Arden Retreat!

Well, the team survived 5 days in a reclusive ranch far up on the Canadian Shield north of Kingston. We arrive safely late Monday afternoon after a 5 hour journey. With the weather being so cold, much of the time was spent inside.

The virtual classroom was very effective and relaxed. All you heard was the clicking of the key boards. So far we are paperless.

We also jelled as a team. It's amazing how God chooses the same types of students to go on such a program as this. We've got the techies, the artists, the writers, the public speakers etc.

After completing all of the mandatory hours for the In class Session, the gang helped to cut and cord word for the wood boiler that keeps the ranch buildings warm. Some of the team members went out every hour to keep it stoked. When we first came, we had no idea we had to do this. The end result was that the boys room became a freezer during their first night in.

All 12 of the girls were pressed into the same bunk room. There was barely enough room to move, but they're all still good friends. Three months, however, is a totally different story, but they've had a taste.

The rest of the time was spent eating delicious home cooked meals, skating, horse back riding, playing spoons, and watching movies. Got to love this kind of school. It will be hard to return to the regular classroom.

Now, we're off to the 2 week placements.

Before we sign off, we want to express a big thank you to all those that prepared wonderful meals and for the drivers and those who drove us up or lent us their vehicles. They include:

1. The teBrakes
2. Mr. Gringhuis
3. Mrs. deVet
4. Mrs. Scott
5. Mr. Demoor
6. Mrs. Smele