I had a wonderful time at my ladies photography group’s fall retreat a few years ago. Five days and four nights of photography and sharing with these fabulous women were amazing.
We had workshops, went on photo shoots, and learned tips and techniques from the experts who came to teach us and from each other. Instead of arguing, petty insults, and infighting that can be found in other groups of women, we found cooperation, sharing, and inspiration.
And women being women, we shared stories of love and loss, of joy and heartbreak, of lessons learned. One night, we played a game called “I Have A Secret.” Mine was boring. Other secrets were more intimate or daring. I can’t share them with you. Pinky swears still hold whether you’re eight or ninety-eight.
After the game, I thought of so many other secrets I could have disclosed to the group. Things that few people know about me, but that I wouldn’t be embarrassed to share. I could have told them that I learned to water ski when I was five but didn’t enjoy it until I was about eight. I didn’t slalom until I was ten. Or I could have told them that I love ice hockey. Or that I stopped taking photos for a while after a jealous relative told me I took horrible pictures. I didn’t pick up a camera for almost 15 years unless my father nagged me to.
I can tell you that those secrets gave me insight and respect for the women who shared them. Everyone was gently teased. No one left in a huff. For any group, this is amazing.
We found mutual experiences, shared likes and dislikes, and discovered unique things about each chick who joined us. Some members came for a day; others, like me and my roommate, were there for the entire retreat.
I didn’t know these women when I arrived last Sunday afternoon. I left on Thursday morning with a new found respect for my fellow photography club members and with new friends with whom I hope to have many new adventures, photographic and other.
And while I may use a snippet here or a snippet there in one of my stories, I promise my fellow Chicks that those snippets will be used with great respect and a lot of love. I don’t want any of them to cringe in fear, only chuckle with shared memories of bonds forged and adventures shared. Names and descriptions will be changed to protect their identity.
And if any of you ever get the chance to go to Hickory Knob State Park in McCormick County, SC, go. You’ll find a beautiful park with a golf course, walking trails, campgrounds with lake access, boat ramps, cabins, lodge rooms, a restaurant, gift shop, meeting rooms, and some of the friendliest folks in South Carolina. And you’ll find yourself on Lake Thurmond, formerly known as Clarks Hill Lake, the third largest man-made lake East of the Mississippi River.
Take your camera and your hiking boots with you when you go. Trust me. You’ll thank me later.