Miss UNC-Pembroke

Greetings from the backwoods of Laurinburg, NC! Last weekend I had the best time sharing experiences, making memories, and learning to cope. I was a camp counselor at Camp Care. This camp is for children who have dealt with traumatic events in their lives. I am very proud to say I was the leader for the female Balloon Chasers (the youngest group, 8 years old.) These girls were absolutely wonderful! After the first time we met, picking up luggage I knew we were going to have a great time. On Saturday evening my cabin decided to have a talent show. Each girl dressed in wigs, dress up clothing, used wands for microphones, and sang every song they knew. Each girl who danced, told jokes, and sang showed off their talent, and boy are these girls talented. I see future Miss NC winners in all of them! After many meals, sessions, team building games, these children really learned how to deal with their problems. I can honestly say I have learned how to cope with death better. At the memorial service on Saturday night each person at the camp was invitede to light a candle for a lost loved on. I decided to light my candle for my best friend's mom, Angela Connor. The service was very moving, and a time to release all fears. The next morning our groups gathered together and released butterfly's, that symbolized letting go. The children were amazing, and the experience was awesome. I am truly blessed to have had this experience and I am very ready to go back next year! Pictures wil be up soon....so keep checking back

With bug spray, sleeping bags, and camp talent shows,

may you be blessed

Katy Locklear

Miss UNCP 2009