We welcomed two new folks onto staff and work exchange here at the Hostel this week. Zak from Miami arrived Monday to come WWOOF in the garden, and Laeo from Asheville came back Saturday to help with grounds maintenance projects. The chickens are happy to have their shaman back, and we are all happy to see an old friend and welcome a new face. On a sadder note, Jennine, our beautiful kitchen manager and garden gnome is leaving us to venture on a great North American bike adventure. We wish her the best of luck and safe travels as she is meeting with MikeJoe for the ride. She went out with style and a bang, and we will all miss her.

This past Tuedsday we had an exceptional cause for celebration. James, a former staff member and lifelong friend to the Hostel (who did the stained glass for the compost toilet and made the stained glass guitar in the common room), and his beautiful fiancee Karina changed their titles to Mr. and Mrs. in the Glass House. They had a very small, intimate ceremony, but the love and the positive vibes surrounding the event were felt larger than life. At circle of thanks on Monday, between the families of the bride and groom and the rest of the guests at the Hostel, we had four languages spoken – English, French, German and Spanish! “Every time we remember to say “thank you”, we experience nothing less than heaven on earth.” I only wish I knew the author of this quote to properly give my gratitifude for the chance to share it with you.

As the swell of spring break guests is starting to slow, the rush of spring creatures is steadily climbing. All sorts of crawling, slithering, running, skipping, flying, swimming, dancing, calling, buzzing little beings have been popping up and performing all kinds of little antics around the Hostel, all to the entertainment and wonder of the guests and staff. Step outside, step back, and take a moment…Ahhhhh spring. Doesn’t that feel nice?

May The Forest Be With You…