Peachy Keen: My Camp Experience

I spent an absolutely amazing two months out in France, as part of the American Village (or for those cool cats out there, AmVil) team. Although let it be known, however, that I was firmly part of British Village for the majority of my camp experience. Not quite sure I was quite cut out for the full American treatment, it must be said.

But yes, it was truly incredible. I had a lot of fun. I fell in love with France and where I worked. Peachy, my new alias, made lots of friends and had a very good time out in France.

It wasn't just the job... it was the lifestyle. Who knew I could make money from having my teeth brushed with nutella and other questionable toothbrush replacements? Or for pretending to be the Eiffel tower? Fooling children with extra lessons when in fact they were about to experience a zombie apocalypse? Or for honing my acting skills and reproducing fire on stage with uncanny ability? (My legacy, well and truly, I'd say).

Well, I did. And it was amazing. I was lucky enough to teach some very interesting groups throughout my time. Let me tell you, there were some brilliant children... and perhaps less than tolerable children, but all topped with the best of camp names. Trenchfoot. Tesco. Gluten Free. Haggis. Hairy Toes. Split Ends. Sausage Roll. Tube Strike. And those were just some of my favourites.

I really loved camp and all that it entailed. Whether that meant no WiFi, crowded chalets, vineyard visits that went downhill, having my accent the subject of ridicule, the many, many flies...

But, in spite of these minor issues, the experience was overall surpassed by the (for the most part) good company. I met a whole bunch of great people, and even though we crossed paths only briefly, I hope to carry those friendships with me forever, even in the smallest of ways.

And I'm sure Peachy will make her return to camp one day.

I am fire!

P.S. scales or feathers...