The thinness is not only noticed with every breath, but also in the way the sun streams through a lacy filter.
Everything is lighter, brighter and the shadows don't seem as deep.
A 30 year old tradition of meeting at the top of the mountain; siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents, all coming together and sharing space, meals, conversation while we find respite among the clouds.
So many things have changed over those 30 years.
The cozy cabin feel has given way to modernity.
Activities for kids have sprung up among the wildflowers.
Toys have evolved from plastic
to metal and glass.
But so much has stayed the same.
Spirited conversation about politics, religion, and education cushioned in mutual respect and admiration.
Days that are filled with games
hikes
and meal planning/cooking for 20+.
Also falling into bed each night filled to the max with new experiences and the comfort of being surrounded by family.
This place holds so much beauty.
Some of it in the contour of rock and trees, the wildflowers whose colors soften the harsh landscape, and the bright sky dotted with soft clouds.
Oh, but the most beautiful part of this place, is the fellowship of my extended family.
To me, fellowship brings up images of potlucks in the church basement or wedding receptions held in the Fellowship Room.
It's a church word.
But, really, it just means a gathering of people who share a common interest.
Some of us share the same religion, politics, interests, taste in music, but there's also a lot of differences too. One thing that is constant, however, is our interest in each other, which far outweighs anything divisive.
Snowbird has become a sacred place (there's another church word!) for all of us.
Gordon and Ruby and their kids kept the tradition going these last 30 years.
Now my generation is stepping into a leadership role to continue our biennial reunions, hopefully instilling a love of this place and each other into our children.
It's nice to know we can say "until next time."
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