High Valley Newsletter 2007

This newsletter was written in Dec. 2007, and has been somewhat updated for the website.

Olga, matriarch of High Valley turned 95 in February, 2008. She's frail, has no short-term memory, but she's still remarkably herself. When the weather is warm she likes to walk as far as the lake, where she'll snooze in the sun. She didn't go south this winter, but does take great pleasure in sitting by the fireplace. Olga has two wonderful caregivers. I am writing the newsletter this year, because Elizabeth is busy finishing Bright Dark Madonna, the third volume of The Maeve Chronicles. Note: She has now finished it, and it will appear in Apring 2009. High Valley has had seven community events this year. Many thanks to all who helped or facilitated the cross-quarter celebrations, including: Elizabeth Cunningham, David Budd, Karen Holtslag, Tom Cowan Jack Maguire, Debbie Stone, Jo Renbeck, and Kathleen Mandeville. And warm thanks to Rhianna Mirabello and Rick Jarrow for celebrating the Fall Equinox at High Valley. Thanks all of you who come to celebrate and to support High Valley. You help to keep it open, as shared, green space.

A special thanks to Karen Holtslag and David Budd for coming up with the idea and for hosting the two High Valley Beautification days. Fun and real work were had by all cleaning up gardens, beaches and then partying into the night. More beautification days to come in 2008. Don't miss this chance for community and camaraderie. Olga has been very appreciative the attention to the gardens she tended for so many years.

A big thank you and bon voyage to Laurie Katon for her steadfast and inspired facilitation of Poetry Play; she is moving to Arizona. There was a Poets meeting Sunday, Dec. 9th at 3:00 to be followed by a potluck party. There was no poets meeting in January.

By popular request there was a Singing Circle reunion on Sunday, December 16th @ 3:00PM.

Finally, I'd like to invite you all to become members of High Valley (see newsletter) Members are welcome to walk the trails and labyrinth. High Valley is also available to rent for a picnic, party or workshop. If you are interested in renting High Valley for a function, contact me with this form.

Dates for the cross-quarter days follow. MARK YOUR CALENDARS NOW!!!!!

Cross-Quarter Days 2008

Brigid/Imbolc, Friday, Feb 1 Beltane, Saturday, May 3

Lughnasad, Friday, August 1

Samhain, Friday, October 31