Emandal 2.0…Summer 2021
“Change is hardest when it lives in our minds, because our thoughts are dominated by what is being lost. But once we arrived, we immediately discovered the gifts we had gained…and relished in the magic (old and new) of Emandal.”…. from a camper of long standing.
And thankfully, there were many families who were able to take the risk, and join us on the farm. Yes, the rhythm was altered. Yes, people missed my cooking. Yes, the garden was smaller. But nevertheless, there were lots of flowers, and some grand times for all of us…..
“Ahhh, the freedom from schedules. Our time was ours and we quickly relaxed into our own rhythm. Teens could sleep in until 10, 11 or 12. Lunch happened at 2. River until 5. Dinner whenever we were goddamn ready!
Cooking is caring and food became our new love language. Nothing deepens bonds like cooking together and nourishing each other. And what talented chefs among us?! Who knew?! Chile verde, Frito pies, French toast bar, to-die-for Pesto…topped off with cocktails and ice cream. Even watching the kids doing dishes was delicious in its own right.
Turning camp into home. Lower camp became our late night lounge with mood lighting, guest musicians and sing alongs every night. The Tiki Lounge on the deck of Crossroads was the teen hangout complete with floor cushions. Cleaning and caring for our kitchens brought a new level of attention and appreciation for our beloved surroundings.”
And from yet another adult, who also came as a child with her family, “I loved everything about our stay. Everything. We reconnected so much more than when people scattered in the dining room. Loved the flexibility and enjoyed cooking and eating others’ food. Kids helped cook and clean. It was wonderful. Our stay was the highlight of my year.”
Will there be changes for next season? Of course! I’ve compiled quite a list from all the suggestions that folks have offered. Evolution doesn’t stop, and we will continue to evolve in the direction that all of us can manage.
We do know that late summer is not the prime time at Emandal any longer, nor is early fall. Wildfires and their smoke have made so many days thick with pollution. The drought… or is it climate change… has reduced our water supply…. the river is quite low. Hopefully, winter rains will provide…. but at this point, there’s no way to predict. But we also know that there are extraordinarily good times to be outside in the fresh air of Mendocino County….. November-July are more than likely clear, with unending delights to be found….. perhaps a long weekend?
Now is the time for making jam….. so far, we’ve replenished Meyer Lemon Marmalade, Strawberry Mexican Chocolate, Elderberry, Blackberry, Cardamom Plum, Nectarine, Eureka Lemon Marmalade, Ginger Red Plum, Strawberry Plum, Apricot and Blueberry. Tomorrow, seven more! And as soon as the pears are ripe, even more!
And the time for Naked Ladies!!!! (Amaryllis Belladonna)
In hopes of seeing you soon, at Emandal…… November for fall leaves? December for making a Christmas wreath? January for a campfire under a starry sky? February for helping us clear the forest or trails? March for planting onions? April for spring blossoms? Whenever, take care and be well!
