Hello all -
As I write this, it's snowing outside. Last night it snowed a good 5 or 6 inches - and it's absolutely amazing here. It's the days like these (every day, really) that makes me realize how blessed I am to be living in the mountains this year. I'm thankful for the awesome friends, the great job that I have, and the daily rhythm of Vespers. The little things count, too: a hot bowl of oatmeal, a steaming cup of coffee, a half-finished wool scarf, or re-reading a good book - these days in the Village allow for people to connect, or reconnect, as we go about our always-busy lives.
Today, November 12th, marks the six-month point in my long-term stay in the Village. The time has flown by, and I realize that I'm halfway done. I'm not quite sure what to think. Part of me wants to stay in the Village until August, where I will return to Minnesota and begin at Luther Seminary, but I'm also feeling the want to return home, and have a great summer with family. I'm not sure if I'll be ready to take leave of the Cascades, of Buckskin or Copper Mountain, or little Holden Village, in May. I have some contemplating to do and some options to weigh. I guess that's what these long winter days will be for!
In other news, Thanksgiving is coming up. As tradition calls, the Village is holding a pie baking contest! There will be two winners, judged by the Village, and the winners have to make their pies for the whole Village for our Thanksgiving Dinner. Joseph Coffee and I are teaming up to make the greatest pumpkin pie the world will ever eat!
Also, in other, other news, I picked up knitting - and, as winter draws near, apparently at the right time, too. Everywhere I look, people are pulling out their knitting needles, working on hats, scarves, sweaters, mittens, or socks. Knitting and beer brewing seem to be two major subcultures here. It's funny.
Anyway - enough for now. I'm going to get a cup of coffee! I'll post more later, I promise, with pictures!
From the Village -
Dean
