SmokeSignals

Merri-Mac Happenings!

2009-05-27T15:08:00.001-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - Summer has landed!

Good Morning All You Merri-Mac Girls!

Summer has landed at Merri-Mac. Camp is a beehive of activity as Bobby and the boys put their final touches on the property and our first counselors are arriving. Ryan is planning the Black Mountain Expedition adventure to the High Sierras, Ann is inventorying our clothing, Dan is organizing the world of Timberlake, and we're all getting excited for what is about to happen.

We've heard from a lot of you recently. Sadly we cannot post everyone's comments (there are just too many), but here are a few.

Kelly J. writes, "Just wanted to say hey... again! It's already May! I'll keep it short this time... Merri-Mac: WATCH OUT. The taking-over of Sunnyside oh nine is almost here. The girls of second session are not going to know what hit them... I'm not even joking. It's gonna be scary! (but awesome!) love you guys!" From Rachel Jordan we have word, "I'm SO excited for camp and I can't wait to see all of your beautiful faces!" Nina H. checked in saying, "Hey! Nothing much is happening with me, I'm just writing because I'm so campsick!" Ellie W. feels the same way, "I miss camp so much and I am already packing! If Krist is reading this - I miss you so much and can't wait to see you again! Choctaw Rules!" Finally, Lee B. has her own feelings about the tribes. "I keep smiling more and more every day camp comes a little closer. Every time I see the bright sun, or the bright blue sky, it reminds me of the Blue Ridge Mountains that have been in my dreams constantly. Like Kelly J. said, I have been dreaming about this summer for my entire life and I can't even begin to think about how amazing it will be. I hope you all know how much camp means to me, camp was and always will be a home for me. This haven isn't just a summer camp, it's a family and I know that no matter what happens in my life, camp will stay unchanged. Every June, I look forward to being able to wake up surrounded by the sisters that I love. I think about you all every single day and I know that this summer will be as fun as I have been dreaming it will be. I LOVE YOU ALL p.s., it's SEMINOLE DOMINATION TIME." I just have to add... it's also time for hot pants!

We've been a little behind posting these recently, but we'll be sure to get one next week so that we can post some of the other emails we've gotten.

I'll close with a poem sent to us by Grace Ryan. You're going to love it!

Merri-Mac, The best place to be! Where you can sit, And just be hap-py. If it is swimmin', jumin', outside and in, We just feel like we are all kin. Merri-Mac is the best place to be. First, Last, and Always, that's what we may say, No matter what it is, It's an awesome day. But when I leave, The sad part is, That if I go, There will be you that I miss.

From This Haven...

Ann

Merri-Mac Happenings!

2009-03-05T14:07:00.001-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - Merri-Mac is awesome!

We're as proud as we can be of our Black Mountain Expeditions Director, Ryan Carlson (www.blackmountainexpeditions.com) who won second place in the Black Mountain Marathon. This is one of the most difficult marathons in the country, starting near My Father's Pizza, running past camp, hitting the trails in Montreat, continuing up to the entrance to Mount Mitchell and returning. What's more, this year's weather was cold and pouring rain, which turned to snow on Mitchell. Today he and I are scouting new rock for campers at a secret, undisclosed location so we’ll keep you posted on Ryan’s exploits.

Katy Robb, Sr. really wanted to work at camp this summer, but she also needed an internship in fashion design. We were not about to let the fact that we're not fashion designers keep Katy from camp so we asked her to design our 2009 clothing. The results are fantastic and we'll be putting pictures on line at www.merri-mac.com/clothing by April 1.

From the Mailbag:

CIT Anne G. wrote to cheer her tribe on saying simply, "Choctaw, get 10's!". Emily M. writes, "Hey Merri-Mac!! I'm so excited for camp! I got the camp packets yesterday, which means camp is on its way! I can't wait till camp comes around! L8R Merri-Mac!" Finally, Rachel S. wrote to say, "Hey guys! I just got my camper packet and I am totally excited because that means that camp is getting close. I cannot wait to see all of my mmbffs (Merri-Mac Best Friends Forever) and join in a little bit of friendly tribal competition(meaning Choctaw DOMINATION!). I will see you in 3 months and 8 days! Say hello to Merri and Mac for me!"

From this haven...

Adam and Ann

Melting away into Spring at Merri-Mac!

2009-03-04T14:39:00.002-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - Camp crazyiness!

It is hard to believe that we're just four months away from camp when there is so much left to do. We are about to put up the camper packets and they will include something very exciting. Specifically, we'll have lots of new clothing and the best part is that it was all designed by Katy Robb. We'll put pictures on the web soon, but for now you will have to trust us when we say "Fashions by Katy" are going to be a big hit at camp. In other news, Claire Kelly is on the road recruiting staff. After a trip seeing old staff in LA and MS, she has headed to App. State to see Anne Archer and Sarah Hord.

From the Mailbag:

We moved our web site recently and I am sorry to say that some of your email was lost in the shuffle. If you wrote last week, please send it again. From those we got we have word that, Kelly J. is camp sick. "Lee B and I are going to visit Olivia O in Naples March 6th-8th! It's her sweet 16! Last weekend I had my own sweet 16 party too! We are so excited to see Olivia! We have been talking back and forth like crazy about our upcoming year in Sunnnyside and the SEMINOLES! I don't think anyone understands just how excited we are... it's kind of insane. Oh and I recently joined a youth group where I live! It's so great being able to talk about God with teens my age again (like at camp)… Coming to camp has literally changed my life and I would not be the person I am today without camp. I can't WAIT for this summer, even though it's my last. I really want to be a counselor though so it's not over yet!! I love all of my Merri-Mac sisters And miss all of you like crazy!" Finally, Cameron L. wrote to say, "Gee willikers I need camp asap. I figure I speak for everyone when I say I have been day dreaming and night dreaming all about the glistening Lake Doris, some friendly tribal competition (synonym of-- IROQUOIS DOMINATION), binging on delicious trading post goodies, and laughing with my best friends in the whole wide world 24/7 in just 100 days. Hoorah!School has been terrific. Not too many fascinating things to say about it I just can t wait for spring to come because the snow will melt and WAZAAM summer will be right around the corner. I'll be on spring break in just about a week, meaning constant time with Ally H., Kate M., and Brianna D. Hope everyone has fabulous vacation time! Can’t wait to see your smiling faces mega soon. You’re in my prayers, heart, and dreams!"

