SETTLING IN

ONE OF OUR ANNUAL RITUALS is "greeting the mountain." This year, when we arrive in the afternoon, we find the whole mountain iis visible despite the high overcast.

As in other years weather seems to be obeying one of the basic facts of nature  – it's always in flux. As we watch, the clouds gather and pull a veil across the Matterhorn's upper face.

But just as quickly, the veil is swept away. As the weather clears, the near meadows show a vibrant green, which augurs well for a robust fireworks display on the Swiss national day, August 1. (Last year the fireworks were cancelled throughout the nation because of drought.)

And the day ends well, with the sun breaking through for an evening panorama from the front porch -- or terrasse, as the hotel calls it.

So good to be back! (But notice the thin, dark clouds amassing once more.) What's next? Only time will tell...