Today was another beautiful, bright, joy-filled day at Camp Highlander. Our schedule was full — with on-camp activities, off-camp hikes, rafting adventures on the Nantahala, horseback riding through Pisgah, and so much more. It was a day packed with laughter, adventure, and the kind of friendships that make every moment more meaningful. Tonight our campers took the stage in the Gillespie Gymnasium for the Talent Show — and they absolutely brought the house down.
One by one, they stepped into the spotlight — not just to show off their talents, but to share a piece of who they are. From singing cowgirls and piano solos to stand-up comedy and tumbling routines, each act was different — but every single one was rooted in courage. It takes real guts to perform in front of 350 people. And yet, camper after camper did just that — dancing, singing, playing, skateboarding and even card-throwing their way across the stage. We saw group routines bursting with laughter and unity, solos filled with heart, and moments that left us in awe — not just of their talent, but of their bravery.
As the show went on, my pride grew with every performance. Not because everything was perfect — but because everything was real. Campers showed up for each other, cheering through nerves, offering hugs and high-fives, and celebrating every act with joy. The crowd clapped to the beat, shouted their friends’ names, waved their hands in the air, and made each performer feel like a star. The biggest smiles of the night weren’t just from those on stage — they came from the love and support that surrounded them.
That was the most beautiful part — the way this community lifts each other up.
Tonight reminded us that camp isn’t just about climbing walls or paddling rivers — it’s also about discovering who you are and having the courage to share it.Thank you for sharing your super talented, extremely funny, creative, kind, brave, and truly wonderful children with us. We love them so much!
Favorite Details of The Day
- Reflect at the Rock: This morning at Reflect, Madeline talked to us about our greatest accomplishment in life is how we treat others. She reminded us that people don’t always remember what you say, but they never forget the way you make them feel.
- Weather: It was a beautiful, hot sun-shining day on Old Forge!
- Meals: For breakfast we had cinnamon rolls, scrambled eggs, sausage links, grits, oatmeal and a fresh fruit bar. For lunch we had fried or grilled chicken fingers, french fries, a salad bar and a sandwich bar. Dinner was everyone’s favorite - Papa John’s pizza! YUM! And to finish off an absolutely perfect day of yummy meals…we had Gus’ for dessert after Camper’s Choice sign ups.
- EP: Talent Show…it was my very favorite!
About Melissa Fitzgerald
