Second Session is always so busy! We have to pack in all of the special days we have during First Session but in only three weeks. After yesterday's Alumni Day and Kupa Trip, our chanichim (campers) didn't expect to encounter another special Galil tradition today...surprise! Today was BoCoup -- the day that our oldest campers, the Bogrim, get to plan fun programming for camp.
By bearing the new weight of responsibility, the Bogrim got a taste of what it feels like to be madrichim (counselors). They learned how to take care of younger chanichim, how to cook for a camp full of people, how to run activities, and how to utilize power in a constructive and creative way.
The theme was Mario and Luigi. The Bogrim chose it through a democratic vote. Va'adot (committees) of Bogrim were established to plan a different aspect of the day with the help of their madrichim: food, daytime activities, decorations, characters, skits, and the party. The Bogrim wrote a Bocoup song, created costumes, wrote scripts, and painted posters and pictures. It's been a busy week as they prepared for this day!
BoCoup began with Bowser -- Mario's enemy -- capturing Peach. The kids then proceeded to kick the madrichim out in a water fight. Mario and Luigi, with the help of our wonderful campers had to rescue peach through a series of activities throughout the day including:
- eating lunch at Mama Luigi's house where she served homemade pizza, salad, and garlic bread;
- a carnival to train for future obstacles;
- a pillow fight;
- games of "Anything for Candy" in which campers participate in physical challenges (such as ten push-ups) to earn candy;
- swimming; and
- hockey, knock-out, and soccer.
To keep their health-up, the campers had Power-Up Mushroom cupcakes and iced tea for kibud (snack) followed by a scavenger hunt and obstacle course that culminated in a giant Slip 'N Slide. Great news -- we finally saved Peach and resolved the conflict between Bowser and Mario! Peach graciously invited Mario, Luigi, and all of the chanichim to an elegant dinner at her palace. She served shnitzel and salad.
At dinner Mario found the courage to propose to Peach. Upon her acceptance they threw a party that included carnival games, "Send a Star" messages, great music, and great food (especially the peach cobbler in honor of Peach!).
What a day! The chanichim had tons of fun while the Bogrim learned a lot about responsibility and working as a group. As much as we love all these special days, we are ready to have a normal day tomorrow...
Goodnight from Bogrim 2011