Just got back from the 2011 Conference. What a fantastic weekend! I had such a wonderful time, met so many beautiful women, and learned so many things. I came back feeling connected and renewed. I stayed in a lodge bed so I thought I would share my experience for those who are comtemplating camping vs cabins vs lodge bunks for 2012. Let me just say it was cold (I'm from Florida so..) and very windy. I was told it has been much colder in previous years. The lodge was definitely the warmest, dryest and least rustic place to sleep and I am glad I chose this option. However, it was VERY NOISY! Doors slammed and toilets flushed loudly all night along with the sound of walking, sometimes running, on wood floors. Rooms are preassigned and the bunk beds are 3 bunks high in some rooms. You must be prepared to climb up a ladder, maybe 8 feet up, to get into your bed if you get the top bunk. If you get the bunk in the middle, you have to squeeze into a space that is too small to even sit upright. Even though you can park near the lodge to load/unload, you will have to carry your things up 8-10 stone steps and then if you are upstairs, you will need to carry your things up those stairs too. PACK Light! Showers are located in a separate building and I don't have any experience with them. We didn't find showering necessary (again, it was cold!! and there was so much going on I didn't find the time to get to it). There is no cell phone reception inside the lodge so your family will not be able to call you. You have to walk back to near the camp entrance if you need to call them. In addition to the suggested packing list provided with the "Confirmation Letter", I would pack the following items next time: Earplugs or headphones to reduce noise, a watch so I didn't have to keep looking at my cell phone to know the time, baby wipes to wash up, a sheet to put over the plastic mattress and under my sleeping bag, airfreshner to leave in the bathroom and share with all. FYI - I ate from the vendors and the food was inexpensive (mostly $5), nutritious and fantastic - grilled cheese, coconut squash soup, falafels, pumpkin pancakes, chilli, egg & cheese sandwiches, it was all great! There was free hot water and tea bags available, just bring your own mug. But... if you bring along a pint-sized picky eater, its best to pack your own food from home. Hope to see you all next year!
