Just beautiful, Susie. The details and sense of being there with nature are extraordinary. It gives me a strong desire to go walk in the woodlands right now. Which is actually what we have planned later this morning, so this all works out perfectly.
"I meander animal made paths that never cease to beckon and beguile, my footprints, transient, over theirs, badger and hare, boar and deer, pine marten and fox, all are present through scattered copses of silver birch, their trunks still nestled in fading copper bracken." <-- my favourite passage.
I am completely humbled and honored that you took time from your day to walk my hill Nathan, thank you hugely.
I have learned, too slowly, that if I am quiet, almost to the becoming part of the forest stage, those animals appear.. cautiously but bravely because they too are curious creatures… it is a fine thing nature when time is granted us to appreciate the myriad details! 🙏🏽
This is wise, walking quietly and calmly. I call it forest pace, but I'm sure I didn't invent that. I remember once realising that my footfall was at the same rhythm of my heartrate when I walk in the woods, and both are far slower than if I walk in a city, for example.
“For twenty years I have had - and still have - a burning need to know every change, every tree that falls, every bird that calls, every first flower, first leaf to unfurl.
Every story.” And in your knowing, you become an offering, giving shape, scent and voice to the exquisite silence of the earth. We hear her through you. 🙏
Nothing makes me happier than to know that what I share of this betrothal between hill and I is being heard, thank you dear Kimberly for listening 🤍
I think Alex is quite close to the feeling that envelopes me whole when he says it’s like a meditation… in fact I am am a hopeless meditator, I am too distracted and fidgety, just as I was in class and occasionally still am! If I’m walking though, the distractions are exactly what I’m there for. It is the perfect compromise and my heart is filled with joy that the evidence can be shared in this unexpected place of kind and beautiful kindred spirits… x
Beautifully put, Kimberly! Reading Susie's words felt something like a meditation to me, so this comment fits wonderfully. (And, I suppose, the process of walking the land and bringing back her magic to all, shared through the also-magic of words, is precisely what the shamans or spiritual guides would have done too. Once upon a time.)
I love that you see this a meditation Alex, I don’t have the knowledge or know the magic of the shamans but it is indeed an very spiritual journey - and I love so much that I can share it for others to enjoy. Thanks you once again for kind and thoughtful words.
I feel the same way Alexander. When I see a post from Susie, it's always a "save" and wait until I'm settled in on the sofa, cat in lap, for proper assimilation. :)
Wow! This is gorgeous. What a fun and challenging assignment. I, for one, am glad you took it on and that Alexander offered it. What a beautiful, nourishing thing to know a piece of land and it’s “wild remedies gathered, passed down through the ages, infinitely whispered secrets.” And what a gift to share this knowledge. Thank you both. ♥️
Thank you so very much for your kind comment and taking time to read through Holly, it is a truly wonderful gift to live in a part for the world that is still wild and to learn it’s secrets. There is still so much to tell too, and yet more to learn. I have a feeling it will turn into a lifetime of learning! And I can only repeat what Alex writes, perhaps you might join us with your own wandering?
Looking forward to the others now too. And, Alexander, that would be wonderful. I'll start putting something together and reach out when it's taking shape?
Beautiful spring wanderings in Paradise Susie. I just plucked a lone remaining honeysuckle yesterday and breathed in the last of summer. I don't feel nostalgic though as I love all the seasons with their individual flavours and feelings. I think autumn is my favourite though. xx
Thank you for reading Jo, I am waiting impatiently for all those glorious scents to arrive… they’re wafting in slowly this year… I too am happy no matter the season - just so long as it doesn’t rain incessantly ! 😂Which it has since November 🫣
Wish you a lovely day… make the most of the last blooms… xx
I'm very much looking forward to honeysuckle scent once more. Here, my own mountain is wreathed in the scent of early blossom. I swear it is stronger this year, but maybe I'm just in need of spring that little bit more?
Thank you Roselle, I will go one more time this weekend (Easter will be too late) to tap some more, whilst I succeeded the sap, was not ready, I will use it for watering my indoor plants. I never take too much, just enough for the family to have a glass each for a couple of days, a spring treat sort of…
I have yet to see this film, it was mentioned to me by a work colleague (she’s a geography professor) and I’ve already a note to track it down! I’m glad to hear you enjoyed it too, I’m even more keen knowing that. X
I'm going to also add this film to my To Be Watched list! Thanks.
It's been a while since I tapped any birch, but there'll still be time here if I head up the mountains. I wasn't going to bother this year, but all this talk of sap is making me crave some!
I have frozen it in icecubes and added it to cocktails (not gin, though! Not yet, at least.), but in the past I've usually just had it straight. I've been thinking about other things it would really work with, and I think an elderflower cordial would be perfect... We made some of that a few years ago and it was amazing! Of course, keeping it to have with the sap would be a challenge!
