To BBR, With Love

I first attended a week of camp when I was 13 years old. My brother and I went together and our Mom was Camp Nurse, and the family tradition began!! 

I remember thinking all the girl counselors were so gorgeous, (and soooo much older and grown up than me – 17 whole years old!), the visiting staff from California were so glamorous, and the skits featuring Tyler and Tanis Neilsen, Crystal Sheren and Jason Pilot were HILARIOUS! The food was delicious, summer outfits took some thought to pack – fabulous AND functional - and Garrett Fraess was the cutest little boy I had ever seen. He picked all the female staff clover bouquets with the roots still attached.

Everything that met the eye was a delight! There were beautiful grounds, cozy cabins, horses and ziplines, and green space galore to have a frolic or two. But more importantly, the heart and soul of Birch Bay Ranch was just as wonderful and appealing as the activities, rodeos and cinnamon buns.

It was in the gym I recall giving my life to Christ officially. I grew up in a wonderful Christian home, knowing and loving God, however it was here I learned how to cultivate my relationship with Him. I learned how simple it is to let the Lord love you and work in your life, and that it was ok to pray casually, opening with ‘Hi, God!’ My husband still thinks this is a bit of a hoot! 

Birch Bay gave me the mentors who guided me when I was a camper, and the staff who were partners in crime during our summer adventures. From helping to lead day camp with the little ones, to worship and chapel, I learned so much from fellow staff and campers alike, young people who love God and were open to sharing their hearts and stories.

Birch Bay Ranch is a cornerstone and staple in so many lives like mine. Even after you’re no longer there for the summers, it’s another home to come to. It has been and still is a gift to me and my family. I’m grateful to this place for so many things – it was there my brother met his beautiful wife, and I have some incredible sister-in-laws to show for it!  My sister got some amazing tans and even more amazing experiences. I met dear friends like Clare McQuitty and her wonderful mother, Vanessa, who taught me a thing or two about Grace whilst dishwashing – a lesson I still recall and try my best to live by. 

God’s work is done every minute of every day at BBR – whether you’re enjoying some time alone with Him, tucking in your youngest campers and making sure they don’t get homesick, discovering what will be a lifelong passion through the countless opportunities they have to share, or just breathing in that country air, 

Birch Bay deserves to be called home by many more for many summers to come.

Carolyn Just (Barker)