5/25/10

The countdown has begun... Camp is three weeks away and we cannot wait to see all those faces so full of excitement on the front porch! Campers will make the drive up the tree lined road and veer to the right where all of the sudden, the view opens up to the garden, fields & rolling hills, tennis courts, the sports complex, and the mountains in the distant. It is breathtaking! Aaaahhh, home away from home! Sweet memories flood their minds and they cannot wait for another fun-filled summer. Those who haven't been before will soon be welcomed by friendly faces and within minutes, bonds are made and new friendships are formed. Can you tell we are excited and ready to spend our summer with the kids? We LOVE it!!!

On to the latest news... Kelly Hicks Kalajian and her husband, Matthew (Rockmont alum) welcomed a baby boy, Micah Aaron on April 22. We hope you are adjusting well and enjoying your new bundle of joy. Congratulations!

Molly Tarr is traveling in South Africa with a school program and seems to be having a great time. Last we heard, she was staking out a home because she wants to live there. Our vote is... come back to the states! We don't want you to live that far away!!!

Congratulations to all of the graduates of 2010! You have all accomplished so much and we are proud of every single one of you! We will be praying for you as you prepare for new endeavors in life.

We hear the Springfield girls are making a move from the Rio Grande Valley to Houston, TX this summer. That's exciting and we hope the move goes well, however, we will miss  you at camp! Come back soon!

Congratulations to Crystal Duffala Weitzel who married Matt Weitzel on February 10. We are so happy for you and wish you many, many years wonderful memories together! Congratulations!

Please keep Madi Fehling in your prayers as she is in central Asia for 6 weeks. She is on a mission trip spreading God's Word. We know this is an awesome experience and can't wait to hear all about it!

Tiffany Cagle is on the RETURN! Hip-hip-hooray! After living in South Korea for two years, she is coming home!  We are so excited she will spending the summer with us at Hollymont and can't wait to see her happy to be home face! :) It has been way too long and we have missed you Tiff!

If you have any news, please send it our way as we'd love to share what's going on in your life, etc., with other alumni, staff and campers. To those staff and campers out there, we will see you VERY soon!!!!!

4/30/10

Okay Hollymont friends, we are in full bloom around here. The leaves are back and everything is beautiful, lush and green! The flowers are blooming, the sky is blue and the sun is out! There is nothing like being in the mountains this time of year and of course we feel that way come summer time! We are gearing up for this exciting summer at Hollymont and we hope you will be a part of it! As posted on our Hollymont Facebook page, if you (as a Hollymont camper, staff or alumni) recruit a new camper, ask them to write YOUR name in the 'how did you hear about Hollymont' line on the application so you can get $50 from us! It is that simple!

Last weekend was the Hollymont/Rockmont reunion at Rockmont for all the local campers, alumni and staff. We enjoyed a time on the waterfront, good food and great friends. Thanks for cooking those burgers and hot dogs, Dan... you are quite the chef! It was great to see so many familiar faces!

Lauren Glass and Missy McKibbens Roper held a Hollymont reunion at FUEL pizza in Charlotte and approximately 20 friends attended consisting of campers, potential campers, staff and alumni. It was a wonderful time and we appreciate all of you coming out. Help us continue spreading the Hollymont word!

We have seen some familiar faces around the camp office recently. Brittany DuBois loves the area so much, she is considering a move to the mountains after graduation and then camp this summer. She was scouting out the area with her mom last week. Also, Emily Levy and Christin Daniels was visiting the Asheville/Black Mountain area for the weekend. It was great getting to see all of you and we are excited you will all be back very soon. Get ready for an awesome summer!

A big hooray for Maggie England Waters (former staffer) who has just completed Nursing School!!! That's such an exciting accomplishment and we are so proud of you! We hope you will join our Hollymont nursing staff in the future! :)

Congratulations to Molly McClamrock and Emily Nicholson. Both recently accepted teaching positions in the Fall in this great state of North Carolina. Emily will be teaching in a private school in the Raleigh area and Molly will be at a charter school in the Whiteville area. You will both do a fantastic job and the kiddos will love, love, love you!!!

A big high five goes out to Courtney Peinhardt and Virginia Thomas! Virginia is graduating from the University of Virginia's School of Law in May and Courtney will be a graduate of Samford University's Cumberland School of Law.  You both have worked so hard and we are so excited for what lies ahead! 

