Silver Falls Smiles – Sept/Oct 1999

IT DID HAPPEN! Silver Falls Sculpting Symposium had plenty of sunshine: ole sol sunshine and heartfelt sunshine. August 25 through 29 were glorious days for so many happy face memories.

So, here I am leaving Silver Falls, Oregon, Symposium #4, driving out of old growth cedars, alders, maples, giant firs dripping with dew and spanish moss and I’m smiling. What a place! This silly smile has been on my face for three days: under my air respirator, during the meals, while I’m sleeping, even while drinking Red Dog Beer (ugh) around a campfire and paying John Pugh’s bill. I have had one tremendous experience.

I could tell you about the high level of instruction: Tom, Devin, David, Laura and Paul. I probably should because they are the reason I came. But, I expected the best and I got it. Check! And I couldn’t help but give kudos to the food. Rumors have it Camp Brotherhood will try again with a new chef next year. All I can say is the gal at Silver Falls better stay put. None of us missed a meal-ever! Check!

The electricity worked. The compressor was gigantic. The shade was shared. The water was cool. Check! Check! Check! Check! John Pugh was with trailer, stones and accepting credit cards. Check! Caroline Anderson! Check!!!

But, what really made this silly smile was-the people. Now, I know you have all heard this line before, but, how many times in your life do you really meet up with a group of people you have never even seen before and feel such a oneness in just a few hours. Yes, everyone helps everyone. Some problems even I could help with. Conversations were so interesting and ranged from bird calls to politics, to stars, to quantum physics, to health, to just total appreciation of each other and Carolyn Anderson. This was truly a group of heart! And smiles! How on earth could such a group have come together to share a sparkle of art and time glowing with memories? I’m thankful it did, and I was there.

I am so thankful to Mark Andrew for all his coordination and hard work. And Kathy Ellis for her planning and organization and creating a T-shirt that will bring that smile out every time I wear it. And Penelope Crittenden for making all that paper function and smoothing out any unseen wrinkle. And all the biggies from NWSSA that support and encourage like Vic, Rich, and Ron. Thank you! Here I am-just grinning all over again!