The first flutter of snowflakes fell this morning, transforming a somewhat dulled out mountain scape into a pristine picture of untouched white. Winter has officially arrived. Yesterday was a last minute dash to sort any unfinished farm and house business. Outdoor furniture packed away. Greenhouse cleaned out. Snow tires put on. Wood pile stocked. The freezer is filled to the brim with elk, trout, lamb, and berries. We’re set for the season. And I’m quite proud. Because we gathered and plucked and butchered.