Stain-glass Eyes

Mask and Scarf Ready! I miss the Huron Hills Lapidary & Mineral Society (HHLMS.-based in Ann Arbor) I began writing a few days ago to submit an article to the "Facets" which is a monthly publication for members in Ann Arbor. Many events have been cancelled for rock and mineral enthusiasts, like with most other group events right now. But, it doesn't mean we can't do the solo-venture out to get some exercise. Lake Huron Near Straits of Mackinac Some Fossils Are Like Fine Pieces of Art Lake Huron is very close to where I’m living for now, in the Upper Peninsula. When I walk I feel the draw to the shore. It’s not just magnetic, it’s more like a strong nuclear force. It was my playground as a kid and I still feel like a kid when I'm there. I Don't Just Stop at Fossils and Seaglass I skip stones. I still stare mesmerized at the horizon and always am on the hunt for the perfect fossil. I also look for beach glass and smo...

I’ve been thinking lately of the times, in the past, I’ve wished for immobilization. A time in my life I wanted and needed rest and wanted to do nothing but be with my husband and kids. When a snow-day was called for school we’d all be energized. Even on the weekend when we had no reason to get in a car on the dangerous roads, we’d cuddle-down and enjoy how the day would seem to slow down, like a music box drawing down, slowly, on its last few notes. On those days, inevitably I’d get the kitchen warm for my bread to rise. I’d plan the stirring and kneading to happen on the kitchen table because each of my children wanted space beside me so they could help.   When the yeast began to ferment it was time to add more ingredients. I didn’t have to look far for help.   The kind of help like when kids want to help rake the yard. They do a few sweeps with a rake, which is usually two or three feet taller than them. When they see the piles of leave...

I don’t know how others manage their lives during this fearful crisis. I can only imagine it’s difficult, no matter who you are.   My priority starts with my mom and myself. The attention I give this priority, I’m convinced, spreads past our isolated space. I think it gives others a sense of peace I’m with my mom. I know it gives both of us comfort. So I begin here. I attend to our needs and we share our time and company. She may not realize how she attends to my needs. Since I’ve returned to the U.P. to be with her I’ve eaten healthier, slept better and feel calmer. My children know things are going well for us so they have less worry. My siblings have voiced the same. The care we take to stay isolated benefits more than us. Our efforts seem small sometimes but they have an impact on more than just the two of us. When I hear of others who take the same measures to isolate and stay well are contributing to fighting this virus. The past few da...

Heart-Shaped Nature "The doors we open and close each day decide the lives we live."                                                                                                                       Flora Whittemore There are times when I draw inward to learn about myself, and it’s an encounter of detours. It’s like I hit a trap door with a projectile apparatus. As soon as I step on a closed door it hurls me into the air. I don’t think I put the trap doors there. I think they’re normal avoidances. Ways of staying on the surface of things. It’s almost as if my heart knows it won’t be easy and protects me. So, when I figure out even small things about myself, it’s a victo...