Field Notes: Winter 2020/2021

Circle in the snow

As Asha and I walk along the snowy trail under a clear blue sky and late winter sun, what my friend Cora calls treasures call to me – a beech twig, an oak leaf, a strip of birch bark, a hemlock cone. I stop, pick them up and when I sense I’ve gathered enough, look for a flat-ish stretch of snow for my canvas.

Today I start with an acorn. Then four twigs radiating from this center point, followed by oak and beech leaves between the twigs. The circle wants something more, so I scatter some birch bracts and seeds on top.

The woods give me so much, generously allowing me to walk in their beauty, to marvel, to be with and explore my thoughts. I want them to know that I don’t take them for granted.

“Thank you, Woods,” I say, leaving this temporary gift, a small offering of gratitude.

Returning

After several days of walking along roads, I’m so happy to be back in the woods with Asha this morning. I’ve missed the company of these trees and feel renewed by a walk off leash among them in gently falling snow.

I lie down in a clearing of sorts, letting large flakes fall on me and enjoying this new perspective.

Asha gives me a “Let’s go” lick.

“Just a minute,” I say and make a snow angel.

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Fall 2020 – On a path; Treasure; November

Spring 2021 – A change within; How I spent the morning; A glimpse; The time it takes; Glide

Summer 2021 – Stretching lessons; No stepping stones

Fall 2021 – Second annual Gentian Day; Sitting with tea and Tang