marianist.com/donate • 19 faith was incorporated into the girls’ daily activities,” says Leticia Sifuentes, mom of Mina, age 15, and Annelise, age 10. The Sifuenteses are long-time Tecaboca fans, having participated in a number of retreats on-site. “We literally had been praying for a girls camp,” says Leticia. So when Remuda Vaquera was announced, both girls instantly wanted to attend. Leticia believes camp gave her daughters more confidence and strengthened the bond between them. “It’s something special they’ve shared,” she says. “They’re already looking back and laughing at their memories.” Unplugged but connected Life during Remuda Vaquera meant no cell phones, social media, TV, video games or other modern conven- iences. “We wanted the girls to have a rustic cowgirl experience,” says Kay. “There was no electricity involved in the girls’ days, let alone all its modern trappings. “The campers learn they can survive without their phones, and they can survive without constant contact with their parents,” says Kay. This, she says, is empow- ering and a nudge along the path to maturity. And it helped build real connections among the girls as they talked and worked together without the usual electronic interruptions. Marianist Father Jim Mueller, long-time Tecaboca chaplain, sees another important form of connection. “Being out in nature helps a young person connect with God,” says Father Jim. Being away from the city not only gives a child the opportunity for healthy outdoor fun, but also a chance to experience the silence that makes it possible to hear God’s voice. “The experience of peace and silence is very real at Tecaboca,” he says. “The infinity of God is very evident out there.” “I’ll be back” As night blankets the surrounding hills, the animals in the Tecaboca barnyard grow quiet. An owl hoots in the distance, and a million brilliant stars poke through the darkening sky. The girls talk and giggle quietly in their tents. It was a busy day at Remuda Vaquera, and everyone is pleasantly exhausted. Among them is Mina Sifuentes, who’s already hoping to be a Tecaboca camp counselor someday. Will she be back for Remuda Vaquera next year? “Oh, I’ll be back. Most definitely. I’ll be back,” she says. ■ Carol Dexter is a freelance writer from Columbia, Illinois. Learn more about Tecaboca at tecaboca.com. To learn about all of the Marianist retreat centers and the diverse programs they offer, go to marianist.com/retreat-centers. Father Jim Mueller, SM, chaplain, presides over outdoor Mass each day. Tent camping and outdoor play help the girls learn they can survive without their phones and other modern conveniences.