Change and evolution are what life is.... and so, we continue along that path. 

 I'm revolving out of my miasma of grief and uncertainty, ready and willing to embrace what used to be normal and natural for me.

Claudine and Buffalo are headed back to Ecuador for a six month work-exchange at the Black Sheep Inn, an eco-lodge (one of the top 10 in the world) high in the Andes, beginning the first of April.  So that transition will be effected easily during their absence, I've hired a business coach (things DO change rapidly in this world), Claudine is training a book-keeper, documenting Environmental Ed and Family camp processes and making sure the work scheduling is appropriate for all staff,  and Buff and I are dividing maintenance tasks up among a number of skilled folks.

All in all, I'm excited about this summer!   Lots of rock has been put on the camp road (not big ones, small, gravelly type); we've eliminated the dusty road which passed in front of the Dining Room (just ask me about back-hoes with thumbs); increased the size of the lawn in front of the farm house for ball games; cleared out areas for parking guest and farm cars; remodeled two lovely farm-house rooms, each with its own bathroom, and have plans for a few more changes and additions.  (If you're artistically or mechanically inclined, talk to me about creating a unique drinking fountain here on the farm...)

Packed lunches were a hit for the majority of folks last summer, so we WILL continue them for a good portion of the week.  But, we're changing the schedule a bit, reviving a hot lunch (or two) in the Dining Room in exchange for at least one packed dinner out.... allowing those of you who relish the late afternoon / early evening times at the beach, just that much more!  Look for our new "Magic Window," in addition to the one already there...

Definitely Fried Chicken on Sundays, but be aware that I won't be doing Cooper's Cove on Tuesday nights.  That was so much a Clive deal for me, that I STILL can't imagine doing it without him.  Therefore, we'll begin a new tradition.....  and I'm open to suggestions!

The 2007 Family Camp dates are now posted on our website. For those of you who already pre-registered, Claudine will be emailing a registration confirmation packet to you later this week. Reservation deposits will be due by February 15, 2006.   

Along with the minor changes for Family Camp, I'm initiating a new extended weekend for an Emandal Children's Camp Reunion..... I've so missed Morning Sing, Anna's Bananas and Chore Time, that on Thursday, July 6, to Sunday, July 9, I will welcome former campers and counselors and their families, for a few days of CAMP.  I haven't figured it all out yet... again, I welcome input... but I think we'll do some structured camp activities, have some free time, and bask in the memories of times past, while creating some impressive new ones!  If you're interested, please contact me for particulars.... I'm developing a flyer in my mind as I write this!