Yesterday 15 years ago we put out our open sign. It was the day after hurricane Irene. I couldn’t believe that after 20 years in Puerto Rico I was experiencing a hurricane in Vermont. With a bit of time I have learned that every season in Vermont cannot be ignored.

The lovely spring whose soft glow of new green is the perfect backdrop for the bright colors of all the small emerging flowers. The misty morning walks on marble sidewalks while the Church bells ring. Summer’s bold sun, bright blue sky and deep green arching trees. The smell of fresh mowed grass. The surrounding forest that welcomes me into it’s shade just to listen to it’s noisy silence. Then one late summer day I see my first fallen leaf of orange…and….Autumn! The rich colors, pumpkin patches, hot apple cider and sweaters make my heart happy. October moves so quickly I just try to take it all in.

Once November arrives I hit the pause button. I settle into planning mode for the holidays. My list planning self is so happy. Then Vermont gives us her first snow. Every year the snow is photo ready. A warm hot chocolate and cozy blanket to curl up with to watch the feather-like flakes drift down from the sky. I love the mountains covered in white and the smoke climbing out of every chimney.

Manchester is one of my favorite places to be. Opening that door 15 years ago was opening more doors than I ever could have imagined. I just want to say thank you to you all for helping us on this wonderful, beautiful journey.

See you in the dining room,

Melody