve tried to keep your cabin clean. I know it must be incredibly frustrating to be 0 and 7 for the week. Here are a few tips for your cabin. Make sure your clothes line is tidy. The cabin inspectors like it when all the towels are lined up. Another thing you can do to bring about a professional clean feeling is to wash the mirror. If all else fails you can always try bribery, which usually works. Try leaving a nice suck-up note or bag of leftover canteen candy. The cabin inspectors will greatly appreciate it. 1