We spent the day in Port Townsend yesterday in an attempt to secure housing for the very near future. Drove around a bunch, looked in windows, imagined gardens and places for River to play. It’s down to two houses now. I’m voting for this gorgeous little secret that wasn’t even listed. The yard isn’t great, but the owners don’t mind us tearing up some grass to plant a big garden and will help buy some plants to make the front more private. Inside the house, though, is a special place. Impeccable woodwork, tall ceilings, lots of light and great little quirks. I can see our life there easily. It even has this inlay of a compass! Talk about finding direction!

Elie’s pick has a gorgeous entry, more private yard with older trees, and while the house is big, it is also kind of lame. We’ll be deciding soon!

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I have a poem in the current issue of Indiana Review and a “new” piece up at Ink Node. Check ‘em out! And remember to buy a ticket if you want to hear some excellent literature during the Off Hours Summer Reading July 29!

Dang. I don’t know where to start. Been gone a month, but I’m back in the northwest and happily so. River is one and walking. I’m twenty-seven—still a lad, I know. Summer is rolling along nicely. Some friends have arrived from other places; some are on their way out.

I still have a lot to say about solo-sojourns in the backwoods, current writerly worries and impending boat-building mania. For now, I just needed to get something out here so I can move on and into a more regular flow. River says geez dad. And I agree.

There have been some momentous occasions in the past week. For starters, River has a new cousin! Finn Suriyun Braaten was born on June 29th at 3:00am. He’s got a full head of dark hair and fits neatly in the length of my forearm. It was amazing to see River next to Finn—River in constant motion looming over Finn’s tiny sleeping body. One year. I can hardly believe how much changes.

Speaking of changes, River is walking! He’s been able—I swear—for a month at least, but until two days ago he wouldn’t take a step without holding at least one finger. I know a new form of chasing has entered our lives, but I’m glad he’s taking on this independence.

It’s especially nice to imagine how close River and Finn will be as they grow up.

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We’ve been enjoying our Midwest odyssey, going here and there, visiting friends and family, celebrating the marriage of good friends, taking in the hot and humid, paddling, grilling, smiling. Elle’s birthday is tomorrow and I’m ready to spoil her.

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I posted a new (old) poem up at Ink Node and I have a new new poem in the current issue of Indiana Review. Also, check out this wonderful poem by Luke Johnson up at Rattle. I’ve had the good fortune of reading Luke’s full-length manuscript (which includes this poem) and I can’t wait to hold the book in my hands before long. It’s pretty exceptional.

I’ve been writing a bunch and working to get that poet feeling back, especially before my reading on July 29th and especially before Bread Loaf.

For now, I’m happy to linger in the last week of fewer obligations. Then it will be back to packing, moving and searching for ways to make money. A cardinal—damn they are red—just landed on a table not three feet from me. I think it means (the meaning maker says) that I should get back to the moment.