Scott Counce (former ski crew/boat driver) has hit the ground running... literally! Scott finished his first 5-K recently and is running his first 10-K this weekend!! On that note, I think I will go get some exercise in myself. Those arm reps of popping popcorn in my mouth as I sit on the sofa this Friday night AND watch work out videos is really going to burn those excess calories I've been wanting to get rid of (just kidding!). Best of luck to you Scott and waaaay to go! Have a great weekend, y'all!

 

3/29/10 - Stepping Into Spring!

We have so much to be thankful for...  The Spring season has sprung! We have sunny, blue skies and warmer temperatures in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains! As you all know, we have been bearing the cold and the snow, etc (not a fan!). This is also the season in which we celebrate the resurrection and new life... HE IS RISEN! We hope as you 'spring' into this time of year, you will take time to reflect on God's love and enjoy the beauty of His creation in the newly blooming flowers, the chirping birds, and the crisp morning air that we all are so grateful for... Spring is here!  :)

So much has been going on in and around the camp office. With camp just around the corner, we are continuing to register campers, sending out April packets and finalizing summer details. There is still so much to do but we are excited and ready for the summer!

We have lots of news to share with you... Former staffer, Joni Johnson Phihoda and her husband, Nick, have welcomed a baby girl into the world. Vivian Jane was born February 22. Congratulations! We can't wait for her first summer at Hollymont and we have another future Hollymonter already lined up as her roomate (see below)! 

Anne Martha Bernaur Corley and her husband have welcomed a new baby girl, Anne Grace. We are thrilled for you and so glad you are all doing well. We already have a spot on hold for her in 2016!

Congratulations to former staffer Kara Gochnour who married Dan Aldrich in a destination wedding on the Hawaiian Island of Kauai. Merridy and Terry Sims (Steele & Spence didn't make this trip!) attended the wedding and enjoyed the week catching up with Kara, her family and friends. While there, they also spent time with former staffer, Linda Canales White. Linda and her husband, Darron, live on the north shore of the island. A good time was had by all and we are so excited for Kara and Dan as they begin their new life together. Best wishes to you both!

Savannah Haney could very well teach drama at camp this summer! She did a fantastic job in her church's Passion Play as a member of the 'band.'  Way to Go Savannah!!! Also, Lauren Glass participated in the Passion Play and did a great job singing in a quartet. Maybe we can get her to sing a solo for us this summer!  hehe!  :)

Robin Raulerson Mehler (former staffer and assistant director) and her family recently spent time in Ecuador. Her husband, Jason spent two months there years ago helping out in a physical therapy clinic and it has been a dream of his to go back to serve the community.  We are so glad you were able to go back as we know there are so many needs there.

Amy Lewallen has been on the road. Recent camp travels have taken her to Valdosta, GA, Ashland, KY, and Corbin, KY. Thank you to the Godwin's for kindly allowing us to use the farm for our mini camp reunion outside of Valdosta. Amy enjoyed catching up with many camp folks who were in attendance (in addition to the Godwin's)-- Gail Eldridge, Lindsey Radcliff, Kayla Franklin, Eleanor Eldridge Clark, Wanda McQuitty, Leigh Roberts, and several potential camp families were there. While in Georgia, Amy also was able to briefly visit with Emily Levy! Amy's travels also have taken her to Ashland, KY where she visited with Andrea Wise and Emily Krick. In Corbin, KY, she had a camp show at the Greer's house and enjoyed seeing Beth, Emily, nurse Marisa, and nurse Mary Ellen Dulin. Thank you for opening your homes to Hollymont and we are looking forward to seeing you all this summer!

Lauren Glass recently traveled to Jackson, TN where she had a great time visiting with Katie Cooper, Stacey Hanbury and Rachael Moore Mogel. They all seemed to be doing well. Stacey and Katie are enjoying school and Rachael seems to be loving the married life!

Missy M. Roper opened her home for a camp show in Concord and it was a big hit! Several potential camp families were in attendance and some current campers came to join in the fun. It was great seeing everyone!

We are looking forward to a fun-filled, action packed summer at Hollymont! We have a few spots still available for the 2010 summer so please remember to share Hollymont with your friends and family. Have a blessed Easter season!

 

2/22/10 --- Hooray!!!

We are celebrating around the office. Three cheers for warmer weather, blue skies, and NO SNOW (though it appears more is in the forecast by the end of this week!!)! We are hoping spring is just around the corner and we'll have some warmer consecutive days very soon!

