My Muses

I have two muses: Hahamongna Watershed Park, and Boz.

For me and John, Hahamongna is a higher place above our petty concerns, a trail that absorbs tension and makes it disappear, and a connection to nature. For Boz, it's joy, abandon, and direct contact with his wolf-self. Kind of the same thing.

Some of you may remember when bloggers, activists and naturalists had to defend Hahamongna from development. It looks like we might be clear for now, but our eyes remain open. The watershed, especially as water becomes more scarce, is a precious resource.

Boz is precious, too. John and I walk him at his pace, which is slower than it used to be. We might see him running in the watershed's spring runoff next year, but honestly, it's not likely. As I write, he snores on his bed at my feet. I'm enjoying all his noises, his sighs, his smells. He's my little love. How funny it is to have an old baby!

Though I rarely post pictures of him, my husband, John Sandel, is also a muse. I'm blessed because many of his own photographs have appeared here, and because he is nothing but supportive of whatever I do. Except ride a bike. He really doesn't want me riding a bike.

What a blessing to have such a blast and so much love and such happiness. I would rather not be sappy but it's not easy.