Pros and Cons

The Road into the Methow Valley

I know it's been a while since you've heard from me. All I can say is that i've been immersed in the experience of the now watching how often that moments of now are spent in contemplation of the future or reacting as if the past is now. As I get to know this valley I'm struck by the following:

Con: Living in a small community there may be days where you don't see anyone outside the small group you're living with. The small group for me is my boyfriend, 2 other people who we share a kitchen with, and the owners of the farm. Though, we may not see the owners for days. It can feel isolated at times

Pro: Time spent together is precious and real...and these people like to party! Most events encourage costumes like the roller skating party, the Hot party (friends crank their fire up so the room is heated to over 100 degrees), and casino night. 

 

Pro: The mountains are beautiful and (as stated above) there aren't many people around. No matter what the weather, rain or shine, the mountains around here are stunning. Every day I am amazed at where I am living. Oh, and there is a group of citizens strongly concerned with keeping this area the way it is...as in limited development, a.k.a. no condos or sub-divisions.

Con: Mountains get snow storms that are difficult to drive in. So far, every time i've had to drive to Seattle or back home from Seattle, there's been a snow storm. Last night a 4 hour drive took 6 hours and by the time I got to the airport, I was shaking all over. I've been wondering about my car karma...

Con: Having to stay in a hotel because the mountain passes are too treacherous to be driving on in the middle of the night.

Pro: Well, first, not crashing in the middle of the night, but more importantly: my boyfriend gets to ski a foot of fresh powder at Stevens Pass. Can you say epic.

Con: Living in a little cabin without running water means lots of peeing outside, often in the cold.

Pro: Waking in the pre-dawn hours to relieve oneself as the moon is setting, you may hear the great horned owls hooing their mating calls back and forth. Beautiful... and peeing outside is way better than sitting on a freezing cold toilet seat.

Con: (OK, this is a confession) I've been out of my yoga practice for months.

Pro: I understand in a more real way the advantages of a consistent practice. Also, I've been turning my activities (feeding goats, mixing plaster, chopping wood, snowboarding) into a practice. The increase in mindfulness is great though my body is feeling the effects of being out of practice.

Con: Missing people back home

Pro: I love living here and hope you come to visit.