In the news... Hooray for Kendall Shoffner! Kendall has gotten married and she is now Kendall Hanford Acombs! Congratulations and best wishes to you both!

Emily Nicholson (former staff) recently caught up with Lindsey Wilson Owens (former staff) over lunch and this past weekend she was in Jacksonville, Florida visiting Lizzy Overbey Thomason and her husband, Matt. They had a great time and were even able to catch a Jimmy Buffett concert!

Congratulations to Jenny Wallace Easterling and her husband who welcomed a son, Gray Easterling, on February 11. He is a precious gift and we know you are in awe over God's amazing creation! May he bring you so much happiness and many,many smiles!

Carrie Cameron Robinson (former office staff) and her husband,Will have recently moved to Birmingham,AL. Will has started a new job and Carrie is finishing up some master's work before beginning the great job search.We hope you are both getting settled and meeting lots of new friends in the area! :)

Richard and Melanie Capps (parents to camper Anna Capps) were excited to learn they were the winners from our Valentine Drawing for a $200 Suntrust Visa Gift Card. Congratulations!

Applications are rolling into the office and as a reminder, if you haven't gotten your 2010 summer applications to us, don't delay!  You won't want to miss out and we want to see you... THIS SUMMER!!!  :)

 

2/9/10 - Camp Faces and Snowy Places!

We have had numerous amounts of snow fall this winter in the North Carolina mountains. Those of you who visit only in the summer wouldn't recognize this place! In the summer months, everything is usually so lush, green, and thick, but in the winter, you can see around every tree. We get to see things/places we never knew existed because they are hidden in the summer and spring. Steele, Spence and Loren Jane have enjoyed the 'snow days' and their parents have enjoyed the 'snow delay' days. There are some good sledding hills around so the kiddos have definitely taken advantage of being out of school by having fun in the snow. We are so thankful for the different seasons, but I think at this point, most of us in the office are honest in our opinions about the weather and we are ready to kiss winter goodbye! :)

Lauren Glass traveled to Florida recently and was able to spend time with camp families in Jupiter (Gays' Home), Ponte Vedra Beach (Skinners' Home), and Fleming Island ( Hayes' Home).Thanks to all of you that opened your homes to us and also thanks to Skylar McBride for coming to the show at the Skinner's home. Promotional shows are always so much fun and it's always great seeing familiar faces on the road.

Amy Lewallen has also been on the road promoting Hollymont. Recent travel took her to Charleston, SC, where she did a promotional show at the Rosol's home. A huge thanks to them for opening their home to us and to those who attended. Following the show, Amy met up with Caroline Sharp (staff 2009) for a short visit and had a great time catching up with her. Caroline attends the College of Charleston and is looking forward to spending a part of her summer with us! Amy put together a reunion gathering for Hollymont families in Birmingham last week and enjoyed seeing Ainsley Despot, Mallory Allen and Lillian Holt. We're so excited they're all planning to come back this summer! Also while in Birmingham, Amy saw Lori Akin (staff '95), Sarah Lamar (staff 2007-2008), and Meredith Winkler McDaniel (staff mid-90's). She also made a quick trip to Auburn and was able to meet up with Taylor Owen (staff 2009) and Cindy Orsenigo (staff 2009).

Loren Jane Roper turned THREE and had a birthday bash on February 7. Several camp friends and future Hollymont friends were there. Missy and Loren Jane enjoyed celebrating with Merridy, Steele and Spence Sims (staff and young Hollymont men), Meredith Brooks Sorrell(former camper and staff) and her daughters, Brooks and Laura; Brooke Lawrence Hata (former camper and staff) and her daughter; Cate, Bess and Sara Wilder Bryant (campers), Jane E. and Chapel Baynard (former staff and camper), and Christy Panner (camper). Loren Jane is looking forward to seeing some of you at camp this summer and she's also looking forward to perfecting her limbo skills with you all!

In other news, congratulations to Ms. Nina Haaskivi (former camper) for placing fourth runner up in the Miss USA division of the Miss America - Miss Maple City Pageant, February 6, 2010. The Miss America organization teamed up with the Children's Miracle Network, a non-profit organization dedicated to saving and improving the lives' of children by raising funds for children's hospitals. This was a great partnership opportunity for Nina so she could help raise awareness and funds for two organizations. Way to go, Nina!!!

Emily Nicholson (former staff) is off to a great start in grad school. She started January 13 and is getting her master's degree in reading. In addition to her grad school work, she has gotten a job as a full-time nanny. Keep up the fantastic work, Emily!

