They come from all over the country in search of the small luxuries busy women don't usually get: a break from the hassles of work and home, pampering massages and pedicures, genuine peace and quiet.
Moms, sisters and daughters of all ages are flocking to Camp GetAway in Southern California, a magical place where they travel to get away from it all - at least for a weekend.
The camp's mission, according to its Web site, is "to provide women an opportunity to dedicate 48 guilt-free hours to themselves ... with the chance to relax, re-energize, refresh, rejuvenate and relive camp memories."
Activities abound, from scrapbook projects to old-time camp recreation such as canoeing, archery, crafts, campfires, hikes and singalongs. Some women prefer simply to chat with girlfriends or take a nap under the pines.
"A camper's time here is all her own to do as little or as much as she pleases," said Patti Londre, the camp's leader.
Londre, a Westwood, Calif., resident, gives women a chance to relive the youthful spirit of summer camp, but with special pamperings, too: facials, massages, manicures and pedicures along with yoga, "feminars" and other grown-up gal treats.
When you hear about the heavenly offerings, it's hard to believe this is camp, not a spa, Londre says.
"On occasion the realization of log cabins, bunk beds and camp cuisine doesn't sink in with new campers until they arrive," she said. "But we know from experience that within the first few hours, hesitations melt like a marshmallow in a s'more." |
