Things don’t really slow down too much at Qwanoes in December! Here’s a quick glimpse into what’s been going on for the past week or so…

At the end of last week, we had our Qwanoes staff Christmas party for all the year-round staff and families. After enjoying a great dinner out together, we all headed back to Russ & Michelle Smith’s home for yummy desserts, Christmas carols, and a fun gift exchange. The most traded-for item of the night was a Disney Scene-It game with Buzz Lightyear on the front – our Executive Director Scott Bayley had it twice but lost it in the end! Gifts also included a “cow & flowers” apron, Duck Shoot game, and the Justin Bieber Christmas ornament that ended up on the Squirrel’s (a.k.a. Russ) Christmas tree!

A few staff members were noticeably absent from the Christmas party – but for a very good reason because a very special wedding was happening the very next day! On Saturday, Dec. 3rd, two of Qwanoes’ year-round staff members, Chris (Staff Team Coordinator) and Alicia (Registrar) were married. After their honeymoon, we look forward to welcoming them back to Qwanoes as they start out on their married life together. We wish you the very best, Chris and Alicia!

Also last week, our students in the Kaléo program took their last course of the fall semester, Gospels, with Wes Olmstead from Briercrest College. Through the fall the students have been receiving quality Christian college education and leadership training, experiencing outdoor adventures, and taking part in ministry in camp, local churches, and in the area. It is so great having all of them as part of the community at Qwanoes! A couple of days ago, staff and students enjoyed a delicious Christmas turkey dinner together in the Qwanoes dining hall followed by a talent show in Club Coco. We’re excited that the students are coming up to the halfway point in their year and we look forward to seeing them back here in January.

 

It is only 25 more days until registration begins for 2012!! Right now, we’re working hard to make sure that the new summer 2012 brochure, new poster, new staff and CIT application brochures, and all the other new stuff is ready to go. New activities and events are being planned, new music is being written and recorded, shirt colours are being picked, and logos are being designed.

We can’t wait to launch our 2012 theme and to start to take summer registrations on January 3rd!