The Hollymont year round staff enjoyed a night out in Greenville, February 2. After a delicious dinner at Soby's downtown, we enjoyed the production, WICKED at the Peace Center. It was great and if you have seen it, 'toss, toss!' :)

We've recently been in touch with Patricia Lemoine (former camper) and she filled us in on what she has been up to in the last few years. After graduating from the University of Georgia in 2008, she moved out to Los Angeles and has been doing entertainment PR. She worked on the Twilight movie 'New Moon'� and ran the premier. She also�does events, branding and film representation. She truly is enjoying her work and really likes being in LA!

Vicki Jordan (former staff) and Anne Harvey (former camper and staff) have just returned from Australia and New Zealand. Other than a rough start to the trip (they missed their flight out of SF!), they had a good time and enjoyed the summer weather. We're glad they are back safely.

Congratulations to Samantha Williams!!! We were excited to learn of your acceptance to the University of Tennessee!!

Aloha! Gail Mashburn recently returned from a two week trip to Hawaii. She spent her vacation enjoying the beautiful beaches, vulcanic activity, gardens, shops, great food, friends and family, etc. She also went on an awesome zip-line tour!!! There were not many days she didn't hear from us in the camp office (sorry Gail!). What would we do without Gail L. Mashburn?!!

Don't forget -- If we receive your application between January 1 and February 14, the name of the individual who paid the deposit will go into our Valentine's Drawing. We will draw a name February 15 and the winner will get a $200 Suntrust Visa card that can be used toward whatever they'd like! It can also be applied toward camp fees or help offset travel expenses. Don't delay!  :)

We are getting applications in daily and in addition to those of you returning from last summer, we are excited to see some of you from 2008 returning for 2010!!! We're looking forward to a fantastic summer! Remember to tell your friends about Hollymont and 'if you can, bring a friend and come along!'  :)

 

1/13/09

Is everyone staying warm??? The temperatures have been crazy cold in North Carolina and we still have snow on the ground from a month ago. We even had more this week (though it didn't last long)! I think we can all vouch to say we are ready for warmer weather. Yesterday, Merridy, Steele and Spence Sims, along with Merridy and Missy's dad, Ben McKibbens (aka Daddy Mac), played on the lake at Rockmont. The lake is covered with 5-6 inches of ice!!!

On another note, we have lots of news to share...

First off, congratulations to Victoria Colon for winning the Holly-days Christmas Phrase challenge. She won a $40 camp credit to use as she would like. Way to go Victoria! Thank you to all of those who entered into the contest. We will probably come up with another similar challenge for next year so have your creative juices flowing and ready... You just may be the next winner!!!

We want to extend our congratulations to Kelli Ashkouti Sullivan and her husband. They welcomed a baby girl, Skylar Elizabeth on September 9, 2009. We will be looking for her application in 2013!� :)

Congratulations to Lynde Massey McPherson who married, Wes, on December 12 in Mississippi. We are excited for the two you and pray you have a life full of happiness together!

We are so about Ashley Eldridge's new adventure as a school counselor... Ashley is living in Charlotte and is really enjoying city life. Keep us posted on your new job and congratulations!

Lauren Glass sure is keeping busy. Not only is she working full time for camp, she is also the assistant coach for the Asheville Christian Academy's Girls Middle School Basketball Team. Lauren is really enjoying her role and feels this is another great opportunity to minister to young girls. Not only is she doing this, but she volunteers for UPWARD basketball through her church on weekends.

Missy McKibbens Roper, Woods McKibbens, Ben (aka Daddy Mac) McKibbens, and Virginia Thomas were in Pasadena, CA for the Rose Bowl and spotted some familiar camp faces. It was great seeing Lizzie Overbey Thompson and her husband, Matt, as well as Campbell and Ella McAtee's mom, Betsy and Brooke Randall's mom, Janis. Also, they ran into Adele and Addison Bortz's dad, Scott. All were there to cheer on the Crimson Tide and were glad to see Alabama pull through as the National Champions!

Amy Lewallen was in St. Simon's Island, GA for a wedding and saw Mary, Stephanie, and Kathryn Greene. As always, they are so much fun and they all had a great time catching up.

Where in the world is Brittany DuBois (to the tune of Carmen Sandiego!)?? Brittany has just returned from France and England with a group from the Univ. of Louisiana at Lafayette. It sounds like Brittany had a great time and we are glad she is back safely. In other exciting news from Brittany - she has been assigned a student teaching position in an elementary school! Brittany's fun personality and love for kids will make her a great addition to the classroom.

