Summer Fun at the Mäuseturm
Plenty of space to play, a shady birch grove, and lots of activity that afternoon: The grounds of the former State Garden Show, with its large playground in Bingen, were once again the perfect setting for an EVIM Youth Services summer party this year. More than a hundred people of all ages from Mainz, Mainz-Bingen, Bad Kreuznach, and the Rhein-Hunsrück district came together to spend a relaxing afternoon with one another.
The teams had set up their booths around the stone altar and under the birch trees. EVIM Youth Services was able to use this beautiful spot free of charge once again, thanks to the church congregation and Pastor Wagner. And then the fun began: the kids did crafts, painted, played, and tinkered. Those who needed more exercise found plenty of opportunities to play soccer or basketball, skate on the skate areas, or play on the large playground.
Water Fun, Glitter Spiders, and Big Paintbrushes
With summery temperatures, the water games were naturally especially popular. The youngest children splashed around happily, while the older kids aimed their water guns at all sorts of targets—adults included. In the skill-based fishing game, small prizes from the treasure chest served as incentives.
Almost as popular were the tattoos. Glitter spiders, birds of paradise, and many other designs found their way onto arms and hands and were then proudly displayed. “Retro tattoos are all the rage right now,” noted the team from Ambulante Hilfen Ingelheim, who had brought along a considerable arsenal of designs just in case.
It took a little more patience to braid your own bracelets. Elsewhere, people were rolling dice, making combinations, and strategizing during board games. And during the action painting session hosted by Ambulante Hilfen in the Rhein-Hunsrück district, the motto was: dip deep into the paint pots and go ahead and really let your brush fly.
Ice Cream Tradition and Time Together
All the teams had worked together to provide refreshments and put together a colorful buffet. Cool drinks were on hand, and every child received an ice cream from the ice cream shop on the grounds. “This tradition goes back to Mr. Loyal,” Regional Director Jakob Loeb explained with a smile. Last year, EVIM Chairman Matthias Loyal had treated the children to ice cream. This year, the Youth Welfare Service simply carried on the lovely tradition.
But perhaps the best part of the afternoon happened quite by the way. At the tables and among the various activities, people struck up conversations with one another. The children talked about their summer camps or their temporary homes, and about the animals they live with—such as cats, sheep, and even dwarf bearded dragons—and how they live in Hömberg. The adults chatted about their daily lives, holding the youngest children on their laps and the older ones in their arms. And at some point, the summer festival at the Mäuseturm felt less like an event and more like a big, warm family gathering. (hk)