Her Candid Altar
Sometimes the great bones of my life feel so heavy, and all the tricks my body knows ― the opposable thumbs, the kneecaps, and the mind clicking and clicking — don’t seem enough to carry me through this world and I think: 

how I would like to have wings — blue ones — ribbons of flame. How I would like to open them, and rise.
From “Spring Azures” by Mary Oliver

PHOTOGRAPHS

If you find yourself on the 103, otherwise known as the Fisherman’s Highway, between Maitland and Blockhouse, Nova Scotia, take a look to your left. You’ll have to keep a vigilant eye peeled not to miss her, but trust me she’s worth it. This colossal arachnid is even bigger in person, and she’s stunning. She’s part of the BernArt Maze installation, which I’m not sure has never been open to the public.
Do you recognize her? Her name was Jennie Steeves, born in 1885 to Archie and Laura Steeves in small village in rural New Brunswick, Canada. She left for London at only 14 to study, but soon fell ill, likely to tuberculosis. Only one year later, at age 15, she succumbed to her sickness at her home in Hillsborough. Much mystery surrounds the marble statue erected in her honour, which stands at very farthest point of Grey’s Island Cemetery. Her head seems to disappear then reappear without explanation. I’ve known her since I was 5.
There’s a quaint church for sale in Weldon, New Brunswick, formerly known as the Weldon United Baptist Church, and it’s actually quite affordable! I took a tour with the realtor and can tell you the baptism pool is spectacular. With a bit of TLC it would be the perfect spot for a romantic bath with your love. Or with the big man himself, I don’t judge. The basement bedroom is all ready for you, too, and my, doesn’t it look enticing?
Passing by a family home on the outskirts of Switzerland in the summer of 2024.

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