Y Talk: Extra Thankful This Year by Brittany Rose

A few weeks ago an email went around to all Y directors asking what we’re thankful for. I don’t know about you, but I never find it hard to come up with things I’m thankful for—my friends, family, health, our members, my staff, etc. This is my favorite time of year, where special days are completely devoted to family and loved ones we don’t get to see often. We get to share some laughs, good food and remind them our loved ones how much we care about them.

However in addition to those things were thankful for, I found myself excited to be adding 3 new phrases this year:

My husband

It was weird hearing and saying “husband,” but I’m reminded every day how great it is. In June I was standing in the little white wedding chapel saying, “I do,” with laughter and a smile from ear to ear. It’s a blessing to have a husband who is also my best friend. I admire his passions and love sharing those moments of laughter, fun, frustration and sadness. I enjoy sharing each other’s company (as long as I take a break from talking about work or camp when we’re at home), learning new things from him and engaging in some friendly competition whether it’s golf, basketball or wallyball.

Having a new job

I’m lucky to have such great staff that grows each year both personally and professionally. They teach and guide campers and each other to find one’s identity, strengths and others to call friends. They strive to make every camper’s experience personable while bringing the group together to learn the importance of communication and team spirit. That’s a quality I can’t teach at staff training; it’s their passion for Camp Thompson’s mission and the positive impact they strive to imprint on each camper every year that makes my job so great.

A baby on the way

Yes, we soon will have a little girl to call our own (other than our precious Slink). It’s hard to put into words the joyfulness this year has brought to my life. Knowing that alongside the other 80 campers next summer will be one of my own is an overwhelming feeling. I’m just so happy to have this opportunity in life. Next year, it won’t just be Slink as the leading lady at camp. I’m excited and a little nervous for baby to learn from her parents as she grows each day. I want her to learn camp traditions, experience the meaning of camp friendships and cherish the memories your campers don’t stop talking about for a whole year.

I am so thankful for the Carlisle Family YMCA—to be a part of its community, to work with such great people, its programs, the families and kids I get to meet. I’m thankful for this opportunity to grow professionally, to impact the lives of others and personally to guide and provide for my family.

By Brittany Rose, Camping Services Director​