We know how you feel!

Great Camping!

Adam and Ann

Good Morning All You Merri-Mac Girls!

2009-02-05T16:20:00.003-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - The weather outside is frightful...

Camp is cold and covered in snow but the office is warm and full of people. Dan is leaving for a few home showings in Florida and Ryan is heading north to recruit staff, while Claire is busy interviewing new girls every day. Up on the hill the workers are busy expanding cabins…yes, one is getting a second story. Another group is putting the final touches on a new log cabin that will be used for married staff and kitchen workers. Of course there are lots of other new things happening but you will have to wait until you get here to see them.

From The Mailbag

Kelly J. wrote with suggestions to name the new log cabin. "I was thinking since it will be near the archery range it could have something to do with arrows. So what about "cupid's arrow" or something like that? Or to go along with the theme of the other cabins, how about "new moon" because none of the other cabins have names with "moon" in them yet. I’m still brainstorming!" So what ideas do the rest of you have? Lindsay Brasington wrote to say, "Just reading these posts and looking at the pictures is making me camp sick right now! I miss all of you so much! I just started an internship with a magazine here in Columbia, SC, and it is a lot of fun, but not nearly as fun as my job at camp was!" From Emily M. we hear, "I am WAY too camp sick! I refuse to take my camp necklace off, I'm on the website everyday . . . HELP ME! I can't wait to see Merri Mac and the new addition to a new cabin. I'm counting the days!" Rachel S. wrote again saying, "Hey everybody! I miss camp so much. It might be because I'm warm at camp, but here in KY, it is freezing. We have had no school all week because of snow and ice. Anyway, I can't wait to get back to camp and see all my friends. I can't believe I'm going for 4 weeks this year! I got friend of mine interested in camp, so she might be coming this year. She's excited too." Finally, Daniella C. wrote saying, "I have always dreamed with an all girls summer camp just like the movie The Parent Trap. I decided to look for summer camps and after a lot of research I found the awesome Merri-Mac camp. I almost couldn't believe that I founded my dream camp and it was exactly as how I dreamed it. So I talked to my parents and drove them crazy for months and still doing it. It was almost too good to be true. So one on my birthday presents was going to summer camp. I'm so excited! I want it to be summer soon. So I'm hoping on seeing you all on summer! I can't wait to go. I'm looking forward for one of my greatest summer ever!" Daniella, we'll look forward to your joining the fun at camp too!

We’d love to hear from you too so drop us a line at camp.

Great Camping!

Adam and Ann

Good Morning All You Merri-Mac Girls!

2009-01-23T16:12:00.003-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - Merri-Mac enters a new year!

It's cold in Black Mountain but we're heating up the road. Claire is in Atlanta interviewing staff and attending a camp fair at North Point Mall. Dan is putting together plans for another trip to Atlanta and Florida and Adam leaves Monday for a tour through Louisiana. While he's there he'll be showing the video and in several homes including the Holtons, Holdiness, Duhes and Schroeders, Tetnowskis, Drurys, and then up to Mississippi and Knoxville with the Almand girls and the Woodsides. Then it's back to Merri-Mac to plan the next trip!

From the Mailbag:

Rachel S. wrote saying, "I miss camp a ton! My family is going skiing this week and I am STOKED! It seems like I can't get my mind off of camp, ever! But who would want to? I can't wait to get back to my home away from home! Only about 7 months till I'm back!" She then wrote again to remind us, "I can't wait for summer! Six months and a week till second session! Can't wait to see all my girls from Blue Heaven '08! My mom and I are planning to visit the Lake District of England in late May, so I can't wait for that. Say hi to Merri and Mac for me!" From Sally J. we hear, "I am ready to play soccer for this upcoming season. My highlight of Christmas break was getting to talk to all my camp friends! All is well for me and I hope for others that are sisters of camp Merri-Mac!" Katie R. chimed in too. "Hey everyone! miss you guys, just thought I'd inform everyone that the second session CIT's have already written their CIT song and its going to be AMAZING! get excited!" Finally, Amelia W. threw down the gauntlet saying simply, "Choctaw Domination. Get ready." We'll see.

About Last Week's Photo

Jillian C. wins saying, "The girls in the picture are: Mary Elizabeth L., Mary Page B., Meg M., Brianna D., and Lee B. They all look the same in the past and in the present."

Great Camping!

Adam and Ann

It's the Merri-Mac...

2009-01-13T13:02:00.002-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - ...that we all love!

Good Morning All You Merri-Mac Girls,

Things are brimming at camp. We had a wonderful staff reunion: Claire Kelly is living in the Big House and we're busy hiring staff. Our most recent hires are Dave Roddy and Rachel Quinby! Ann met with Katie Robb this morning to design and order all our new Merri-Mac clothes for this summer. Lots of new stuff!

