Spring has sprung –not leaks but leeks, and the promise of greener pastures! Our farm crew is in full swing, getting the grounds ready for Spring Planting on Memorial Day Weekend. The farm crew is also caring for our newest arrivals, including chicks, piglets, lambs and a goat kid. We’re seeing new growth and buds emerging all around us.
I’ve recently returned from two exciting events in New York City to celebrate some F&W relationships. I first spent time with a longstanding F&W partnership, the 1199 SEIU (Sleep-Away Programs Anne Shore & Holiday Camps) that we’ve worked with for more than 40 years. Next, I participated in a conference hosted by one of our affiliate organizations, 4RIISE (Resources in Independent School Education). At both gatherings, parents shared how much they value “down time” for their children, along with spending time outdoors and away from New York City’s rapid pace. Their words and hopes reminded me of why we do what we do here in Vermont. Our continued outreach to new campers and families will let us share the magic and spirit of F&W.
Looking ahead, there are opportunities to get your F&W fix before camp begins, ranging from tasting Vermont sweet maple syrup at Pancakes in the Park (May 9th at both Prospect Park, Brooklyn, and at Danehy Park in Cambridge), to joining us for Spring Planting Weekend, when we will prepare the camps for summer and build an Indian Brook cabin. Please come join us with your instruments and/or singing voices, for music and merriment. As enrollment fills for most camps and programs, we’re welcoming new F&W families and staff, reaching out to returning campers and finding time to relish the calm beauty and peace found here in the wilderness and at the farm… See you soon!
–Rebecca Geary