King, queen celebrate Whitefish

We love this Realm! We are so blessed to live in a special place where the rain stops and the sun shines warmth onto our parade, where the people of the Valley show up with smiles and tie-dye, where the children have a story that connects us, where old and young are honored and valued, where Sparkle and Wildness live in a dynamic balance, where Peace and Love and Community were on display for all to enjoy and capture with amazing pictures and memories. This is not ordinary. This is special, magical and extraordinary.

Our streets were filled with folks from Canada, Brazil, Chile, Australia, England, France, Argentina, South Africa, Poland, Germany, Mexico, and more. World-wide happiness!

In the midst the fun and frolicking, we are aware that all is not frivolous. In the last several weeks the Valley has seen the loss of some of our shining young stars, and it is tragic beyond words. We grieve for these losses. If Ullr had real power, he would command that we stay alert and open to each other, to be sensitive to the possibility of hidden pain and suffering, to reach out and support each other to stay alive, to realize that the sun rises every day after the dark of night, that there is more love and support here than may be apparent. Depression and mental illness can kill. We must remain open and vigilant, even when it seems that all is safe and secure.

Together, our community continues to celebrate with compassion and caring.

King Ullr LX Paul Coats and the Queen of the Snows Patricia Ryan