4 Rahmat 166 B.E. (Baha'i Calendar)

Soundtrack in my head:  Scientist and Prince Jammy, "City of God"

With all of the excitement about my trip to Albuquerque, I've neglected to mention a quiet revolution occurring within my own co-op house. In May, the house finally settled on a new name for itself.  The new name was brought before the Madison Community Co-op board of directors for approval on June 3rrd and approved.  It was the fastest decision I'd ever seen the board make--I briefly explained what we were doing and why we were doing it, one person said "Move to vote," and it was approved 17-0.

Two nights later, Sofia Cooperative House made its debut with the neighbors.  One housemate made the rounds of all the houses on the block, ringing doorbells, passing out flyers and inviting them to come to a Friday night potluck.  A pretty impressive number of people came by.  Many knew of the house when it was called The Goo Hut, but knew little about us besides that.  We gave tours, fired up the grill, shared some beer and wine (not me, of course) and good conversation.

As of last week, we are finally full.  We'd had to ask someone to leave back in the spring and had great difficulty finding someone to take over the room.  One person moved in, but then moved out a week later.   I think the couple who moved in is a good fit.

Other signs that the house has moved into a lively more confident stage:  We have an impressive garden space in the back.  In addition, the next door neightbhors have generously let us use some of their backyard for garden space in exchange for some of the produce from the garden.   Two of us also rearranged the dining room so that it has a small but pleasant living space. 

We have a number of people here who see themselves possibily living here for the long term.  That includes me.  We'll see how it goes.