Camp Soaring Eagle

Last weekend we had the opportunity to spend four days with Camp Soaring Eagle at The Briar Patch in beautiful Sedona, Arizona.  We had an absolutely amazing vacation with nine other families that have a child with cancer.  The Briar Patch is a 9 acre bed and breakfast with Oak Creek running along side the grounds.

The kids had Wiggle and Giggle time with Cool Whip, a.k.a. Dr. Jake, and Courageous the Eagle.  Most parents joined in on the dancing and we got quite the workout.  Brianne's favorite dance was "Ice Cream and Cake".













The kids had activities all day long to participate in.  They made jewelry, sand art, played games in the field, made drums, and shot archery.  I heard that Charlie was quite funny at the relay race.  

The camp also had activities for the adults.  Charlie and I both had creek side massages that were amazing.  They also brought in three ladies from an Aveda Salon to do hair and facials.  The moms all got a very special treat.  We were taken out to lunch at Red Rock Cafe.  There were beautiful hand-painted wine glasses for each of us.  After lunch we went across the street to a Allie Ollie.  There we had champagne and shopped.  The store donated an entire outfit to each of us moms.  I was able to get pants, a cami, shirt, belt, and jewelry.

Creek side massage room

                                                   At Allie Ollie


Sunday afternoon we were able to paint our leaf on the totem pole.  The pole will be standing at The Briar Patch for us to visit whenever we would like.  Not only did the pole get painted, but the kids, nurses, and volunteers were painted too. The pole of courage was carved by one of Brianne's favorite nurse's husband, Bob.  It was a lot of fun to watch the progress each day.

Madison painted Brianne's face


          Nurses Stephanie                     
                 and Christine

 

On Sunday night the parents all were able to have a date night.  We went to the lodge for a prime rib dinner while all of the kids stayed with the volunteers to play bingo.

Monday it was time for us to go home.  There was a beautiful closing ceremony   Each child was presented with an amazing quilt to keep them warm.  The ceremony ended at the field with the raising of the totem pole.

We cannot thank The Briar Patch, Camp Soaring Eagle, staff, and volunteers enough.  This was an amazing get away for our family.