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NGI Recipient: Nikki Yankova

Session Attended: CDS Boston Centre - Swing into Summer (2021)

Thank you for the opportunity to attend Swing into Summer this year! I had an amazing time. Though I was most excited about contra dance – as something I have some experience with and absolutely love – I soon discovered that there’s so much more to explore and enjoy at camp! The schedule was packed in the best possible way (not in an overwhelming-running-around-like-crazy way, but in a running-around-like-crazy-to-make-it-to-all-the-wonderful-things way).

Going into camp, I had no prior experience with English Country or Balfolk dance, but in attending the sessions I was able to learn more about both. It was great to try something new in a community that is extremely welcoming and eager to show you the way; it didn’t matter if I missed a step or went the wrong way because there was always someone to help (i.e., nudge me in the right direction).

Moreover, Balfolk in particular reminded me of home (Bulgaria), with its group dances in a closed circle – or an open one, weaving around the floor. With the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been near two years since I have been able to leave the country and visit my family. I remember I ended up leading – somehow! ? – a Balfolk dance on the first night of camp. As we danced in interweaving open circles, I thought that this was 1) a wonderful reminder of home and 2) a lovely preview of what’s to come.

On the second day of camp, I was stoked to try the all-comers ukulele orchestra. I had very little experience playing, but joining for the day was among the best decisions I made. I had a lot of fun with the song and even more fun performing in front of an audience the following day; if someone had told me, I’d learn to play and sing a song on the ukulele in two days, I wouldn’t have believed them!

Aside from all the wonderful activities that Swing into Summer had arranged, I was taken aback by the beauty of the campgrounds. And the rain! Coming from a desert-y climate with lackluster and unreliable precipitation, the rain and thunderstorm of one of the nights was refreshing. I can’t describe how much I enjoyed the lake, too. Perhaps the best feeling of the entire weekend was jumping into the water after an invigorating contra dance session!

Two other factors contributed to making Swing into Summer the highlight of my summer: the food and the people. First, the food was absolutely amazing (the desserts especially). Everything was so fresh and delicious. Aside from my roommate and her mom, I didn’t know anyone else at camp, but despite that, I felt right at home, and it was really easy to strike a conversation and make friends! People at camp were very friendly and approachable and I had the best time sharing some truly great moments with them.

This may have been my first time at Swing into Summer, but I am sure it won’t be the last! I look forward to coming back to Pinewoods for another unforgettable weekend!