Bessie, Corinna Aldrich’s Cow

January 17, 2009 – Cold, sub-freezing, better. I have this feeling, in this odd perspective of the farm, that  the rescue of the people on the U.S. Airways flight will mark a turning point this year. I think 2009 already is better in many ways. People are rethinking their lives, changing the narrative, focusing on politics, considering simplicity, community, and the things that are really important to them.
  The miraculous surrival of the airplane passengers in the Hudson River last week is, to me the beginning of the better year. It has enormous symbolism, and I think many people grasped it. How fortunate that we were not looking at a different kind of image on television.
  As for media, they are not able to focus on the real issues of life, or its prospects or consider seriously the great opportunities for change. They have become drama and statistic addicts, and I get little of use from them. I think life is going to change, and many people are struggling with fear, money and other issues that are important. We are also, including myself, coming to reality, in terms of our own lives and the issues we all face. I am talking to solar panel experts, windmill makers and hard at work considering how the farm can meet the challenges of the times and prosper.
  Notions of savings, real estate, retirement, health care are all on the table. It will be a fascinating  year. My wish for the farm is for it to continue to be a place of creativity, encouragement, innovation and determination.

  ___

  On January 31, from 1 to 3 p.m., a lot of things will be happening at Union Village on Main Street in Greenwich, N.Y. Izzy and Lenore and I will be there, talking about “Izzy & Lenore” and also the new Bedlam Farm Book, “Out Of The Shadows.” Mary Kellogg will be present to read some new poems and sign copies of her book, “My Place On Earth.” Maria Heinrich will show her rogue quilts and fiberworks, including scarves and fiber cards.
  People can enter a dog photo contest, bringing photographs of their dogs. The best ones will get prizes. Corinna Aldrich, a friend and photographer will show some of her powerful farmscapes (that is her cow, Bessie, above). I hope to show some of my photos as well, perhaps sell some to benefit hospice. And there will be local crafts and artworks to buy. For further information, call Union Village, on Main Street in Greenwich, N.Y. 5!8  692 2034. We hope to plan an afternoon to brighten people’s winter. Maybe it will even be warmer by then, not that Izzy or Lenore care.