From the Mailbag:

Lauren G., a new camper wrote to say, "I've never been to Camp Merri-Mac before, but it looks really fun and beautiful. I can't wait till summer! Oh yeah - and camp is in only 176 days. I'm so excited!" Just wait Lauren, it's going to be great. Carina D. almost got in trouble for just thinking about camp. "My binders are covered in "Seminoles" and the MM logo and worst of all during exams this week I thought of something that happened at camp: Gibbs being dropped in a puddle, and started laughing really hard in the middle of my exam! But it was so worth it." Katie Robb wrote a while back saying, "HAPPY WINTER BREAK, 202 days till we are all together again! I am so jealous of Kelsey T., she went to stay with Lindsey L. this weekend!" From the staff we have word from Sarah Hord: "Hi to all you Merri-Mac girls!!!! It's Christmas Eve, and I wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas! I'm at home with my family after watching the school semester fly by . . . only one more to go until camp! I CANNOT wait to spend my summer at Merri-Mac, and I'm so excited to see all of your smiling faces! Yayyyyy for Claire Kelly being at camp now!" Rachel S. wrote to say, "I miss camp so much! I find myself dreaming of warm camp afternoons. Christmas was great, but I prefer Christmas in July!! I can't wait for summer to hurry up and get here! I've begun doodling camp/tribe logos in my pre-algebra notebook! That's how much I can't wait for summer! I'll see you soon(ish)!" Finally, Holly M. wrote saying, "I hope all of your Christmases went well! I'm so excited for camp this summer. I'm missing everyone so much! I hope this school year goes by quicker so I can be at camp again- I convinced my parents to let me stay 8 weeks this year! Yes! See y'all in the summer!"

There's lots more but they will have to wait until next week.

From This Haven...

Adam and Ann

P.S. Can you name these retro campers we've pictured?

Lots of Campers Keeping In Touch

2008-12-17T14:56:00.001-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - Are you ready yet? We are!

The best news of the week is that Claire Kelly starts work on Friday as our intern so now if you want to talk with her just call us at camp. We're also seeing a lot of Katy Robb these days and Kristy Pannill and Corbin Aiken signed back up to be on staff this summer. It's going to be a great year for staff!

From the Mailbag:

We’ve heard from a lot of you; it's always our favorite email to see. Kelly J. wrote a tome saying, "I can't stop day dreaming about camp! Being in Sunnyside is something I have been imagining ever since my first year, and NOW our year is finally here! My little sister Emily and I have already made up a new Seminole song which I sang to Lee B and Claire P over the phone and they loved it! We have been talking NON STOP about all of our plans for this summer! Calling, emailing, facebooking, texting, everything! It's going to be one of the best summers of my life. Maybe THE best. Laura S and I went to see Aubrey H's ballet performance, the Nutcracker. She was the wind up doll, a snow flake, and one of the Arabian dancers (and an understudy for the main Arabian girl) She was Amaxing. Laura and I haven't seen her since camp and I almost cried when I saw her up on stage. She didn't know we were coming, so when she came out of the dressing room after the show, she screamed when she saw us. I love re-uniting with my Merri-Mac sisters! I'm pretty positive that these are the best friends I've ever had and will ever have. We've all decided that we will keep in touch until we...well...die!" Jillian C. wrote saying her "high school football team won state championships for the first time ever. I got the letter, I am definitely going to camp for 8 weeks again. YEAH!" Next, Kate M. shares, "I'm so excited because on December 19, at exactly 12:22pm Rachel J is coming to Orlando to stay with me for a couple of days! I'm so excited for camp already and when I go up to snowboard in North Carolina this winter I know I'm going to drive past camp and wish I was there!" Ironically our next email was from Rachael who shares Kate's excitement about camp. "Hey guys! I'm unbelievably excited about this summer... I miss everyone so much! I just wanted to let y'all know that I'm going to visit Kate M. in Orlando before Christmas, so if anyone else is down there give us a call so we can hang out! Love you and miss you, and I hope you're all having a great school year!"

Great Camping!

Adam and Ann

Good Morning All You Merri-Mac Girls!

2008-12-13T15:08:00.001-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - First, Last, and Always...

Winter is here but summer's coming, and in preparation we are busy hiring back your favorite staff. In addition to a gaggle of nurses and hostesses we’ve had lots of counselors sign up to come back, including Brie Owens, Patti-O, Claire Kelly, Anna Woodson, Kate Miller, Marissa Storms, Kay Robb, Jill Gironelli, Dorrie Garner, Ann Gironelli, Kelsey Tennyson, Katie Robb, Emily France, Anna Merritt, Leah Stallings, Ally Howard, Haley Fulford, Natalie Brouwer, Anna Fearheily, Merilee Betz, Liza Harvey, Lindsay Lanskey, Lauren Wheeler, Jamie Powell, Autumn Wheeler, Norie Gingrich, Abby Glackin, Christina Hall, Sarah Rogers, Michelle Ravish, Sarah Hord, Lauren Stelley, Morgan Ensor, Maddie Simmons, Chelsea Dougherty, Jess Evans, Mary Elizabeth Lago and Kendall Anderson. Even more importantly, there are about 10 of last year's girls who have promised to say yes or know in December of January so keep tuned in for updates.

From the Mailbag:

Rachel S. wrote to say, "Hey everybody! I miss camp so much! Can't wait to everyone again! Say hi to the horses for me!" The horses are all in winter homes, but we have word that they're kicking down their barns to get back to Merri-Mac. We also heard from Katy Robb. "Hey girls! Just stopping by to say Happy Thanksgiving and so excited for next summer! 226 days till second session starts!" And for all you second session girls, Princess Emily writes, "Hey ya'll! School year is going well. I've had some ups and downs, but knowing that camp is getting closer brings me comfort. I cannot wait to see everyone. I love and miss ya'll." Finally, Cameron L. writes, "188 DAYS! I Can't wait. Love you all so so much!"

Great Camping!

Adam and Ann

Good Morning All You Merri-Mac Girls!

2008-11-26T10:20:00.004-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - Who misses camp? ME!!!

