The Spirit & Essence Of Herbs Letter to Participants

Apprentice Program II
September 5 ~ 12 & May 21 ~ 28, 2011

Dear Friend,
Welcome to the wonderful world of herbs! Though I had seriously considered not offering my apprentice programs any longer, I’ve had so many requests that I’m delighted to offer it once again. We’ll be meeting for two full weeks, one week in the autumn of 2010 & one week in the spring of 2011. You’ll be infused in Herb Heaven! Classes will often meet outdoors in the gardens or in the beautiful surrounding countryside. Activities will be hands on with lots of opportunities for experiencing the plants up close. We’ll identify, harvest and prepare the herbs as we learn them; go on field trips to local growers and herb farms; experience ceremonies and sacred plant medicine; and play with the beauty of the plants. We’ll be literally living herbs day and night and you will find yourself infused in their beauty, healing power, and joy. In between sessions you’ll have the opportunity to complete The Science & Art of Herbalism Home Study Program. This hands-on approach to learning coupled with the amazing amount of information you’ll find in the home study course will provide you with a solid foundation of herbalism and the skills necessary to practice herbalism as a home healing art.

I offered my first Apprentice Program over 25 years ago; it still remains my favorite course to teach as it allows me the personal opportunity to work with small groups of people for extended periods of time. I get the chance to know and interact with my apprentices and to share the teachings as they've been passed down to me. Thank you ~ thank you from my heart ~ for venturing into this magical and transforming world of the Green Nations and allowing me to be your teacher for this part of your journey.

It is deeply gratifying to watch the surging interest in herbalism unfold and to see so many people interested in learning the way of herbs. I feel honored to be a part of this green movement and to be able to share these teachings with others. In a time when world chaos seems to reign, it is encouraging to walk gently upon the earth and to feel the life and vitality of the plant people that sprout forth from her. It is also empowering to hear the healing messages of these powerful plant spirits; their songs bring a special joy to the heart midst the noise and clamor of these troubling times.

Though it is still several months before we gather for our first apprentice week on the mountain, I am already looking forward with excitement and anticipation to our time together. It is always an exhilarating and inspiring time. Our apprenticeship together is not only a journey into the heartland of herbs but also a journey of self-exploration and community awareness. There is so much to learn about the plants as medicine helpers and teachers. But equal to our herbal educational experience, the apprenticeship is a special time of sharing with like minded/hearted people, of friendships, of inspiration and an opportunity to walk into the dreamtime of our plant teachers. I deeply honor your commitment to follow your heart and to venture into this journey of The Spirit and Essence of Herbs and will be here fully for you in service to the plants.

In Green Blessings,
Rosemary Gladstar

*PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION CAREFULLY *

The following information along with the initial brochure you received should answer most of your questions about `getting here' and some of what to expect once you're here. Please read the following information carefully. If you have any questions call Carol in the office at 802-479-9825; sage@sagemountain.com.

YOUR FIRST HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT

  • Oh, no, homework!! This is a fun task, however. Please take a few minutes to write a short biographical sketch for me. You may include anything you like about yourself, but be sure to include the following: (a) your birth date (astrological information if you know it and are not opposed to sharing it); (b) your interest and background in herbs and herbalism; (c) your expectations for the course; (d) what you would personally like to accomplish during this apprentice program; (e) what you wish to contribute or share. Please attach a recent photo with your bio and send to me by July 1st (along with your final payment). The photos are important as I use them in a collage (the photo sent will not be returned.) Please don't neglect to send one along with your assignment. Thank you!!

MEALS

  • We’re well known for our delicious vegetarian cooking (with occasional fish/chicken options) on Sage Mountain.
  • We use locally grown organic produce, eggs, dairy, cheese and grains as much as possible.
  • Meals are lacto-vegetarian (include eggs, dairy, cheese).
  • If you have special dietary restrictions we are happy to try to accommodate your needs as long as you let us know in advance in writing.
  • We serve three meals a day.
  • Meals begin with dinner on September 5th and are finished with lunch on September 12th. (Please note: We will have snacks available when you arrive on September 5 but you should have a good hearty lunch before arriving).
  • You are welcome to bring your own personal snacks and munchies, though meals will be more than adequate.
  • A variety of herb teas will be available at all times.
  • We do not serve coffee but you are welcome to bring your own. There are coffee pots available in the kitchen.
  • Everyone will be expected to help with dishwashing and clean up a couple of times during the week.

ACCOMMODATIONS & WHAT TO BRING

  • We encourage apprentices to camp during this time both for the experience of being out of doors and the beauty of being close to nature. It is one of the best ways to experience and appreciate the plants. There are many beautiful camping areas in our woodland campground and in the large sunny field. However, there is indoor sleeping space available for any one not wishing to camp. Our indoor sleeping spaces are in the loft above the kitchen/classroom, the tipi, the massage room, and in the large ‘dome tent’. These spaces are warm and clean, but are completely lacking in privacy. You must be willing to share space if you sleep in our indoor facilities.

