Belknap Springs Women's Council of Realtors Retreat
April 9-11th, 2008
What a success! This annual WCR event, hosted by The Lane County Chapter of the WCR, was attended by real estate professionals from Eugene, Springfield, Portland, Medford, Grants Pass, Salem, Bend, Redding and elsewhere. The theme this year was a Hawaiian Hukilau.
People began arriving midday Wed. to enjoy three days at this historic hot spring resort. The weather was incredible day one. Crystal blue skies and a warm sun made lounging by the poolside very enjoyable. A welcome party hosted and sponsored by Susan Green, Cascade Title, games of Bunko and a lava cake was a great way to end the day.
The program included educational and entertainment sessions with the option of pampering oneself with facials, manicures and massages by a staff of experienced ammenities-providers. Meals were hosted by various WCR chapters statewide. Who knew that Spam - a local delicacy in Hawaii - could taste so good grilled with a wedge of pineapple? Kim Philpot offered a painted stones craft project, Chiquit McCloskey taught a cooking class (click here for the recipes), and Gwyneth Iredale offered Internet marketing tips. A copy of her PowerPoint with a list of resources is available by clicking here.
The ever-popular, well-organized golf tournament at Tokatee Golf Course produced winners in various categories, all deserving of awards and medals presented Thursday evening. Fun was had by all who participated.
S'mores and Baileys around the fire on the patio, sponsored by Fidelity National Title, was a bonding experience. We gathered into a circle and sang along to Somewhere Over the Rainbow, swaying in harmony with the music. What a beautiful thing! Lifelong friendships are forged through events such as Belknap. We're a great support system.
And what is a stay at the WCR Belknap retreat without the traditional "Belknap Babes" synchronized swimming competition? This year it was the "Big Kahuna" competition. Prizes were given out for various categories, including best costume, as onlookers braved colder temperatures and were entertained with silly antics. Many teams chose themes and music centered around the Hawaiian event theme.
Brunch on Friday was an incredible spread prepared both the evening before and early Friday morning by the Portland chapter. We appreciate the hard work and early morning rise, especially after a late night of poker and other card games.
As the weather began to turn and the threat of snow loomed, many of us retreated in doors for game-playing and more conversation. Of course, a steep in the mineral-laden hotspring-fed pool was the perfect antidote for late nights, sore golf muscles, and over-eating. For those who stayed through Friday evening, Ruth Kuehl prepared a fantastic chicken dinner and pineapple upside down cake.
Many hours go into planning this event each year. We wish to thank all involved who contributed their time planning, cooking and organizing the event, such as Sheryl Little who took reservations, especially Linda O'Bryant and Ruth Kuehl who headed up the tremendous effort to such great success.
I hope you enjoy the photos. Feel free to comment, or leave a recipe for others to enjoy here.