By the spring, clogged with soggy leaves and fallen branches, surrounded on this slope of storm down trees and scattered car pieces
One flower shines in pinkish bloom, one resilient Rhododendron, queen of the holler.
I descend to this hidden spot, grown over since my youth, beyond remnants of a homestead, some forgot.
Clearing debris from the spring, water flows again; it gurgles joyfully. Possibly, it will reach the creek below by the highway.
Hours pass as I arrange stones, glass, and other artifacts to a comfortable stage, where secrets under leaves remain.
A storm approaches; rain holds off, until I ascend. The sky and holler darken; farewell, my solitary rhododendron friend.
The waning Strawberry Moon glows, diffused, through fog and foliage. I walk the Labyrinth, singing, for an early Solstice.
Moments and spaces where one can disregard the problems of the social current, surrounded by Mother Gaia and raw nature: for these, I am continually grateful.
-Fancy Gap, VA, Summer Solstice/June 2025
Thank you again for reading and enjoying my stories!
Come visit me this Saturday at the Solstice Holistic Fair At the Cabin in Danville, Virginia if you are in the area. https://www.atthecabin18.com/atthecabin18
Until next time,
Arianna
arianna's creative travels 