Crossing the "Ice-Bridge"

Winter Isolation

Ice Starting to Build Up on Lake Huron
Ferry Boat in the Distance

I use to wonder how the natives of Mackinac Island cope from complete isolation in the winter, to complete chaos and invasion of people in the summer. At least, living in St. Ignace, a person could travel to a different town or city. But, living on Mackinac Island, once the ice freezes over, you're stuck until the ferry boats start to cross again. Unless you have a snowmobile to cross the "ice-bridge", or are brave and have strength enough to cross-country ski the trip.

"Stuck" has a negative connotation to it, I know. What a person does with their isolation can make a difference in the "stuck" department. Drinking the death of your liver, developing an art or skill, writing a novel, preparing for a spring triathlon, raising a young family, reading all the trilogies you haven't started, mastering an instrument, sleeping, letter writing or spending quantity time with a spouse are all un-stuck options. It could be cooking and eating, if you were prepared ahead with all the ingredients you needed for the winter. I shouldn't leave out watching T.V. But, I hate to add it. It really isn't an activity. It does allow a feeling of being connected to the rest of the world. I've been watching various BBC series on Netflix, and they're addicting. (I'm currently enjoying the Doc Martin series) I forget about Facebook, too, since I don't have an account. I notice how friends and family stay socially connected on Facebook, so it's an option.

Isolation isn't just an ice barrier. It is a social state, too. Living in Ann Arbor, I've already had to clamp and strap on those imaginary cross-country skis. I've had to be brave and build up my strength to cross the "ice-bridge". I could easily get held up in my apartment, by myself, for months. There are many things I like to do alone and I'm accustomed to isolating myself. I don't want to picture myself as held captive on an island. I don't want to be at the mercy of a ferry boat or "ice bridge" to cross over to civilization. When I'm older and physically compromised and only able to sit in a wheelchair, I hope I still will insist on not isolating myself. It only creates depression for me and the skis will only get lost behind piles and piles of senseless excuses. They'll get rusty and I'll become too weak to cross the ice.

Postings of Events in Hallway of Walgreen Drama Center,

Friday Night Performance of Opera "Red Silk Thread"
(Stamps Auditorium at U of M)

Marco Polo and the Lovely Princess
(in Red Silk Thread Opera)

I'm settled into my new apartment and have more time to try out things in the area. Heidi has been a crucial resource since I've moved here. When she mentions something, I type it in on a "Sticky" note on my computer screen. I've also been circling events and groups I want to explore in the Ann Arbor Observer, since I got the April issue in the mail. I've attended some music events and appreciate the variety here.

I've set up an audition with the UMS Choir. I'm establishing a voice teacher, by trying out a few teachers Heidi found for me. I filled out an on-line application to volunteer at 826Michigan. I have established a new family physican through the U of M Health System, a physical therapy establishment and I'm about to find a new dentist. I continue to write for my blog. Taking photographs fascinates me, too. I like to reflect on what catches my attention and why.

Pretty Scooter on Main Street, Ann Arbor

Splash of color in Ann Arbor

Yesterday, I walked to the Kiwanis Sale, on First Street. It's only held on Saturday from 9-12. I got there at about 10. By the time noon came along, I had to ask a young man, looking through t-shirts, how to find the exit. It was a blast. The book section alone had me engaged for an hour. I didn't even get to the records (next week). My backpack was loaded and about ten pounds heavier, when I went out the door and headed for Main Street. I even had to strap a small stool I bought, to the back of my pack.

I decided I'd treat myself to a cocoa latte at Mighty Good Coffee. The place was packed. There wasn't one table empty or even an empty stool at any of the counters. I asked a young woman if I could share the round, red table she was sitting at. She smiled at me, and shook her head in approval. I wrote a few postcards and watched people, while I sat and savored my latte in a bright red coffee cup. She had her earbuds in and was writing, too.

After I left the coffee shop, I walked to Seva's restaurant and had lunch. I didn't plan it. I know their vegetarian cuisine is excellent and I was starving. When I saw the familiar sign, I went in. I sat at the counter (so as not to take up a table). The restaurant was packed, too. It was relaxing. I sat reading a book, by Margaret Atwood, I bought at the sale, while waiting for my lunch.

A Few Kiwanis Sale Items

Since I've had "Get a Library Card" on my list of things to do, I walked down to the public library. The young man behind the desk was pleasant and very informative. Heidi was right, I had to have an ID with my Ann Arbor address on it to get a library card. I had my new driver's license, so it wasn't a problem. I stopped myself from looking around in the library after I got my card. No more room in my back pack. I wasn't about to strap any library books on the outside of my backpack next to the small stool.

Walking home I could hear the sounds of announcers and fans from the Crisler Arena, in the distance. It feels good not to isolate. Now, when I do climb three flights of stairs and lock the door behind me, I'll want to relax and enjoy the quiet, alone-time in my little apartment. It won't feel like lonely-time.