After months of traveling abroad on my own – concluding with Madagascar in March – I spent time helping out at home to give back to my family. From taking care of the family dog, Rogan, to working at the family business, I made myself busy. The time at home was also a chance for a little R&R. By the start of the summer, I must have finished 20+ books and exhausted anything good on Netflix. It was summarily great to enjoy the only time in my life when I truly had no responsibilities and nothing to do. That said, by now I am beyond ready to start college in the Fall.
Even though I say I had nothing to do, I still managed to do a few things here and there...
Even though I say I had nothing to do, I still managed to do a few things here and there...
YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK
May 15 – May 20
As a "guys trip", my dad, brother and I headed out to California with the intent of exploring one of the most iconic places in North America. Ever since I was young, my parents have taken me on trips to see the various National Parks across the country, as they felt it was important for me to explore the country before traveling abroad. From the Grand Canyon to Yellowstone National Park, I have traveled across 31 states and counting. Yosemite was the last of the major National Parks I had yet to visit.
The weather for the duration of our trip was not ideal, but we made do. We arrived at the tail end of one storm as another arrived during our stay. This resulted in rain and snow (yes, snow in late May) every day while we were in the park. There were occasional pockets of sunshine which we maximized, but most of the trip was cold and wet. However, this resulted in some pretty dramatic photos of the park, including the famous waterfalls which were at their peak. The downside to the weather was the closure of Glacier Point Road, which leads above the park and accesses several amazing views and hikes. Regardless, Yosemite was breathtaking. From seeing Tunnel View – a spot made famous by Ansel Adams – at all times of the day to experiencing Yosemite Falls thunder down upon us, Yosemite allowed us to appreciate the majesty and grandeur of nature. The sheer cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome loomed above us as we snaked our way around the park. We were awed by the remarkable nature of the Yosemite Valley and all the natural wonders hidden inside. |
CAMP TOHKOMEUPOG
June 26 – August 18
I have been going to Camp Tohkomeupog, an all boys sleep away camp in New Hampshire, for 11 years this year. For the past 4 years, I have been staff at Camp Tohko in the Deer Clan, with campers aged between 10 and 11 years old. As a camp counselor, I make sure the campers have the best possible summer they can, while instructing them on activities such as swimming, archery, riflery and camp craft. We additionally have weekly trips hiking or canoeing in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, which is especially enjoyable with the great views and experiences with the campers.
I have been going back to Tohko for 11 years because it is truly a special place. I have made friends with people at camp that are some of my closest friends to date, even though we only see each other once a year in the summer. This is due to the nature of the camp, where you bond with others and make memories that will truly last a lifetime. It is one of the most special places on Earth. Time flies at camp, even though the days are long and hot and filled with many fun activities. From Council Fire to stacking symbols, there is truly something unique and special every day. At the end of the summer at Candlelight, we sing a hymn, Remember, and it surmises Tohko in the best possible way; for, we truly belong to Tohko and Tohko, and the memories we share, belong to us. |
MARTHA'S VINEYARD
August 11 – August 14
Due to Camp Tohko being pushed back a week in the summer, the last week of camp conflicted with our annual vacation to Martha's Vineyard. I have been going there since I was born – so 19 years and counting – since it is the place where my parents got engaged and married, so it is very special to my family. We have all fallen in love with the island and continue our annual retreat there every year. That is why it was tough to only go for 4 days, but it was worth the trip even with the shortened time frame.
I especially love the Edgartown and Katama side of the island, as the architecture and landscapes form a picturesque New England village. The old Captain's houses with their widows walks – a majority of them renovated by my favorite architect, Patrick Ahearn – and the Cape Cod Gambrels shape the physical landscape of Edgartown in my opinion. It also helps that every house as matching white picket fences and hydrangeas, truly an American Dream. Katama is also truly special, and it is where we rent year after year due to the tranquil meadows and proximity to South Beach. We love to take the Jeep overland to Norton's Point and just camp out on the beach for the day. It is the perfect way to spend the summer, even for a short while. Martha's Vineyard has always felt like my second home. The lighthouses, the boats and the houses all make me feel as though I am where I belong. The island is truly one of my favorite places in the world, and after getting a glimpse of all different places, I can honestly say Martha's Vineyard is the most special of them all. |