We hope and pray your 2010 is off to a great start and you are already making wonderful memories in this new year.� Please remember to send us any new and exciting news you may have as we would love to keep up with you and share what's going on in your life!�

Til' next week....� :)

�

1/1/TWO THOUSAND AND TEN!!!!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!!!

�

12/28/09 --

We hope you all had a very Merry Christmas. Everyone in the camp office went their seperate ways for the holidays and now we are back in full swing and preparing for 2010. Over the Christmas holiday, Lauren went home to Jackson, MS, Gail went to Franklin, NC, Amy went to Huntsville, AL and Merridy, Missy and the kiddos were in Black Mountain with their family. While out and about Amy saw Laura Jo Hurt in Huntsville, AL and had a short visit. Amy saw Camille Long's mom at a Christmas brunch in Asheville, and Merridy and Missy saw former camp nurse, Kim Barnett in Charlotte. Kim Barnett is doing great and now has two sons --22 months and 11 months.

Also in the camp news, Hallie Parker (former staffer) tied the knot with Ben Mordecai on Sunday, December 27, in St. Simon's Island, GA. Congratulations and we're so excited for you as you begin your new life together!

What a month this has been... What a month? How about what a year? It is hard to believe 2009 is coming to an end and 2010 is on the horizon. As we look back, we have so much to be thankful for and we can't help but pause to think about how grateful we are for all of you. The friendships that are made at Hollymont last a lifetime and we hope you will come back in 2010 for another SUPER summer!!! Til' 2010....

�

12/25/09

Merry Christmas everyone! We hope your day is Christ-filled and you have a wonderful time celebrating the birth of our Savior with your family and friends.

�

12/18/09� Let it Snow!

The snow is falling and it just keeps coming down. Within a few short hours, the grounds have gotten covered with several inches of snow. Lauren has gone home for the Christmas holiday, Gail is in Franklin with her parents for a long weekend, and Merridy, Terry, Steele, Spence, Missy, Loren Jane, Woods, Virginia Thomas, Amy Lewallen, Mudder (Merridy and Missy's grandmother), and Lolo and Daddy Mac (Merridy and Missy's parents), along with 7 dogs, 1 cat and 1 fish are hunkered in at the Black Mountain winter office/house. Sounds like a Grizwald experience waiting to happen doesn't it? A lot of folks around have lost power so everyone is so thankful to have a backup generator... especially with this many people in the house! The kids are bubbling with excitement over the fact there is so much snow on the ground and a snowman is soon to be built. It truly is a beautiful sight to see and before it's all over, we should have over a foot of snow.

�

11/30/09

We hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving and enjoyed spending time with your family and friends. We all went different directions this Thanksgiving. Gail spent time with her family in Franklin, NC, Amy went to Huntsville, AL, Lauren went to Jackson, MS, and Missy (Loren Jane) and Merridy (Terry, Steele and Spence) spent Thanksgiving in Black Mountain with their family. It was a great time for everyone and we all agree we ate toooooooo much! That's what is supposed to happen over the Thanksgiving holiday though, right?�

Prior to the Thanksgiving holiday, some Hollymont folks were spotted out and about. It seems some of us can't go anywhere without running into someone from camp. It is so much seeing our camp friends in the off-season. On Lauren's way to Jackson, MS, she had dinner in Greenville-Spartanberg, SC with former staffer, Rachel Murley McDaris and her future camper (2015), Anne-Kelly. Merridy caught up with Kinsley Partin (former camper) at the Biltmore Village Coffee and Creamery in Asheville and Missy and Loren Jane ran into Megan and Ellie Lewis (current campers) in Charlotte. All of these gals seemed to be doing great!

As a reminder, we are counting down the days to December 15! Those of you who register and pay your deposit before December 15 will be getting a Hollymont Christmas gift! We can't tell you what it is... that's a surprise! Have a great week.�� :)

�

11/26/09

Happy Thanksgiving! We hope and pray this time with your family and friends is meaningful and that you are able to reflect on all you are thankful for... We are thankful for God, family and friends... like YOU! Have a great holiday.

�

11/17/09

Our deepest sympathies go out to Kathleen Overbey Thomas and Lizzie Overbey Thomason (former Hollymont campers and staff). Their grandmother, Kathleen Gilbert passed away on Sunday, November 8. Kathleen Gilbert was also the mother to Cindy (& David) Bruce (Rockmont crew). Our prayers are with you during this time. We love y'all!

