(written November 15, 2005)

Dear Friends,

The autumn sunlight warmed my back while a number of us sat on Neelam's deck. The last Satsang of the Fall Open House had just ended, and as I enjoyed the heat of the sun, the sweetness of connecting with Sangha friends, and the growing enthusiasm for the land projects, I longed to spend more time with this community. It was this setting that inspired me to propose an event to both raise money for Neelam's dream of generating community on her land, and to gather community for a relaxing and fun time of skiing and Satsang.

I have had the good fortune to sit with Neelam for over eight years, and have watched myself drop more and more deeply into the present. The grace that brought me to Neelam now allows me to return love to her, as she has so unconditionally shown to me. This has taken many forms, and today includes renting a small home on Redlands Mesa with Jeanine Christman, and participating in this amazing community that is developing in Hotchkiss.

I have also used my skills as a Landscape Architect to meet with talented individuals including the Architect and co-owner of the land, Steven Conger, and the Landscape Architect and plant shaman, Gabriel Howearth. Together with Neelam, Life, and Randy, we have developed an exciting plan for bringing community to Neelam's 63 acres on Redlands Mesa. This plan includes building a community center for Satsang and public events within the Sangha; a retreat center with 360° views of the surrounding mountains and mesas; botanical gardens, orchards, and production fields for herbal products; and homes for Neelam and Steven. It is an exciting project that has engaged my creative desires, professional experience, and spiritual orientation.

My husband (Darrell) and I invite you to join us, along with Neelam, at our home in Winter Park, Colorado. We are located 15 minutes from the Winter Park/Mary Jane ski area, and the trail leading to 100 kilometers of cross country skiing at Devil's Thumb Park crosses our driveway. Our home will be open to you for a week, from March 3rd–10th. Neelam will join us for part of this week. She has planned a Satsang schedule that allows for plenty of time and space to enjoy other activities, such as skiing (Neelam is excited to learn to ski and hopes that we can teach her); snow shoeing; sunset sleigh ride; nearby hot springs; on-site massage; cooking and creativity classes; evening Ramana and Papaji videos; or simply reading in front of the fire. Throughout the week, Neelam will share more detailed information about the land projects.

Our goal is to raise $20,000, and so we are asking for a sizable donation of $1,500–$2,000 minimum. All funds raised will go directly into the construction budget for the first buildings. Lodging and activity expenses are not covered by the donation. The deadline for registration is December 15. In order to provide an intimate experience, the number of people attending will be limited. If you are interested, please call the office for more details. I look forward to some relaxing time with those of you who can join us.

Blessings,

Suzanne