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1923 Lake Fairfield Ripple

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THE L'AKE FAIRFIELD RIPPLE

Sapphire, North Carolina

GAMP MERRIE-WOODE Vol. IV. 19S3 EDITORS

Barbara Prosser Natica Peabody Mary Hinton Duke

Delia McLaurin Stevens Ruth E. Day Margaret Law

What fun we have had re-reading and editing this Fourth Volume of The Ripple? It has taken us, like the famous Magio Carpet, back to Chimney Top - to Band suppers with flapjacks over by the old swimming hole - to the top of Whitesides and an unforgetable sunset, with the wind in the tree-tops through the night and a starry canopy overhead. We have lived over again the night on Toxaway and that matchless sunrise and all the joys of a summer at Merrie-Woode. Some of the Big Events of the summer we find have not been chronicled;, such as the trip to Rockbrook, the swimming meets, the tennis tournament, the every day fun of horseback, the events of Gala week, ending in that luscious banquet and impressive camp fire! But of one thing we are sure - that they are indelibly written in our memories even if they were not recorded with pen and ink. We could not include everything that was written, but we believe you will find within these pages a record that will serve as a reminder of happy days and some bits of prose and poetry that we all want to keep. May it serve as a Magic Carpet to you also]I M. T, and Dammie.

WISHIN1 There are lots of kinds of wishin* That a person's apt to do We all start out life wishin1 And we wish the whole way thru. When we're babies, wish we're grown-ups, When we're gyown-up, wish we're smallg. If we*re fat, we wish we're skinny, If we're little, wish we*re tall. When it's winter, long for summer,


When it's autumn, wish for spring. If we swim, would like to paddle, If we dance, would like to sing. It seems to me the only place That everything1s just right Is a little camp called Merrie-loode Away up out oÂť sight. It's there we like to sing and dance And swim and row and play. It's there the sun seems shinin1 Though it may have rained all day And so this very summer 'Cause I can't breathe that air, I'll have to go on wishin' Just wishin' to be there! Lady Mann. GLIMPSES Glimpses - that make you catch your breath - and wonder Patches of beauty caught within your heart, 'Tis these that make life sweet and voices merry, That make you linger when it's time to part. A pile of creamy clouds above the mountains* A spot of running sunlight on a hill. The glimpse of some new friend among the wild folk, Such snatches make you pause, and watch and thrill. Moments like these are rare within a city. Life is a business. There's no time for play. But here, among green hills and solemn mountains, You catch such glimpses all the live-long day. And after many hours of jolly romping, Ihen camp is quiet and the lake is black, I linger wearily, but quite contented, Upon the doorstep of my wooden shack. Above the misty blackness of the valley Two giant sentinels of mountains rise, And looking up through leafy frames of foliage, I've one more glimpse of starry studded skies. Barbara Prosser


BED TIME STORY

Once upon a time in a nice clump of trees in a far off woodsy wood, Daddy and Dammy Long Legs decided to have a camp for all of the little bugs and animals. So many little children wanted to come that they asked Mary Turkey, a very athletic young bird to come and help make the little campers happy. Soon it was necessary to have some other "big bugs" to help entertain the jumping, merry little bugs, so from all over the thick woods they came - Anola Owl was an awful wise old bird so she taught the little bugs how to shoot bows and arrows. Teddy Fuzzywuzzy was so good that she just naturally hit the bull's eye the very first thing. Her arrow did whiz thru the air so fast that even Lucy Possum couldn't see it.1 Then one day what do you think happened? The big bugs told some of the little fellows that if they'd be very, very good they would take them on a long hike up the mountain. Of course all of the little bugs wanted to go but Mary Turkey said only the ones with very long legs could stand such a long walk, so poor little Shaggy Kuskrat had to stay in her cozy shack by the lake and let her playmate, Sandy Airdale, go along in her place. Sandy had a good time too and was able to walk almost as fast as Buster Bear, who just naturally took a very long stride, and can you guess why she walked so fast? Well, it was because she wanted to get back to Camp in a big hurry to see her little Ruthy Rattail. When the hikers got way up on the big rock on the mountain, they just caught hold to each others tails and waved their big paws and Betty Bobolink just flapped her wings with all her might until Lenville Rooster thought she would tumble off the big rock right down on top of the Big Bugs' Bungalow. Well? Sunday night all of the little bugs were terribly frisky so Miss Turkey asked if they could go across the big pond and cook their supper. Well, Dammy and Daddy Long Legs just dove right off the dock and skated on top of the water straight across the pond and poor little Martha Scott Snake Doctor just tried her best to keep up.with them but her wings just wouldn't flop fast enough. All of the little bugs fel much happier when their tummies were full and they just danced round and round the Camp fire that Cecil Seafish and Adelaide Alligator had come up out of the lake to build. Some of the bugs had so many flap jacks that they had to skip around the lake all the way back to camp. fell, it*s getting late, so run along home and jump into bed, say your prayers and cover your head, the very same thing I say unto you, you dream of me and I'll dream of you. Now, next week I'll tell you another story about the Campers, provided the bull frogs donrt sit in the boat house and eat cheese sandwiches with the Chipmunks.


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MY PAST EXPERIENCES IN THE CRIB

When I first came to Camp Merrie loode, I thought I could swim, but to my horror I was put in the crib and taken down from my high peg. In spite of being very lively I passed the dead man's float. But I had trouble with the "back stroke", for 1 swapLlowed "i\a,1f ttte crib, trying to swim across it in five strokes. I hoped that with the help of the other cxibbers I would swallow the whole crib and then we would be put in deep water. But I had the most trouble with the side stroke as my stomach is so fat I roll over on my face. In the water all I could hear was Miss Salley, saying "hold" which means I must keep myself stiff for the next twenty minutes. I think I will never be able to do the side stroke until I reduce. I passed my test on Friday and when I was doing my twenty counts under water I thought Miss Salley1s watch would never get to twenty. I think she calls it a stop watch and I believe her, I am as glad to get out of the crib as Miss Salley is to get me out. Natica Peabody How differently we feel this afternoon from the way we felt last Friday afternoon exactly a week ago! Last Friday we arrived shakily here at Camp, amidst many strange faces and shrieks which a few minutes later, on recovering from our fright, we discovered were welcoming songs. Cur first supper was almost as bad as our arrival, because when everyone started singing: "Stand up* stand up", we thought the thing to do was to stand until they stopped singing, but we were tricked, as no one stopped until we, in desperation, sat down. This served only to increase our feeling of ignorance. low we not only adore camp and all that it contains, but feel quite wise, tor TJS -understand points, squads and bandstand have even learned "shiney-miney"J! - Lucy and Hansell. THE FIRST OVERNIGHT HIKE

The Haunted House,- such a delightful object to have in the neighborhood, when sleeping over night on the ground. The fact that the house was haunted worried not the twelve sleepers, for they slept on, undaunted. As soon as the rest of the campers had departed, Miss Turk said something to the effect of "Now that our visitors have left, let's roll up and go to bed". Consequently, after a drink of cold water from the spring and a few good-night songs, we rolled up in our ponchos.


