The Challenge of Re-entry

I promised I'd let you know that I'm home safely...

Driving home through rain
Heavy and dark,
Dramatic contrast to dryness of
Our Western digs.

Rain enough to
Raise river level in Northfield.
Folks buzzing in town square
Viewing & photographing swollen Cannon River.

Portion of bicycle path
Underwater until river subsides.

I'm glad to be here,
Yet, I have a hard time settling home.

Tasks with definite start and finish points,
Like doing, folding laundry,
Help ground me to this place.

One-on-one visits with dear friends
Solidly tell me that
These people, in this place
Make home.

Grounding gift for today is
Twenty-four mile round trip bike ride
To Linda's welcoming coffee and attention.
Catching up, sharing feelings.
This makes home.

Bob and I will soon look at calendar
Selecting possible ten days—

Bob and I will soon look at calendar
Selecting possible ten days—
Maybe late September,
For autumn unsupported bike ride together;
Looping somewhere through MN .

That is next bike trip in mind's eye.
An enthusing intent
To be put in place.
I'll let you know when we're set to go.

This has been a summer of amazing bicycle
And speaking adventure.
Privilege of time, health, support, encouragement.
Many thanks.

Hugs to each,
Lin

Back-Home Limerick:

The pattern is when she's returning,
She lets her mind slide into yearning,
For bike on a ride,
No need to decide,
On which point she will be relearning.