Closing the Cabin

Closing the Cabin

October 28—Sunday I’ve drained the pipes—mostly—and packed the car—mostly. All I have left are the personal things I’ll need for the evening, food, my laptop, and a few odds and ends. I decided to put Wilson’s bed in the car already. I’m glad I did because it’s...
It’s Time to Go

It’s Time to Go

I’ve come to end of my writer’s retreat.  It has been a fabulous retreat.  A treat of a retreat. When I arrived on October 1, Monday, the trees were in leaf and vines and grass sprung thickly from the paths, grabbing at my ankles as I pushed my way through. During the...
Dogs, Not Bears

Dogs, Not Bears

From the moment I awoke the sun was working its way out, tinting the sky outside my window a wispy lavender. Wilson saw that I was awake and came over to give me a lick on the lips.   I tolerated it.   Since he is normally so undemonstrative, I don’t mind an...
The Pond

The Pond

October 11, 2012, Thursday As my writer retreat wears on, I’ve developed a routine. I rise early and take a quick walk around the mountain ridge with my dog Wilson. And then return to the cabin to let the morning mists dissipate. (In the mists, all stumps look like...
The Secret of Fire Lighting

The Secret of Fire Lighting

October 9, 2012, Tuesday The ninth day of my writer’s retreat. The cabin is growing more comfortable. I am almost used to the noises that the woods make.  Each leaf that falls creates a sound—some louder than others. As I type this I hear a strange, irregular drumming...