It was a lovely film, Alexander. (Where are you? Speaking of mountains.) Reminded me a bit of Le Quattro Volte. Moving documentary of the generations in one place, and stunning scenery. Even as a vegan I enjoyed it (it takes place on a dairy farm).
I didn't know that film, either, it has also been added to my ever-growing list, thanks!
There's just something about people who are connected to place over generations, that depth of almost-accidental knowledge is not to be trifled with. I've seen it a lot in the north of Scotland, as well as here in the little village we live in. I'm currently based in the Alpes, in Isère, about 40 minutes drive from Grenoble. The mountains start here. It's a good place to be for now.
I couldn't be happier with this, it really transports the reader to just one small corner of our world, wrapping them in nature and deep time, which is the whole point of the series! Delighted!
I am so utterly thrilled with this. I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed it, or just how right your words and images feel. For me, when I envisaged this idea, of sharing our walks through this lens, I honestly could not have hoped for better. This is, in short, perfect. Thank you so very much, I cannot wait to hear more later this year!
Enormous and very humble, from my heart, thanks for your incredibly kind words AND this wonderful project Alex… I truly am so very happy/relieved that it was what you had hoped for. I am so excited for summer, and not just because it will be summer!
Enjoy the rest of your evening - I have a few comments to reply to! ;-)
I'm really happy with this project, the idea certainly seems to have resonated and inspired a few people. (And yes, I'm very much looking forward to summer too!)
Hahaha! Susie has certainly set a high bar! However, I think this can only be a good thing and I really cannot wait to see what you come up with, too. I have absolute confidence it will be wonderful too.
I havé à feeling you may well be saying that again when the others are sent to you Alex, I am constantly left speechless by the quality of writing here..!
I think that's the beauty of this project, or one of the beauties at least, it lends itself to individuality of expression, so many ways to share the idea (and the idea itself is quite loose, really!). I'm excited to see how different all the posts will be.
I went for a walk yesterday 😉 It was like, or even better than, a summer's day. Blue sky, sun, warmth!!! Back to normal today though - much colder, a bit damp and windy 🤨
Different is what I would like, please! I really want people to be themselves, do their own thing with the idea, that way it stays fresh and delicious!
Beautiful weaving of time and place, a walk through the past and the present, drawing in threads and creating a tapestry of the permanence and the impermanence and the continuity that is our world.
Both a celebration and a certain lament too? A sense of loss that the cycles of life inevitably arouse?
Wonderful. BTW, I love birch sap for some reason. Lot's of it in these parts. Thanks for the read.
Thank you for your kind comment Jonathan, it is interesting that you call upon the word ‘lament’ in replying to this essay, for it is indeed a deep lament I feel for the past and all (and it is much in this fast world of misguided belief in necessity’s that simply are not) that we have lost. I try to be modern in my doings and my thinkings, perhaps this is why I am here writing these essays in the first place, I don’t know, but I do know my instinct is not to be. But there lies a whole other conversation so I will perhaps not stray any further into that particular long debate…
Again, my thanks to you for reading - I wish you a gentle day, with perhaps a glass of birch sap or two for vital energies! I think I was a little previous in my tapping, I will try once more as you suggest, when there are signs of greenery!
I was utterly delighted with this post when I read the draft the other day and, reading again now, I think I'm even happier!
When does the sap rise up with you? Is it later in April? Here, I haven't had chance to tap any, but I am gathering all manner of herbs and leaves this year (even remembering to label the paper bags they are drying in too!).
This is actually the first year I've been this effective with labels! Usually I end up having to sniff and taste herbs and things... Determined to be more organised!
It's a beautiful post and I really enjoyed it as usual.
About the birch sap, usually the temp has to be 8 degrees for a bit, so the sap'll get its boots on, which means Aprilish here, depending on the year. If I wait till the buds start popping the sap is more nutritious, which I counter by using it in a Gin and Birch cocktail ;)
I've frozen the sap before and used the ice/sap cubes in cocktails that way, but I've never tried it with gin! Makes perfect sense, too.
Today, we're expecting 22°c, which is likely to be the warmest this year, thus far. Even at 8am it was 10°c, which seems a lot earlier than I remember last year (we actually have a Book of Numbers, where we record the temperatures, weather, and other details, such as the first brimstone butterfly, for example--I should check!). Today is the first morning I have not lit the stove.
Those temps are a while away, but when the change comes it flips quite quick. It was snowing this morning, could be snowing late April too. But those seasonal rhythms are stuttering under these strange climatic pressures, so who knows.
Sorry to bring it up here under Susie's wonderful piece, and I don't mean to change the subject so to speak but I'd love to offer (a possibly edited) version of one of my "Dog and I" walks. How do I go about doing that?
I'd love a version of one of your Dog and I walks, that would be superb. I think the easiest thing to do is what Susie came up with--email me a draft when you are ready (I'll DM you my email address), we work out a date which works for publishing, you publish on your own letter, with an introduction, and a link back to the project post I shared, and I cross-post once you've done that. Susie also tagged/listed me as a writer on her post, so I got notifications of comments, which was great as the cross-post doesn't allow commentary on my own Substack.
