Did you have a chance to be outside last weekend?  We walked our property looking for storm damage and noticed coral colored blossoms on the flowering quince, purple crocus almost ready to open, and daffodils with yellow tips saying hello to the sun.  Most of our daffodils aren't out yet, but it was so nice to see the few early ones promising that spring will come soon.  Today we're back to rain, and according to my weather app, there's more coming.  Sigh.  But it is nice not to worry about drought.

	Waiting for the ballet to begin.

Last weekend my daughter and I got to see the Russian National Ballet at The Center for the Arts, along with two of our employees.  We got to see condensed versions of Romeo and Juliet and Carmen, and they were both amazing.  I was especially impressed with the choreography of Carmen, and of course the dancers blew us all away.  There were amazing feats of physicality: wow. 

This week we have a special coffee from the far south of Mexico, in Chiapas.  This is fair trade and organic certified, and it is grown by GRAPOS (Grupo de Asesores de Producción Orgánica y Sustentables).  This is a group of farmers who have organized to provide diversification and farm improvements for all.  According to our broker, here, they have
We're glad to share this Fair Trade Organic Mexican Chiapas with you.  It's sweet in the cup, with flavors of chocolate and roasted hazelnut.  It has a medium body, and it's sure easy to drink on a rainy day.  You can try a cup on us with the code bright outlook this week. 

I know that sometimes I have to remember to look on the bright side when I'm feeling cooped up, so maybe "bright outlook" will be a good reminder this week.  No matter what, there is a lot for which to be thankful.  I saw an example of that this week as our community came together to support those evacuated by the Oroville Dam.  I'm glad they're home again safe, so with good spirits I say: cheers!
--Holly Fike