January 19, 2023

Good morning!

It’s Thursday. I haven’t found the musical tiles yet, but I suspect I may have located the branch that activates the sliding door to Old Man Cooter’s secret playroom.

Why does he keep it secret? I have a few theories. First, Old Man Cooter is famously shy. If he doesn’t want us to see him sitting at his chair, I’m sure he doesn’t want us to catch him jumping on his trampoline or playing skeeball. My other theory is that he doesn’t want the bears breaking his toys. Ditto the foxes or raccoons—although I suspect he’s shown the bobcat how to get inside. Ours is a very earnest and trustworthy bobcat.

So if you need me, I’ll be here searching for that secret switch or button. It’s got to be on this tree somewhere.

“What you seek is seeking you.”

—Rumi

Onwards, with an occasional glance over my shoulder,

Clara