Moss & Artful Companions

Here in Pahoa on the Big Island of Hawaii, February was a wet month with over 30 inches of rain at our house although some elevations got a lot more. Here in the Puna District, however, our wealth is, in part, measured by how much water is in our 10,000 gallon catchment tank (artfully disguised with beautiful plantings.) This is our only source of water for our household and apartment.

The other day there was a break in the rain that allowed us to resume some of our outside yard projects, and we both were amazed at how many little surprises we found in the yard -- mosses, lichen and mushrooms in particular. We each took turns with the camera trying to catch the magic that then inspired some additional art and poetry! So, here's some of what we found and a little poem I wrote.

"MOSS SONG" by lunel

when the light is low

and shadows long

the mosses sing

the best slow songs

notes in a minor key

with altos strong

It seems like nearly everyone we know finds a way to create art, even our multi-talented yard helper, Marcus. Just this morning we ran into him at our local Leilani Estates Garage Sale where he had a few of his paintings for sale. I found one that I loved and he was willing to part with. The link below is a delightful time-lapse U-Tube video of Marcus painting it. Please check it out -- I hope you enjoy: Marcus painting: "Grasses"