Promise of Return a Reality

A year ago I wrote about the promise of return in terms of having another trip planned so as to temper the sadness of a trip ending.  The annual Advent trip seems to be a future trip always planned, even if the specific dates are not determined.  Knowing it will take place each Advent, and likely will be in Northern New Mexico gives me something to watch and wait for over most of a year.

Once again we are called to watch and wait.

I'm packed- barely.  My bags are filled- perhaps too filled, but most of what is packed are tools and material with which to create--- beads, rubber stamps, pens, even smoked chocolate chips.

This year will be cold- colder than any previous year.  Likely there will be snow, but snow that has already fallen, roads cleared.  It will be snow to experience without inconvenience.  I'm ready to be Gobsmacked by the winterland that awaits me. That and the -8 degrees.  I understand chiles help keep one's body warm in the presence of extreme cold.  (-8 will be extreme to me).  I'll have my fill of New Mexican food, most of which will be covered in red chile.  I'll be warmed as I watch and wait.