“We dismantle, as much as we build. Because, we don’t always get it right the first time. And even if we did get it right, rightness changes. I don’t feel the same way about some of my more monumental choices today, as I did yesterday. And that’s how life rolls. But the gift of a truly clear day is something you remember. A day when our eyes meet the high peaks in kinship, rather than longing. And for no apparent reason, and without effort or trying, everything is objectively, more beautiful. Nothing, if not extraordinary. By our own, honest standards, truly miraculous. Days like these power all the rest. Moments like these, lift heavy weights off the weary. It’s a kind of weird, anonymous, gift. I’ve felt a few, lately. In the wilds of a golden rod field, our barn is coming down, slowly, piece by piece. It had a good run, serving goats, and chickens. But now, we need housing, and a work space, where we can make things, to sell. This is how anybody in our shoes, is looking at how to stay in Vermont, and not go under. The beauty of it is, the people. The ethical carpenter de-nailing, the daughter full of plans, dreams and love of the land. The wily cat, prowling where bears have recently rung out the apple trees. A friend who has refashioned the derelict chicken coop into hemlock bridges, over marsh and wetland. Actually, it’s been rainy, and I’ve moved back into my insulated overalls. During one wet afternoon this week, our client at the end of a private road, made us tea, and offered us chocolates. This may be the best way to get to meet anyone new. We also met a buck deer, who browsed near the edge of the pond, where we were gardening. Apropos of nothing, I locked eyes with a bear, just a few hours ago. Ah, gosh, what’s the meaning of it all. There just isn’t an end to this complex entertainment we call “life”. Until there is. Fine, be that way. I can’t get all overly sentimental about anything anymore. I can only feel immense appreciation for the few who stand out, who seem to understand, and can relate to me. We came up with some tee-shirt ideas this week, “Hosta-l Takeover” being one, because we were confronted with an over-abundance of Hosta on one particular job. Anyway, I have more to say, but I’m going to have to cut myself off. Flower power, to all who need it! ”
