Thunderbird with the World by Ray Losey
14 feet – Available – For information go to raylosey.com
The Thunderbird’s eye cautiously surveys the blanketed landscape outside our home. It has been years since Portland had so much snow in one fall. Ray measured 14 inches in the driveway. I almost forgot the beauty of seeing white covered branches dipping deeply towards earth. Occasionally a snapped limb peaks up through the snow with its evergreen leaves adding color to the whiteness. During the storm I was conscious of the soft silence that covered the earth and enjoyed looking at the large flakes floating downward that can only be seen swirling under street lights.
When I went outside the following day, the crisp cold air was refreshing even as I warmed with the effort of shoveling. By the time I finished my own and my neighbor’s driveway, though my arms stung and back creaked, it felt good seeing what was accomplished in just a few hours. But best of all was realizing that I recuperated quickly and was ready after lunch to find my sled to go speeding down the hill at the end of my street. Listening to bursts of laughter as adults and children joined in the merriment was fulfilling. And what a pleasure it was to go cross country skiing from my front door. Who needs a car? We must have enough food stocked in our cupboards to last a month.
As an East Coast transplant, past Portland winters have been too mild for me. I missed bundling up in cold weather and having the opportunity to play in the snow. I do not like the idea of traveling hours to a winter resort. Perhaps Michigan spoiled me for I could ski on the farmer’s fields that surrounded my house. With children sound asleep it was easy to take off for an hour of contemplation at 10 pm. When there was a full moon shining on fresh snow it was haunting to silently glide through rows of corn stalks.
Traditionally, the third week of January is when the crocuses start to bloom at the Bishop’s Close in Portland. It is when Ray and I begin our weekly pilgrimage to watch spring unfurl. I wonder what will happen this year? There is no need for deep thoughts when nature makes its presence known.
Winter Wonder by Marilynne Eichinger – Sold
For more artworks by Marilynne go to eichingerfineart.com
Save the date: February 9th at 7 pm.
Book Talk at Annie Bloom’s Books in Multnomah Village, Portland.
Lives of Museum Junkies:The Story of American’s Hands-On Education Movement.
