There were a few people who expressed curiosity – as well as some dismay at the state of the world – when I announced that Abigail would be attending Fairy Camp over the summer.

The purpose of Fairy Camp isn’t as immediately obvious as, say, Band Camp or Art Camp. Don’t worry, it’s not like we handed her over to mischievous winged creatures. Just as Boot Camp isn’t a training ground for future cobblers, Fairy Camp does not turn you into a fairy.

Actually, that might not be entirely true. It was a week long camp, during which we were not allowed to see exactly what they were doing. I was aware there was some coloring going on, but beyond that, all was a mystery.

Here is what she came home with at the end of the week.

So, in a way, she did get turned into a fairy, but it was a fairy entirely of her own design. Let’s go through the particulars of what you do at fairy camp.

First, you need Madonna gloves.

Madonna around the early ’80s.  For the record, I did no preaching related to these gloves.

Next, you need a wand.

If you can keep the wand slightly off center, it makes the whole thing seem more whimsical.

Next, you need a crown. Preferably one with your name on it.

As you know, all fairies want to be the queen. It can make things unpleasant sometimes.

The final pieces of the puzzle are the gown and the wings.

I’m guessing that gown was the most time consuming part of the construction.

I think it’s pretty awesome and would recommend Fairy Camp to anyone. Totally worth it. Particularly when you see her fly.