I hope that makes sense? I'm very excited to see what you want to share.
That sounds perfect Jonathan… and what better place to offer it than on one that is already written! If you check Alex’s last post there are links back to the original question asked, in fact I am certain I added a link at the bottom of mine too…
I’m so glad Debs, thank you for taking time for reading this rather long (could have been so much longer!) essay. Now for the big catch up everywhere! Happy Ostra to you. X
Its taken me nearly twenty years to gather probably only a tiny percentage of all there is to know of this hill, and truly, I still feel lacking, there is so much more to know?
PS Writing this has made me wonder about dedicating a whole section to the healing properties of wild plants…! Look what you’ve done! ;-)
Exactly this! Always so much more to know, it's just so wonderful.
It is also one reason I started this part of my letter, a way to share knowledge but also to learn more--and it is going hand in hand with teaching little Ailsa the same things. I'm hopeful she maintains her interest in the subject. What I find remarkable is how she holds that information in her head, even though she can't really talk very well yet. She'll point out a track or sign, or a tree we once talked about, weeks or months later. I love that.
And hurray for a healing plants section! It's a topic I'm also currently a bit addicted to.
I have failed miserably in holding my sons interest in anything natural… although he will point out a beautiful misty morning or sunset, as hard as I tried he just isn’t interested. My daughter though, who has learned over two countries is very knowledgeable… she too retained all (and has learnt more independently of me) that I taught her and loves nothing more when she’s home than to walk all the tracks on the hill with me… Ailsa will be the same I’m sure…
Healing plant knowledge, to me is vital information, I believe we can’t know enough at this time. It takes time but slowly you understand there is so so much more than just using one plant. Many work like magic together…
I really hope Ailsa takes after your daughter and not your son!!
And yes, it is VITAL information and utterly fascinating. One thing I really appreciate is how the internet can provide all manner of information on this topic. Last night's bedtime reading was this: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9510174/
As an example, all about the walnut. I had no idea just how many ethnomedicinal uses there are for it. I knew a couple, but the list is ridiculous. I also really appreciate how science is finally catching up with actually trying to work out how and why certain leaves, or berries, or flowers, roots, bark etc actually work. The natural world holds so many mysteries and wonders.
I’ve just clicked that link you sent Alex, this is a very good site and one I refer to also occasionally, although I tend to stick to my book ‘The Modern Herbal’ by Mrs Grieve which is filled with the basics of the time… for me it’s enough and I’m less likely to be sidetracked! I have been looking at Lichens recently… this group of tittle plant life is extraordinary also! Actually, most plants are!
Absolutely! I must admit I had a brief touch of envy about that relationship - it is so deep and knowledgeable. I would dearly love to foster a relationship like that with a particular place. So inspiring.
How many people have responded to your call for written pieces? Have you got a collation anywhere?
I have around ten people interested thus far, but I think that number will grow. I am trying to think about how to have a space for those interested to chat about it--I've yet to use chats, for example, so maybe there? It might help?
For me, when I read Susie's words, I'm transported back to the time I lived on my own wooded hill (not really 'mine' of course!)--I think that is probably the closest I have come to the same depth of a relationship with place, apart from childhood, I suppose. I honestly think it is a perfect example of how we cannot own the land but, sometimes, the land has ownership of us.
I think that is precisely the relationship I have Alex, it is more and more apparent to me that I had/have a calling (as corny as that sounds) to this tiny corner of France. So much so that I have stopped thinking of travelling to far places. There really is enough right here for a lifetime of wonder!
I agree, I think that's a good number to start the ball/walk rolling, as it were!
I really do think it is a good project, one with a lot of scope and a lot to share, everyone doing their own thing with the basic idea. One of the things I love about Substack is how so many writers and artists showcase their work in their own way, and how we're all different. To find something which can bring all these individuals together like this makes me happy.
Beautiful writing Susie. I’m always glad to join you in your walks. I can almost feel myself there. Today, I could even smell the honeysuckle, although although it’s not out yet - magic indeed 💛💛
Warm blossomy thanks Emily, I delighted you enjoyed the wander…. it has felt like spring here for the last few days, blissfully so after so much rainy cold days.
I think honeysuckle has one of those scents where someone only has to say the word and we catch it’s sweet smell in the breeze… 🌸🍃x
Beautiful (and fascinating) words, Susie. I envy you your knowledge. You are so right, Spring is unfurling SO slowly this year. The riot of greens bursting forth was so last year. The birds are back but whistling gently, the heavy rainwaters are soaking into the ground at last and there’s a sneaking warmth. We love Spring … hoping the riot starts soon. Beautiful writing. And thank you for sharing Alexander’s too. I am slowly catching up. Yours is dated for Olivia’s 4th birthday today … Alexander’s written on my Mum’s birthday. Celebratory reads.
