The Fruits of Our Labors

Right now, the trees are frosted over and shining in the sun. The birds are singing as they fly back and forth from the trees to the birdfeeder. I just saw a hermit walking into the woods with her snowshoes. Janice is baking bread in the kitchen. Nora (the new Operations Manager) is giving a new guest a tour. I can hear Corrie, our intern, working in the shop, and I have time to write to you!

These are the fruits of our labor. This is what we (The Dwelling and you) created.

When I last I wrote to you, I was up here alone getting ready to re-open on the 1^st of September, and open we did with the help of volunteers. With the continual help of your time and generous donations, and the revenue from our beloved hermits, we were able to hire back a part-time chef and housekeeper just before the end of September. In October, our first intern arrived, Nora. On 19 November, she became the operations manager! On January 6^th Corrie arrived. We have made it to 2010!

We have not just remained open; we are on our way to creating a sustainable business model and executing a new vision firmly rooted in the foundation of our founders’ dream. Part of this vision is to make retreat affordable (we now have $50 retreats and a service exchange program that allows anyone to have an extended retreat for free). The other part of this vision is to support people on their spiritual journey. Nothing is more important right now. The world is changing, as always. Life goes up and down. How will we remain peaceful in the midst of these changes? What practices sustain us so that we can continue to participate in life in a way that will serve the next generations?

There is still much to do, and there is still some financial uncertainty. But, I do not think that we live in a world of certainty. What we do have is a clear vision, an unshakeable faith, a creative spirit, and deep gratitude for how our vision has already been served. 232 individuals experienced the peace and blessings of the Dwelling since September 1^st. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for making this possible!

There have been so many wonderful people and stories since September. Too much to write now … view my photo album (below) so you can see the last few months in pictures!

Thank you for your trust and support. We are here. Waiting for you. I’ll see you soon.

Love,

Patricia

Director’s Photo Album

more about “Dwelling Director“, posted with vodpod

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