The light from the big fire, combined with the beautiful moonlight, made the night a perfect one for sleeping out. The stars shone so brightly that the Big Dipper and the Small Dipper and many other figures were seen in the sky. About three times during the night we were avra-kened by punches, not punches directed toward us, but. punches toward the fire. M. T., Constance and Katherine took turns about bringing the fire from ashes to blazes. The stories told by each member of the party after the human bugle - Miss Turk *had told us that it was six o'clock, were quite interesting and unusual. Dorothy Adams told us of seeing a light - imagine - in the haunted house, but later she realized that it was only a star. Another member of the party saw a ghost walking thru the gate. No, she just imagined she did. A dip in the spring with our hands-and faces made all of us feel considerably better and we started home with the thought that that night was the bjgst night we had ever spent out doorsJ.'.' Dorothy Sievers DAY BREAK

Across the purple eastern sky There broke a rosy light A streak of gold, a flaming cloud Dispelled the garb of night.

The sun's touch was as magic To every living thing A symphony of matin songs, The flutter of many wings.

Then suddenly a fiery sphere Arose beyond the hill A lone pine, black against the sky, Stood sentinel-like and still.

A spangled mass 6f dewey web Hef1ect ed rainbow 1i ght 3; A subtle radiance peered softly thru The blueness of the heights.

Each lily oped her petals wide And in the West still glorious On the shimmering, sparkling lake} Beamed the morning star; Every tree of the waiting Earth lay in drowsy calmness woods In the presence of portals Awoke his rays to take. ajar.

As the coming of this light Brings gladness to the earth, Communing with God in Nature Brings to us new birth.

Rath E. Day


BOUND BV

THE HIKE TO COW MOUNTAIN

'Twas old Cow Mountain we decided to climb So we all rigged up and stood ready in line A. oo-uiid of

"th.3 vrhietle, a sbxiffle of feet —

We were off I And of every trouble free. We climbed, and we climbed, and our brows we did mop, •Til we finally decided there was really no top. We stopped to rest and our brows again to mop, When Miss Turk said, "Come on, girls, It's just a little way to the top.» Refreshed by the thought, we started once more The persistent climbing for the top which we sought. At last.1 Oh, scene so fair? We gazed at the top Were we really there? We then followed Miss Turk through bramble and fern. And of many berries and flowers we learned, A U IcboO w e obo-xiioU. on "blip <3.cwnwaajd. po/tli, And if you had seen us you surely would have laughed For we slipped and we slid, we jumped and we ran, Stepped in water, then in sand, Miss Turk tried to dodge a high jump And took a trip which we had to flunk. But nevertheless we reached the foot at last, And to look up, from where we had come made us all stand aghast. We turned once more to the homeward path, And as we went merrily along with laughter and song, We thought with all our might and main Of the things to tell you of our trip to Cow Mountain. Of all the beautiful scenes we saw, The most beautiful sight that met our eyes las the sight of the supper and the little camp fires. Rebecca Bullock.

Contributed by a father, upon reading daughter's account of Cow Mountain hike: "Upon the mountain we dumb and got lost.1 So back down the mountain we cum - to our costJ Slipping and sliding o'er rock and o'er sod Places where foot of man ne'er did trod.1 Back to the camp by the waterfall route, Hungry? You bet! And we made the food scootI My, 'ain't it grand1 to be young in the hills Nothing but pleasure and red-bugs and thrills.'I*'1


Wouldn't it be funny If If If If If If If If If If If

Julianne were a maid instead of a "Butler"? M. T. were a Russian instead of a "Turk11? Elizabeth .had a good disposition instead of being "Cross"? Buffy could sing instead of "Call"? Dammie were night instead of "Day"? Peg were a spider instead of a "Webb"? Mary Hinton were a duchess instead of a "Duke"? Ruth were Caesar instead of "Alexander"? Sybil were weeds instead of "Flowers"? Betty were a baker instead of a "Smith"? Agony were Cincinnati instead of "Cleveland"? Eugenia and Ethel Mae AT NIGHT I think that Kerrie-Woode at night Is a very impressive, beautiful sight. Then in the quiet and peace it seems That even the mountains are wrapt in dreams As they stand behind us strong and calm, Protecting us from every harm. Also the lake so still and deep Seems to be in a sound, sweet sleep; But the moon stays awake, and bright in the sky latching o*er Merrie-Woode - you and I. Hansell IF I WERE A TREE

I wish I were a lofty oak With arms tossed to the skies, For I would be the king of the trees And all lowly shrubs despise. And when the Autumn breezes blow My leaves would turn bright red And people passing by below On me their praise would shed. 0, would the oak that I might be If I were a tree! I V7ish I were a little pine With needles so bright and green, And when the other trees were bare And covered with winter's white screen I'd laugh at them in the sparkling snow, And dance in the wintry breeze On me the people's praise would flow And pass by the other trees, 0, \7ould a pine that I might be If I were a tree!


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But, "best of all, I'd love to be A spreading, shady apple tree, Whose blossoms in the spring so fair Would softly spent the sweet pure air, Whose leaves would safely the young birds shield And the weary plower home from the field Would rest in the shade of my friendly leaves, While my fruit the hungry child would please. An apple tree I'd like to be If I virere a tree* Harriet French BREAKFAST OUT!

Thrills and heart throbs? A breakfast bati J Such is the reward for being in the most original squad. The whole night before was lived in an agony of anticipation. After years and years had passed, the morning arrived and at least one person was on time for dip. Would setting up never stop? I was in the canoe.

I was on my way - we were there.1

Making a fire, for the uninitiated,is nothing short of a complicated mystery. Fortunately, that was not for such as I, but for Dammie, M.T. and Ammie. Fried apples and bacon, including coffee and flapjacks! Hunger was a mild,word to express my feelings when the hot, simmering apples were finally announced done. Then came flapjacks, piping hot, with butter and brown sugar which we were all enjoying to the full when, alas and alack, what had happened to the fire? The poor thing choked and gasped, just about left us all together, but Miss Turk took it in hand (not the fire, but a very impromptu fan) and soon it had started merrily. At last M.T. could eat! :But, no! It seemed the fire had taken to her and again it prepared tp go on strike, so that while the rest of us enjoyed to the last luscious mouthfuls our crisp, brown cakes, M.T. waved the hat and yet even she vowed that a "pleasant time was had by all". Lucie Gould FRIDAY EVE

We hied us up and away from camp,'Twas on a Friday eve, And to the Haunted House we tramped, All on a Friday eve. Soon to that noted spot we came, And waited for the others;


A fire we builded with red hot flame, Still waiting for the others,

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A supper of ham and eggs we cooked, For the hikers weary and worn, And the marshmallows - oh, how good they looked To the hikers weary and worn.1 And when each had had her fill In the place by the Haunted House, le started back with a hearty will From the place by the Haunted House. The Our And For

path 'twas dark as dark could be, only light, the moon, soon the path we could not see our only light was- the moon.