Ahh, always I read your words with a smile Barrie, thank you so very much…
Spring is slow this year, I’m so glad you agree. I sometimes wonder if I’m just so impatient for it to begin that I’m wishing days away and forgetting that nature can’t do the same! The riot began this week here, finally… (after my final draft of this post of course) I am literally walking in clouds and clouds of blossom and flushes of palest green… and the temperatures have been in the low twenties! Can you hear that sigh of pleasure?
Watch this space though. 22° today, half that forecast for Saturday. Grass cutting is started and JoJo planted a few seeds. The sign for Olivia’s garden is back up after wintering in a shed. Spring. Slowly, gently.
We have the same rather disappointing weekend temperatures ahead also… my mower has refused to wake from its winter rest so I have been attached to the strimmer every free hour possible this week, I’ve tackled the worst but am by no means finished and unlikely to beat the weather now either! Grrrrr… double grrrr in fact!
Is it weird that I miss cutting the grass?! We only have a small space outside, and all the veg and flowers are grown in containers, so there's no need to strim. That said, I do enjoy getting the scythe out when we head up to the mountain house in St. Julien. There's just something about sharpening it, then the swish swish swish.
I find pushing the mower around quite mindful. I never quite know where I’m heading. It’s all wavy lines and pathways through the meadow. I’ll share some snaps in the weeks to come. JoJo had visions of scything here until it became clear quite how big the job would be!!
Yes! Bursting with blossom and humming with bees. This winter has felt long and dark to me, so the return of the sun and (albeit slow) greening is so very welcome.
What's interesting is that last year the signs of spring were only three or four days ahead of this one, yet it seems much longer than that. Recording when I first saw a Brimstone butterfly, or the day we first didn't light a fire in the morning, along with the actual temperatures outside is really useful!
I love this image of you cataloging the arrival of butterflies and the digits of temperature, the fact that there was no fire required on X date. I note these things in my head, but to write them down, as you have said here, makes those moment and memories into sacred events and gives me a new enthusiasm for the changing days at the liminal edges of seasons. Thank you.
I think hère too it wasn’t so many days before but you’re right, it feels like forever! We are due a bitterly cold weekend too apparently, weather from Siberia… fur coat and bikini weather!
Yesterday was our first totally Spring day - very welcome. A cycle to the boulangerie then the marché. Panniers loaded with goodies. A day spent in the potager, cutting, raking, weeding, planning. Supper cooked by me ... off to bed with the telltale aches of a day of garden work! The fruit trees are blossoming. And today is overcast so I've done some chores to earn some writing time!
We’ve had a few lovely days now, I have a feeling we are about to suffer though… apparently Siberian winds are arriving in force this weekend! Crazy weather… I’m feeling chuffed to bits that I persevered with the stripping! And yes I too have all the aches and pains too!
This sounds like a wonderful day. We're going to do more cycling this year, now that Ailsa is old enough to sit in the carrier. They're currently building a safer cycle route all the way from Grenoble out towards Bourg d'Oisans (and maybe beyond, not sure!), which is great. Another lovely day here today, but we're also expecting bad weather this weekend.
Just beautiful, Susie. The details and sense of being there with nature are extraordinary. It gives me a strong desire to go walk in the woodlands right now. Which is actually what we have planned later this morning, so this all works out perfectly.
"I meander animal made paths that never cease to beckon and beguile, my footprints, transient, over theirs, badger and hare, boar and deer, pine marten and fox, all are present through scattered copses of silver birch, their trunks still nestled in fading copper bracken." <-- my favourite passage.
"It gives me a strong desire to go walk in the woodlands right now." I think this is the best testament to the quality of this piece!
I am completely humbled and honored that you took time from your day to walk my hill Nathan, thank you hugely.
I have learned, too slowly, that if I am quiet, almost to the becoming part of the forest stage, those animals appear.. cautiously but bravely because they too are curious creatures… it is a fine thing nature when time is granted us to appreciate the myriad details! 🙏🏽
This is wise, walking quietly and calmly. I call it forest pace, but I'm sure I didn't invent that. I remember once realising that my footfall was at the same rhythm of my heartrate when I walk in the woods, and both are far slower than if I walk in a city, for example.
“For twenty years I have had - and still have - a burning need to know every change, every tree that falls, every bird that calls, every first flower, first leaf to unfurl.
Every story.” And in your knowing, you become an offering, giving shape, scent and voice to the exquisite silence of the earth. We hear her through you. 🙏
Nothing makes me happier than to know that what I share of this betrothal between hill and I is being heard, thank you dear Kimberly for listening 🤍
I think Alex is quite close to the feeling that envelopes me whole when he says it’s like a meditation… in fact I am am a hopeless meditator, I am too distracted and fidgety, just as I was in class and occasionally still am! If I’m walking though, the distractions are exactly what I’m there for. It is the perfect compromise and my heart is filled with joy that the evidence can be shared in this unexpected place of kind and beautiful kindred spirits… x
Beautifully put, Kimberly! Reading Susie's words felt something like a meditation to me, so this comment fits wonderfully. (And, I suppose, the process of walking the land and bringing back her magic to all, shared through the also-magic of words, is precisely what the shamans or spiritual guides would have done too. Once upon a time.)