Regardless of whether sleeping indoors or out, you will need to bring:

  • * A flashlight
  • * sleeping bag
  • * sleeping pad
  • * rain gear is a must (boots, jacket and hat)
  • * clothing for warm and cold weather
  • * personal toiletries such as towels (bring at least 2), toothpaste, brush, etc.
  • * Shoes that are comfortable and easy to slip out of are nice to have as shoes are not allowed in classrooms
  • * Also, slippers are nice for the classrooms and keep your feet warm
  • * Wear clothing easily layered, as temperature changes quickly on the mountain
  • * If camping bring a waterproof tent & ground cloth.

Occasionally students prefer to stay in local B&B's or inns. Though I can't recommend any of these personally (I've never stayed in any of them), others have recommended them:

  • The Lodge at Millstone Hill; this is a lovely lodge located about 15 minutes from Sage MT. Students who have stayed here have enjoyed it. They may give group rates for Sage students; inquire. 802-479-1000; www.millstonehill.com.
  • Maplecroft B & B, 70 Washington St, Barre, VT 05641; 802.476.0760. A large comfortable old family home in Barre
  • Seyon State Park, Groton. (Camp ground with lodging) (802) 479-3241. Beautiful camp ground with large old home used as a B & B. Rustic but in a lovely setting about 30 minutes from Sage.
  • The Hollow Motel, Barre (802) 479-9313. Large rooms at reasonable prices
  • Betsy Bed & Breakfast, Montpelier, (802) 229-0466. Located in our State Capital, Betsy’s is a quaint old Victorian.
  • There are many beautiful B & B's in Montpelier, Vermont's State capital. Contact the Barre or Montpelier Chamber of Commerce for a listing. 802.229.5711; VT CofC: 802.223.3443

MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS

  • * A schedule for the first week will be mailed to you in the summer. However these programs have a mind and an agenda of their own, so be prepared to practice the art of ‘flowing’, working with dream time, allowing the plants to guide and teach us. To enrich the program, I have an assistant or two as well as one or two other guest teachers who will join us for the program. This doesn’t mean I’ll be teaching any less (I will be teaching most of the classes), but it does mean you’ll be having more individual attention, additional classes, and the expertise of two other accomplished herbalists to assist you in your learning.
  • *There are indoor bathroom facilities and a shower room. We do ask our guests to be `water conscious' as we are a large family sharing a small water heater ~ or even more pertinent, a large family sharing a small planet. Take quick showers, don't flush the pee, don't leave water running while brushing teeth, etc. etc. Just be conscious of resources. Water is precious!
  • * The Jacuzzi is a pleasure after a long ride, hike, or `stressful' afternoon learning about the joys of herbs. You are all invited to use it any time night or day. Bathing suits are optional. We have also have a lovely large cedar sauna (which we’ll fire up a few nights while you’re here) and two massage rooms.
  • * Though we would love to allow your friends and loved ones as occasional guests, we are stretched to the max here and must request that your loved one(s) not accompany you. So, sorry, no quests during class times. There are a couple of lovely campgrounds just a few miles from us. Seyon State Park & Groton State Park are both situated on lakes. There is inexpensive indoor lodging at Seyon State Park ~ 802-479-3241. Groton has four campgrounds: Big Deer 802/584-3823; Kettle Pond 802/584-3820; Ricker Pond 802/584-3821; Stillwater 802/584-3822. Make your reservations early if planning to stay at these campgrounds.
  • * For obvious reasons we ask you not to bring your pets. We love animals, but ask that you leave your furry friends at home. Thank you.
  • * And for not so obvious reasons, we ask that children not attend the apprenticeship program. Though I love teaching children and feel it's important to include them in our studies, space is limited, days are long, and the material ‘adult oriented’ in the Apprentice Program. Children naturally become antsy with these long class periods making it difficult for both parent and other’s to concentrate. Thank you for your understanding.
  • * Our neighbors have to endure an endless stream of cars on the weekends we’re in session. You can help in several ways; Car pool! Check the list of students and see if any are coming from your direction. Drive slowly (10 mph) when passing their homes on Provencher lane (there are only two houses on the road so it shouldn’t be too hard to do!). Thank You

THE SCIENCE & ART OF HERBALISM CORRESPONDENCE COURSE

  • The Science & Art of Herbalism is included in the tuition and will be presented to you at the program. However, we encourage you to begin working on it before the program begins. To receive the lessons early, send an additional $375 (in addition to the $200 deposit); this, of course, will be applied to your tuition. You can also wait and work on it during the winter between the week sessions. In order to receive your Herbal Certificate, all homework must be completed by your second session, 2011. It does take awhile to get through the lessons; this is not a get-through-quick-course, but a course designed to teach you the inherent skills of an herbalist. Allow yourself ample time to complete the lessons. For those students not wishing to receive a certificate, it’s not necessary to complete the lessons during the course of the program.

