If you’re reading this, you might be interested in the story I’m telling or the journey I’m on or the way I’m thinking about all of it. What these pages contain is about home, loved ones, and ways of moving through this world in these days. In any case…welcome. I’m glad you’re here.
—Susan
This site contains past pieces of writing, quilting, and watercolors as well as current short essays and journal entries. It is very much a work in progress.
I have resisted blogging as a pastime, let alone a livelihood. I hope these pieces strike a different chord with you, the reader. To that end, I am experimenting with this platform and with how I decide on and present content. Helpful suggestions are always welcome. Especially as I embark on a more nomadic way of life, I will rely on staying in touch in all possible ways.
These are extraordinary times, in so many ways. We are on the edge of unheard-of changes—environmental, political, social, spiritual. And none of us can rest as easily as we used to.
The pandemic pushed so many of us into extreme and unpredicted situations, losses, and upheavals of all kinds. In my case, it allowed a random stranger to take my world hostage for over 15 months. In part, as a reaction to this economic, psychic, and legal dilemma, combined with living next to overtly hostile or indifferent neighbors, and wanting freedom from the endless responsibilities of owning a Berkeley property built in 1906, I decided to sell and get out. I was 26 years old when Lee, Whitney, and I moved to 2630 Grant Street in 1982.
A whole new chapter is beginning. I thought I’d reinvented my life enough times, but here I go again.
Consider these entries to be a sort of “Travels without Charley.” (Respect to Steinbeck.) One day I’ll get a dog.
In almost every conversation I have, the question arises, “Where are you going?” It’s a natural question. Most people do leave one home to go to another, or at least know what city they’re heading for. I have been perched on the fence of whether to establish a new home base for the short term or not. I’m not sure I want to own property again. I’m just so used to it.
I am doing my very best to stay in the flow of the present, think ahead as needed to accomplish a given goal (though that does mess with sleep), and stay with the waves of gratitude and appreciation.
I plan to write about it.