There is lots of winter excitement around camp this week. Something about the holidays makes people think of summer, so we're hearing from more campers, and even more staff. Katy Robb (the older) is visiting this weekend. She's promised to let us know whether she can return to camp by next Tuesday, so give her a call and talk her into it if you can!

We're also beginning to make plans for the upcoming staff reunion. Anne Archer and Claire Kelly are taking the lead on putting this together. At last count we had about 30 people set to attend. It should be a great, though probably cold, weekend!

In other news, we're building a new cabin for married housing. It is by the old chimney behind the archery range. It is going to have a great view from the front porch. The tough thing is naming it. Any ideas?

From The Mailbag

Maggie Taylor wrote saying, "Wow just looking at the webpage makes me miss camp immensely! I miss seeing all you beautiful girls with smiles that add sweet sunshine to my day. So I know it is still November, but we put up our Christmas tree today. Since my sister and I will be going home during Christmas holidays, we decided to put up the tree now to get as much holiday decorating time as possible!" >From Katie Robb (the younger) we hear "My homecoming dance is tonight and I'm really excited, just got my hair done and everything! I miss everyone so much and counting down the days till next summer, love you all!" Homecoming should be easy after Rockmont! Rachel S. wrote to say, "Hey y'all! I miss camp so much! It's already starting to snow some here in KY. It never really sticks, but man is it COLD! I can't wait for summer. It seems so far away! I can't wait to go to camp for a whole month. Tonight my academic team has a tournament and tomorrow I try out for all district band! Wish me luck!" Finally, Jillian C. shared, "I miss camp so much. So far this year I have gone to this leadership forum on national security. It was really eye-opening. I can't wait until June. I have to miss some camp because my school is weird and gets out really late. But I still can't wait until summer for Sunnyside year."

We can't wait either.

Great Camping!

Adam and Ann

Good Morning All You Merri-Mac Girls!

2008-11-18T13:10:00.001-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - but we're pining for summer!

It has finally gotten cold at camp and we are hoping for a little more snow this year. Maybe we'll even get some for the upcoming staff reunion after Christmas. Either way it is sure to be a cold visit for the staff coming. It's funny that when things get cold people start thinking about camp. We've heard from a lot of you but our favorite bit of news is that both Brie Owens and Anna Woodson both signed up to be back on staff this summer.

From The mail bag

Sammy G. wrote to say, "I'm totally camp sick! I made my school soccer team so I'm pretty excited about that! I can't wait any longer for camp to start back up again in the summer, but we still have like 7 more months! UGH! Well, I can't wait till then!" Emily M. feels the same way. "I am SO camp sick! I am on the computer at school every morning watching videos, reading smoke signals. I wish it were summer already! I'm counting the days!" Meg M. picked up on the same theme. "I'm so camp sick already, my friends are already annoyed with all my talk about Merri-Mac! Our volleyball season ended about a month and a half ago but I made a travel team which will start soon and I'm playing lacrosse. I miss everyone so much; I can't wait till this summer." Finally, Lee B. chimed in saying, "I have been talking like crazy with all of my Seminole girls about this summer! I have seriously been waiting for this all my life and it's going to be the best ever. You all are always in my thoughts and I miss you so much! I am so jealous that some of you live near camp and get to visit! I have been having lots of dreams about camp and it's making me so sad! I am totally camp-sick! My life is going well, I am so busy with school and getting ready for track and lacrosse seasons but I am loving it! Its already really cold up here in Connecticut, I am so jealous of all my southern girls! Well, I love camp and all of you girls so much! There isn't a day that goes by that I don't wish I could fast forward and be with all of you!"

We feel the same way!

From this Haven...

Adam and Ann

Good Morning All You Merri-Mac Girls!

2008-11-05T09:59:00.001-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - Your Merri-Mac Community in November!

We're back on the road seeing more camp families. Monday night we were in Atlanta with Carlin S. and Thursday night we will be back for a Merri-Mac reunion at The Chastain Horse Park at 6:30. Everyone is invited so please come and bring a friend. You can find directions at http://chastainhorsepark.org/directions.php.

We've been getting lots of requests from campers looking to buy Merri-Mac gifts for friends and I think we’ve found something that will fit the bill. Madison and Nick AmRhein's parents have begun a new jewelry business and are offering some wonderful Merri-Mac and Timberlake designs. You can see them at www.steelxpressions.com.

From the Mail Bag!

The AmRheins also shared that they are in new schools and a Marching Band. It's been a busy fall for them! Mary Page Boyd is also in a new school where she sees Brianna D. and Alli B. every day. Chelsea D. wrote to say, "Hey Merri-Mac family! I miss you all so much! The college process is in full swing for me, and I am anxiously waiting to hear back from Wake Forest. If all goes as I pray it will, I will be back at camp this summer to be a JC. Best wishes to everyone in school this year J" Finally, Emily M. also wrote saying, "It's only October and I'm already camp sick! I have one of my friends coming to Merri Mac next year, and she's very excited. Singing is still going well, I have the talent show tomorrow! Wish me luck!" Isn’t it more lucky to say "break a leg" in show business? Either way we’re sure you’ll do great.

Great Camping!

Adam and Ann

Good Morning All You Merri-Mac Girls!

2008-10-29T11:10:00.001-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - We love those smiling Merri-Mac faces!

This morning camp woke to its first snow of the season. It was a light dusting but still a beautiful promise of things to come. By way of other promises, we're making good progress hiring back staff for next summer. We'll give a full list next week but one thing we can't wait to share is that after taking last year off Norrie Gingrich is coming back to teach guitar!

