The day we’ve been waiting for…

As fall comes to a close in the arctic, our temps are finally dropping below freezing overnight, the ground is firming up, and the fall colors have peaked.


Leaves have long fallen, and there’s snow on the ground!

A few weeks back (before our world froze) I remember distinctly a day where we had temps in the low 50s. It was beautiful, but the feeling of the air in the shade had teeth.



I caught myself cursing under my breath because of my too-thin jacket, icy fingers and cold ears without a beanie.


Just as I thought to complain, it dawned on me: This was the exact moment I’ve been dreaming of for months!


In early August, I remember taking a group of teens on a hike the day we knew with 100% certainty would be the last day of summer. The temps were incredibly hot (for us) in the 80s... and every step I took, sweat dripping down my back, I thought to myself, “Thanks for everything, Summer! See you next year!”



It’s funny how we wish for different circumstances... and then when they arrive, we completely overlook the fact that WE’VE MADE IT.

Sean and I look forward to winter the day the snow starts melting — and I was glad to shake myself out of my haze and find gratitude for the chill.


I guess the more efficient route is simply to enjoy what is... as it is.


Our guests who attended “Harvest of the Heart” last month, our Fall Equinox hiking and yoga retreat, enjoyed so many types of weather during their 4-night stay! Cloudy skies, rain, blue skies, mud, frozen ground, fresh snow, and more.


That’s the way it goes during these transitional times… you wake up, look outside, and go about your day, whatever the weather.

Instead of recognizing the seasons by calendar dates, holiday sales, and Pumpkin Spice-everything, I much prefer noticing seasonal shifts from my experience of being outside.


… of feeling the sensations of hot and cold on my skin.
… of experiencing the wet rain and mud.
… of hearing the dry crunch of frozen ground as fall gives way to winter.




Wherever this email finds you in the world, I hope you, too can step outside, take a deep breath and welcome this new season of your life with open arms.


Sending love,
Mollie (+ Sean and all our sled dogs)