An Arcadian Announcement by Jon and Leah

After a week of frigid weather and heavy morning frosts, our twelve Arcadians have emerged from their innumerable layers of clothing (We have learned to recognize our companions by hat preferences). We remain invested in our classes; however, fireplaces are mandatory for an optimal academic environment. Practicum planning is currently occupying our time and attention. Some gallant gentlefolk are inclined to live with the Amish, while others are attempting to pursue activities such as fly fishing, blacksmithing, or teaching. Our assistant directors are up to their furry eyebrows in phone calls and paperwork.

The past week has been filled with epic adventures. As a community, we continue to craft practical and very impractical items out of wood. (We apologize to the parents.) Some creations include spoons, a futon, chests, and snowshoes. The culmination of the school week was celebrated with a Sadie Hawkin's feast. Breaking social norms, the lovely Arcadianettes asked the gentlemen to dinner (excluding Jon and Sam, for they were preparing Kelly's birthday dinner). On Saturday, every Arcadian awoke at five in the morning to begin a canoe expedition on the Raquette River. Sustenance at the Lumberjack provided more than enough energy for the miles we paddled, the rapids we tamed, and the canoes we portaged. The mission was successful, except for Silas's dip in the Dead Creek. Sunday was devoted to an apple sauce workshop.

On Monday, the Arcadian gentlefolk hosted a group of high school sophomores from Indian Lake and Long Lake school districts. During our time together, we shared and explained the principles of our lifestyle, while the students questioned and shared stories of their own. That evening, following impulse rather than reason, Alex, Silas, and Jon mountain biked to Mt. Arab through the moonless darkness. The trail was rough and the eyeshine of a mysterious creature scared all three senseless. After ascending the peak, the three bold Arcadian men slept upon the summit, braving howling winds and hungry mice.

The events of the past week have been fulfilling and memorable. Connecting with members of an Adirondack community has reassured us of the practicality of our goals and intentions. It is our current mission to plan and rationalize the compatibility of our current lifestyle with reality. In addition, time is moving all too quickly, resulting in the adamant detestation of calendars. Overall, we are attempting to cram too many activities into too little time.

Sam continues his carvings for his significant other, Ashley is teaching Kempo, Silas is baking cinnamon-raisin bread, Ellie is knitting cup cozies, Alex is being Alex, Molly is whittling bracelets, Andrew is making squash ravioli, Cam is posing on rock ledges, Matthias, sadly, shaved his moustache, and Kelly is invested in running. We are currently awaiting visits from Scott Russell Sanders, our new president, Bill Fox, and hopefully more postal parcels from home.