I love that you see this a meditation Alex, I don’t have the knowledge or know the magic of the shamans but it is indeed an very spiritual journey - and I love so much that I can share it for others to enjoy. Thanks you once again for kind and thoughtful words.
I feel the same way Alexander. When I see a post from Susie, it's always a "save" and wait until I'm settled in on the sofa, cat in lap, for proper assimilation. :)
🙏🏽♥️
This sounds perfect!
Wow! This is gorgeous. What a fun and challenging assignment. I, for one, am glad you took it on and that Alexander offered it. What a beautiful, nourishing thing to know a piece of land and it’s “wild remedies gathered, passed down through the ages, infinitely whispered secrets.” And what a gift to share this knowledge. Thank you both. ♥️
Thank you so very much for your kind comment and taking time to read through Holly, it is a truly wonderful gift to live in a part for the world that is still wild and to learn it’s secrets. There is still so much to tell too, and yet more to learn. I have a feeling it will turn into a lifetime of learning! And I can only repeat what Alex writes, perhaps you might join us with your own wandering?
Wishing you a very lovely weekend… 🍃
Always so much to learn and share! This used to fill me with fear, the sheer scope of the topic, but now I find it reassuring.
Enough for three life times IMO, I don’t think we will ever know everything but the learning is definitely addictive !
Thank you, Susie. You too. ♥️
What a lovely comment, thank you! I'm really so very happy with Susie's post (and can't wait to read the others later this year).
I should also add, if you would also like to take part, you are more than welcome!
Looking forward to the others now too. And, Alexander, that would be wonderful. I'll start putting something together and reach out when it's taking shape?
I will look forward to that immensely Holly!
Excellent! That's wonderful news, thank you!
Beautiful spring wanderings in Paradise Susie. I just plucked a lone remaining honeysuckle yesterday and breathed in the last of summer. I don't feel nostalgic though as I love all the seasons with their individual flavours and feelings. I think autumn is my favourite though. xx
Thank you for reading Jo, I am waiting impatiently for all those glorious scents to arrive… they’re wafting in slowly this year… I too am happy no matter the season - just so long as it doesn’t rain incessantly ! 😂Which it has since November 🫣
Wish you a lovely day… make the most of the last blooms… xx
💚
I'm very much looking forward to honeysuckle scent once more. Here, my own mountain is wreathed in the scent of early blossom. I swear it is stronger this year, but maybe I'm just in need of spring that little bit more?
Oh Susie that's great. Rich engaging writing. Love the detail – as always; and the photos.
I too do a lot of foraging but my one attempt at silver birch sap, decades ago, didn't work. Delighted yours did.
Just seen the French film Ferme Betrands – have you seen it yet? Haute-Savoie; the story of a few generations of the farm. Mesmerising. x
Thank you Roselle, I will go one more time this weekend (Easter will be too late) to tap some more, whilst I succeeded the sap, was not ready, I will use it for watering my indoor plants. I never take too much, just enough for the family to have a glass each for a couple of days, a spring treat sort of…
I have yet to see this film, it was mentioned to me by a work colleague (she’s a geography professor) and I’ve already a note to track it down! I’m glad to hear you enjoyed it too, I’m even more keen knowing that. X
I'm going to also add this film to my To Be Watched list! Thanks.
It's been a while since I tapped any birch, but there'll still be time here if I head up the mountains. I wasn't going to bother this year, but all this talk of sap is making me crave some!
Happy tapping! Do you drink it straight or with gin like Jonathan, ;-)
I have frozen it in icecubes and added it to cocktails (not gin, though! Not yet, at least.), but in the past I've usually just had it straight. I've been thinking about other things it would really work with, and I think an elderflower cordial would be perfect... We made some of that a few years ago and it was amazing! Of course, keeping it to have with the sap would be a challenge!
We make it every year Alex, it doesn’t last five minutes in this house! You could always freeze plenty of sap in cubes and add hose to the cordial !
It was a lovely film, Alexander. (Where are you? Speaking of mountains.) Reminded me a bit of Le Quattro Volte. Moving documentary of the generations in one place, and stunning scenery. Even as a vegan I enjoyed it (it takes place on a dairy farm).
I didn't know that film, either, it has also been added to my ever-growing list, thanks!
There's just something about people who are connected to place over generations, that depth of almost-accidental knowledge is not to be trifled with. I've seen it a lot in the north of Scotland, as well as here in the little village we live in. I'm currently based in the Alpes, in Isère, about 40 minutes drive from Grenoble. The mountains start here. It's a good place to be for now.
