The Big Steps have been a constant part of my Camp Huronda experience. We always welcome campers with a photo on the Big Steps after the first dinner, then revisit it for Concordia Day. We say farewell by sitting there during our closing campfire. With all these special events hosted at the Big Steps, I can’t help but feel a connection to the iconic view of Lake Waseosa. The Big Steps are a place of both excitement and serenity—from children cheering when their Concordia team takes the lead during the Great Relay, to quietly sitting and watching the lake. When big events are held at the Big Steps, you can always count on the youngest campers to leave behind their receivers and hats and water bottles. Many times I have cheered on the Leadership Development Program (LDP) campers from the Big Steps as they completed their swimming for Bronze Cross. I always felt like I was looking at the future leaders in the camp community, even when they were too scared to jump in the water because the snapping turtle decided to visit.

On the very last night, everyone at camp has the opportunity at the Big Steps to reflect on the session and their experience through kind words, jokes, skits and songs. A tradition that was around for as long as I can remember is having every camper light a candle from the same flame from the campfire, and having everyone think about a special camp moment. Campers can be reminded about their home away from home that always waits for them at a special little place on Lake Waseosa. Just before campers blow out their candles, there’s a peaceful moment. You can sense the sadness that camp is ending, mixed with the hope of returning the next year to see friends and this cherished view.

After working at Camp Huronda for 5 years, the Big Steps holds even greater significance. We would often reveal our co-counsellors and cabin groups, bringing forward the excitement of a new session. One cabin-reveal I will never forget is when Senior Staff used walkie-talkies to recreate the Sorting Hat from Harry Potter and made animal noises to match the new cabin names. The Big Steps also served as a farewell to the staff team, as we would celebrate the summer, and celebrate staff members who have committed many years to camp. The Big Steps represent a place of gratitude.

Living with Type 1 diabetes has made me question “why me” at a lot of points in my life, and made me feel isolated. However, after all the memories brought by amazing places at camp like the Big Steps, my “why me” mindset has shifted to “how did I get so lucky?” I’ve been so lucky to meet so many people full of life, so many people who show bravery, so many people who just get it without saying anything.

The Big Steps is the place at camp I most look forward to seeing when I return. I have laughed, cried, cheered, wished, and realized that I have a home away from home and a family away from my family. While many things have changed at camp over the years, one thing that has remained consistent in my time at camp is the sense of connection and memories I have of the Big Steps. I often reflect on how many others shared these same cherished memories at the Big Steps before my time, and how many new ones will continue to be made.

Emily Hyatt

Camper 2008-2016

Staff 2017-2023