The narratives of children’s books and movies often rely on a narrative of “healing nature.” Miyazaki’s My Neighbor Totoro, with its neglected children being visited by kindly forest spirits while their mother is in a country tuberculosis hospital, fits this narrative. Two of my favorite books from childhood, The Secret Garden and Heidi, both feature children being healed by eating healthy food, getting into the outdoors, and connecting with other people, animals, and plants. I know it’s a too-facile idea, but I figure exposure to fresh air and flowers can’t hurt and might help.

Glenn and I in the last blooming days of the lavender garden

Glenn and I post-dancing in Woodinville

So it’s no surprise that I’ve been drawn to spending time outside, going on long walks, eating fresh fruits and veggies from the farmer’s markets, visiting the local lavender garden, cuddling with my new kitten, and even dancing (Yes, it’s been a while!!) at the local wineries when they bring in live music. These things do feel restorative and healing.

One of my other joy-bringing practices is taking advantage of the art scene here in Seattle. Went to the final group show at my favorite Seattle art gallery, which is closing – Roq La Rue – which was called, appropriately enough, “Death and the Maiden.” There were some fantastic pieces – most of them already sold before we got there, by both up-and-coming artists and familiar names. We also hit the after-party at The Pharmacy bar down the street afterwards (where I got carded! I was like, young man, I could be your mother!) The show and the party were packed, and Roq La Rue attracts such an interesting mix of characters – vibrant candy-colored hair, glitter masks, and eccentric costume are the norm at a show there – that the people-watching was almost as fun as the art watching. There were several pieces that really caught my eye. Here are a few: