Early Autumn Signs?

Perhaps as a result of the wetness of early summer, the fall mushrooms are showing up in the yard. The Amanita, Chanterelle, Russala and Boletus appear in small numbers. Yet, there are Indian Pipes. They remember that it is summer, after all. The sparse spring Morel season is compensated with abundant early autumn fungi. It may be that we'll be enjoying the some of the edibles for a good long season. That would be good.

Canoe Trip Excitement

In a week's time 7 folks from our extended family will be plying the Boundary Waters for a few days of canoeing and camping. Canoe travel has always a high point in my personal pilgrimage. I do not return as the same person who embarked on the trip just a few days earlier. So I am full of anticipation about what I am going to see and learn this time. Past journals of wilderness trips are tales of transformation.

For the first time 3 generations going on a canoe trip. There are the elders, Ernie Morgan and me. There will be a middle generation in early and mid career, some raising families, all making important contributions. This year there will be two grandchildren along for the trip, Eleanor and Kennedy. It is so gratifying to introduce these youngest people to this transformation space. It is an act of hope. We are saying that this wilderness world will be around for them to give to their kids.

I noticed that the middle generation, folks deeply involved in the working world, are the most excited about the trip. Matt Wilson has been a constant source of encouragement as soon as we laid down the plan for this year's trip. Sure, the old guys know it will be a lot of fun and a real eye opener, but the middle generation has a real yearning, a passion, to get into a different place, if only for a little while. I love to hear Matt and Jason and KC dreaming about a time in the wild.

I'll be back with some reporting of the trip, even a log entry or two. For now, I am looking for the "once a year" equipment I have stashed away in the last move. Anybody have a sleeping bag? I can't find mine!

That'll Do

Magdalen Snowblower May 7, 1998 - July 5, 2008

"May I be the person my dog thinks I am," reads the sign that has hung over my desk for most of Maggie's life. For those who have mastered a Border Collie, you know that the human dog relationship is intense and deeply gratifying. Maggie died this morning at age 10. She is worth remembering not only because she was a wonderful companion, but for all that she gave to so many. She was a regular presence at St. Paul's Church, Marquette for 8 of her ten years, a welcomer and companion to many. Her presence took the imposing edge off of that wonderful Victorian Structure, inviting many into the place in a wonderful way. During her last two years, she herded the geese at Battle Creek's parks, a contract employee of the City of Battle Creek. She gave more than she got. The empty space she leaves behind is enormous. In the end, we are all better for having had contact with Maggie. Her death, as her life was noble and gentle. We will miss her.