Monthly Archives:February 2016

Always love to see Mrs. J’s smile!

About 25 years ago (give or take), one of the songs featured in the annual end-of-summer Co-Ed Show was entitled, “On the Sunny Side of the Street.” Mrs. J sang in a choir through her church, and she would often share a song or two with us each summer from those performed during the year with her group. I vividly remember the CIT’s on stage in the TP Rec Hall singing and dancing to the Louis Armstrong number back in the early 90’s. Hats and canes were used as props to give the song some extra pizzazz along with Mrs. J’s brilliant piano playing (this was long before the iPod was invented!).

 Campin’ Fun in ’91 Co-Ed Show (see hats and canes)

With winter upon us, I find myself walking my dogs in varying kinds of weather. While out and about in our neighborhood, I often ponder the words to “On the Sunny Side of the Street” (see below). I tend to gravitate to the “sunny side of the street” this time of year because it is warmer and brighter compared to the chilly shade the “other side” offers just across the block. To me, the sunny side of the street represents looking at the positive side of things – even when it is cold and dreary and summer seems like an eternity away.

1991 Woodland CIT’s 

Whether or not the groundhog saw his shadow where you live and spring is just around the corner or winter hangs on a little longer, summer days at camp are getting a little closer every day. Summer is a great time to leave your worries on the doorstep as the song mentions. To me, that is one of the BEST things about camp. We leave the worries and stresses of school behind and enjoy the here and now. Life is really sweet at Camp Woodland where we are ALWAYS on the sunny side of the street!

1991 Co-Ed Show Staff

On the Sunny Side of the Street – Louis Armstrong

Grab your coat and grab your hat baby

Leave your worries on the doorstep

Just direct your feet

On the sunny side of the street

Can’t you hear that pitter-pat there?

That happy tune is yours now

Life can be so sweet

On the sunny side of the street

I used to walk in the shade

With those blues on parade

But I’m not afraid baby

My rover, crossed over

If I never have a cent

I’ll be rich as Rockefeller

With gold dust at my feet

On the sunny side of the street

Guess who?!  Summer of 1991