Hey guys,

I'm sure quite a few of you have heard myself, or one of the others
who attended this retreat last year, give it rave reviews. This year,
the 13th annual retreat is being held, once again, at the Monastery of
the Ascension in Jerome, Idaho (near Twin Falls). For the three days
of this retreat, participants are treated to comfortable lodging,
great and abundant food, workshops and counseling, massage, Reiki,
gourd art(!), crafts, bingo, and more. This is a Benedictine
monastery, and the monks there are truly incredible--caring,
intelligent, and without any ulterior motives; their mission is to
work and pray in an atmosphere of peace, and to provide service to
others. I found last years retreat to be very profound. It was
peaceful, reflective, and very enjoyable. I highly recommend it to
anyone who is interested in going. The organizers of the retreat were
very happy to have us last year; I have been told that we brought a
very positive and supportive atmosphere to the retreat.

Because this retreat is for people with HIV/AIDS in Idaho, the
organizers will give those people preference. After September 1, they
will accept any people from Utah who wish to attend. Here is an
encapsulated version of the registration flyer:

13th Annual "Desert Pause" HIV/AIDS Retreat
September 21-24, 2006
at the Monastery of the Ascension near Jerome, Idaho

A time of community-building, resource-sharing and healing for men and
women of all faiths who live with HIV/AIDS. We will think and learn
together--share exuberant good times--remember and honor those who've
died. The program will include:
*Sharing our joys and struggles
*Medical issues with Dr. David Hachey
*Other workshops and counseling available
*a Ceremony of Light commemoration
*massage and reiki
*gourd art and other crafts. bingo

The Monastery of the Ascension welcomes you with fantastic meals,
double occupancy rooms with private baths, an inspiring chapel,
handicap access, and a tradition of caring hospitality. This retreat
is funded by generous individuals, churches and institutions.

Send in your reservation form and fee as soon as possible! Preference
is given to previous participants and Idaho residents, if they
register no later than September 1. The only cost to participants is
a $50 non-refundable fee. Confidentiality is respected.

Ground rules: Other than one scheduled trip off site, participants
are expected to remain on the monastery grounds during the retreat.
No smoking except outdoors. You will be asked to sign an agreement
not to use alcohol or illegal drugs at anytime during your stay here.
This will be strictly enforced.



Jamie and I will definately be attending, and we hope to take a few
more of you with us. I will download the entire form in our 'files'
section. Please let me know if you'd like to go, so we can coordinate
transportation!! You might even end up with a cute Idaho guy of your own!

Thanks guys,
Jon