Oh Vermont, ours has been a forty plus year love affair which I still cling to even while I prepare to move west. Happy lake time runs from May into October and brings a constant treat. Diving in takes precedence on most afternoons, yet each time I consider myself lucky. There are more than 800 lakes and ponds in Vermont, one more spectacular than the other: I have done my best to swim in lots of them, although I have found favorites they are all fabulous. Of course there is more to my love than one season’s occupation. There is the richness of green hills against the brilliant blue sky, the sweet smell of yellow flowers that run Spring through Fall, as well as the stark black and white beauty of Winter. All an integral  part of me now.

As the movers lift the last of our boxes into their truck, I am certain it will all come with me.

Forest bathing might be trendy these days but here in Vermont it is simply how we stroll. Without much effort every walk leads you along a tree-lined dirt road or even straight into the forest where you will find deer and bears, owls and woodpeckers, and a quiet path all your own. I have sought out these refuges for decades, to think through decisions, to scream and celebrate, to laugh and let my love grow. Trees have loomed large during my daily existence here and are entwined through my soul. Deep roots and soaring heights combined to make this love affair solid.

A few years ago I started to call this recreational path, my bike path, but seriously, I share the Stowe trail with everyone. Regardless of how many times I’ve pedaled from bottom to top and back again, I am always struck by the beauty of Vermont’s highest peak, Mt. Mansfield, which looms in the distance as the guardian of our best interest. Corn fields on one side, a mountain stream on the other, the meandering path guides me softly. I can’t be too much of anything along this route, always washed anew.

Four decades in Vermont has meant babies and college degrees and marriage (perhaps in a different order) and fabulous friends and colleagues, but since the Covid pandemic, time to paint again. My garage studio emerged as the very best outlet for my emotional self, and as we pack silverware and houseware, plenty of art has been wrapped into multiple bundles. These treasures will find their place, but their stories are still unfolding.

Vermont is nothing but gifts. Free food along every road. Fresh air and clean water too. We love you, and are grateful for all your bounty. You have made us and our children who we are, and that is more than enough. There are no goodbyes, only see you soon my love.