re is always a certain anxiousness about this day. We are never sure the weather will permit us to get up the road. This year we pretty much cast discretion to the winds and decided to go ahead with it in spite of dire predictions of cold and snow. Indeed the day started off pretty ominously with gray clouds, wind, and cold temperatures. There was snow on the ground and some in the air too, so we weren't sure the winding roads were safe. Many of our friends expressed their trepidation about making the trip. A big thanks to Charlie and Suzie (great encouragers they) who came up early and stayed late (Ray too) to help clean up. Here you see Claire and Amanda discussing philosophy with Cara the dog.We were not dissuaded however, and richly rewarded in the
company of 20 adventurous souls (or perhaps just hungry for some spiritual grounding to ring in the day of 2010.) As old and new friends arrived, patches of blue peeked through the gray clouds, and eventually much of the sky did turn blue over the course of our celebration, the dazzling winter sun bathing all in a shiny brightness, lifting spirits, and adding much needed warmth. Here Jane, Kendal, and Pattie get something to eat.We shared a Buddh
ist medicine chant from Tibet for personal and world healing, passing votive candles around the circle while chanting in unison. What a beautiful scene everyone holding their points of light in their palms. To underscore the joy
that nature brings us many added their own personal thoughts about how nature brings them joy by saying, "I smile when... and telling of how they derive joy from the natural world.
The feast was sumptuous, with so many savory delights. I can't really remember who brought what, but my personal favorite was Ra
y's fabulous Berri pie from berries grown on her property and real whipped cream!!
Claudette came up too. It is always nice to share this day with her, our steadfast friend who has helped us look after the property for so many years now. She continues to manage her little farm below us with a mother's care, tenderly caring for her plants and bird friends with great heart.
Art and Sarah's little dog Talley came too, but stayed outside for fear of a turf tussle between her and Cara, our dog
Megan and Tina's little girl pretty much took center stage, kissing Buddha, chanting his name, and generally presiding over the ceremony with a zen masters calm.
Ray and Patty (and me) got carried away with This little light of Mine, a spontaneous outburst of optimism and joy.
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