WHEN WE START & FINISH

  • Class begins on September 5th at 3 p.m. and is over on September 12th at 2 p.m. Plan to arrive in plenty of time to set up your camp, stretch your legs and relax a bit before the program begins.

If Driving

  • See Directions below. These must be used in conjunction with an up to date road map. To estimate driving time: Sage Mountain is a good healthy three hour drive from Boston; 5 hours from New York City; 1 1/2 hours from Burlington; 40 minutes from Montpelier; and 20 minutes from Barre.

If you're flying in:

  • Arrange to fly into Burlington International Airport in Burlington, Vermont. Plan to arrive in the morning of September 1st if possible. Or you may prefer to fly in a day early and spend the night in Burlington ~ it's a lovely little city located right on Lake Champlain. We will be happy to pick you up on Sept. 1st and deliver you to the airport, but must charge $40 round trip for this service (we live about 1 ½ hours from the airport). Let us know by August 21st if you wish us to pick you up and send your flight arrangements (a written copy of your itinerary, please). We need to know this in advance so we can make arrangements to pick you up.
  • Plan your departure after 5 p.m. on September 8th. This allows plenty of time for good byes and the trip to the airport.

A LIST OF FELLOW APPRENTICES WILL BE PROVIDED FOR CONTACTS & CAR POOLING

  • Please Provide your name, address, phone number & email address
  • Indicate if you’d prefer that we not share this information with other apprentices.

FINAL PAYMENT

  • Your final payment is due in full by July 1st, 2010. Please make checks payable to Rosemary Gladstar and mail to: Sage, P.O. Box 420, E. Barre, Vt. 05649. Thank you for your timely attention to this matter.

 

Please call Sarah in the office and let her know if your records differ from this.

802/479-9825; Fax 802-476-3722; Email; sagemt@sagemountain.com.

"If it's the greatest and the highest that you seek, the plant can direct you.
Strive to become through your will what, without will, it is".... Goethe

DIRECTIONS TO SAGE MOUNTAIN

Use these directions with a Road Map!

From Barre/Montpelier area:

  • Get onto 302 East. Go about 5 miles to E. Barre. There's a convenience store with gas pumps (Rolands) on the right hand side of the road. continue on 302 E. through E. Barre for about 5 miles. Next town is Orange. (Don't blink. You'll miss it!). 2 1/2 miles passed Orange you'll start down the backside of a mountain. At the bottom of the long downhill grade is our dirt road on the left, Provencher Lane. On the right side of the road is a large swampy pond (Look for beaver and moose!). Turn left on Provencher Lane and follow the road to the end (about 1/2 mile). It's a well-maintained road so you'll have no trouble navigating it.
  • At the very end of Provencher Lane is our driveway on the left. There's a castle there and a sign that says "Sage Mountain"! It's the only driveway on the left. You will see a small A frame and two houses on the right as you go up Provencher Lane before you get to our driveway.

From the South (Mass. & New Hampshire):

  • Take RT. 91N to Exit 16 at Bradford. At the end of the exit ramp turn left onto RT 25 W. Follow 25 W. to the end (approximately 17 miles) where it comes to a stop sign at Rt. 302. Turn left onto 302 W. Go 1.7 miles. As you are going around a large `S' curve look for a small dirt road, Provencher Lane, on your right. On the left will be a large swampy pond area; look for beaver houses and moose. Turn right onto Provencher Lane and follow it to the end. See paragraph above for directions to our driveway.

From the East (Northern NH and Maine):

  • Check your map for RT 25, Rt. 302, or RT 2; whichever is closest to you. RT 25 West comes right into Bradford, VT and you can then follow the directions in the paragraph above. RT 302 runs right by the turnoff for Provencher Lane. If you come this way, look for junctions with Rt 25, then go 1.7 miles as above and turn right onto Provencher Lane. From Rt 2 go to St. Johnsbury, get on Rt 91 South to Exit 17 (RT 302) follow it west. See directions above for RT 302.

From New York:

  • Depending on whether you are coming from downstate or upstate decide if you want to get on RT 91 North or follow 87 above Albany to where you can cut across to RT 4 into Rutland. You can reach RT 91 from RT 95, RT 84, or the Mass Turnpike (RT 90). Then follow it north to exit 16 in Vermont. See directions above. If you are coming from RT 4, follow it through Rutland to RT 89 North. Get off RT 89 at Exit 7. Follow the signs to Barre. At the 5th light turn right onto RT 302 and follow directions above.

 

Drive Safely & travel with Traveler’s Joy


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