Mysteries of Sparrow Lake Camp

Chapter five

As we stepped into our new cabin, a wave of excitement washed over me. The air was filled with the smell of fresh wood and a hint of sunscreen. The cabin was cozy, with a row of bunk beds lining the walls and colorful posters hanging on the bulletin board.

"Okay, let's find our beds!" I exclaimed, eager to claim my space for the week.

Angelique and Amelie dashed toward the bunks, and I followed closely behind. My eyes scanned the beds, and I soon spotted a bottom bunk near the window. "Perfect!" I declared, dropping my bag on the mattress.

"Nice choice!" Amelie called from across the room, where she was already unpacking her things. "I think I'll take this one!"

As I began to unpack, I noticed a girl with straight hair and bright green eyes organizing her things in the bunk above me. "Hey, I'm Kaleigh!" she said with a warm smile. "Looks like we're bunkmates!"

"Hi, I'm Elyse!" I replied, feeling relieved to be sharing a space with someone friendly. We exchanged a few quick facts about ourselves as we settled in, and I learned that Kaleigh was from a nearby town and loved swimming.

Before long, the rest of the cabin was buzzing with chatter as everyone unpacked and got to know one another. I was excited to see that our cabin had a diverse mix of girls, all eager to make new friends.

"Okay, everyone!" one of the counselors called, breaking through the chatter. "It's time to change into your bathing suits! We have the swim test in just a few minutes, so let's hurry!"

I quickly changed into my swimsuit, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. The swim test was a rite of passage, and I wanted to impress the counselors. As I adjusted my goggles and tied my hair back, I felt the energy in the cabin shift from anticipation to determination.

Once everyone was ready, we gathered outside the cabin, forming a line as we made our way to the lake. The sun glinted off the water, and I could hear the splashes and laughter of other campers already swimming.

"Are you guys ready?" I asked Angelique and Amelie, who walked beside me, bubbling with excitement.

"Totally!" Angelique replied. "I can't wait to show off my diving skills!"

Amelie nodded in agreement. "And I'm ready to swim like a fish!"

As we approached the dock, the counselors were waiting for us, clipboard in hand. They explained the swim test: we would swim a certain distance and demonstrate our ability to float and tread water.

"Remember, it's all about showing what you can do," one of the counselors said encouragingly. "Just swim at your own pace!"

I took a deep breath, trying to calm my nerves as I stepped onto the dock. The water shimmered invitingly, but I could feel my heart racing in my chest. This was it-my chance to prove myself!

"Who's going first?" another counselor asked, looking around at our group.

"I'll go!" Kaleigh volunteered, her confidence shining through. I admired her bravery as she stepped forward.

As Kaleigh dove into the water, I watched her swim with ease, and I began to feel more relaxed. The thrill of the camp was soothing, and I knew I was ready to make a splash-literally and not literally.

Before I knew it, it was my turn. I took a step forward, took a deep breath, and dove into the cool lake, feeling the rush of adrenaline as I swam toward the designated marker.