Sunday, January 6, 2013

Small Stones for GLP's Typist


Prelude:  A few days ago Georgia Little Pea's Typist (from Little Dogs on Long Leashes), started writing 'small stones' and invited others to do so. I declined as I dislike writing exercises, but ever since then have found myself doing just what Small Stones require.

What is a Small Stone?  According to this link on GLP's blog, " small stone is a short piece of writing that precisely captures a fully-engaged moment....When we translate something we've seen or experienced into words, it is necessary to pay more attention than we usually would. A few minutes of mindful attention (even once a day) helps us to engage with the world in all its beauty."

Today, out walking the dogs, I paid mindful attention.  Here, for the Typist, is the only Small Stone I am ever likely to post:  

From a morning walk

Waffles wafting, starlings squabbling, raptors rising, ducklings diving.  Dogs depositing, cats carousing, Riley resting, Eddie testing.  Woodsmoke drifts on mountain ridges, frost turns white the wooden bridges. Scents and sights bombard my space;  I must capture time and place.  And me without my camera. 
(c) Jean Ballard 2013

3 comments:

georgia little pea said...

Oh beautiful! Aren't you glad you put that down since you had no camera? I could see it all perfectly!

A gift today. You're the 2nd person to "test" this and one of 5 people I was really hoping would go for it because I would love to read your Small Stones! Thank you:)

ENCORE?

Sheryl said...

Amazing!

Kimberly said...

I don't think you should stop at one!