We wandered around in the pitch black wood, Till the path at last we struck, And we headed straight toward dear Merrie-Woode On the path that at last we struck. But the path it was full of rocks and rills, That path on the homeward trail, And into the streams we had many spills On the path on the homeward trail. But when at last the camp we reached, Weary and worn, but happy, All went to bed and were soon asleep, Weary and worn, but happy. Marion Hunter OUR TRIP TO THE HARROWS

We left camp about 18:30 for the narrows, on horseback. We were getting on very nicely until just before we got to the Luplons. Here it began to rain. We had to stop and put on our ponchos and hats. We started off again and nothing more happened until we got to a bridge which we could not cross; so we had to go around it. Bud Cross got so scared that she was as white as a sheet. She just dropped the reins and let Frank get across any way he wanted to. We were almost at the Narrows when suddenly Harriet Sproul, who was in front, turned a sharp curve and then let out a yell. We all looked and there was a huge tree that had fallen across the road. What were we to do? We couldn't go around because there was a steep embankment on the side. I ! Finally, Harriet Walker, who was on Major, went down to one end and coaxed him to step over. After Major went over all the other horses did.


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Before we knew it, we were there. He ate our lunch on the bridge and then had quiet hour. Everyone went to sleep except Harriet French who gave the excuse that she never could sleep in the day time. After awhile we went to a little place just below the waterfall where 'ÂŤe could go in wading. Peter, Harriet Walker, and Baby Cross went in. We all were just screaming at Baby Cross who kept slipping. Then we turned our eyes to Peter who was doing many stunts. All of a sudden we turned and saw r up to her waist. She came out and made a of her sweater. Well, we got fixed and started home, "but I must say, if you want amusement, just call on Baby Cross. Martha Scott Johnson We have a camp of "Dont-you-worry", On the shore of "Lake Smile", Where the "Cheer-up" and "Be-happy" Blossom sweetly all the while; Where the "Never-grumble" flower Blooms beside the fragrant "Try" And the "Sever-give-up" and "Patience" Point their faces to the sky. Swinging hammocks, quite inviting, You'll find scattered here and there,

Everybody here is happy

And is singing all the while,

Here at camp of "Dont-you-worry" On the shore of "Lake Smile",

Julianne

SUNDAY NIGHT'S PICNIC SUPPER

Sunday evening we were all anticipating the trip across the lake to cook our supper, but much to our dismay, it rained and we were obliged to eat our supper at home. The counselors were called together to prepare supper. They did not know what do do with the potatoes so Miss Stetson mixed a huge bowl of mayonnaise and in it they put the potatoes, pimento, and onions and produced a wonderful potato salad. They also I^1fa bacon and spread the bread. Miss Turk was in great fear that the potato salad wouldn't go around as nearly all the counselors were tasting it. They also added pineapple jam to the supper. The bands were on the porch in groups and the counselors in the band served the campers. We all had two helpings of salad and all the bread we wanted and to top off the wonderlui supper, Palmer Dal1is gave us each a delicious orange, le all had such a good time and so much to eat that we thought it was most as good as cooking our supper our of doors. Eugenia Callahan


11 Tucked in the mountains of Sapphire, here, I e found the camp that to us is so dear, Where the woodlands seem to call, And the trickling waterfall Brings to 6ur mind Camp Merrie-Woode, so kind, Lydia Willingham Up in the famous mountains Of North Carolina State There is a bit of heaven Beneath the pine trees straight.

The girls who go there love it, And when the hills they tramp, They love it even better Our dear old Herrie-Woode camp. Mason Brent

THE VIRGINIA BALL

"I don't know what I can wear to-night. I haven't any old-fashioned costume." That's what everybody was saying Friday afternoon, but by 7:30 that night everybody was just as "old-fashionedly" dressed as they could be. About 7:45 the gong rang and everybody came to the cabin and there to our surprise was a long receiving line introducing us to "Mr. Washington", "Miss Custis", "Lord Fairfax" and others equally important. The grand march was a most attractive feature for who could have thought up more complicated formations that we had in that first number? At the end of the first number, which was of course with our escort, we were each given little programs already filled out and of all the good times, we had it! Especially between dances, when trying to find our next partners. None but Merrie-Woode could boast of such gallant escorts. It was grand dancing, but it was lots harder dancing in those costumes than it is in our camp clothes, for dances of today are somewhat different from Colonial dances. But something better than just dancing was coming,- we had the grandest punch and cookies, and while we were enjoying these, Ammie and Elizabeth McLaughlin danced perfectly beautifully. But of course our good time had to end long before any of us were ready though we still have one thing to look forward to, the flashlight pictures which were taken, and I'm sure we will always remember the "Grand Virginia Ball". Julianne Butler - Clara Goebels


13 LANTERNS

I must admit I was greatly worried the other day when it dawned on me that I would have to clean the lantern. For, to begin with, I had never seen anybody dp it and had no idea what to_do first. Well, I started out*handling the glass as though it were as thin . as the most expensive glass. I very carefully staitsd to take, the glass out without removing anything that might possibly hold it in. But as the glass would not come out, no matter how hard I tried, I judged there must be something holding it in place* So I made a round trip of *•*-,. i?ri+fiTn scanning every little article that possibly could hoj.d it and at last, IOUQQ. c,,.~ i«.<,=.cy«n-F-5r,ant looking but very important, wires holding fast to the sides of the gxasa. A£-bv* these had been carefully removed, I again thought my troubles were at an end and started to pull, but mercy, the glass was stuck just as tight! Then the light dawned, for I had heard somebody say, pull once, quite awhile ago, but the next thing was to find out where to pull. By this time I had quite forgotten the glass was thin and I tugged and tugged at everything until I at last pulled the right thing and the glass came out. Then just as I grabbed the paper napkin to clean the lantern the gong rang and my trouble began all over again, at least I thought it had, but some kind person came out and helped me put the thing together again and I went into assembly rather tired but glad I had at last cleaned a lantern. Squeeze THE HIKE TO CHIMNEY TOP

On Wednesday, July 18, 1933, a group of enthusiastic hikers started out for Chimney Top, the longed-for trip of which we had heard so much. It was an ideal day for hiking and we couldn't have selected better weather if we had wanted to. The sun was shining brightly and there was just enough breeze to prevent its getting hot. As it was really the Owl's party, "we "**#*& %.po \f&& wrto the Red Wings following a short distance behind. Daddy Day proved an able guide and successfully led us up the winding trail. He .also pointed out to us various trees and plants which might interest us. Several times during the trip, Peter was so overcome with drowsiness that she would have fal^ len headlong if it had not been for Aunt Adelaide. We seriously considered parking her in a nearby tree and allowing her to slumber in peace until we picked her up on the way back. It was about a quartet of one when we finally reached our destination. For a moment we all stood still, looking around us. I am sure that I have never seen a view so beautiful. '"But YfCCfi'gY^ T^o^le will soon tire of even such a scene, le immediately wanted to begin eating, \?c& Q&. TIQ> Ammie said that


