So much has happened since I last wrote to all of you.

With our first form of transportation, Amtrack, we had a love-hate relationship. It was very spacious, and had large windows and a track that could not be seen; this made our experience with the world outside much more personal. Not to mention, trains are a very non carbon-intensive way to travel far. Despite these enjoyable characteristics of the train, we were still stuck with a struggle that many long distance travelers face: trying to sleep. Without assistance from melatonin or nyquil, sleeping on the train was no easy feat. Despite these long nights and groggy mornings, I found the train to be an enjoyable, worthwhile experience. Even when passing through North Dakota.

Even though there were some flat points in North Dakota and Montana, there were still enjoyable sights along the way. However, these sights pale in comparison to what we saw once we arrived in Chelan, Washington. We departed from the train long before the sun rose. When we reached the resort (we got a pretty good discount since it was off-season), the world began to glow in the transition from night to day. Although, this sunrise was not like others I have seen. Light was not bursting forth from the sky and washing the land in warm gold. Instead, it was a quiet, humble change from night to day. The blue and black shades of night continued on with the light of day, and it was in this light that we first saw the mountains. It was not a grand scene, but a powerful one. From the first moment I saw this mountain chain, I have been amazed by its presence.

Ever since we first saw these mountains, life has moved fast. Another student on the trip made the remark that our first day in Chelan felt like an entire week. It was not long after seeing these mountains that we put on our swimsuits, waded into the ice cold Lake Chelan, and warmed up in the outdoor hot tub. For the rest of the day people explored the town, ate good food, and began our first reading for the class.

Since that time, we have traveled across the windy lake, arrived at Holden, and had our first class session. Everything is still very fresh, but it is already clear that our time spent in Holden, discussing the environmental issues of the area, will be quite special. Not to mention, the food is amazing! In the future, you will certainly hear a more in depth post about Holden Village and our class. In the meantime . . .

"The mountains are calling, and I must go." - John Muir