Being here

So learning is definitely going to be a major part of my year to come here at E. The last time I had to apply my head to so much learning I was at college sousing most of the experience in booze. Not so at this stage in my life with a combination of hands on and theoretical learning to absorb. There is so much to take in. On Wednesday I was introduced to a model of human dynamics and the roles that people may take on in certain situations such as "rescuer" or "victim". This can be used in communities to ease communication and support people's development. It's not something I have heard of before but I am open to consider the idea. I have been learning how to make sourdough bread from ferment and how to hammer out a piece of metal into a hook and fire iron in a blacksmith's iron age pit forge. I have been to my fellow apprentice's evening of music, poetry and spoken word. Here I sung accapella for the first time in front of a group of people who I don't really know. I have walked through the gardens with Jo and Dan and talked about plants and plans for the coming year and jobs to fill the winter months. I have cosied up on the floor of  a yurt with flames flickering behind my eyelids and rain gently pattering on the roof. I am acclimitising to so many ideas around me and a fascinating mix of skills and experience in the people I am sharing my time with day to day. I am getting used to the great energy and enthusiasm amongst people at E. I am loving people's jokes and sense of humour. I am loving sharing my meals and coffee breaks with people and not driving in a car all over South Glos each day. I am learning more recipes and ways to cook and enjoying the beautiful fresh food that comes out of the gardens.
I am remembering how to use an axe and how to layer up in the right way against the cold winds. I am remembering that thick, dry socks are hot currency. I am remembering that moving quickly keeps you warm. I am remembering to watch out for the moon and listen to the winds and watch the weather rolling in over the hills. I am starting to carry loads of plasters for my hands which crack with abandon in cold weather. I am trying hard to find my night vision again, spending the darker nights walking like a zombie with my hands outstretched in front of me pawing the air as the night hangs around me like bag. I am remembering that a bit of mud gets everywhere and that this is OK. I am remembering the things I used to do most days without thinking. I realise chocolate is hot currency. And so is cheese.
I must go and wash, as its easy to lose even the time to do this most basic of things as you get distracted by a book or a conversation or something you remember you had better do before bed. These short nights make for much flailing-hands walking, but also allow time to chat to the WWOOFers and other people living here. This season is quiet time, with no visitng schools or groups to fill the place up and a general winding inward for the winter. Soon I will move into my new wooden cabin, me and Dan will do some cob work this week and lime washing too. The fire flue rests on a beam which is less than ideal so we'll be moving that too. The ceiling may get painted. It's going to get a spruce up of some kind. Many things, many things exciting things to do.........