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we must wait at least fifteen minutes. We thought that ite could never wait that long, "but the time passed more quickly than we imagined. Then we fairly bolted our food. I happened to glance up and I saw Ty looking likea wistful little dog, begging Virginia for her orange peels. We had hoped that we would get out of rest hour -but Ammie insisted that we would have it just as if we were in camp. When we looked around for a suitable plac3 to spread our ponchos, we discovered that the counsellors had secretly taken all the shady spots, so our only alternative was to sprawl out in the broiling sun and try to be lulled to sleep by bumble bees and other insects. After this we all got together to try to compose a song. In a short time our master minds produced not only one but three songs which we sang on stunt night. Then we all collected our belongings and started down the other side of the mountains. We had to hang on to limbs to keep from sliding the entire distance. Every now and then we would hear a yell and someone would gingerly remove herself from the mud into which she had fallen* In spite of this we came down quickly and almost before we knew it we were back at Merrie-Woode once more, just as M.T. had said we would be, as full of pep as when we started out. Frances Foushee THE LEGEND OF THE LILIES

They float on the rippling water Like fairy boats, each one And they lift their daยงzling whiteness To the kisses of the sun. The blue bottle knows their secret, And the dragon-fly al6O-k&.o&d The dragon-fly told me the reason Why at every noon they close. Each night as the white moon rises And silvers all the world, Its touch reacts as magic, And their petals are unfurled.

Led by Queen Titania On a gleaming silver ray They flit up to the moon This little troup so gay. And there they play all night Till Dian has crossed the Then down another ray They glide, for dawn is nigh With them, they bring moonwhite To tint each fairy sail Then they ride upon the lake Blown by a tiny gale.

But ere noon-tide comes, the fairies Are weary at their play And from each lovely lily So in they pull each glisComas a misty fairy band tening sail They circle all together Tiny hand in tiny hand. And wait for the close of Now this is the fairy story That the dragon-fly told me ?ife f ve often wondered if it's true Ruth Day Some evening, ahall we see?


14 TWILIGHT

Twilight - the shadows fall,

And in the distance a "bird's clear call. Twilight - and the slowly rising fog, O'er a world so calm and still That the deep call of a frog

Echoes through eack Mil, Twilight - and each tall pine Stands sentinel to guard the approach of night, And the distant hills open wide their arms To receive the waning light. The twilight deepens and o'er old Bald The moon queen enters quietly o'er head, Ihile twinkling stars like oandles in the blue Light her path that stretches far ahead. Virginia Baldwin Oh! Merrie-Woode * the lovely camp, Beneath old mountain Bald With mirrored lake of lillies bright And all the bright sunlight, Oh, Merrie-Woode; Oh, Merrie-Woode How can I go from thee? I love thy grass and trees so green,

And thy brisk air so "keen. Mary Taylor Withers (To the tune of America, the Beautiful) A FRIEND OF OURS

&ÂŁ is & ve,r.y accomplished horse. Not many horses could do what he does. He can make one foot canter, -one single foot, another trot and the fourth one gallop. He doesn't do it as much this year as before, I suppose the reason is 'cause he is getting a little old. He must have chosen to be a bachelor for he is much like an old maid and never changes his ^ay of trotting, He is not very intimate with his lady associates and always bites at Miss Kate and Miss Lady when he gets near them. This year he is not quite as polite as before and '., just can * â&#x20AC;˘understand what has happened to him. During the winter he must have forgotten everything I drilled into his hard head. Just the same he is a good horse and will always stand by Camp Merrie-Woode. Tony Darden


THE ROCKBROOK VISIT

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It was about five o'clock last Monday afternoon when the cry went through camp "Rockbrook is coming!" Everyone dashed pell mell to the dock and shouted greetings to the riders who could be seen across the lake. About twelve minutes later the visitors rode into camp, were cordially welcomed, and made to feel at home in the kiosks which had been prepared for them. There was a great deal of lively singing at dinner and afterwards some of our well-known acrobats "twisted and turned, stretched and bent" for us. We "shiney-mine-ied", sang our Alma Mater, and went to bed looking forward to the morrow when we might become better acquainted with our guests. Tuesday morning each squad invited one of the Rockbrook girls to join it for the day and every Merrie-Woode camper took the greatest interest in showing the visitors each phaae of our camp life. After an exciting baseball game in the afternoon, we took the guests to the "Ole Swiismin1 Hole* and acquainted them with our famous flapjacks, then brought them back to camp to witness the performances of our cloggers and dancers. We hated to say goodnight to the Rockbrook girls after taps had been sung for we realized that many of us would never see them again - but as Dammie said "Passing friendships count". We can only hope that they enjoyed their visit one naif as much as we enjoyed ours at Rockbrook and that their homecoming was greeted with one half as much enthusiasm. Elizabeth 0. Cross THE HIKE TO WHITESIDES

When we left camp at about 11 o*-clock on Tuesday morning, we were headed for a much-longed-for pleasure - an "Over-Sight Hike". We hiked gaily along, singing and everybody stepping lively until we reached Mrs. Hooper*s and there we had a treat. She saw us coming up the road and counted us and when we got there she had a basket full of apples, one for each girl. After leaving Mrs. Hooper, we went on our way through Cashiers. About half way up the mountain we stopped by a beautiful mountain spring and had lunch and Rest Hour. While we were there a couple of machines passed us and everybody looked and some stopped to see what we were. le hiked on for the rest of the day until about 5:30 we reached our camping spot. There was a lot of work to do before dark because all the horses had to be watered and fed. They were very particular about drinking because all the horses insisted upon putting their feet in the water and then the next horse would not drink until the water had cleared. Lady would not drink at all. Next the fire had to be built and wood was brought in from all sides.


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When we had been there about an hour,and a half, Daddy Day decided it was time to go up on the top for the sunset, so we all climbed up through. "Fat Man's Sajueeze". The sunset w&a the most beautiful thing, because we could see it so far. It turned every color you can think of. The last wee bit was. the loveliest of all; it was a very red rose shade peeping through bars of gray sky. After the sun had set we all went back to our fire and camp. We had the best supper I had tasted in a long time. After supper was finished, we all got ready for bed. We then sang taps and all lay down to watch the stars and the "milky way" and to try to sleep.

