While spring has been bringing us an array of fresh flora and fauna, love has been blossoming amongst the trees here at the Hostel as well. Last week we had a couple that visited us for their honeymoon, and another couple surprised everyone by eloping while they were here. The night before the wedding there was a party in the kitchen as the wedding cake was baked. Wine, beer, strawberries, and chocolate were flowing, and, no surprise at the craziness that ensues here, some dreadlocking was going on too. We had a group of young folks that rode their bicycles all the way from Tallahassee to visit the Hostel, and they joined in on the celebration and helped bake the cake and also created some great artworks that are now displayed in the kitchen. The party continued after the ceremony as the reception ran on until the wee morning hours. Cheers for love! Here’s an old wedding toast for the couple, though it could be said for me or you, “May thy life be long and happy, Thy cares and sorrows few; And the many friends around thee Prove faithful, fond and true.”

Lately we’ve had some guests stepping up and cooking some stellar diners for the whole Hostel. Chad and Marissa from Atlanta bought and cooked an amazing Italian feast one night, and Brandon and Greg from St. Augustine brought three salmon flanks to feed everyone. These folks pulled out all the stops, and all of our bellies were very grateful. And speaking of eating…

The chickens have been getting quite bold since the dome is gone and the deck is open for them to run around on. More than one breakfast has mysteriously, or more often brazenly disappeared from the plates of the guests and staff. In order to break this officious habit of theirs, we’ve bought some water guns to squirt them with when they get too close. We feed them well, but apparently they’re jealous because their oats and eggshells aren’t as gourmet as the delicious palate we partake in. There’s a new law in town, and its name is Super Soaker.

Until next time,

May The Forest Be With You…