my notebook

hustled out of bed this morning and headed outside.  for a walk among the oaks.

i paid particular attention to the white sage, having just introduced it to my garden.   it’s very aromatic – a warm musky scent that i love.  i used to collect it on walks in the local mountains in my 20’s and 30’s.  i always had a bundle around for smudging/burning/space clearing.   if you have even a thimble full of hippie blood you will know of what i speak.

but now in my 50’s i’m not so interested in its medicinal or spiritual qualities,  i just want it for its soft white leaves and tall floral spikes in the spring.  and that earthy smell.

after my walk i headed to one of my favorite gardens – arlington, for a sit-down with my notebook.   i found a table tucked into a green alcove and i settled there.

i need to record things.  what i did, what the weather did, what the clouds did,  what the stars did, what the sun did, what my roses did, what the cats did, what the kids did.  what time is it.  what temperature is it.  which desk am i sitting at.  all sorts of things tumble out of my head and onto the page, some practical, some contemplative.   do you have a journaling practice?  i can’t imagine living without mine.

came home.   painted some french butter pears i found at whole foods.  the last FBP i ate was in my car after leaving a farm stand with my sister on some little road in the middle of nowhere northern california in september of 2015.  it was the most delicious pear i’d ever eaten and i haven’t seen them since.

i can’t wait until they’re perfectly ripe!

how are you?   getting ready for a long ocean voyage i bet.  across the north atlantic on a cargo ship.  off to see the world.  with a pile of books, a good notebook, some watercolors.  don’t forget to pack your sweater.  it will be chilly.  especially when you cross the arctic circle.  please send me a telegram.  okay?