At 5:30, M.T. sang "I can't get 'em up" and we all jumped up and ran as fast as possible up the mountain again to watch the sunrise. After we had seen it, we came down to a good breakfast. We all gathered our belongings, packed the horses and started down the mountain. On the way home we stopped and waded in the coldest mountain stream. When we got out and started on each one said she had new feet. We were all glad when we reached our camp and "Fairfield* s cool lake. Frances Kelly SUNSET FROM WHITESIDES

The sun was going down in the west. Clouds, tinted with a soft red glow that slowly turned to pink as the sun sank further down. High above it were all colors - orange of brightest hue, yellow of most delicate shades, rose with a framing of black. But the sun was far brighter in color than any of the other colors that were seen in the sky. Finally the sun sank behind a cloud of darker-shades and was seen once again peeking through the clouds just before it sank to shine on the other half of the world. Helen Morrow HINTS OH LIFE SAVING

As an introduction I am forced to admit that I, myself, personally have never passed a life saving test. But I hope to, sometime soon, and as I was collecting my thoughts on the subject, it seemed to me I did it so well that I ought to write them down the aame way, for the benefit of camp. Tuesday night Cecil gave us a demonstration of life saving and lessons in resuscitation. That means bringing dead people ;-Âťto life. It had been raining hard all Tuesday, so I suppose that is what put the idea of drowning into their heads to begin with. There are only two kinds of dead people that this method works on I find; one, the person who is full of

Jfa


water; and two, the person who has tried to commit suicide by sleeping in a room with the gas turned on. Some of the following hints may not be exactly as Cecil would word them but that does not make them less valuable, I hope. To begin with, Cecil took it for granted that none of us could rescue a drowning person so she pretended that we found one on the beach. If, however, you are walking on a beach be sure the parson you attack is really drowned. Sometimes summer visitors go to sleep in the sand, and might be quite annoyed if you started pounding them in the back. The way to bring a person to, is divided into three parts. First, the preliminary, that is when you first approach the victim. Cecil says always be careful how you approach a drowned person. Sneak up behind them.* After that, turn the patient on his face and onen his mouth, if possible. (If this is impossible open it anyway). Then look carefully at the tongue. If it is not in a good condition, it is well to call for a doctor. If you have anyone to help you, send the other fellow for the doctor, as he probably lives at least five miles away. Next you put the patient in such a position that his face is toward the wind. Seeing he is lying on his stomache I suppose it is well to place him over a hot air register if there is one about, Then be sure that his feet are higher than his head. If water ever gets into the pedal extremities, the patient is liable to get cold feet and die at once, if not sooner. (This is still the preliminary, remember). You next grab the corpse about the waist and lift him three times off the ground, shaking him a little as you do so. This is to make sure that he is not breathing. If the corpse is very heavy, and there is a convenient donkey engine about, you are allowed by the life saving etiquette to rig up a little sling. This you adjust about the corpse, much as you would adjust a surcingle on a horse, and then attached to ths donkey engine, saves you a great deal of effort. If any water comes out of the drowned one's mouth, don't be frightened, for that doesn't matter. That is the end of the preliminary. Next comes the main part of your exercises,- the resuscitation part. You grab your patient firmly about the middle with your thumbs running parallel to the spine. Then, counting regularly, you in turn throw all your weight on your hands, then on your feet. It is not necessary to stand on your hands, merely get a good shove into the movement. Some people do it in rhythm by saying: "Out goes the water and in comes the air, w thus using a little of Dr. Coue's method besides the Shaeffer. The third, or grand finale, comes when the person has once more started to breathe. You, with the aid of some of the many paopls who are crowded about watching the performance, carry the resuscitated one to a bed and cover him with many thick wooley blankets. Hot water bottles should also be applied,- the more, the better.


18 If there are so many hot water bottles that they cover the entire bed, be sure to leave a little breathing space about the face. It would be horrible to have a person smother after using so much energy on him, Probably, if you have good luck, the pt>t>r &tOT5Ye& Gi^a-tMift ^ill som open, his eyes slowly> expecting to see mermaids, and then sink back on his pillow with a resigned and bored air. That is all you have to thank you, and you will feel like a martyr to a splendid cause. Next Cecil, worried because some of us might have to rescue some one in the water, showed us how to break all sorts of different grips that a frantic person is likely to use. She also showed us how to break two people apart when they are droning together. This calls for quick judgment as you have to decide, inside an hour, which person you prefer to have drown. Then, separating them, you rescue the one who is worth saving and proceed to navigate to shore. Now that you are all sleepy and quite ready for bed, after these many hints, I shall close. I feel I must sign my name as someone else might be blamed for all this bad spelling. Barbara Prosser CECIL'S DEPARTURE

The bugle blew early Wednesday morning and everybody was up and running to the cabin. You could see all different colored pajamas running as hard as they could. Why were they running so hard? Cecil was leaving us.' Now you don't blame us for running do you? Our shack was running as hard as they could so we would get there in time, but alas, we got there too late and Cecil rode off. But we did not give it up and we ran up the hill as hard as we could and got there just in time to say good-bye. Mary Dodgen CAMPERS WITH TITLES OF SONGS Dear old pal of mine - Miss Turk Dearest - Mrs* Day Runnin'Wild - Martha S. Johnson The French Doll - Maude Hayes Yes, we have no bananas - Miss Stetson That Barking Dog - Sandy My Buddy - Daddy Day That Red-headed Gal - Mary Hint on Duke That Jazz-baby - Sybil Flowers Peg of my Heart - Peg Webb Gypsy Love Song - Cecil Baby Blue Eyes - Polly Zimmer

â&#x20AC;˘i


19 Wildflower - Lydia Willingham Wonderful One - Ruth Day Kitten on the Keys - Dorothy Adams You've Got to See Mama Every Night - Elizabeth Cross Ain't We Got Fun - Mary Taylor Withers CAMPERS WITH TITLES OF BOOKS

The Human Side of Birds - Daddy Day Games for All Occasions - Miss Turk Science of Swimming - Cecil Six Little Rebels - Skylarks Cinderella - Miss Crutcher Daddy Long Legs - Elizabeth Walker Pollyanna - Elizabeth McLaughlin Great Ghost Stories - Harriet French Experiences in Nursing - Miss Newman CAMPERS WITH TITLES OF MAGAZINES

Nature - Bus Country Gentlemen - Daddy Day American Magazine - Adelaide Worth Youth's Companion - Miss Turk

Beauty Chats - Lucy Gould Good Housekeeping - Miss Crutcher Judge - Councillors Life - Campers Natica Peabody

THE WHITEWATER TRIP

Oh.' We wish that every single girl Might have gone on the Whitewater trip We really had the most wonderful time.' (Though all hikes are that in this ol r clime) We went with a hop, jump and skip. The way seemed short as we hiked along 'Tviras an ideal tramping dayWith a stretch above of cl.ear blue sky, Nobody's spirits could 'er be as high As were ours along the way, We crossed no less than a million streams That thrilled Daddy Day to the core

And at each one he would want to stay To disturb the poor little trout at their play It really was quite a bore, For he could not find a single wasps' nest Whereat to.get some bait. At each little creek we'd push him along And make him join with us in our song, For we feared that we'd be late. We came upon Dr. Grimshaw's house Just about at noon The stuffed snakes and birds were a wonderful sight (But we're sure that they all come alive at night). Ws had to leave it too soon.


