The first day that I arrived in Paonia, Henry casually mentioned that many of the artists that do residency at Elsewhere eventually end up coming back to live there. I thought, “It takes an entire two minutes to drive from one end of this town to the other… this place must have something in the air…” And sure enough, not five days into my residency I was already trying to figure out how to stay in Paonia for another 2 months after my Elsewhere time was up. The best way I can describe this place is that magic exists here and everyone is aware of it and doing their part to preserve it. One lovely lady I met told me that if the valley wants me to stay it will make sure of that, but it will only let me stay if I am giving as much as I am abundantly receiving. I am going back to Paonia tomorrow.
Here is a collection of things that enchanted me during my December month in Paonia:
The plentiful routes of land and mountains and rivers that are accessible by a short walk no matter where you are in town.
The persistent remnants of people exuding their hope and light all over the place. Often felt like a scavenger hunt to find the day’s precious offering.
I have never felt more at home in a home than this one. Will certainly be designing my one-day home in reflection of elsewhere’s quirkiness and expression.
ESPECIALLY the Gingerbread House, which allowed me a sacred solitude that I have not had in quite a while. Plus, it was so damn cute. I took a photo of it everyday.
An intermission of other enchanting moments from the Gingerbread house.
And I of course must mention Tomatoes, who was somehow always aware of when you needed a friend.
And not to mention the absolutely fabulous people who welcomed me immediately. Who offered me rich wisdom and taught me how to chop wood, build fires, ski, and honor the seasons changing by swimming in hot springs not too far from town.
It’s nearly always sunny in Paonia- daily walks are a necessity (if not for the sake of mental health then just to at least see how adorable all the houses and decorations are).
Very thankful to have accidentally stumbled upon Elsewhere’s website and to have been allowed to hibernate and dig inside myself in such a place as this one. Thank you for everything, Elsewhere! It certainly was a lot.
