Winds blow in Port Townsend
and I see all of us
on long, long tethers
blithely floating
out over the bay.

The gulls are astonished
(even an eagle or two)
outraged at this invasion.

Because of the leash laws
our dogs anchor us
to familiar yards and hedges.
They will not let us go.
We are their faithful companions
and they cannot afford the fines for strays.

Let’s make a day of it,
blowing kisses and bobbing
at the end of our lines.
O, it is fine up here
when the wind blows
in Port Townsend.
by Rusty North

Rusty North passed away on Sunday at the age of 88. She was one of the most inspirational and incredible women I have ever been honored to know. Artist, poet, mother,publisher, friend and someone I will miss terribly as she passes from my life. Memories will linger, her wisdom has become a part of me but I will feel her loss often.She was one of the first people I met when I came to live in Port Townsend. She was my elder in Quaker meetings. She encouraged my painting and my work. She always found time to see my art shows, to comment on my paintings. Many were the afternoons I spent sipping tea with honey in her kitchen, listening to the fire in the big old wood stove, watching her use her small press to print chap books of poetry. I will miss her but I am a richer person for having known her and having been able to call her friend.