1

Then on we went to Whitewater Falls

Above us all the whole night thru

Where we sat us down to eat. ÂĽe sat upon the rock at the top And in the waters that never stop We cooled our not-too-tired feet.

Glistened the silver moon, It shone so very clea* arid bright We believed the sun had been up all night, Then six o'clock came too soon.

_

had for us -

Mr. MOT row A melon of red After that j At four we

and Daddy Day the lusciousest we went to bed. rose, quite gay.

We still had ten more miles to hike TiTi we reac"ne& our destination And as we swung merrily down the pike We'd all agreed 'twas the very best hike There'd been since the creation. We final 13?- got there safe and sound

And went for an icy swim, Sliding in from a slippery rock, stand the shock But it added to our vim. Then "back >we came to our little lean-to And began to cook our food Boston brown bread, soup, beans and ham And sliced, pineapple (it wasn't jam!) Do you doubt that it was good. When we had finished 'twas half past nine So we tumbled into bed, With all our blankets pinned neatly together And ponchos tied to stand any weather, We covered UD our heads.

T another freezing^dip. We came back to our camp And cooked our breakfast of bacon and eggs And coffee and flapjacks then were back on our legs And were ready for our tramp. Down to the foot of Horsepasture Falls kn& cj-an'oereo. all aVuiA We sat and watched from upon the rocks Then we slipped off our shoes and socks Ind wadsd with many a trout (?) At noon we packed up all our things And started on toward camp "We Talked to the Harrows for our lunch And all of our good sandwiches munched

And when we saw our little lake We gave a. heart}?" yell le cb.iXd.rL11 wait to finish our trip And jump in the lake for that longed-for dip Nor could we wait for the supper bell. But the best part of all on every hike (I know that this is trite But it's true;) Your welcoming song and ch.eer Makes the homecoming twice as dear As tliey ring across the night.

Ruth Day


DAWN FROM MT. TOXAWAY

21

Looking up from my ferny bed early in the porning, I beheld the lovely moon and a few stars still out. I.jnarveled at their beauty but in a moment when I "beheld the glory of the east my heart stood still, for never have I beheld a sight so marvelous. For all around me and as far as I could see were mountains, still deep purple in the morning light. The east was one mass of rosy clouds and deep in the heart of it a single star. down below were great lakes of billowy clouds - the sun had not yet touched them, but soon the rays would penetrate deeper and change them into rosy lights. The moon was slowly fading away and suddenly, without any warning, the red tip of the sun was seen coming swiftly up over a distant fountain. It â&#x201E;˘a,8 a sight so glorious that even the trees seemed to stand still. All the mountains were now golden in the radiant light and just overhead was one fleecy pink cloud. Some of the cloud lakes were rising and a pearly mist x?as coming between me and some of the mountains, Away in the distance the sun changed a grey rock into gold making it appear more wonderful than it already was. High on that mountain and up with only the sky and more mountains around me, it made me realize how much like life it was '.Then you have reached your mountain top a.nd survey the rough flay you have come with all the stones and brambles, a peace _ comas over you which only comes when .you have reached the distant goal that you have striven for. And, looking down into the blue and gold world below me, I could sea the other people working for their mountain tops. If only they knew what a wonderful sight awaited them when they reached the top, with a gold and crimson dawn, I am sure that they would feel renewed courage and continue to push forward. Margaret Law MY MORNING ENTERTAINMENT

As I was lying in bed this morning waiting for the bugle to blow, Old Mother Nature took it upon herself to entertain me. To begin with, little Mr. Sparrow teetered back and forth on a branch conveniently situated on the right wing of the stage, he being the herald to announce the beginning of the play. Of course all this time the orchestra was playing, which was led by Mr. Wren, a knight of the order of feather folk, with the help of Mr. B. Frog playing his bass drum. By the way, Mr. B. Frog belongs to the order of jumpers and both of these orders are a division of the big order of Wild Folk. The rest of the orchestra was made up by frogs each playing his respective instrument of cellos and bass violins. The first act, evidently the Light House spene, was given

i


W 33

by Mr. Phoebe, for he started quite .far down on the tree trunk and carefully walked around and around till he disappeared in the scenery of the stage. The only difference between his Light House scene and the one we had the other night was that he made headway and also did a good deal of real work even while he was entertaining. The next on the program was'Mr, Fisld Mouse. I think it was his first appearance on the stage as he didn't stay long. The last scene was best of all for it was a tableau. The lake was smooth as glass, with Old Bald Mountain in the background looking down on the peaceful morning scene that he had guarded through the night. Squeeze Dear Campers:- You really don't know how I would love to be with you all again,-, with your wonderful songs, hikes and everything that we did together in the past month - to be so happy and at the same time learn that true spirit of loyalty which "Merrie-WoQde tt teaches her campers. How I miss the morning dip in good old lake Fairfield and dear old Bald always waiting for the camp girls to tramp upon but, most of all, I miss our dear Daramie, M. T. and all the wonderful friends. So campers all, let's meet together next year at our dear little home, MerrieWoode which God has blessed and tucked away so carefully in the beautiful mountains for us. - Beverly Storthrop. SOCIETY NOTES

Social Events of the Past leek at Mump Manor, Hilltop Square, Merrie-Wood, N. C. Many and varied were the festivities staged at this little resort, ih ich is small but, or perhaps we should say, small and exclusive. It might be well to take note of the more recent additions to our little colony. Among the most distinguished arrivals this week we are pleased to announce Miss Natica Peabody Mump, none other than the well-known writer of that <mich-he raided name. Though a very quiet and retiring person, volunteering little in the way of idle chatter, still her voice may be heard now and then. Miss Rena Davidson Mump is another noteworthy personage who may be seen gracing the verandah of the Manor in the late afternoon when the weather is pleasant. Miss Rena Mump is rather portly, with a peculiarly round face - a well-developed jaw, you might say, She adds greatly to the general enjoyment, being a prominent figure at the charming little tea-dance which was the feature of Wednesday evening, when the guests of the Manor danced between courses, to the intriguing sweetness of the -lcnoTm Victrola orchestra, imported especially for the occasion.


34

Buffie's hair is perfectly straight Rena Davidson is always late!

Margaret Law cannot write, Elizabeth Gross looks li&e a fright.1

Mushroom shack is never neat, Tony Darden cannot eat!

Nature Harrison cannot pitch Barbara Prosser rides in a ditch!

Elizabeth Cecil is not in love, Matica Peabody acts like a dove? Palmer Dallis dives so flat That Polly Simmer goes on a bat*

Martha Scott is composed, Dammie Day is improperly ho zed! Clara Goebels cannot sing, And the second bell does not ring!

