I spent a few happy summers at Camp Takodah, a quirky little place the YMCA ran out near Keene. Although I had my pick of several sessions, I always chose the one that fell on my birthday. Even at 8 years old, I realized that strategy would get me at least two separate parties, one at camp and one with my family when I returned home.
When the big day arrived, I missed my parents . . . but not too much. The whole mess hall sang “Happy Birthday” and I got to do a victory lap around the tables. And my bunkmates loved me because I was the reason they ate cake while the kids from the cabin next door were scowling over trail mix.
Meg Heckman
(31, Concord)
