I feel like I can’t write anything these days without acknowledging what heavy times we are experiencing. But when things are most bleak is when we most need to look for little joys.
This morning I began decluttering what is supposed to be our sunroom but has slowly turned into storage, and I came across several clay objects my children created in the wayback years. I used to take them to a local arts center for ceramics and weaving classes. Some of the things they made were impressive. Little bowls and vases, mostly, that I want to keep.
Then there were a couple of items none of us especially believe need to hang around anymore. Yet I couldn’t bear to just throw them out. These would be two small creatures of unidentified type, that are cute in their own way. I was pondering what to do with them when inspiration struck right along with the realization that I needed to get outside and walk before a predicted winter weather front arrived.
I love it when I come across something unexpected or a little mysterious while I’m out walking. Why not turn the tables and provide that bit of delight for someone else?
When I described my idea of harmless mischief to adult son in residence, he agreed to go along. It’s great when your kids are old enough to be your friends. We set off for a nearby park where our family has always spent a lot of time. This isn’t a playground type of place. It’s more fields and wooded areas, with a footbridge, a stream, and lots of wildflowers and native plants.
We took the two tiny figures with us and found them new, perhaps temporary, homes. Creature one is standing guard by the wooden bridge.
The other is hanging out in an interesting tree that has been growing sideways for years.
If someone takes them home, that’s fine. And if the creatures stay where they are for a while, they can watch out over a part of the earth that has been a huge part of my kids’ lives.
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Nomadic Noesis 