First Thaw
One chapter in Solstice I called "Preparation for Solstice" because those words have only good associations in my mind. The solstice is dark and mysterious, or an endless day, magic either way. Magic only an incredible thing.
Winter starts in October up here in Fairbanks, gentle days chill in shadows, warm in sunlight. Everything shrinking back into itself, finding burrows. Last chance to find order in the yard before snow hides order away.
Three years ago I was thinking in Portland, "There's no way I can stay here long enough to do all the landscaping this rental property needs. I won't be living here then." I believed it, it was true. I don't miss that house too much, it was being slowly destroyed by use contrary to its intelligent design. I do miss the hungry warm earth, plants growing in December, January barefoot walks. Portland is warm and lush, especially in the spring.
I stopped driving two months ago and it was a great decision. I had been constantly berating myself for creating pollution and sustaining oil companies. Now I enjoy peace and cardiovascular health.
My efforts to start an anarchic artist's commune have been somewhat stymied by my desire to pay rent. Although working at the schools of late is a distinct pleasure. People are astounding creatures and it's been great to get to know more.
Winter starts in October up here in Fairbanks, gentle days chill in shadows, warm in sunlight. Everything shrinking back into itself, finding burrows. Last chance to find order in the yard before snow hides order away.
Three years ago I was thinking in Portland, "There's no way I can stay here long enough to do all the landscaping this rental property needs. I won't be living here then." I believed it, it was true. I don't miss that house too much, it was being slowly destroyed by use contrary to its intelligent design. I do miss the hungry warm earth, plants growing in December, January barefoot walks. Portland is warm and lush, especially in the spring.
I stopped driving two months ago and it was a great decision. I had been constantly berating myself for creating pollution and sustaining oil companies. Now I enjoy peace and cardiovascular health.
My efforts to start an anarchic artist's commune have been somewhat stymied by my desire to pay rent. Although working at the schools of late is a distinct pleasure. People are astounding creatures and it's been great to get to know more.