IMPOSSIBLE Esther Elliott TO A STAR

I gaze at you, little star so bright,I look, and-wonder every night, And am almost spellbound by Your wee glimmering light? Then I think of all you can see,little star, Of distant lands where strange people are, Of the whole wide world, both near and far. And I wonder if you ever would, Or even if you possibly could See a lovelier spot than Merrie-Woode.1

Hansell Shook

The water lilies are drooping their lovely heads The golden sun sinks in the west, The tall pines murmur soft and low, Our camp soon will be at rest, Here in my kiosk I quietly sit Dreaming of days gone by Of a perfect month and a half I spent Underneath a clear blue sky. Camp of my twilight dreams to you I'll be true I love you best of all, Camp Merrie-Woode you, I loved it more each day I met so many lovely girls That's why I hate to go away. Maude Hays


25 MY DREAM-HOUSE

Far off in the dim mist I see An adorable dream-house, built just for me, Great, kindly hills with their soldierly pine Keep guard o'er this precious dream-house of mine. Not far away sounds the falls' dull roar As a beast, it drives every harm from the shore; And the Almighty God, looking down from above Fills my sweet dream-house with mercy and love. I have a room there For those who prove For those who prove Merrie-Woode girls,

for every staunch friend steadfast as life's way we trend, faithful, loyal and true, I've a room for each of you.

THE CAMP FIRE

"As we march round the shares of our lake 'Neath the mountains that tower above A pledge in each heart we will make Of loyalty and love â&#x20AC;&#x201D; " Singing these the counselors and day night. To the "carnpfire" brought full of excitement

words the Arrow Girls of 1923, followed by girls, led the way to the campfire last Monold girls the very mention of the word a thrill, and for .the new girls the air was and mystery.

After all the campers had gathered around the fire,, two of last year's Honor Girls, Piggy Sproul and Ruth Day, presented their burning torches, symbols of Merrie-Woode spirit, to two members of Will Scarlet's band, the band which has proved most efficient during the first month of camp. The lighting of the fire was followed by very appropriate band songs and then Dammie presented Merrie-Woode emblems to four camp veterans, Adelaide, Nola, Red, and Daddy Day. That all considered them worthy of the honor was proved by the shouts and songs that greeted the awards. The Misses Ball is and Johnson furnished the next number on the program and supplied a great deal of amusement, as did Esther Elliot and Baby Cross, who rendered a never-ending duet. We also enjoyed the performances given by Ty, Tony, Peter and Squeeze. However, the most impressive part was yet to come. It meant more to us that we can ever tell to have five of last year's Arrow girls, Margaret Law, Tony, Helen Gorsen, Rena and Ted receive their Honor Head bands. They have lived true to Merrie-Woode ideals and have proved that "Merrie-Woode girls are honor bright. w The carnpfire meant all to us that Dammie intended, for it


26

brought fun and left with us never-to-be-forgotten memories. Elizabeth Cross CATCHING A WILD BEAST

Last Wednesday at noon I was writing letters, when I heard shrieks from the kiosks along the line. I went down to see what the excitement was, and it appeared to be over a woodchuck. Daddy Day was on hands and knees trying to catch it and everybody had a scrap basket in their hands. Everyone was t-eying to get under the kiosks and I ielt very sorry for the fat ones who could not squeeze in. Finally Bus caught it by its neck and everybody was running to look at it. I felt very sorry for the woodchuck as I am sure it did not like to be exhibited in that way. Finally Daddy Day put the woodchuck on the dock and then it jumped into the lake. That was the last we saw of him. I think we all made a lot of fuss over that little woodchuck. Batioa Peabody PATHS You will never know how much I love The little paths you make From Hilltop to the Cabin From the Cabin to the Lake.

And I shall wish you were back with me To beat the path once more From Cob-Web or from Bald Up to old Hilltop's door.

Before you came the ground was rough, With many weeds o'er grown, But now a pattern of little paths All thru the camp you've sown.

It takes so many to make a path That is clean and leaves its mark A path that is easy for others to find Even tho the way bs dark.

When you are gone I shall love to think Of each of you one by one, And remember how you have worn these paths From dawn till day is done.

And out in the world where we all must go When we leave dear MerrieWoode We must help to make paths for i i others to find That are, right and true and good, Dammie

BEDTIME STORY

Well, sir, what do you think happened just the other day? I know you wouldn't ever guess so I'd better tell you right this very minute. Just a very few nights ago some of the little bugs went on a long hike up by the Whitesides of a big


rock. Evsr3rbody had the grandest time and Squeeze Squirrel and Piggy Pee Wee said they never did have such a granddiiferus time.

37

So iiiany of the little bugs are getting worried'for fear Cecil Seafish will up ?*nd leave Camp to go back home and see heir lover Hr. Friday Frog-face. We would be so gloomy without her but ~~e do not want Mr. Frog to croak to death over a broken l:e<-rt. "Te have already "shipped off Adelaide Alligator to see jur playmate Willy Walrus. We just hope so hard she won't get too serious and bring him back with her, because he would havs tc lire with Eadcy Long Legs who has very frail legs and couldn't very well protect himself against Mr. Willy in case he got fidgety. Lc,st night the Carolina Chickens treated all of the people from IVocdsey Wood to a twin party. Lucy Possum and Mason Monkey got the handsome prize and sure enough they did look fetching in their baby gown and ca,p. Dammy Long Legs eaid "Oh.1 For the goodness gracious sake*" when she saw them sucking their bottles. Crossy Cat and Peggy Pig Face were so ashamed of their facss that they covered them up with -funny colored pieces of flannel shirts and can you raally blame them for doing so, for they are truly funny looking animals,- they were Fizzy and Lizzy Liazard the Rag Dolls. Little Crossy Cr-ow and Pomer Mud Weesls made such handsome young beaux that Delta Doolittle could hardljr pull herself away from them. Her heart just ached, 00 she told Sievers Center-Pede after the party ended. I guess maybe perhaps this will end our story for to nite, but there will be some more I will tell you next week, provided the little bags keep frolicking every day and don't decide to take setting up exercises on the front porch of the Inn. POSTURE WEEK

Posture Week began last Monday morning when Miss Turk explained how everyone must hold their chest high, chins in and so many different things that it was very hard to decide which one we would try. Everyone made a band to wear around their head and Tuesday the great fun of sitting up at the table began, I must explain that for every meal we sat up straight, a leaf was to be given us to wear in the band. At the end of each meal there was a sudden jump up and you would know that Araniie had started her round with the leaves. Eacjh squad madŠ a poster and Tuesday night they were put before the judges. The poster made by the Red Wings proved to fee the best and Wednesday morning they h4d their reward by going over to the old swimming hole for breakfast. Thursday night each band had a stunt to bring out some more points for posture. The judges decided that the ^Will-Qâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;t he-Greens* had the best, so they are looking forward to Sunday so that they may have their breakfast out. The da3-s in "Posture Week* are most over, but Pos1?ure Teek for Uerrie-fooda girls is never over; for we could not forget Miss Turk and her teachings. Beverly Northrop


28

Here in this garden spot of loveliness, God. seems so very n That often at the dawn of day, he whispers, "Do not fear" You may not "be as clever as some girls you meet, But do your "best in everything, and just keep sweet. Julianne Butler DO YOU THINK I COULD FORGET?