�

11/6/09

Travelin' Time!

Lauren Glass and Amy Lewallen have hit the road this week to start recruitment for an exciting summer in 2010. Amy was in Winston-Salem at Wake Forest University on Monday in the University Center talking to potential staff members about the BEST summer job EVER! Monday evening, the Hirst family (Kay-lynn - camp nurse and Mary Alice - camper) hosted a camp show where Amy was able to speak to camper prospects.� On Tuesday, she traveled to Chapel Hill where she enjoyed a delicious dinner with Anna Bland Costello, Mallory Hinzman, Cat Rodriguez, Laurel Loeblein, Melanie Baucom, and Caitlin Naugle. Everyone seems to be doing great and it was a great catch up time. On Wednesday, Amy had the opportunity to speak with Anna Bland and Caitlin Naugle's sorority (Sigma, Sigma, Sigma) at UNC and then had a quick visit with Jordan Townsend and Constance Leder.

On Thursday, Lauren headed to Myrtle Beach for a camp show at the Dorman's home. It was a great show and so much fun seeing that sweet family. Thank you to all of you have that have opened your homes, sorority meetings, etc., as we are preparing for another fantastic summer. Word of mouth is the best way to spread Hollymont so share it with your friends and family and be sure to let us know if you would like to host a show in your city. We'll be there!�� :)

The rest of the gang is holding down the fort in the camp office. One of our youngest office staffers, Spence is really working on his computer skills. Don't be surprised if he answers one of your phone calls (hehe, just kidding!). Til' next time. Have a great week!!!

�

10/29/09� Wowzers, there has been a lot going on around here!

Well one thing is for sure, the last two weeks have been a bit crazy!

Gail Mashburn took a week's vacation to St. Augustine, FL and had a great trip. She enjoyed relaxing, catching up on some reading, shopping and visiting museums. Nothing like coming back from vacation to find out that you've been called in to jury duty... and then to be picked! Gail always seems to find a way to make the best out of every situation and regardless, she is loving life. �

Merridy and Terry Sims went on a half-day guided fishing trip down the French Broad last week while Steele and Spence were in school. They caught 15 fish (trout and brim) between the two of them and enjoyed every minute of it. The cold morning temperatures and fog raising off the river was a breath of fresh air as they coasted along casting lines into the white rapids. It is something they definitely agree they'd both want to do again. Fun times!

LEAF (Lake Eden Arts Festival) takes place twice a year on the Rockmont grounds and it is so much fun. There are so many people camping out, you can't even see the ground! All weekend, you can find good food and great music! Daphne McLeod Malone (former staffer) and her son, Alexander ventured up from Camden, AL to visit us and go to the festival. Daphne has wanted to visit during a LEAF weekend for years and now she wants to keep coming back. Our favorite band was Los Amigos (Invisibles), a Venezuelan pop group. We hope she will come see us again very soon and tell her friends about LEAF!

Missy McKibbens Roper & Loren Jane Roper traveled to Point Clear, AL and Perdido Key, FL last week where they enjoyed time at the beach before winter hits. Missy was able to visit with friends while Loren Jane stayed with her grandparents, Lolo and Daddy Mac McKibbens. Following the beach trip, they went to Tuscaloosa, AL to watch the Alabama Crimson Tide play Tennessee! They had an opportunity to visit with cousins, Rainer and Blakley Jones (campers) and Kelly Belt Jones (former staffer).

60 miles down in 3 days! Harvey's Hooters took to the streets again in Atlanta this last weekend. Thanks to Anne Harvey and Amy Lewallen for walking. In some way we are all touched by breast cancer and we really appreciate you making a difference in the lives of so many.

Congratulations to Melissa Stephenson Kent (former camper) and her husband, Bob on the arrival of their first child, Robert Morris Kent, II (Bo).� Bo was born at 8:50 a.m. on Oct. 28. We have already seen his pictures and he is precious with a full head of jet black hair. We're voting for a girl next so she will be.... Hollymont bound!!!

Lastly, we are so thankful to have the internet back! We were without it for almost two weeks in the camp office due to router problems. Hopefully that will no longer be an issue and we can continue updating you all with what's going on around the winter office. Please email us with what is going on with you and if you are interested in doing a camp show in your neck of the woods, give us a shout... our calendars are filling up fast! Hugs to you all!!!

