The surface of the river is constantly changing. A small group of ducks rushes along, floating in the stream. The water surges around the stones that protrude into the river. Within a few kilometres the water will reach the sea. We would like to make this trip with a canoe some time. But for now …
Shared pain
With the dog on a leash I walk along the bank of a small ditch. A majestic swan floats in the middle of the water and eyes Maus suspiciously. A little further on a cat crosses the street. We continue and pass fresh green weeping willows and a group of coots whose startled flutter makes …
To the north
With four hundred people aboard the plane hurtles through the night. I try to find a position to sleep. If I lean too much to the right, my leg falls asleep, but when I sit up, I get cramps in my neck. My thoughts do not leave me alone. The news that we received a …
Agroecology
In the past few weeks we have been working hard at our WWOOF location on Chiloé. Freddy has been harvesting giant garlic, Ajo Chilote. These are sold in individual cloves, so the major task now is peeling them. Closer to the house, I sowed new lettuce and chard. The work is almost hypnotic; with each …
Shaken up
It’s our first morning on Chiloé. We are halfway through our breakfast when my teaspoon suddenly starts dancing on its saucer. At the same time it seems like someone is at banging on the door. Surprised, we feel that the floor is shaking. It is only then that we realize the whole house is shaking. …
God’s love for animals
During the last few weeks, animals have been very much part of our social environment. In the kitchen, the dogs had the best places near the stove. It was always nice (and warm) to sit with them and scribble their ears. Meanwhile, attempts were made to get some discipline into the three kittens, who were …