Posted by MMMMarcia on January 30, 2000 at 09:21:39:
In Reply to: Exactly What Is A posted by Rich/Mohican Press on January 30, 2000 at 05:40:14:
Good Morning, Rich! Glad you guys are still connected to a power source, after all the ice and snow you've had.
Thanks for the comments on the Gathering. Very well said, indeed. I'd just like to add that I hope MANY gatherers will give the Bear Den "bunkhouse" cabins a try. I think it will be an experience you aren't likely to find anywhere else, and you will enjoy it more than you realize.
Our old Chimney Rock bunkhouse WAS very primitive. Concrete floors, wooden shower stalls, beat up furnishings in the main room, rickety bunks in the dorm areas, bring your own bedding, and towels, etc. But there was something special about that old place, too, and I think those of us that chose to "rough it" there have some very special memories of our stay. Compared to the CRP bunkhouse, these cabins are SO nice. Smaller groups in each one, completely furnished (linens, bedding, dishes), jacuzzis and fireplaces, a welcoming front porch, and a back porch overlooking the creek. I can't WAIT to stay in one. Of course, the need to share a double bed will no doubt not work for everyone, but I think the pluses outweigh the minuses all the way around. And the comraderie developed between bunkhouse buddies is special, believe me!
For those of you who don't wish to join us in the bunkhouses, there are several other places available to stay that will afford you more privacy. Rich has already listed the telephone numbers, etc, on the Gathering Page to make it even easier for you to find your own accommodations.
Don't forget, though, that even if you are staying elsewhere, we still need to receive your registration forms with your monies for the Day at Chimney Rock Park, the Biltmore Tour (which is going to be FABULOSO!) and the theater. Click on the link from the Gathering Page, print those forms out, and send the completed form to the appropriate person with your check.
If you ARE planning to stay at Bear Den, you need to email or call me as soon as possible to reserve your space. These cabins are filling up quickly! I will pencil you in for the spot of your choice, and hold it for you for a short time, until receipt of your check. Because the cabin space is so limited this year, it's strictly first come, first served.
Don't forget, too, that if you like to camp, there are campsites all around the Trading Post area which are available for the rates listed on the Reservation Form. And then there are the Campin' Cabins (as opposed to the more luxurious Creekside Cabins). The Campin' Cabins are kinda like wooden tents, for those who prefer a sturdier structure separating them from the night. They have bunks attached to the walls, but no bedding. They have electric outlets & water faucets outside, but no bathroom. The folks staying in the Campin' Cabins will use the nearby bathhouse, just like tent campers will do. There are also campsites for RVs.
All in all, we have found a place which seems to offer us many different options at very reasonable prices. If we decide after this Gathering that Bear Den is our "permanent" new home, the good news is that it will be growing along with us. They plan to add new Creekside Cabins all along the edge of the creek, so someday we might have enough cabin space available to offer a few private accommodations, in addition to the cabins used as bunkhouses. But for now, the spirit is one of fun, adventure, and SHARING. Try it. You'll like it! ;o)
Whatever your choice for lodging, I can't wait to see all my old friends again, and meet all the new folks coming. This year's Gathering is going to be spectacular! Y'all come!
MMMMarcia