Do you think I could forget One little thing that I have done

Do you think I could forget A single game of ball I've played, Or any of those morning dips? Ho, for these my health have made.

Or one hour that I have spent While here at eaffipl lo, HQt one.

Do you think I could forget The calm cool lake with waves so "blue,

Do you think I could forget A view from a mountain top, Or a paddle in the evening? No, none of those will my memory drop.

Or a rugged mountain trip, Or the heaven's lovely hue?

Beth Ware TO THOSE LEAVING Oh, girls that leave on Tuesday, We feel for you, my dears, Imagine leaving such a place For many, many years!

The lake and water lilies. The mountains high and tall, The moon that- comes up every night, So "bright and big and all —

le hate to see you leave We hate for you to go; le cannot stand the parting For it will hurt us so.

Lucy Eastwood

AU REVOIR Merrie-Wcoda, we're going to miss you, And all of your friends so dear, But to you we'll all be true, Aiwi m? &&&& to come back next year.

We'll miss the grand old morning dips, And all the sports so fine, We'll miss the lovely horseback trips And-the wonderful mountain climbs.

We'll miss the beautiful shining moon And the beautiful skies so clear, The lovely mountains that tower on high And our lake so very-••dearjv-*—

Merrie-Woode, we love you, And we promise to be true And we'll be thinking of you The whole year through. Julianne Butler


REFLECTIONS

29

As we come to the end of a perfect summer at Merrie-Woode, and we stop to think of the things we have gained, the first that COESS to our mind is the joy of living. From the moment v;e have gotten up in the morning and beheld the glory of the sleeping lake, to twilight with the lengthening shadows, we felt keenly alive to all the joys of the day. Whan hiking along the open road, we have glanced up and have seen a tree, red with, the leaves of autumn, outlined agains1 the blue splendor of the sky. We have held our breaths with wonder at the great privilege of being alive and able to see such beauty. Quiet evenings on the Lake, with the west rosy vutr. little clouds, and one bright star hanging low over a distant pine, make us realize what an uplifting thing beauty is. And then as we stop and put everything together, we find that our whole summer has been a God-seeing one. We have come to see and know Him better than ever before in being so closely in touch with all of His great and wonderful world. When we- have come to the end of a hard mountain climb, and we have reached the very top of the mountain, we have felt his spirit breathed into us. And standing high on the top with nothing but the wind, sky and a great surging world below us, we know that in every life there must be a high mountain to climb. It might be just the little things of everyday, or it might be some heroic deed, but whatever it is, we must do it with the best that is in us, and always press forward and upward. And, so as we leave camp and go back to our homes far and near, we will carry with us the thought that Merrie-Woode has given us four great things: The joy of living, seeing the beautiful, getting a closer touch with God, and realizing that there is a mountain in 3very life, the top of which must be our goal. Margaret Law LEST WE FORGET

Last night while we were out on dear old Fairf ield Lake, we saw the moon sink behind Bald Mountain. It made me think that a "3ek from tonight the direct influence of our camp would sink out of our lives. But while we were looking, the sky above the mountain was 'still suffused with a pure, unwavering light, and we knew all the time that the moon was still there. And then as we came around the next mountain, the moon began slowly to rise again until everything around was made more beautiful by her direct rays than it had been by her reflected light. ^ even if she had not risen again - if a cloud had hidden her for the rest of the night, and even if her glow had apparently disappeared - still everyone of us would still have known that the moon was there. So let it be with us. If the privilege of coming to Merrie-Woode does not rise again on the


30

horizon of our lives, let it be apparent to everyone by the lasting glow, that even tho 1 we are not in direct contact with its wonderful influences, that everything we do reflects the brightness of Merrie-Woode's influence. And, as we sing "Let us all live true blue and then come back to you", if we can and, if not, let us live true blue all the same and always remember our dear camp and all that it has done for us this summer - both physical good and spiritual. And don't let us let the moon sink out of our lÂąves, but may it stay there to guide and direct us in all of the good and noble things we shall ever undertake. Mary Hinton Duke LET'S PRETEND

Let's pretend that we come to Merrie-Woode in January and February. Seven fifteen the bugle blows and one by one heads appear from under stacks of covers. Everybody gets dressed in a hurry and dashes up to the cabin to the fire. On account of the deep snow on the ground, M . T . has setting up on the porch. After breakfast, which has hot cocoa added, we police up and come to assembly the same as we do in the summer, except faster because it is so cold. After assembly, Miss Sallie reads the "Sleighriding list". Those girls all go up to the top of the hill and get tucked in with all the lap robes. There is a loud jingling of bells as "Lady" and "Kate" start off at a trot with the merry campers snuggled in the sleigh. They no sooner get started than one person has to pile out to open the gate. Then they are really off for a trip around the lake. Arts and Grafts has been moved to one corner of the cabin where the majority of people are making sweaters or thick scarfs. Bus engineers the building of two snow forts on the basket ball courts, preparatory for a big fight in the afternoon. The ice is fine and at eleven o'clock Cecil has the beginners' skating class. The eleven-thirty class is very good and the twelve o'clock people are fine. They are learning all kinds of fancy skating and can do all sorts of cute stunts. After "hot soup" dinner and "many blanket1' rest hour, there is more sleighriding and the "Red-Card-Whips" and the "Bob-OwlSkys" have a big snow fight. At five o'clock everybody comes out for coasting. There are lots of single sleds and some double deckers. We start at the top of the hill behind the cabin and "sip-bang" we shoot down the hill and way out on the lake. This is loads of fun but we


31

are all glad to hug the big fire after supper. At breakfast the next morning, M.T, announces a hike to "Panthsrtown". The chosen few get their two sweaters, thick caps and gloves as well as their snow shoes so they can start directly after assembly. They start off in high spirits. Before they have gotten half way over Bald, the snow begins to fall again. It falls thick and fast in its silent way and every little while the hiksrs have to stop and brush the white blanket off each tc others backs. When they stop for lunch, M.T. and Dadd3>- Day build a big fire and they all get warm, then they get home again they are all full of enthusiasm over how beautiful everything looked,particularly from the top of Bald where they could see for miles around the loyely dark green of the pine treas peeping through its covering of white, Piggy Sprowl

Issued during Christmas Holidays - 1933.


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1923 Lake Fairfield Ripple by Camp Merrie-Woode - Issuu