The quiet here in Puget Sound is thick, as thick as the velvet black night outside. My constant companion, my little Yorkie, Winston has sat mostly still as we have driven in the rented Toyota 4-runner. We have driven to and through the cities of Portland and Seattle.
Two days ago I drove up to my friend Julie's house. It was a quiet, thoughtful journey. Pulling into her drive to retrieve her beautiful bird bath, I felt the sadness that she would never again be there, or anywhere to greet me with her familiar " Ginny!!!!!!...". Just a black crow on her roof to oversee my careful gathering of one more item of her worldly goods. The house has had most of the wild and wooley overgrowth pruned back. The steps are cleared of the potted plants and whimsical chimes she had to greet you upon arrival. No cats or birds...save the one lone crow still warning me that he was watching.
I was relieved to have a good destination ahead of me. A ferry ride to Julie's mom's house. A lovely dinner with beautiful reminiscing. We laughed and cried some. Then home for a few songs with her husband. Last night I slept with Winston close by my side, and a deep sleep with the sweet sound of a quiet night in the countryside.
Aaaah morning and low hanging clouds. A chill in the air. Coffee, cereal and more conversation. CNN and then watching videos of Julie... each of us savoring the sounds of her laughter and each familiar gesture. Then more items to treasure, packed carefully into the 4-runner. Sad to say good-bye, and a promise to return. 2 hours and 45 minutes later...7 PM at dinner in Gig Harbor.
It is 10:45 PM now...tired and very relaxed.
Now we are staying with Julie's sister and will greet the morning with a view of Puget Sound , the Northern waters...out in the front yard. What a journey.
Eagles sleep in the cedars beyond my door.
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