Beautiful, beautiful writing.
Thank you for reading Louise, I’m delighted you enjoyed it.
I couldn't be happier with this, it really transports the reader to just one small corner of our world, wrapping them in nature and deep time, which is the whole point of the series! Delighted!
I am so utterly thrilled with this. I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed it, or just how right your words and images feel. For me, when I envisaged this idea, of sharing our walks through this lens, I honestly could not have hoped for better. This is, in short, perfect. Thank you so very much, I cannot wait to hear more later this year!
Enormous and very humble, from my heart, thanks for your incredibly kind words AND this wonderful project Alex… I truly am so very happy/relieved that it was what you had hoped for. I am so excited for summer, and not just because it will be summer!
Enjoy the rest of your evening - I have a few comments to reply to! ;-)
Just a few comments! :)
I'm really happy with this project, the idea certainly seems to have resonated and inspired a few people. (And yes, I'm very much looking forward to summer too!)
Absolutely beautiful, Susie!
Thanks heaps Lynn..! I’m delighted you think so… xx
Your writing is very lyrical - just lovely.
That couldn’t delight me more… 🙏🏽♥️
I'm really chuffed with this! A great way to launch this series.
It's fabulous - I think I'll hang up my laptop now, lol
Hahaha! Susie has certainly set a high bar! However, I think this can only be a good thing and I really cannot wait to see what you come up with, too. I have absolute confidence it will be wonderful too.
I havé à feeling you may well be saying that again when the others are sent to you Alex, I am constantly left speechless by the quality of writing here..!
I think that's the beauty of this project, or one of the beauties at least, it lends itself to individuality of expression, so many ways to share the idea (and the idea itself is quite loose, really!). I'm excited to see how different all the posts will be.
Let's just say, it'll be different 😂
I look forward to whatever you do immensely Lynn, with your archeological knowledge what ever you produce will be fabulous..!
I went for a walk yesterday 😉 It was like, or even better than, a summer's day. Blue sky, sun, warmth!!! Back to normal today though - much colder, a bit damp and windy 🤨
Different is what I would like, please! I really want people to be themselves, do their own thing with the idea, that way it stays fresh and delicious!
Excellent! J'ai une idée 😁
Beautiful weaving of time and place, a walk through the past and the present, drawing in threads and creating a tapestry of the permanence and the impermanence and the continuity that is our world.
Both a celebration and a certain lament too? A sense of loss that the cycles of life inevitably arouse?
Wonderful. BTW, I love birch sap for some reason. Lot's of it in these parts. Thanks for the read.
Thank you for your kind comment Jonathan, it is interesting that you call upon the word ‘lament’ in replying to this essay, for it is indeed a deep lament I feel for the past and all (and it is much in this fast world of misguided belief in necessity’s that simply are not) that we have lost. I try to be modern in my doings and my thinkings, perhaps this is why I am here writing these essays in the first place, I don’t know, but I do know my instinct is not to be. But there lies a whole other conversation so I will perhaps not stray any further into that particular long debate…
Again, my thanks to you for reading - I wish you a gentle day, with perhaps a glass of birch sap or two for vital energies! I think I was a little previous in my tapping, I will try once more as you suggest, when there are signs of greenery!
I do think there is a long conversation and debate to be had around that topic! Not at this moment, but one day, I'm sure.
I was utterly delighted with this post when I read the draft the other day and, reading again now, I think I'm even happier!
When does the sap rise up with you? Is it later in April? Here, I haven't had chance to tap any, but I am gathering all manner of herbs and leaves this year (even remembering to label the paper bags they are drying in too!).
You are a more organized gatherer than I then Alex, labeling is my sore point… I rely on recognition and scent… not always effectively either!
This is actually the first year I've been this effective with labels! Usually I end up having to sniff and taste herbs and things... Determined to be more organised!
It's a beautiful post and I really enjoyed it as usual.
About the birch sap, usually the temp has to be 8 degrees for a bit, so the sap'll get its boots on, which means Aprilish here, depending on the year. If I wait till the buds start popping the sap is more nutritious, which I counter by using it in a Gin and Birch cocktail ;)
A gin and birch cocktail? This I must try… although I’m not generally terribly good with any alcoholic drink!
I've frozen the sap before and used the ice/sap cubes in cocktails that way, but I've never tried it with gin! Makes perfect sense, too.
Today, we're expecting 22°c, which is likely to be the warmest this year, thus far. Even at 8am it was 10°c, which seems a lot earlier than I remember last year (we actually have a Book of Numbers, where we record the temperatures, weather, and other details, such as the first brimstone butterfly, for example--I should check!). Today is the first morning I have not lit the stove.
Those temps are a while away, but when the change comes it flips quite quick. It was snowing this morning, could be snowing late April too. But those seasonal rhythms are stuttering under these strange climatic pressures, so who knows.