�

Winter Camp Item Sale!

November will be here soon! The leaves are falling and so are the temperatures. Looking for something warm? A gift for your camper?

We have a very limited number of winter items for sale so you won't want to wait!!!

Long Sleeve White Hollymont song tee� $23

���������� Sizes Available: Youth Medium

Long Sleeve White World tee� $23

��������� Sizes Available: Youth Medium

Long Sleeve Blue Heart tee� $23

��������� Sizes Available: Youth Medium

Navy Blue Hollymont Hooded Sweatshirt� $35

��������� Sizes Available: Youth Large, Adult Small, Adult Medium

Gray Sweat Pants with green Hollymont crest� $30

��������� Sizes Available: Youth Large and Adult Medium

�

From Big City Lights to Amish Country and more... 10/15/09

Hey everyone! Hope this finds you all having a happy October.

Well... snow is in the forecast! Crazy isn't it? I am not sure we are ready for that yet as we'd like to enjoy Fall temperatures before Winter hits. The week began with lots of excitement. Merridy and Spence were heading down the driveway in the middle of the day to pick up Steele from school when three black bears crossed the road. They were gathering berries from the berry bushes alongside the road to prepare for the winter months. It was such an awesome sight to see such incredible animals with their big, black, furry coats. They really were rather cute. :)

Lauren Glass is back in the office after a fun vacation with her parents to visit Amish friends in Pennsylvania. From there, she took a train to meet up with friends from church in NYC. She had a fantastic time and even came away with some new night activity ideas. Get ready for some new and exciting experiences in 2010!

Amy Lewallen spent last weekend in Waycross, GA where she saw Anne Harvey and Jenny Herrin Wainwright. Amy was helping with a garage sale in which the proceeds would benefit breast cancer research. The three day, 60 mile walk is in Atlanta this weekend so be praying for them as they walk for a great cause.

Our deepest condolences go out to Lizzie Brandon. Lizzie's great grandmother passed away October 9th after a short illness. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.

The LEAF festival is this weekend on the Rockmont grounds so I am sure we will have more to share in that regard next week. I am looking forward to a funnel cake! :) Have a great week!

�

Back to nature, babies, blogs and God... 10/8/09

Imagine..... A cool, starry summer night in the mountains of Western North Carolina, a warm campfire to sit around with your favorite Hollymont friends, famous tin foil dinners, delicious s'mores, 5 star cozy tents, and tons of fun!!!! Are you ready? Amy Lewallen is gearing up and getting ready to go! Catering to those who enjoy the great outdoors, we are offering an off-site Hollymont camp-out in 2010. Amy is checking out campsites next week and went camping near Cade's Cove to get in the camping groove. We will offer one off-site campout per session. Since space will be limited, pre-registration will be necessary. Be on the lookout for more details in January! :)

A big woo-hoo and congratulations goes out to Brooke Lawrence (former camper and staff) as she and her husband, Jon and daughter, Cate welcomed Andrew Lawrence Hata into the world on October 1st. Andrew was born at 7:16 a.m., and weighed an impressive 9 lbs, 3 ozs. We're so excited about your new addition and can't wait to meet him.

The Top 100.... then the top 30!!!! For those of you who know Tiffany Cagle (former staffer), she is living in South Korea and loving it. Tiffany registered her blog with the Korean Tourism Board and it ended up in the top 30 most popular blogs, which means she has won a 3 day trip around Korea. To check out her blog, visit--� http://strangeworld09.blogspot.com/�� I am sure Tiffany would be thrilled to know you are all keeping up with her.

A word from Gail... I am currently working on Priscilla Shirer's Bible study -- One in a Million focusing on the journey of the children of Israel from Egypt to the Promised Land. In this week's lesson Priscilla quoted American philosopher, Sam Pascoe: "Christianity began in Palestine as a fellowship (a relationship) and then moved to Greece and became a philosophy (way to think). Afterward, it moved into Rome and became an institution (a place you go) and then to Europe where it became a culture (a way of life). Finally, it settled in America where it has become an enterprise (a business)."� I want Christianity in my life to be more like 'something I do'. Jesus loved me so much that He came to Earth and sacrificed His life so that I could have an intimate, personal relationship with God.� The challenge I am taking and that I am passing on to you is to develop and nurture that relationship by spending time alone with God. I will be reading the Bible to hear God's message to me and praying to share my heart with God. Most importantly, I will be still and watch expectantly to see how God moves and to listen as He speaks.

