Barbara Taylor Sandys was a remarkable daughter, sister, wife and mother - and a friend and inspiration to countless others. Her many adventures began in Clinton, Iowa, with parents, Esther and James Taylor, twin sister, Betty, and sister, Mary.

Barb grew up an active student, a curious and strong-willed explorer and a state champion swimmer. Her sense of community and love of the outdoors were nurtured at Camp Hitaga, where she made lifelong friendships.

Barb traveled from coast to coast and across the world - even spending a summer working in the fishing industry in Kodiak, Alaska - before graduating from the University of Wisconsin at LaCrosse and becoming an educator.

Later, a decision to enroll in a German class at UCLA while living in Santa Monica, California, brought her together with future husband, Peter. Their beloved daughter, Emily, was raised in California, Germany, Iowa, Austria and Interlochen, which became Barb's permanent home.

Superlatives abound to describe Barb's contributions to the Interlochen Center for the Arts community. Her exuberance, infinite energy and contagious optimism inspired students and faculty alike.

Barb appreciated the beauty around her: she loved the arts, making lasting memories, spending nights under stars and listening to waves lapping gently on the shores of Green Lake. Although she was many wonderful and surprising things - an oceanography student in Rhode Island, a gemologist in Thailand, a CPA in Iowa and a whitewater rafter in Colorado - raising her daughter was her most treasured and fulfilling accomplishment.

She began a new adventure on Aug. 23, in the company of Emily, her sisters and niece, and her loyal companion, Bella. Family and friends will celebrate Barb's life at Interlochen's Corson Auditorium on Sunday, Aug. 28, at 3 p.m. A reception will immediately follow on campus. Those attending are encouraged to wear something aqua, Barb's favorite color.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to the Barbara Taylor Sandys Dance Scholarship may be made at www.interlochen.org/memorial or by contacting Kate Olson at (231) 276-7611.