Hey all,

This must be my year for retreats and for encounters with great folks from Friends schools in the Carolinas. Back last week from a retreat called "The Mindful Coach," applying life coaching techniques in the educational setting. Lots of "centering" and mindful listening. I may be unconsciously becoming a Quaker, or maybe a Quakapalian.... Either way, I am breathing and solid as "my tree" at Westtown.

The retreat last week brought back memories of Westtown (without the ice cream and sardines..not nearly as wacky fun). I am thankful for each of you, for what you mean in your schools and communities and for the opportunity to have been part of a temporary community with you.

Plans for reunion sound wonderful. I believe much of my extra time in the winter and spring will be spent taking my daughter to look at colleges or just relaxing with her during this hectic junior year. But go forth and party and keep me posted in case I can hop up there in '08.

Best to everyone,

Sydney