January morning flashes open, all bright and cutting. Sun is a brittle diamond and a liar—he sheds no warmth. A filet-knife wind works its slender blade beneath skin and between muscles. Windy Gap, the pass into Upper Smith River, was true to its name. A night storm has scattered the icy pavement with conifer boughs. They are separated from their lifeblood, still green but perhaps already knowing they are dead. A Douglas-fir twenty inches in diameter blocks most of the road. Someone has cut a small opening on one side, and I squeeze the truck through. At the Johnny Gunter house a crust of snow crisps the grass, so that the meadow looks like a giant green sugar cookie waiting to melt in the maw of full daylight.
I have to be careful here. And, I need to re-read and reconsider this piece. But before doing so, I will say this is among your strongest ever. As the metaphors fall away, the focus, purpose, and love remain. You, and you and Kim (intentional), are inspirations.
Yes. This left me speechless. What comes to mind is that given the opportunity to be a caregiver for your life partner (as much as you would wish that the reason never happened), is a gift.
Tough situation. Lots of prayers and healing thoughts for Kim and you. Good luck with the JG house repairs. Your writing is expressed well. I felt like I was experiencing it all right with you. I’ve done care taking - yeah, it isn’t easy. By the way. I’ve really enjoyed those two little books I bought a few weeks ago at the book fair. Shirley
I have to be careful here. And, I need to re-read and reconsider this piece. But before doing so, I will say this is among your strongest ever. As the metaphors fall away, the focus, purpose, and love remain. You, and you and Kim (intentional), are inspirations.
Charlie.
I love this, Tom. Thanks.
Yes. This left me speechless. What comes to mind is that given the opportunity to be a caregiver for your life partner (as much as you would wish that the reason never happened), is a gift.
Tough situation. Lots of prayers and healing thoughts for Kim and you. Good luck with the JG house repairs. Your writing is expressed well. I felt like I was experiencing it all right with you. I’ve done care taking - yeah, it isn’t easy. By the way. I’ve really enjoyed those two little books I bought a few weeks ago at the book fair. Shirley