There are moments when I look up the hillside from my log perch in the Amphitheater and see the sunlight streaming through a ball of salsify fluff. Moments when I lay a small squirrel down on the Altar of the Forest Gods and see my offering accepted and gone only a little while later. Moments when I hike into the humid Yakisugi Valley, inhale the layers of Jupiter, rest among the feet of the Standing People by a creek, and listen to the bubbling as my heart fills with bliss. Moments when I stand in the river on a large rock, watch the sunlight glisten and dance on the water while may flies hop and flitter over its surface. Moments when craftsmanship feels soft against my fingertips, so smooth against my cheek, satisfyingly snug when all the pieces fit together. Moments when I'm standing under my shower head, sun reflecting off the cob wall behind me, cool air nipping at me, and a whistle, quick heart leap, and a voyeuristic deer disappears into the trees. Moments when I find a poppy whose blossom is as big as my palm with outstretched fingers, velvety purple center and ruffly red petals like a fancy evening gown. Moments when I learn of the Swainson's Thrush and distinguish its song from all the others frolicking in the air, listening to the nuances of the individuals as they talk amongst themselves. Moments when the snow fell silently, softening the music of the landscape as I peeled away bark and felt the chill accumulate on my shoulders and back. These are some of the precious moments I will carry with me as I move on from Wheaton Labs today. Thank you all for your love and support. It has meant so much to me.