From the Mailbag:

Griffin C. and her family went to Pigeon Forge for Fall Break and spent an evening at the Dixie Stampede where Griffin recognized Merri-Mac friend, Whitney Coles as one of the star riders in the show! They shared a great big Merri-Mac hug and chatted about life for a few minutes after the show! Cool Merri-Mac moment for both! Actually, Whitney is their head trick rider after many years as a Merri-Mac rider and diver. Cameron L. wrote saying, "Helloooo Merri-Mac! Grrr I miss camp so much it's ridiculous! This year my camp dreams have started several months early which is just really annoying because we still have around 7.5 months until first session! But oh no worries, I'm still excited. I'm already doodling the Sunnyside lyrics in my notebooks. Can't wait to see all of your beautiful faces soon(ish), but for now you're all in my dreams!" Bailey W. gets this week's camp commitment award for saying, "I got invited to go to Europe over the summer, but it was during the same time as camp so..... I turned it down! I wouldn't miss camp for anything!" Finally, from across the Atlantic Samantha P. wrote, "Everything is going great with me, school has gone so quickly, I'm already on half term. I'm missing everyone so much! Everyone over here is already in love with camp. I have people asking if they can come next year! I'm playing hockey at school and it is really fun. Unfortunately I am in the 5ths which means I don't get matches against other schools, but training is still fun."

Drop us a line and tell us what you are up to.

From this Haven...

Adam and Ann

Merri-Mac, ever after...

2008-10-21T12:35:00.003-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - We'll remember you!

Good Morning All You Merri-Mac Girls!

We've gotten to see a lot of Merri-Mac girls lately. Adam just returned from a fantastic trip to Florida, where he got to see lots of campers, and Mary Page and Ann just returned from Atlanta where they got to spend a couple of days with Amelia, Patti, Allen and Connor K. MP's bagpipe band was competing in the Stone Mountain games and Amelia and Patti came out to join the fun. Amelia is playing basketball and especially enjoying Spanish in school. We included a picture - doesn't she look great? It was great to see them. We've also started talking to the staff and even hired a few back for next summer. Now is the time for that sort of thing, so if you have any favorite counselors that you really want back, you should email them to tell them to give us a call.

From the Mail Bag:

Sarah S. wrote to say, "Hi everyone! I got to see Amelia W. a few weeks ago at one of her field hockey games. High school is way boring, and I'm so camp sick!" Also, Rachel L. emailed saying, "Well I've been really busy with my junior year and volleyball! My team is 2nd in our district which means we get to play in tournament. I just wanted to say that I'll try and visit and come to the Princess Party because after all I love Merri-Mac and all you guys too much to stay away!" Katie R. also shared, "Last night I went to one of the home shows at Kaitlyn's house from first session. It was really fun to see the second session girls (Savannah S. and Sofia B.), and I met a lot of first session girls too! It was great to see how many camp people live in Florida so we can hang out and get excited for camp year round." Finally, from Emily M. we have word, "I have made the school talent show! Out of 95 people, there were only 15 slots, and I made it. I will be singing "Listen" by Beyonce Knowles. I'm so excited!" Congratulations Emily.

Beyond that we are busy meeting new staff and campers. Some of our sessions are already full, and others are filling quickly, so if you have not enrolled ask your parents to call right away.

From This Haven...

Great Camping!

Adam and Ann

Good Morning All You Merri-Mac Girls!

2008-10-14T15:03:00.000-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - We miss you here at Merri-Mac!

Adam is still in Florida and things around camp have been very busy. We're making plans big plans for our Spring Break staff trip to France (CIT's included!). Part of the reason we are going is to scout the area for a trip we will take this summer with campers. We'll give more details soon.

From The Mail Bag

Melissa B. is staring in school production of Julius Caesar. Melissa plays Mark Anthon’s lieutenant (and a plebian in two other scenes). In the photo she has just entered and found Brutus and his cohorts have murdered Caesar. Lucy D. wrote to say, "My sophomore year has been really fun but busy with volleyball! We've only lost one game and we will hopefully be at least district champions. I can't wait for camp this summer and I miss everyone so much! I can't believe I'm going to be in Sunnyside!! I love and miss you all!" Finally Kelly J. has some fun news. "I've got some super exciting news! It was Lee B.'s Sweet Sixteen on October 4th and a few of us flew up to see her! Donovan L., Claire P., Olivia H., and me! I flew up on Friday and the rest of the girls arrived on Saturday. It was a 60's themed party of 105 people in a ballroom with a great DJ. It reminded the 5 of us of Rockmont, partly because Don, Olivia, Claire and I didn't know anyone there! As the night went on though we met all of her friends and yes, we Merri-Mac girls were the life of the party! Sad Sunday morning was when everyone (except me) was scheduled to leave--they were all gone before 10am. My flight was supposed to leave at 5:30pm but my flight was delayed and that meant I would miss my connecting flight in D.C so I got to stay another night at Lee's! I left Monday morning. This is going to be among my top 3 biggest highlights of the 08-09 school year. It was truly heart warming to be reunited with my sisters again and I'm so grateful to God that He has given me such wonderful friends and memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life. I love you Merri-Mac!

Keep us posted on your news.

From this Haven…

Adam and Ann

Keeping pavement HOT in Florida!

2008-10-08T10:05:00.003-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - We/ve missed seeing all our Merri-Mac girls!

Good Morning All You Merri-Mac Girls!

Adam has hit the road to begin visiting Merri-Mac girls in Florida. He began the trip in Valdosta with Elizabeth W., before heading to Orlando to see Mackenzie M., Clearwater to see Shea H. and Tampa to see Natalie S. Last night he stayed in Orlando where he saw Kate S., and tonight he is in St. Petersburg to see Ava and Madison F. Tomorrow Adam will head down to Sarasota to see Casey and Katy Dean and then it is back to Tampa for an evening at Anna S's house. On Friday, October 10, Adam will head down to Naples to meet Kristie G's friends, and then Saturday he heads east to see Kaley B. in Naples. Sunday, October 12, Adam will be with Sydney and Skylar B. in Weston, Monday the 13th it will be Grace and Rachel W. in Boca Raton, Oct 15th will find him with Sydney and Kaitlin G. in Delray. Thursday the 16th will be Boynton Beach with Lauren V, and finally he will visit with Chapel D. in Orlando before heading home. All the meetings are open for any Merri-Mac girls, so come to any you would like!

