In the heart of Washington’s Methow Valley, a place renowned for its untouched wilderness and a population steeped in quiet contemplation, a truly singular Christmas tradition persists. The Misao family – Harold and his wife, alongside their children and grandchildren – have been the driving force behind this peculiar ritual since the 1970s.
What began as a simple act of goodwill has evolved into a beloved, albeit baffling, cornerstone of the local community. Each December, residents receive a handwritten letter, each one a fantastical glimpse into the mind of a child. The letters are filled with evocative descriptions – “fuzzy creatures,” “mountain of shimmering things,” and scenes straight from a vivid dream.
The Misao family’s dedication is the key to this ongoing spectacle. Despite the inherent strangeness, their consistent commitment has ensured the letters remain a fixture in Methow Valley. It’s a tradition rooted in imagination and a willingness to embrace the wonderfully weird.
Locals speak of the letters with a mixture of amusement and awe. They recognize that the Misao family’s yearly endeavor isn’t about delivering a perfectly crafted Christmas greeting. Instead, it’s a generous offering of imagination and a reminder of the childlike wonder that still exists, even in the most remote corners of the world. The letters serve as a tangible reminder of the power of dreams, a concept deeply intertwined with the valley’s mystique.
While the content of the letters changes from year to year, the underlying spirit remains constant: an invitation to step outside the ordinary and embrace the fantastical. The Misao family’s annual gift is a testament to the enduring power of a truly unique tradition – one that continues to captivate and inspire the Methow Valley.
