May You Be On the Road...

You are here to live your most authentic life. I say this to those who question why I'm bandying about on this strange adventure. I say this to those who have told me that they DREAM about doing the same sort of things they read at this same small reading spot. And I say this to remind myself, whenever I am scared, that this is one heck of a ride.  Life is short, My Friends.  Do not wait, do not talk yourself out of, everything you love. It took me a long time to learn this, myself.

I sit here between two worlds--one leaves the Midwest, it's beautiful faces, it's kind hands holding one up, it's strangers so willing to become family. I leave it's long golden acres and old, staid farmhouses. I leave friends with names and histories, of animals, husbands, and children of some remarkable women that I consider kin.

There are old stories there, great homemade food, and vast vistas that will burn my eyes, and break my heart, forever. There are funny moments and moments resplendent with deep thought. It has been a beacon to my small sorrows and urban-phobia. It saddens me to know it may be some time until I return here to this charmed place again. Somewhere in the last part of my chest, I will remember a million beautiful old barns, placid cows, winding roads. Illinois and Iowa will haunt and inspire me--they are beautiful twin ghosts. Like something or someone who has just saved my life, I will never forget them, and those goodly friends that I have met on their calm and dusty roads...I could go on and on thanking them, the gratitude in my heart over-pouring, and still feel it were never enough.

Meanwhile, the new kid on the block lives out East. With wild green hair, dress of colonial stone, accessorized in Revolutionary history, and all quilted together, Pennsylvania is my new mistress. She is a year-long opportunity to do many things unheard of in New York, and a chance to challenge myself to be more independent. I tremble out of excitement and fear, equally, a near-ingenue to this game.  I have no idea about this marriage between that state, and I, but I am looking forward to this extended honeymoon, despite so many trepidations. I leave one table full, but still wanting dessert. This, so far, has been one amazing feast...

And so hereI am on this road..still. And my hop is that you be on the road you wish, forever...