From the Mailbag:

Anna S. wrote to say, "Hey everyone! My family is all safe from hurricane Ike. We had very little damage, but we don't plan on staying for the next hurricane. Things are starting to get back to normal. I have been working on choir music a lot so it's kept me pretty busy. I already can't wait for camp next year." Rachel E. also wrote saying, "Hey Ya'll! I'm finally in high school! I made the freshmen volleyball team at my school which is super exciting even though the season is over:( Katie W. and Madison H. are doing well. I either see or talk to them every day! I can't believe that summer went by so fast and that fall is already here, and it's finally going to be cold. haha:)

It's getting cold here too, but that just means that before we know it, it will be summer at camp again!

Great Camping!

Adam and Ann

Black Mountain Expeditions (French Alps and Beyond)

2008-10-07T15:30:00.003-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - French Alps and beyond!

Adventure with Purpose

Mt. Blanc, Paris, Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy, Notre Dame, The Louvre...Camp Merri-Mac & Camp Timberlake is launching Black Mountain Expeditions (BME) in the summer of 2009. Black Mountain Expeditions does wilderness and cultural expeditions throughout the globe. BME is offering a unique experience for previous Camp Merri-Mac & Camp Timberlake staff and college aged participants.

Join BME on your spring break 2009 for an adventure of a lifetime. Over the course of 9 days we will be traveling to France. We will explore and ski the French Alps in and around Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. We will ride the Gondola up to Aiguille du Midi on Mt. Blanc, the highest Peak in Europe, ski at world class ski areas and immerse ourselves in the mountain culture of the Alps. Back in Paris, we will have opportunity to explore the Louvre, Notre Dame, the Eiffel Tower and more. We will also take a day trip to Mont Saint-Michel. The Mont-Saint-Michel is an international place of pilgrimage and tourist center noted as "The wonder of the western world." Throughout this experience we will be focusing on how to make travel meaningful, adventure with purpose.

You will be part of BME's first expedition and will be part of Camp Merri-Mac & Camp Timberlake history. This is an opportunity for you to have a role in shaping and forming the course of this program. You know best that time at an outstanding summer camp can be one of the most important experiences in an adolescent's life. Help us launch a program committed to making this one of the most important experiences of the participant's life.

We are offering this program at cost (charging what it will cost to run the program). This price includes your flight from Atlanta to Paris, transportation once we arrive in France, food, lodging, ski passes and rentals, and any miscellaneous admission fees.

Please contact ryan@blackmountainexpeditions.com if you are interested or have any questions.

We miss you guys!

2008-09-23T10:24:00.001-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - It seems like it was yesterday!

Good Morning All You Merri-Mac Girls!

If you are anything like us you are wondering what is happening with all your camp friends, so every week we are going to post a new Smoke Signals. We'll try to let you know who we've heard from and what's happening around here, which we hope will relieve some of your Merri-Mac homesickness.

Right now Dan and Adam are busy planning their first trips through Florida, Virginia and Atlanta so some of you will be getting calls asking if we can host Merri-Mac meetings in your homes. We'll also be sure to invite you to any meetings near by. We're also starting to talk with staff about next summer and we already know that Rachel Jordan, Ann and Jill Gironelli, Kate Miller, Michelle Ravish, Abby Glackin and Mary Lago are going to be back as first session CIT's. We should be adding more first session girls, and will start talking to second session in the next week or so and we'll try to keep you posted as we go.

We also want to hear from you so please pass along any notes you what to share with your camp friends. For example, Mary Page made her school J.V. Volleyball team and Brianna D. plays ahead of her on Varsity. Rachel S. wrote to saying, "Hey yall! I can't believe summer is almost over! :( It went by way to quickly. But, the best news of all is that I'm coming for a month next year! What's also amazing is how even though I've been home for only a little over a month, I already want to be back to camp! I guess there's just something about it that makes me so happy I can't explain it. Well, I miss everyone, and hope to see you soon. Bye!"

We want to hear from you too so click here Tell Us What's New! and say "Hey yall!" to your camp friends.

And come September, we will remember, our camping days and friendships true...

Adam and Ann

124 Days and We'll be Back...

2008-04-01T12:07:00.002-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - Back to Good Ole Merri-Mac!

Good Morning All You Merri-Mac Girls!

The best news of the day is that Sassie Nick and Clare Sullivan will both be back on staff this summer. There are a couple of other old staff that are on the verge of signing up too so now is the time to call your favorites and be sure they are returning. The second best news is that we put the song book on line. Yes, now you can download your own copy of the Merri-Mac Song Book any time you want it. We'd also love to hear from you about what songs are missing. We'll be making periodic updates so just send us the lyrics and we'll get them in the next edition.

From the Mailbag:

Samantha J. wrote just to say hello and Lia S. wanted to say, "Hey guys! Comet '08 is going to be AMAZING!! I can't wait for camp this year. I've already started packing!! Every single night for the past month or so I''ve been dreaming about camp! No joke! Hope to see y'all soon!" Ellie W. has been sick (we hope she does not have the same flu that we've had!). Claire P. wrote to say thanks. "Thank you so much for putting the songbook online! It's been amazing singing those songs over and over again to my heart's content and remembering camp. Only 124 more days!" Finally, Lia wrote again to say, "Guess what? I brought my friend over to the camp meeting at my house in October and today she called to tell me that she is signing up! Yay!" We love having your friends join the Merri-Mac family, so yay indeed!

From This Haven...