Sorry to bring it up here under Susie's wonderful piece, and I don't mean to change the subject so to speak but I'd love to offer (a possibly edited) version of one of my "Dog and I" walks. How do I go about doing that?
I'd love a version of one of your Dog and I walks, that would be superb. I think the easiest thing to do is what Susie came up with--email me a draft when you are ready (I'll DM you my email address), we work out a date which works for publishing, you publish on your own letter, with an introduction, and a link back to the project post I shared, and I cross-post once you've done that. Susie also tagged/listed me as a writer on her post, so I got notifications of comments, which was great as the cross-post doesn't allow commentary on my own Substack.
I hope that makes sense? I'm very excited to see what you want to share.
That sounds perfect Jonathan… and what better place to offer it than on one that is already written! If you check Alex’s last post there are links back to the original question asked, in fact I am certain I added a link at the bottom of mine too…
Well, it was worth the wait, and your effort. So many interesting bits in this lovely piece, as always, you transport me to your hill, La Paradis.
I’m so glad Debs, thank you for taking time for reading this rather long (could have been so much longer!) essay. Now for the big catch up everywhere! Happy Ostra to you. X
And to you! The sun has finally come out here and I'm appreciating it, we never know how long it will last!
We have just one more day Debs, then back to winter again in wicked Siberian winds!
It's just so great, right? The depth of Susie's knowledge and relationship with her hill is just so perfect.
Its taken me nearly twenty years to gather probably only a tiny percentage of all there is to know of this hill, and truly, I still feel lacking, there is so much more to know?
PS Writing this has made me wonder about dedicating a whole section to the healing properties of wild plants…! Look what you’ve done! ;-)
Exactly this! Always so much more to know, it's just so wonderful.
It is also one reason I started this part of my letter, a way to share knowledge but also to learn more--and it is going hand in hand with teaching little Ailsa the same things. I'm hopeful she maintains her interest in the subject. What I find remarkable is how she holds that information in her head, even though she can't really talk very well yet. She'll point out a track or sign, or a tree we once talked about, weeks or months later. I love that.
And hurray for a healing plants section! It's a topic I'm also currently a bit addicted to.
I have failed miserably in holding my sons interest in anything natural… although he will point out a beautiful misty morning or sunset, as hard as I tried he just isn’t interested. My daughter though, who has learned over two countries is very knowledgeable… she too retained all (and has learnt more independently of me) that I taught her and loves nothing more when she’s home than to walk all the tracks on the hill with me… Ailsa will be the same I’m sure…
Healing plant knowledge, to me is vital information, I believe we can’t know enough at this time. It takes time but slowly you understand there is so so much more than just using one plant. Many work like magic together…
I really hope Ailsa takes after your daughter and not your son!!
And yes, it is VITAL information and utterly fascinating. One thing I really appreciate is how the internet can provide all manner of information on this topic. Last night's bedtime reading was this: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9510174/
As an example, all about the walnut. I had no idea just how many ethnomedicinal uses there are for it. I knew a couple, but the list is ridiculous. I also really appreciate how science is finally catching up with actually trying to work out how and why certain leaves, or berries, or flowers, roots, bark etc actually work. The natural world holds so many mysteries and wonders.
I’ve just clicked that link you sent Alex, this is a very good site and one I refer to also occasionally, although I tend to stick to my book ‘The Modern Herbal’ by Mrs Grieve which is filled with the basics of the time… for me it’s enough and I’m less likely to be sidetracked! I have been looking at Lichens recently… this group of tittle plant life is extraordinary also! Actually, most plants are!
Absolutely! I must admit I had a brief touch of envy about that relationship - it is so deep and knowledgeable. I would dearly love to foster a relationship like that with a particular place. So inspiring.
How many people have responded to your call for written pieces? Have you got a collation anywhere?
You have a whole island Debs, with sea and fish and shells, am envious of that too! X
That's true! I've only been here a short time, so I'm still at the beginning of my relationship with it. But that's exciting too, I guess.
I have around ten people interested thus far, but I think that number will grow. I am trying to think about how to have a space for those interested to chat about it--I've yet to use chats, for example, so maybe there? It might help?
For me, when I read Susie's words, I'm transported back to the time I lived on my own wooded hill (not really 'mine' of course!)--I think that is probably the closest I have come to the same depth of a relationship with place, apart from childhood, I suppose. I honestly think it is a perfect example of how we cannot own the land but, sometimes, the land has ownership of us.
I think that is precisely the relationship I have Alex, it is more and more apparent to me that I had/have a calling (as corny as that sounds) to this tiny corner of France. So much so that I have stopped thinking of travelling to far places. There really is enough right here for a lifetime of wonder!
That's a great response!
I haven't used chats either, so cannot provide any suggestions there!
And yes, I like how you've phrased that "the land has ownership of us"
What a worthwhile project this is, Alex.
