Saying "Farewell"

Shortly after arriving in camp, this year, we learned that this was to be Charlene’s last year to manage the operation. Charlene has become a dear friend to us all and we were surprised to hear of her coming retirement at the end of the season.

Charlene has definitely added a great deal to the enjoyment we’ve experienced over the years on past visits. She has always helped us with advice as to where to find the crabs and what type of bait to use to entice them into out traps. Charlene has always seemed to be tireless as she flits around from one activity to another.

It is time for us to pay our bills

A small tradition as grown over the years that tries to express our gratitude for all that Charlene as done for us. The women in our group get together to design and make a custom "Thank You" card for Charlene. It sounds simple on the surface, but a lot of work goes into the making of special token of our affection for Charlene, a small human-dynamo who adds so much to our enjoyment of the camp.

Charlene reads the "Thank you" card crafted just for her

On the last day of each trip we have our crabs cooked and packed away. When all is done, we all go over to the office to pay our bills and to give Charlene the card signed by all, with notes of good wishes. After reading the card and notes Charlene works her way to all of us to give each person a farewell hug. On past visits, it has been a tradition we all look forward to with the idea that Charlene will be there to greet us all the following year.

Charlene gives each of us a good-bye hug

Another good-bye hug — many more to go

With knowledge of Charlene’s upcoming retirement, this year’s farewell hugs were very special indeed. I was very happy to hear that this would not be the last time we would see Charlene. She told us that she would come to camp to visit with us during our next visit. "After all," she said, "I know when you will be here," as she pointed to the appointment book where she had entered the dates for our visit next year.

Charlene says "Good-bye" as we head back to our RVs — Photo by Nora

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