Horse Camp Chronicles

Chapter 2

Beep! BEEP! Beep! I roll over and groan, then slam the snooze button on my alarm clock. I rub the sleep out of my eyes and sit up in bed, pulling the covers off of my legs. I flip the lights on and jump out of bed, then head to the bathroom. Most of my things were packed yesterday, but I kept my toothbrush, face cleanser, and hairbrush out. I quickly scrub my face using the watermelon-cucumber scented cleanser. Luckily, no breakouts today! Next, I brush my teeth. The strong mint flavor really wakes me up. I dry my mouth on the crisp white towel and smile at myself in the mirror. Dorky, I know, but my grandmother always used to say that a smile will make you feel happier, no matter how nervous or down you are feeling.

A few minutes later, I make my way downstairs. The commotion gets Mom, Dad, and eventually my brother, Troy, up out of bed. My stomach churns with nervousness, but I force myself to choke down a hard boiled egg and a piece of toast. After I eat, I head back upstairs to double check my final bag and get dressed. I pull on the outfit I decided on yesterday: Navy blue Kerrits, a white short sleeve quarter zip, a black baseball cap with my barn's logo on it, and black and my Air Forces. I grab a plain gray zip up to put over it, just in case I get a little chilly. Finally, I quickly run a flat iron through my thick, wavy hair. Flat irons are not allowed at camp, so I might as well enjoy it while it lasts! I pack my toothbrush, facial cleanser, and hairbrush in my small duffel bag and take one last look around my bedroom before leaving. I've never been away from home without my parents for more than two nights, so the four-week International Riding Camp will be quite an adjustment. I shut the door and turn back towards the stairs, too excited to be sad about leaving home for so long.