Something left behind

Over a year ago- I put this old chair in the back woods of our house in Williston. I wanted to see what time and nature would do. The elements slowly took the color down from vibrant red to this dusty rose. The grass that grew up high around it, pulled down by the snow.  Temporality.  Nothing lasts forever. Alas, this installation went the way of the dumpster when we rented our house in March. 

Vision Place of Souls

"In great deeds something abides. On great fields something stays. Forms change and pass; bodies disappear, but spirits linger, to consecrate ground for the vision-place of souls. And reverent men and women from afar, and generations that know us not and that we know not of, heart-drawn to see where and by whom great things were suffered and done for them, shall come to this deathless field to  ponder and dream; And lo! the shadow of a mighty presence shall wrap them in its bosom, and the power of the vision pass into their souls."

Colonel Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain: 20th Maine,

Speaking at the dedication of the Monument to the 20th Maine
October 3, 1889, Gettysburg, PA 


Last week we traveled to Pennsylvania for a family vacation. We spent five days exploring the Amish Country, visiting Hershey Park and see the sights of Lancaster County.  But, the day that sticks with me is the day we spent at the Gettysburg battlefield.  I had no idea how hard the emotions would hit me, how this place would resonate with my own soul.  To say that I am moved is an understatement. The quote above by Colonel Chamberlain completely sums up how I felt that day.  So powerful is the feeling that still lingers in me.  Without Chamberlain's word's I would be speechless.


So, I leave you with photos. I know that they cannot convey the eeriness, the stillness that you experience there. 
Gettysburg Battlefield National Park, is more than an national park, it is  a 5 mile cemetery. A memorial to the approximately 50,000 men who gave their lives in this struggle. 


As you walk along the roads and fields, as you view the memorials and markers, the soul of the place enters you. It is haunting and powerful. If only we could listen to the message this place sends to our souls.

In memory of Al Myers 1952-2009

In Memory of Al Myers -
1952-2009
The random aspects of our lives come together once in a while-
so blinding and decidedly.

Allen S. Myers, passed away unexpectedly on April 25, 2009. Al was 57. He was predeceased by his parents and brother. Over a 30 year career at Williston Community School, Al touched the lives of hundreds of students, sharing his love of learning and directing the school's drama program. He was a dedicated member of Lyric Theater and had appeared in dozens of musical productions since 1976. Al experienced special joy each Christmas as he helped produce Burlington's Polar Express and was a beloved instructor at Lyric's LyricKids Summer Camp. An enthusiastic amateur historian, he was a passionate member of the Champlain Valley Historical Reenactors' Second Vermont Volunteers. Equally dedicated to his community and his faith, Al was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He is survived by his family, Deborah, Briana, Eli, Meredith, Meredith's husband Andy. His memory will be a blessing to them and all whose lives he touched. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family. All are welcome to celebrate Al's life at Williston Community School on Saturday, May 16, at noon. In lieu of flowers please consider a memorial contribution to Lyric Theater Company, P.O. Box 1688, Williston, VT 05495 or to the Vermont Historical Society, Pavilion Building, 100 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05609


The Wizard has returned to Oz, leaving us all with heartfelt memories and life lessons. Until we meet again on that yellow brick road, so long, Al. We will miss you.

Happy Birthday Michael Hutchence

Michael would be 49 today.
Happy Birthday.....

Miss your spirit but you are not forgotten.