The heat and joys of summer...

We made it through about mid-July very comfortably, almost blissfully in the tipi. The bugs haven't paid too many visits, the new ceiling fan has kept us cool during the day, and the nights have been spectacular... cooling down after sunset with the sounds of the forest lulling us to sleep. Casey put up an adorable red umbrella to keep the rains out and we're in the process of setting up our outdoor kitchen again. Friends and family have paid plenty of visits... rock hopping in the river, drinking wine under the stars, and holding long conversation amidst the buzz of cicadas.

The last two weeks have brought some serious heat that's really pushing our resolve. The humid stagnant air is pretty much unbearable after a day farming out in the sun. I've been escaping to my loving neighbor, Beth's house some afternoons. You know you're hot when the thermostats on 78 and it almost feels too cold!! :)

Our neighbor has adopted a baby deer, Lucky, until he's old enough to survive on his own. We've been taking turns bottle feeding him. This tiny wild animal is just magical... with his white spots, fluffy tail, and long eyelashes. He nuzzles and licks us while we feed him, making the most adorable noises. Such a miracle!

Community life has been good, though not without its ups and downs. We're learning how to be part of a family... of neighbors. And how important it is to share what we're thinking and feeling, to remember to be grateful for one another and honest in our interactions. I feel that our society forgets to teach us these simple tools... and that they're going to be critical as we all move forward in more sustainable communities and attempt to reshape the world.

My brother is on his way over now... Casey should be taking off in his jet from Miami soon... and thunder's rolling in. Ahh bring on the raaaains!!! :)