“My theory is that in the Bergers’ warped way of thinking, since I was the one who saved Nate, I should be the one to cover for Bethany,” I said.
“‘Warped’ being the operative word,” Maggie said.
“She was aggressively obnoxious about it. I figure Jack gets kicked by the partners, Jack kicks Marilyn, Marilyn kicks me,” I said.
“So, who are you kicking?” Roger asked.
“Not my style,” I said.
30Job Wheel
The forecast was for sunny skies and temperatures in the high seventies. At least the weather was on my side. I had mixed emotions as I stopped at the OD shack to pick up the flag. It was exciting and nerve-wracking to lead; whatever I did would be scrutinized. I needed to be on my toes. I took a deep breath, positive I was up to the challenge.
The flag was against my chest as I stood in front of the campers, assembled for the morning announcements. I heard murmuring in the crowd, scanned the line of girls spread out like a fan, and made eye contact with my kids—who were grinning and giving me the thumbs up.
Smiling, I said, “Good morning, campers.”
They roared back, “Good morning, Lori.”
“It’s so nice to see your happy faces straight on instead of off to my right.” I pointed to where I usually stood each morning.
There was a smattering of laughter.
“I’m going to be standing in for Bethany while she’s home taking care of Nate. We’re hoping they’ll be back to dance with us this Saturday night at the Disco Party.”
While the girls cheered, I grabbed Abby and twirled her around.
“The Chipmunks have canteen this afternoon.”
They hooted and sang out in unison, “You scream, I scream, we all scream for ice cream.”
“Tonight’s movie isThe Parent Trap.”
I turned to Abby, who had a birthday tiara in her hand. She announced, “Today is Zara’s birthday and she gets to raise the flag.”
As Zara claimed her crown, her bunkmates chanted, “She’s gotspirit!She’s gotspunk!That’s because she’s in ourbunk! Yay, Zara!”
The flag went up, we said the Pledge of Allegiance, and the campers dispersed to do their chores before the start of first period.
Mindy was by my side. “Well done.”
“Why wasn’t Marilyn here? Do you think it was a snub? You know, I didn’t show for her meeting, so she’s not showing for mine?”
“That’d be petty and would make her look bad.” Mindy stopped for a moment. “So yeah, knowing her, that could very well be the reason. What are you going to do now?”
“I was going to return some phone calls, inspect the Cubs’ bunks, and then walk the campus to check out all the activities.”
“Sounds like a plan. Here’s the key to Bethany’s golf cart. I know you prefer to walk, but you’ve got a lot of terrain to cover.”
“Thanks. I think I’ll make the calls from Bethany’s room; no reason to go into the office.”
“Smart move. I’ll catch up with you later.”
It was fun zipping around camp on a golf cart. The best part was that since I was the temporary head counselor and needed to be everywhere, I could watch Zelda and Hazel participate in activities. Zelda’s group had soccer, and it was my good fortune that Teddy was refereeing the game. I pulled up next to the field—the ball was in play at the opposite goal.
Zelda’s team had control of the ball. Tara kicked it to Zelda who scored a goal. Teddy blew his whistle and ran over to Zelda, who was beaming, and gave her a high five.
When the match was over, Zelda and Tara ran to Teddy. Zelda jumped onto his back while Tara blew into his whistle. They were laughing and easy with each other.
