Being here makes me think of Robert McClowsky.
One Morning in Maine
Make Way for Ducklings
Blueberries for Sal
Burt Dow Deep Water Man
But the title that keeps coming to mind, the illustrations that continue to sit atop my visions in this place – are the ones from McCkowsky’s book entitled Time of Wonder.
It’s one of my most favorite picture books. Absolutely riveting. I wish I would have thought to bring it along on our little beach adventure here.
While I’m currently not in the northeast, thinking of that picture book and seeing the beach right here before me – I feel a strong desire to find my way up to the coast of Maine and write pages upon pages upon pages. Of what I’m not even sure, but ink would flow happily I just know it.
The beach is the writer’s workshop, it seems.
This one’s anyway.
I have yet to find a more splendid atmosphere for creating.
The oldest and I were out scooting around at the break of day and the sun looked like something you could peel again. The early island air was so fresh I felt like I was breathing in medicine. It filled me up in a special way.
I needed it because I have unfortunately felt somewhat ill since arriving, and am having to stay back from some of our activities. Oy vey.
But everyone else is thriving and for that I am thankful. (Prayers? Thank you.)
I have laundry spinning in the washer right now. (It follows me, no matter where I am.) The kids’ suitcase is a disheveled mess and I should really straighten it up before they get back. And I need to return a few emails. But instead – I think this non-napper is going to lay down for a quick siesta before my people return. It’s something I rarely practice, but should more often perhaps.
The lesson for today I suppose, is this…
No place, no thing, no situation, no vacation – is perfect. It still takes place on this spinning fallen orb and stuff is going to go down anyhow. It’s our job to seize what we can, expect for the best, and hope for moments of sweetness and revelation, no matter how fleeting. Help me to do it, God.
Happy Thursday to you, friends. Hugs all around.
