When Joe and his wife, Samantha, moved to Mukilteo this spring, they were eager to settle into their new community and make new friends. Joe had spent more than 35 years with the National Park Service, 30 of them in Yosemite, and Samantha, a biologist, also had a career in the National Park Service. Both retired at the end of 2025 and set out to build a new life on the coast. Their priorities were simple: health, family, and friends. The Y quickly became part of all three.

So when they heard about Golden Getaway, the Y's senior overnight camp at YMCA Camp Casey, it felt like the perfect way to meet people just like them. Joe says it stirred up fond memories of going to overnight camp as a kid. "I was excited to do it again."

Camp did not disappoint. Looking out at the Sound, they saw orcas for the first time, something they had traveled to the San Juan Islands hoping to see. At archery, Samantha picked up a bow for the first time and, with a little coaching, hit the target three times. "What more can I ask for?" Joe says. In between, they joined chair yoga, participated in the photo scavenger hunt, and walked to the state park.

After decades of caring for historic buildings in the National Park Service, Joe couldn’t help seeing Camp Casey through a park ranger’s eyes. “I was really impressed with the condition of the buildings,” Joe says. “You’re making a lot of progress.” He was especially fond of the Colonel’s House. “It’s a wonderful house,” he adds. “Definitely lots of potential.”

As the sun went down, campers gathered around the fire for s'mores and conversation. For Joe, those evenings were the heart of camp. "Campfires can be magical," he says. "Sitting around a campfire late in the evening, talking. It's a really special thing."

Camp was also a chance to meet new people, and they made the most of it. They’ve stayed in touch with two fellow campers, and the four of them have plans to get together again.

For anyone hesitant about going to overnight camp, Joe has simple advice. "Getting outside of your comfort zone is okay," he says. "As you age, it's important to keep your mind engaged."

Looking back, he sums up his experience in one sentence: "It exceeded our expectations. The location was fabulous, and we had a great time." His only wish is that it lasted a little longer. "I'd cast my vote for that."