Yes, our “dress rehearsal” is now over and we are ready to go live, and yes, there is some work involved here, albeit it small compared to what “work” looked like for us pre-retirement. We have had the luxury of training while the campground is still closed for the season, instead of OJT, which is how most of us have been accustomed to learning jobs over the years. And beauty of all beauties, there was even an actual training manual involved, thanks to our industrious instructors.
One of our first official duties as camp hosts was to clear away an area where we could plant some native shrubs.
Bill thought it would be great for each of us to plant a shrub that we could come back to 20 years from now and look upon its progress. At this point I am glancing over at Terry and see him doing the math. No, I couldn’t actually see him counting. He has long since progressed beyond using the finger method. I could tell by the look on his face that he is looking 20 years into the future and wondering if he will still be standing upright!
Planting these shrubs was such a good idea, as it gave us a solid connection to this state beach.
As a wrap-up to our training, we had a short meeting, followed by a pot-luck and bonfire. It gave us an opportunity to get to know one another better and at sunset, we all stood at the cliff fence watching the sun slip below the horizon.
I have to shout out a quick thanks to our instructors Bill and Lisa, for hiring us and for providing such a welcoming, supportive training atmosphere.
We have thoroughly enjoyed Bill and Lisa since meeting them several years ago and look forward to getting to know them a little better in this new environment. I love this photo of them, so relaxed, which is how it should be here. I particularly was drawn to Lisa in this photo, as her expression pulls me back to memories I have of my dear friend Barbara, too soon gone. Barbara, such a force of creativity, wonderment, compassion, a true gentle spirit, loved by all. Lisa is much like Barbara and her expression, for me, embodies a sense of pure contentment, which draws everyone to her.
We are looking forward to our time here, working with the public, which I’m sure will offer some interesting stories, and exploring the area beyond the campground.
If you liked this blog post, why not subscribe to my blog via feed reader or e-mail?
Paint Your Landscape 
Again, what a wonderful post. Both you and Terry seem so happy and fulfilled in this environment. I can also see what an impact Lisa is having on your life and am so happy for you.
Thanks Les. I am hoping for a very special someone and her equally special hubby to head back NOB later this year. Miss you both dearly!
Yay! Looks great – I’m sure your little shrub will flourish! Hi to Bill & Lisa from “JC” & “Junior” ❤
Hi Jen, I will pass your greeting along to them. Any chance you will be in the San Diego area this winter?
It is so great that you have had some training time, it sure makes a difference. Looks like a job you will love and I think Terry and you will be back there in 20 years reminiscing about the great time you had when working here and admiring that shrub you planted!
Perhaps you and John may find yourselves in this location in the future. Here’s hoping!
Sounds like you will have a great place to work camp. Enjoy your time and the experience.
Kevin and Ruth
http://www.travelwithkevinandruth.com
Thanks Kevin & Ruth! And we will relive our time in Mexico through your eyes. Take care!
Always enjoy your entries. Makes me wish I was there with you, but not long before heading YNP. It’s something that I truly need and waiting impatiently for June 5th. See you there
It is certainly lovely here Joyce, but YNP is very high on the list of all-time favorites also. See you in June.
Planting shrubs–what a fine way to establish some “roots” in your new temporary home! Even if you don’t get back there to see it in 20 years, at least you know that someone will be able to enjoy it!
What a perfect way to describe our planting and that, my friend, is why you are a writer!
i can only echo les, who always write must better than me. you look wonderful in that environment. bless you both!
Thanks David!