Return

Richard, Emily, Keren and I returned last night after an excursion back through the North Country. Emily and Keren are Apprentices at a Farm south of us and are new to the Mid-Continent Region. Leaving last Thursday, we were gone 5 full and beautiful days. We had an absolutely exquisite trip which was Pilgrimage to us all.

We immersed ourselves in the Great Plains landscape of this amazing North American Continent which we call home. Most of our journey was through what would have been the Tallgrass Prairie. Less than .1% remains. The Land is the rich black soil which we "advanced" Humans seem more intent on growing Corn and Soybeans with no relief, replenishment, or gratitude for Creation which was given to us and which sustains us.

We attended the 40th Annual University of North Dakota Indian Association Wacipi on Friday evening and Saturday. I attended my 1st Pow Wow in the early to mid 80s. This became a beautiful Spring Ritual for us. I cannot imagine Spring without it.

We had the distinct pleasaure of visiting true radiant Prairie. We saw Prairie Chickens and Sharp Tailed Grouse Dancing. We saw Tundra Swans on their way to the Arctic Circle. We truly miss them here in our new home. We saw Short Eared Owls with their signature butterfly like flight. A pair of Canvasback Ducks flew a great circle around us, as if to greet the Humans below in their own special way. An Eagle sat as sentinel in a scrub like tree.

We connected with Friends who are keepers of the Stories of the Land. Those Folks are advocates for the Prairie Region. They have long histories of immersion in the Prairie Landscape. Some are Professional Scientists who have dedicated their lives toward its study. All have stood on the forefront of advocating for its protection and introducing its beauty to fellow Humans. All have borne witness to its and our own renewal and return.

We brought Prayers for the North American Continent. Emily and Keren with Dan and his Grandson Aris took them out on the Prairie, walking through soft purple and furry Pasque Flowers (Prairie Crocuses). Sandhill Cranes dipped down onto the land with their Characteristic Flight and Bugling.

To the Humans' awe and amazement, a Painted Turtle was making its own journey through the Tallgrass. Dan, a long time Prairie Creature and lover of the Land, had never seen that before. Nature speaks. We try to still the Human Chatter. This Continent has been known to many Native People as Turtle Island. How fitting for a Turtle to join in the offering of our humble Prayers.

On the way back, we drove through the Minnesota North Woods. We stopped at the Headwaters of the Mississippi which is a small sparkling clear stream.

We were wrapped warmly by the loving arms of Folks who have become our Family there. That felt ever so good.

Five days are a long time to be off the Farm. It's Spring and stuff is happening. Aromas of Lilacs and Apple Blossoms greeted us in the night-time of our return.

Fuzz brain is evident in this transition space between there and here. Naps are good. Integration time is important for this beautiful Pilgrimage up north and back here again. We are deeply blessed.