With a knot in my stomach and a tear in her eye, I said goodbye to Elise on Saturday afternoon as she set off on her first team-building experience. I had my reservations about sending her away by herself, overnight with a group of people we didn't know all that well, some of whom spoke little English. Elise didn't want to go when we first brought up the idea, and I had no intention of making her go unless she was willing and interested. After talking with two of the moms who speak excellent English (they have both lived in the United States), Elise and I were reassured that she would not be left out in any way. The team posed for a picture before they set off in 3 boats into the Archipelago (it might as well have been the wide, blue yonder for all I knew!) The intention was to travel by boat to their campsite, set up camp and have dinner, eat candy, climb trees, swim (brrr!), sleep (as if!) and set sail for home after breakfast the next morning.
Elise slept with 18 other people inside this huge army tent. It came with a heater, but no floor! She was not brave enough (or foolhardy, in my opinion) to venture into the water, but she enjoyed the campfire and marshmallows and the company of the other girls. She successfully managed to look after her needs in nature's toilet, and was so proud of her accomplishment!! I had sent along extra clothes, just in case!.jpg)
It was very cold in the morning and all anyone could think of was heading home. They dismantled camp and were all packed up and ready to go ahead of schedule. I was so glad to see her! She had a smile on her face and said that she had had a good time. We were both glad that it was over, and proud that she had participated. Elise has recently been given opportunities like this one to stretch her wings and gain some independence, and she is passing with flying colours! It's so hard to let her go and trust that she will be alright, but knowing that she's a better person for trying makes it all worthwhile!
