Today, I spread compost and mulch in the garden. I picked cotton seeds out of their fluff while sitting in on a community meeting. I read my book. I ate popcorn and watched Sylvia, which was rather dark.

Today was grayer, wetter, and colder than I would have liked. It made for a good day to stay inside. Besides not knowing what to do with myself, I feel very comfortable here. I like it. I like the people, the place. I like the children.

I should take pictures tomorrow.

There are kittens in the farmhouse that are just shy of two weeks old. Luuk insisted that I see them after breakfast, so I did. Starting Tuesday, they are supposed to be handled for 30-40 minutes daily, to ensure proper socialization. I think think this is a task I am willing to undertake.

People seem to disappear after meals, and I am often one of the last ones at the table. It's not that I take long to eat, it's that people have places to be. Perhaps that's when I'll feel like I belong here: when I have somewhere to be after lunch. I'm so glad that the community eats together. There's just something about food, you know? The bell for meals is an excellent touch. I know it's part of the routine because it's practical, but there's something magical about summoning people with a bell suspended from a tree.