Adam and Ann

We welcome you in our way....Campers! Counselors and CA's!

2008-03-18T10:15:00.003-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - Friends at Merri-Mac!

Good Morning All You Merri-Mac Girls!

Merri-Mac is all about our friends and there are a lot of them coming. It would take WAY too long to list our campers so we thought we'd just give you the staff. This is not everyone who will be here but it's a great start!

So far this year we've hired Patti-O, Annie Singletary, Janie Southard and Leslie Loughran, Katy, Vanessa, Stephanie Nestor, Anna Woodson, Ann McShane, Abby Bouchon, Camille Chaumont, Logan Chaney, Alli Howard, Katie Lively, Hamsa Haddad, Anne Archer, Brittany Hogan, Elizabeth Beal, Sara Brennan, Grace Rickenbaker, Charlotte Flynn, Kelli Macqueen, Chelsea Dougherty, Lee Lee Taylor, Lindsay Brasington, Lauren Davis, Berkley Arakawa, Sallie Gurganus, Kay Robb, Haley Fulford, Sam Linhart, Alex Generales, Caitlin Stojcich, Molly Seeley, corbin Aiken, Karen Beauchene, Anna Fearheily, Gibbs, Rachel Holloway, Ruth Gibson, Maddy Perino, Elizabeth Webb, Sarah MacElhinney, Jan Bellows, Ashley Herndon, Eileen Rush, Ali Morgan, Kristen Mintz, Niki Swet, Sarah Rogers, Sara Beckwith, Jordan Winn, Casey Willard, Rachel Quinby, Victoria Rice, Autumn Breaux, Kristin Buckingham, Betsy Perkins, Lennon Dodson, Claire Kelly, Lauren Glazebrook, Mimi Dunn, and a posse of hostesses, nurses, trip staff and the like!

From The Mail Bag

We have heard from Alex H. who wrote to say, "I miss Merri-Mac so much and I can't wait to come back." You're not alone Alex! Also Erin B. wrote to say she has a new baby sister. Erin, tell your mother to let us know if we should go ahead and early enroll her for Tweedle Dee in 2014!

From this Haven...

Adam and Ann

We can't wait to see you all!

2008-03-05T13:17:00.002-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - Familiar Faces at Merri-Mac!

Good Morning All You Merri-Mac Girls!

The other day a new camper, Madison wrote saying, "I am so excited about camp! I have never been to camp - tell me more about camp. I am too excited to wait. I wish it was closer to summer!" The only answer we can give is to say, Madison, there's really no way to describe all the great things about Merri-Mac. It would be like trying to explain why you like your best friend. You can give some reasons but in the end you would have to meet them. So we can't wait for our new campers to meet our old campers, and that is going to happen very soon!

You can tell camp is coming soon because your parents just received their camper packets. This means that before long you will begin choosing your activities and getting your health forms filled out. You will also get to order all the new clothes we will have this summer. The two most exciting items may be the return of the flannel pants and... by popular demand...the Merri-Mac Beach Towel.

Yesterday we had something great happen. Ann, Adam, Stephen and Dan all took Katy Robb out to lunch and got her to commit to coming back! Yep, you heard it here. Katy will be back on staff. We're also still working on Morgan, so now would be a great time to call her. There are a few other great ones that we'd love to hear from so give your favorite staff a call and tell them you want them back this summer (and if you are a counselor deciding whether to come back, now is the time!).

See you at camp!

Adam and Ann

Throughout all our camp days...

2008-02-26T13:03:00.005-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - We'll be pals true blue...

Good Morning All You Merri-Mac Girls!

Staff is nearly full, as are our camper spots, and we're turning our focus to getting ready for summer. The camper packets should be out soon! We are also about to re-start all of our construction projects around camp (it can be tough to build in the dead of winter!). The next things to happen will be a roof on the Archery Pavilion and a covered firing range on the new riflery range.

From the Mailbag:

Tristan H. wrote to say, "I am looking forward to going for four weeks. Also I was wondering whether an 11 year old girl would be in the seniors or the juniors?" It could go either way Tristan. We'll be making final cabin assignments soon. Rachael S. shares, "Hey Yall! I miss camp like crazy! It's not right for someone to wait this long for the best part of their year: ( I wish I could be at camp ALL YEAR LONG!) I think about all the girls from Comet '07 24/7/365. Can't wait to see everyone this summer! CHOCTAWS GONNA WIN THE BANNER!" Rachael is not the only one cheering for Choctaws. Macky's Bulletin Board has had lots of Choctaw cheering lately too. Finally, Mary Page spent a day with Brianna D. at her new school in Asheville last week. Brianna is doing great!

We also hear from Anne A. what a wonderful time she is having in Costa Rica. She bought the sixth Harry Potter book and is reading it in Spanish!

We're doing great here too, and looking forward to having Merri-Mac back together soon!

From This Haven...

Adam and Ann

Good Morning All You Merri-Mac Folks!

2008-02-19T12:58:00.002-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - 110 more days!

Greetings from Camp Merri-Mac!

Now is the time we all start getting excited about the summer. It's almost March, and camp doesn't seem so far away anymore. The daylilies are already starting to pop up around camp, Bobby has made some adjustments to the water slide to make the ride down a little less bumpy and even Merri and Mac seem to sense the time is drawing near. Donna and Samantha take them for a walk around camp everyday so they can get their exercise, but it's just not the same as keeping up with you guys!