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Summer is Gone and Fall is Here: 9/30/09

The winds of change have brought in a season and we are enjoying cooler temperatures in the mountains of North Carolina. The leaves are beginning to change and before too long, the fall foliage will be gorgeous! If you haven't been to the mountains this time of year, you'll have to try to work a trip into your busy schedules. Easier said than done, right?

Last week was full of thrills, chills (literally!) and excitement for Merridy, Gail, and Amy. We ventured to the Nantahala River where we went rafting. Yes, it is a tough job in the off-season, but someone had to check out the Nantahala River rapids before bringing them to you next summer. We have been rafting the French Broad for the last several summers and in an effort to offer you a change in scenery and new exciting rapids, we are going to raft the Nantahala River. It was even fun in the rain. The water temperatures were up to a whopping 48 degrees (thanks to the rain) from 43 degrees, which is typical this time of year. It's easy to forget about the 'chill' when you are enjoying the 'thrill.' So... get ready for some fun on the Nantahala River in 2010!!!

We got a hold of some exciting news in the camp office! For those of you who know Blair Rainey (former Hollymont camper and staff), Blair tied the knot and married Ben Thompson last week. Congratulations to Blair and Ben and best wishes as you begin this new life together. We pray you will have a lifetime full of happiness.

And now... Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls, we are proud to introduce... Taryn Molnar Lancaster (former Hollymont staffer) will be making her first big Broadway debut starring in the ensemble of "White Christmas" (running November 13 to January 3 at the Marquis Theatre)!!! She also recently performed with some of the other cast members from "White Christmas" in "Broadway on Broadway" in Times Square in front of more than 50,000 people. Taryn has drempt of dancing on Broadway since she tied up her first pair of tap shoes and she has made her big break! Taryn, we are extremely proud of you for following your dream and for this awesome accomplishment! If you are in NYC, be sure to show Taryn your support by seeing "White Christmas."

If you have any news to share, please send it on... :o)

Til' next time....

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Life Goes On: 9/16/09

Well, the summer is over and we are all getting back in to our regular routines. Following camp, some of our year round staff took vacations and a couple have vacations planned for the Fall. Gail is trying to reclaim her garden and is taking advantage of the season's fruits and vegetables by making salsa and grape juice. Lauren is sharpening her tennis skills and just played in her first tennis tournament (she and her doubles partner won 2nd place in a round robin), and Amy has joined the fitness club and is taking up swimming. Now that Steele, Spence and Loren Jane are back in school, Merridy and Missy are trying to get back into a daily gym routine.

Life in the camp office is starting to pick up and we're on a roll planning for the 2010 summer. Let's just say... IT'S GOING TO BE AWESOME!!! We recently heard about an exciting new adventure through the Nantahala Gorge --- a 3 hour zip line tour! Of course, we had to try it out for ourselves and needless to say, it was a blast! We are planning to offer it as a trip this summer so get ready! Also, Lauren and Amy are working on their travel schedules and show slots will start filling up quickly so if you would like to bring Hollymont into your home, let us know!

Before signing off, we'd like to give a 'shout out' to those of you who have already gotten 2010 summer applications in... Don't forget we are offering $50 camper recruitment bonuses (see details below) so be sure to tell your friends about Hollymont! :)

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Congratulations to Elizabeth (Lizzy) Overbey and Matthew Thomason on their recent marriage Saturday, August 15 in Maryville, TN . Several Hollymont friends and family were on hand to help celebrate their new life together. Lizzy's sister Kathleen Overbey Thomas and cousin Lauren Mossburg were there as well as Amy Lewallen, Emily Nicholson, Virginia Thomas, Courtney Peinhardt, Betsy Caldwell, John and Kristin (King) Lawrence, Casey Brown, Anna Dean, Millie Green and Woods McKibbens. Everyone had a great time catching up and we wish Lizzy and Matt all the best!!

Hey Hollymont Campers and Parents -- NOW is the time to recruit friends, family, and acquaintances to come to Hollymont for the summer of 2010!!! For each new camper you recruit, you can claim a $50 recruitment bonus. It's so easy --- All you have to do is download an application from the website, write 'referred by' and your name at the top of it and pass it on to your friends! Additional applications may be downloaded as needed, but if you would like to share additional information such as a DVD or brochure, please call our camp office. The bonus(es) will be applied toward Hollymont camp fees, optional activities, and the camp store!

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