Solstice Greetings
As you are probably aware, the Northern Hemisphere is at its darkest moment. But it won’t last. As early as tomorrow we begin to tilt and spin back towards the light.
When I was based in the city, the darkness of winter felt like a uniform slog that stretched from late December through February. Now that chickens are part of my life, the lengthening of each day is much clearer. At present, for instance, they retire to their coop by 4:30. By mid-January, they will be pecking about and hoping for the odd crumb until 5:00. Come summer, they stay out past 8:00, causing complications when I receive a dinner invitation and must excuse myself mid-way through to run home and close the coop.
A couple of the summer’s chicks have grown into roosters and are just now testing out their vocal chords. No robust cock-a-doodle-doo yet, they sound more like honking geese, but I trust they will get there. I intend to write more about the evolving chicken saga–from its dreamy Edenic beginnings to the ghost of Cowboy–in the New Year, when (knock wood) I have finished the latest draft of this novel, and can return to writing this blog.
For now, I just wanted to wish everyone a peaceful solstice. I know, I know. It is not the most peaceful moment on our planet right now, perhaps not in our families, either. But peace is not the lack of strife. Maybe it is a dark and quiet acceptance, or an inner tranquility that can be visited at times. Whatever peace is for you, may you find some this solstice and carry it with you through the ever lighter days.
Signing off with a picture of Baba and Caitlin, who can often bring me a touch of peace. Not that they are peaceful creatures–they butt heads and continuously tussle over food. But I love them anyway, particularly when sunlight is caught in their fur.
P.S. Lonely Worm Farm Arts and Agricultural Programming, Inc. our non profit wing has been formally recognized by the IRS. We are now an official non profit! This means any donations you might make (hint, hint) are tax deductible. To make a contribution, simply go here. Or send a check to the farm: 71 Ruskey Lane, Hyde Park, NY 12538.