From the Mailbag:

From the campers we hear that Lanier L. is returning and has gotten her best friend to come to camp with her. Lia S. writes, "Hey guys!!! I miss camp soooo much!!!! I can't wait. Merri-Mac '08 is going to be the best!!! Well, my news is that my soccer team is going to the championship game on Wednesday, February 20th!!! And, Morgan B., if you're reading this, I MISS YOU SO MUCH!!!" From Ann G. we hear, "Well, I have just had the most amazing month! The first weekend in February, Jill, Rachel, and I went to New Orleans to stay with Mary L. for Mardi Gras, which was SO MUCH FUN!! We even saw Brittany! Then this weekend Abby came to stay with me at Jill's house and we went to see Becca's play. She left this morning, which was sad, but we'll all be together again in 110 days! WOOHOO!!" Ann, we can all get excited about that too! There are lots of you guys getting together out there. Chelsea D. writes, "Hi everyone! I am so excited to get back to camp, but I have been lucky enough to see some camp girls this year. Last month I visited Gibbs and saw Haley, Maggie, and Sam, and this weekend I am going to Wake Forest and staying with Sassie! Miss you all! XOXO." Chelsea, be sure and tell Sassie we said "hello!"

Adam is on the road in Virginia and will be in Charlottsville tonight with the McNellys. He had a great meeting in Roanoke with the Mertens last night and had a wonderful time meeting many potential campers but especially enjoyed his time with the Mertens and some Merri-Mac girls: Sarah and Anna, as well as Tessa S.

The exciting news of the week...Page Porter and Lindsay Brasington are hired for this summer! Yes, we are as excited as you are to have them back.

From this Haven,

Adam and Ann

We hope you're feeling fine!

2008-02-12T13:14:00.000-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - Smile! Smile! Let me see you smile!

Good Moring All You Merri-Mac Girls!

We are writing this as quickly as we can because Camp is losing power today! Our next step in making camp beautiful is to put some of our power lines under ground so when you drive up next summer the thing to notice is what is not there. We are also busy ordering our new camp clothing this week. Be sure to let us know if you have anything you would like to see us order. Finally, we thought you might like to know that the Merri-Mac barn is keeping busy this year. Jan began a year round riding program at camp so some of our favorite horses have stayed with us. Cody says hi!

From the campers we have word that Marissa D. is looking forward to starting boarding school next year. Don't worry, she's still coming to camp. Mary Page is planning on visiting Brianna D. at her school tomorrow and Ann sees Lillie M. and Adair every Sunday because she teaches their Sunday School class. They're both doing great and looking forward to camp. Finally Rylie B. wrote to say "I now have a baby sister! Her name is Brooke and she is SO cute!"

Adam just came back from a trip meeting new campers in Atlanta and is about to go to Virginia where he will see Lang M., and all the Mertens (they have 4 campers!). After that he will be turning his attention full time to staff because there is not much room left for new campers.

Stephen is also on his way to VA today as he goes to Va. Tech. to meet new boating and climbing counselors. Vanessa borrowed a camp boat so she can get more time on the river before camp starts and our favorite news...Dave wrote to say hi.

From This Haven...

Adam and Ann

If I had the wings of a turtle dove...

2008-02-05T14:09:00.000-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - straight to Camp Merri-Mac I'd fly!

Good Morning All You Merri-Mac Girls!

February is a favorite month at camp because this is the time we begin getting ready for camp in earnest. While we are still traveling meeting new campers and staff, we are also starting to plan all of our programs for this summer. Adam has been busy preparing to take our climbing program to the next level by scouting for new rock. Ann is preparing for staff discipleship by finishing her third seminary class. Dan and Stephen are busy putting the final touches on staff. And everyone is beginning to put our sights on the 2009 launch of our new High School Adventure Travel program (more to come!).

We're also putting the final touches on some of our new construction jobs. We are putting the overhead wires around the Big House underground, replacing bathrooms, building a new counselor section and deck on Comet, building a new covered firing range for Archery, rebuilding our riflery range, and lots of other smaller projects. So there are a lot of things to look forward to this summer. Don't worry, the most important parts will never change!

From the Mailbag:

Anne Archer wrote from Costa Rica saying, "It's beautiful and warm here! I am having an amazing time. I've spent the last 2 weekends at the beach, and seeing waterfalls, volcanoes, and doing canopy tours through the rainforest, and I love my Spanish classes! I hope everything is going great at camp!" P.D. wrote to say, "Hey everybody! I have been missing camp so much lately. I guess it's just that time of the year. I just wanted to tell you all that I miss you so much and I love you! I can't wait to see all of your beautiful, smiling faces again. Also, I am going to be an Aunt again in March; both my sister and my sister-in-law are having babies at the end of March! :)" Finally, Allison says, "I'm going to camp Merri-Mac again!" Allison, we're just as excited as you are...and can't wait to see you all!

From This Haven...

Adam and Ann

Camp Merri-Mac, You Will Always Be...

2008-01-29T11:14:00.001-05:00

IMAGE CAPTION - A sign of love and friendship and true sincerety.

Good Morning All You Merri-Mac Girls!

January is a great time at camp. There has been some snow, the lake has frozen and it won't be long before the bears start coming through camp at night. They stay away whenever there are campers around!

The big news is that we hired Vanessa, and there are at least two "old school" Merr-Mac girls who I expect to sign up in the next week or two, so stay posted for good news.

From the campers we have word that Mary Page B. saw the Woodson girls at her Bag Pipe Competition in Orlando. Her band also won their competition (both Grade 5 and Grade 4b). Ameilia K. got two hamsters for Christmas and named them...wait for it...Merri and Mac! Rachel S. also wrote to say, "I miss camp like crazy! I just got a letter saying that Lauren Davis AND Stephanie Nestor (Comet '07!) are coming back this year! I hope I'm lucky enough to have them as counselors. I just found out last weekend that I'm going to Ireland for Spring break! It will be awesome, but not as fun as camp, of course. Nothing could measure up to Merri-Mac! CHOCTAW'S GONNA WIN THE BANNER!"

Hmmm, I think there are two other tribes who might have something to say about that.

Great Camping!

Adam and Ann