It's now January 2020. 6pm. My daughter is outside in the snow under an almost full moon. Waxing gibbous is the technical term, which we both learned in one of her workbooks yesterday. The moon is high above the giant pine, casting its light onto the white ground. She is out there doing who knows what, shoveling, talking, imagining, just being.
We had some good snuggle time today, sitting in her room under a pile of pink blankets, reading books that we haven't read in months, looking at her baby books. Snuggle time is good. I think a lot of kids don't get enough of it these days.
This morning she was an almost grown up girl, cantering around the ring, smiling, learning to steer on her own and she'll be there by Spring. Her horse is very patient, gentle, and her instructor is awesome, encouraging.
I am content with my senior gentleman Thoroughbred, looking handsome and healthy coming into his 30th year.
The family Airbnb business is going strong, with achievements and the associated stresses. This year we have partnered with 1% for the Planet, which means that we will be donating 1% of our gross revenue to a verified environmental organization (or multiple ones).
“The intent of 1% for the Planet is to help fund these diverse environmental organizations so that collectively they can be a more powerful source in solving the world’s problems.”
— Yvon Chouinard in his book “Let My People go Surfing”
After seeing footage of the devastation in Australia, the images of suffering animals which brings me to tears, we have decided to kick start our year with a donation campaign. For every reservation placed at one of our three Airbnb cottages in State College, Pennsylvania during the month of January (the reservation can be for any date during the 2020 year), we will donate 25% of the nightly rate to WIRES, which is an Australian wildlife rescue organization that is treating wildlife affected by the fires. If you plan on coming to the State College area this year, please consider staying at one of our homes. THIS LINK showcases all of our homes for rent. The three cottages are The Warm and Cozy Cottage, The Bright and Cheery Cottage, and The Charming Cottage (our newest!) And if staying at one of our Airbnbs doesn't fit into your plans, please consider donating directly to WIRES.
Thanks for stopping by. I hope your New Year is starting off healthy and happy.
~Katie (with Lola, 14 years old and still a bossy Corgi)
