Dreaming of the Garden
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Tiger Swallow Tail in the Eagle’s Nest garden |
Winter is such an interesting time for me. Years ago if you met me on a chilly winter day, you were likely to hear me remark that I was ready for spring ; actually, you would probably hear the same if you saw me on any cold day this winter. As a southerner raised in the foothills of South Carolina, I always bristle at the chilly winds and dark days of winter. I prefer the warm mornings and late sunsets that summer brings; however, over the years I have learned to appreciate the quiet possibilities that winter offers. Just yesterday I found myself staring at my back yard flower garden thinking about the bulbs I had planted in the fall and wondering about what was going to be popping up this spring. It’s exciting for me to imagine the possibilities and to anticipate the beautiful result of my work and nature’s care.
I feel the same excitement this time of year when I look ahead to the coming summer. When I meet people and tell them that I’m a summer camp director, I’m often asked what I do this time of year. I think that the best answer is that I dream. I stare out at the metaphorical backyard garden that is the summer and I imagine all of the flowers that are going to be a part of it. It’s thrilling for me to think about the programs and activities that we will run, the laughs that we will have, the friendships that we will make, and of course, all of the campers and staff members that will make it all possible.
When I’m dreaming about the summer garden, and formulating my plans, I always start with the mission of Eagle’s Nest Foundation: experiential education for young people, promoting the natural world and the betterment of human character. I find that it’s pretty easy to plan a spectacular garden when starting with such an inspiring foundation. Perennials, wildflowers, bulbs, shrubs, bees, compost and worms are all eager to be a part of it.
This winter I’m finding myself more and more excited about the coming summer and the possibilities. Throughout the winter I, and many other Eagle’s Nest administrators, have been busy planning programs for the summer: recruiting campers, interviewing staff members and doing all of the work necessary to prepare for the summer. One of the most exciting preparations for me to be a part of is the hiring of our staff members for the summer. This year, I’ve found this task to be even more thrilling as we have received many, many applications from long time campers who are eager to nurture our campers and create a magical experience for them. These folks are outstanding! Walter Kucera, whose article is on page 5, is one of them. They are rooted in the traditions and mission of Eagle’s Nest and bring freshness and new fragrance to the garden.
This winter and spring, as you find yourself wondering what’s waiting to spring up, I hope that you’ll think about Eagle’s Nest. We’re going to have a TRULY SPECTACULAR garden at camp and on Hante this summer. There are still many opportunities for you to be a part of it. If you are of camp or Hante age, or have children who are, please consider putting Eagle’s Nest into your plans for the summer. We have one, two and three week-long sessions available this summer. If you are interested in teaching and inspiring children in a beautiful setting, please consider applying to be a staff member. If you are a former camper or staff member who can’t participant in our program this summer, PLEASE come by for a visit or call or email to let us know how you’re doing. Eagle’s Nest is a community garden, and you are all welcome to dream about and enjoy it.