I agree, I think that's a good number to start the ball/walk rolling, as it were!
I really do think it is a good project, one with a lot of scope and a lot to share, everyone doing their own thing with the basic idea. One of the things I love about Substack is how so many writers and artists showcase their work in their own way, and how we're all different. To find something which can bring all these individuals together like this makes me happy.
Beautiful writing Susie. I’m always glad to join you in your walks. I can almost feel myself there. Today, I could even smell the honeysuckle, although although it’s not out yet - magic indeed 💛💛
Warm blossomy thanks Emily, I delighted you enjoyed the wander…. it has felt like spring here for the last few days, blissfully so after so much rainy cold days.
I think honeysuckle has one of those scents where someone only has to say the word and we catch it’s sweet smell in the breeze… 🌸🍃x
Magic is the word! And I'm with you in being able to smell the honeysuckle (I can, now, in my head!).
Beautiful (and fascinating) words, Susie. I envy you your knowledge. You are so right, Spring is unfurling SO slowly this year. The riot of greens bursting forth was so last year. The birds are back but whistling gently, the heavy rainwaters are soaking into the ground at last and there’s a sneaking warmth. We love Spring … hoping the riot starts soon. Beautiful writing. And thank you for sharing Alexander’s too. I am slowly catching up. Yours is dated for Olivia’s 4th birthday today … Alexander’s written on my Mum’s birthday. Celebratory reads.
Ahh, always I read your words with a smile Barrie, thank you so very much…
Spring is slow this year, I’m so glad you agree. I sometimes wonder if I’m just so impatient for it to begin that I’m wishing days away and forgetting that nature can’t do the same! The riot began this week here, finally… (after my final draft of this post of course) I am literally walking in clouds and clouds of blossom and flushes of palest green… and the temperatures have been in the low twenties! Can you hear that sigh of pleasure?
Birthdays and blossom… how perfect!
Watch this space though. 22° today, half that forecast for Saturday. Grass cutting is started and JoJo planted a few seeds. The sign for Olivia’s garden is back up after wintering in a shed. Spring. Slowly, gently.
We have the same rather disappointing weekend temperatures ahead also… my mower has refused to wake from its winter rest so I have been attached to the strimmer every free hour possible this week, I’ve tackled the worst but am by no means finished and unlikely to beat the weather now either! Grrrrr… double grrrr in fact!
So frustrating. I’ve been cutting and strimming like mad. Grass cuttings piled high in new compost compartment! All go.
Is it weird that I miss cutting the grass?! We only have a small space outside, and all the veg and flowers are grown in containers, so there's no need to strim. That said, I do enjoy getting the scythe out when we head up to the mountain house in St. Julien. There's just something about sharpening it, then the swish swish swish.
I find pushing the mower around quite mindful. I never quite know where I’m heading. It’s all wavy lines and pathways through the meadow. I’ll share some snaps in the weeks to come. JoJo had visions of scything here until it became clear quite how big the job would be!!
Ah, I love this, those dates are wonderful, celebratory indeed.
Feels like springtime serendipity
Yes! Bursting with blossom and humming with bees. This winter has felt long and dark to me, so the return of the sun and (albeit slow) greening is so very welcome.
Same here Alex, winter has felt eternally long and particularly grey, green is much needed now… I can feel it’s in the air though!
What's interesting is that last year the signs of spring were only three or four days ahead of this one, yet it seems much longer than that. Recording when I first saw a Brimstone butterfly, or the day we first didn't light a fire in the morning, along with the actual temperatures outside is really useful!
I love this image of you cataloging the arrival of butterflies and the digits of temperature, the fact that there was no fire required on X date. I note these things in my head, but to write them down, as you have said here, makes those moment and memories into sacred events and gives me a new enthusiasm for the changing days at the liminal edges of seasons. Thank you.
I think hère too it wasn’t so many days before but you’re right, it feels like forever! We are due a bitterly cold weekend too apparently, weather from Siberia… fur coat and bikini weather!
Yesterday was our first totally Spring day - very welcome. A cycle to the boulangerie then the marché. Panniers loaded with goodies. A day spent in the potager, cutting, raking, weeding, planning. Supper cooked by me ... off to bed with the telltale aches of a day of garden work! The fruit trees are blossoming. And today is overcast so I've done some chores to earn some writing time!
We’ve had a few lovely days now, I have a feeling we are about to suffer though… apparently Siberian winds are arriving in force this weekend! Crazy weather… I’m feeling chuffed to bits that I persevered with the stripping! And yes I too have all the aches and pains too!
Stay cosy!!
This sounds like a wonderful day. We're going to do more cycling this year, now that Ailsa is old enough to sit in the carrier. They're currently building a safer cycle route all the way from Grenoble out towards Bourg d'Oisans (and maybe beyond, not sure!), which is great. Another lovely day here today, but we're also expecting bad weather this weekend.
Ailsa will love that. The new route will be amazing when it’s done.