Some of my oldest friends from Camp Quixote are moving on. The couple that recently got married - the husband recently moved back to Yellowstone where he's a cook, and got a job for his new wife. She hops a bus to join him tonight. The card shark who always beat me (and everyone else) at hearts is moving back to Alaska next week. His heart condition is getting worse and he'll be spending time with old friends and his doctor. The guy who always gave me a (toothless) grin as he entered and left, has headed back to family in Florida to get away from the Olympia drug scene - he was afraid he might slip back into old habits. The guy who always teased me and everyone else with his quick smiley humor got trained to work in a nursing home, for which he's absolutely perfect - always cheerful and friendly to everyone. He moved out of the camp awhile back. Some of residents have found apartments and jobs in the area and visit the camp periodically. Others are starting to talk about their next steps. I am happy for my friends, but I'm also going to miss them. The camp won't be the same without their wonderful spirit.

I'm beginning to recognize the new faces, but they're a little more quiet around the volunteer hosts while they get used to their new surroundings. Unfortunately, some have come and gone quickly because of not being able to abide by the camp rules.

Right now the camp is located near the Unitarian church, over on the Westside. We could really use more volunteers, even people who can only work one shift would be great. If you're interested in making a tangible difference in our community, please contact me.