ELD Goes to Castle Rock: Day 4
Saturday. This was the second (and last) day of the workshop. Mom and I were having an amazing time, but we were also keenly aware that the weekend was coming to an end.
We didn’t get out for a walk, but got breakfast and headed straight to Jeanne’s.
On this morning, Jeanne led us all out into the woods on her land. She had prepared a gathering space in a clearing with beautiful vintage quilts laid out on the ground for us to sit on. We spent some time there, quietly and intentionally enjoying the sounds of nature around us, and praying or meditating or just sitting. We talked about how being outdoors and in nature is good for our souls and shared some of the rituals and routines that help us stay connected to it in our own lives. It was cozy and intimate and again I noticed the sense of peace that Jeanne’s land and spirit seem to bring to others.
Back inside we had a discussion on gathering others into our own spaces, being a welcoming host, and the importance of stewarding the gifts we have been given well.
Lunch was served in Jeanne’s kitchen. Her family had lovingly prepared a gorgeous salad and charcuterie spread that covered almost all of her kitchen table. We served ourselves and then headed back outside to eat in the gorgeous weather, this time with some of the people we had bonded with the day before.
Mom and I sat with a few women who turned out to be amateur quilters. They were very excited to learn about Mom’s experience with quilting – 30 years of developing skill, attending workshops, and even taking home ribbons at quilt shows. It was fun for me to see her come alive and talk about something she had so much passion for. The world of mixed media, sketching, and painting is still fairly new to her. It’s been a new way for the two of us to spend time together and I’m glad she enjoys it, but I was happy that she could connect with some of the other women through her quilting knowledge.
The afternoon held a demonstration of making natural pigments, foraging for rocks that we could take home and use to make our own pigments, and of course there was a break in there for dessert!
For our last bit of time, we headed inside the main house to learn how to make apple cider vinegar shrubs (it’s a drink, not a plant), put together a charcuterie board, and create our own signature cocktails.
The day is over too soon, but we have so much input to process that we are ready for a break. Our flights leave from Denver early the next morning – we have to get back home for work, and for school that is starting in two days, and to hold our families in our arms.
This kind of trip was a departure from my comfort zone and there were a few times in the weeks leading up to it that I thought about cancelling. I am so glad I didn’t listen to my anxieties! It was such a sweet, beautiful time for the two of us – mother and daughter.
And my eyes have been opened to the beauty of the creative community. I never knew what I was missing, but it refilled and restored my soul. I didn’t realize how much I had been craving that kind of connection. It was so good and so sweet to be among other creative women. They all had their own stories and heartbreaks and successes. Every one of them was kind and interested in what I had to say and supportive. I hope to see them again.
Jeanne and her family are warm and welcoming and encouraging. Their attention to the smallest details to make a special experience for all their guests is just one way they show their love and hospitality. Their land, home, and offerings are a gift to anyone who visits.
Castle Rock, we will be back to see you. I can’t wait until Summer 2022.
