Memphis Democrat
April 12, 2007

Juan here. Before I get started, I should mention that Ironweed is looking for a source of straw or hay in our local area. If you know of one, give them a call at 883-5594. Without further ado, let's talk about what's been going on this week at Dancing Rabbit.

Holy smokes, was it ever cold. I know the calendar says we've passed the Spring Equinox, but my internal thermometer says "dead of Winter." After the nice and toasty 70-degree highs we had last week, this week's highs in the 30s and 40s kept us huddled indoors, scrambling to bring in firewood between rain clouds. The cold even moved one of our outdoor traditions into the Common House this year. More on that later.

We had several visitors this week. Tony B's cousins came by for a couple of days, and got some first-hand experience with sustainable living. Our soon-to-be-resident Dan drove in with his biodiesel vehicle, but his original plan of staying for a week was cut short when the bitter cold caused his fuel to start to gel. He plans on coming back soon. Finally, a group from Washington University was here overnight Saturday. They took a tour around the village and a joined in a board-game night that evening.

On Monday, we welcomed our newest resident Jason. A visitor only last year, Jason will be doing work-exchange for the Milkweeds this summer, helping in the construction of the future international sensation that is the Milkweed Mercantile.

Thursday night saw two somewhat-weekly routines continued, as a group of rabbits went over to Judy's for Sewing night. Meanwhile, Kurt hosted another group for "Explodey Movie" Night. Unfortunately, we haven't figured out what to do about those people that like to sew and also like to watch things go kaboom.

Friday evening was the time. The Common House great room was the place. The event? Our yearly Passover Seder. Originally a very prominent Jewish holiday that tells the story of the Exodus from slavery in Egypt, the Dancing Rabbit Seder has evolved into less of a religious ceremony and more of a celebration of freedom in all its forms. The cold outside did nothing to dampen the warmth in people's hearts as we shared matzo, charoset, and other traditional foods, spoke of the many forms of oppression still present in the world, and gave thanks for the freedoms we all enjoy.

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