Happy 2020, my lichen-loving friends!

Let me keep my distance, always, from those
who think they have the answers.

Let me keep company always with those who say
“Look!” and laugh in astonishment,
and bow their heads.

—Mary Oliver, from: Mysteries, Yes

Feeling Grateful

Following a busy holiday season, Will and I spent a lovely time in Colorado cooking and snowshoeing with family, drinking top-notch amber ales with friends, and unexpectedly buying a new car after our beloved Outback kicked the bucket at 11,000 feet and 1,300 miles from home.

The past few weeks have taught us a lot about gratitude and what it means to be offered—and to accept—support. In a time that could have been beyond stressful, our loved ones offered up everything from rides to beds to booze (in the right order) and helped us pass into the new year with good humor and stability.

Now that I’m back, I’ve been thinking a lot about how my Lichenology community has done the same for me in the past couple of years. Sharing this obscure art form has led to some incredible conversations that keep me hopeful and invested in spite of ever-frightening news. You all give my creations life beyond what I form with my hands, and I hear so many stories of my work living in the world, inspiring others to attentiveness. Practically, you help put food on the table. In 2019, you allowed me to pursue this little business full time. You give me a meaningful occupation and endless inspiration to dig deeper into what it means to be human and care for the things we find precious. Thank you for being there for me—from inspiration to lichen puns to new car payments.