Camp Noni with my Grandkids

Ever since my first grandchild Annabel was born, I’ve had an idea buzzing around in my head for a “Grandma Camp.” (In my case, it’s Camp Noni, since that’s what the grandkids call me). Well now that Annabel is six years old - and has been joined by two more grandkids - my dream finally became a reality this summer.

I had the two older grandkids (the third is still a toddler) come to my house for 3 days and 3 nights. We all had a blast doing things like sleeping in tents, roasting marshmallows, going to the beach, doing crafts, and of course, learning about Jesus.

Because I’m way too old to do this on my own, I enlisted the help of my teenage daughter to fill in when my energy ran out. My plan is to replace her with the oldest of the grandkids as I repeat this tradition - Lord willing - in the years to come. Annabel is already looking forward to being “Camp Counselor” in the future!

I also asked my gifted son-in-law to oversee the “campfire songs.” He outdid himself by even composing an original theme song, which I hope will be sung for many “Camp Noni’s” to come!

It was an incredible blessing to spend this extended time with my precious grandchildren, make some great memories, and give their parents a little break!



Joan Wagner has been working with Entrusted Ministries since 2004, when she responded to a need for volunteers. Joan and her husband, Paul, have 6 children and 3 grandchildren.