The Silverwinged Bats arrived and quickly began on tasks with choosing and then cutting withies for basket weaving. We began Opening Circle with the history of Governor's Point... It's story started long ago when Governor's Point's only inhabitants were heron, seal, otter, cougar, bear, and myriad other non-human beings; then to the Mamosee people who plied these waters in dugout canoes; to the more modern usage of this land as boys' camp, rock quarry, and site of a future 7 lot housing development.
Along the way to the beach, we got to know Indian Celery, an amazing photo-toxic plant, played with cleaver, and thought about the impact of putting houses on this point. Nearing the cove, we left the well trod road and fox-walked through the forest, down to the bluff, and eventually onto the beach. At this special point we imagined, shared, explored, discussed, and played on rocks. We learned how to start a basket made from woven seagrass and willow withies. With focus, patience, and persistence, each of the Silverwing Bats created the bottom of a small basket.
While we wove, the Silverwing Bats spotted an elephant seal, several Bald Eagles, Loons, and even traces of an otter family. Alas, time passed all too quickly, and before long we were hastening back to our ending circle. On our way back, we quite serendipitously ran into the owners of the infamous Lot 7. W were overjoyed to learn that although houses would soon be built on the Pointe, GEC will be welcome to enjoy its magic for many outings to come.
We mentors are so grateful for this group of girls, at once silly and serious, trustworthy and tough, wise and wonderful!
Mottos: Connect to Protect, We Are All Connected, Widen Your Circle
