I know I talked last year about seeing eastern fence lizards around the property, and how I hoped that their numbers would increase as time went on. Well, I got my wish — they’re everywhere this spring.
That’s good luck, y’know.
A young rat snake was sunning itself on the gravel in front of the cabin yesterday, quickly slithering under the stoop as I approached. I don’t know if a black snake is any sort of omen, good or bad, but it can stay, too.
It’s an odd sort of settlement I’ve created here. I’ll admit that. If you stood in the middle of the cleared area and looked around, you’d see things you understand immediately and things you won’t.
Like a small stainless-steel step-on can sitting behind the camper. If you were curious enough to open it, you’d find it filled with wood ash.
See, that can sat next to the toilet in the camper, a concession necessary because the rig’s previous owners had neglected the black tank. No more paper down the pooper.
I want to use it again, but not until… well, you know. Wood ash is Country baking soda.
You might’ve peeked through a cabin window early yesterday morning to find me repairing a wall hanging bought four years ago in Coram, Montana — feathers, horse hair, concho, horseshoe. It now hangs over my bed.
Or maybe you saw me disassembling a vacuum cleaner on the tailgate of my pickup. I spent over an hour giving it the kind of attention it’s never had.
Now it’s as clean as it was the day it was made. And when I use it in the cabin, its exhaust won’t smell like a wet dog.
Scout, Smudge and I did move into the cabin yesterday. We were ensconced by noon. Before that, there was more cleaning and more hauling stuff across the driveway.
I earned my first shower in the cabin, no doubt about that. I’d been saving an unopened bar of Dr. Squatch Pine Tar soap for the occasion.
It lathers black. An indulgence. It was wonderful.
The dogs took to their new digs quickly and amazingly well. After a half-hour of exploring and sniffing, both curled up on the cool floor and slept.
They know. They’re at peace here.
I’m at peace here.
I closed out my first day in the cabin on The Mountain with a shot of North Fork Rye Whiskey — one of my favorite spirits, perfect for toasting my best life.
Take care of yourselves, Patriots. Stay calm. Stay sharp. Stay free.
#WiseUp #LibertyOrDeath #Ungovernable