The Pollening: Generosity and Inspiration

Microseason No. 12, March 30-April 3

Here in the North Carolina we call this time: The Pollening.

Good afternoon! This is the current state of my car windows.

Right now, we can write our names in the thick, yellow dust. Then a sudden thunderstorm will wash it away, and the cycle will begin again. This will go on for several microseasons.

Do we really need this much pollen? Probably not. Nature is always showing us what extravagant giving looks like. We see it all around us now— new Life rejoicing in the golden warmth.

This generative outpouring creates perfect conditions for growth: stems reaching up to the light; roots drilling down. Countless wildflowers! Thousands and thousands of new leaves on every tree.

Everything my camera shows me is dense with energy.

Maybe you feel an urge to create something, too? And why not share it?

Need a little push to encourage you? I’m re-reading Austin Kleon’s book for the umpteenth time. The audio version is like having a conversation with a kind, but straight-talking friend, who will remind you to get over yourself—and go for it!

When you find something you genuinely enjoy, don't let anyone else make you feel bad about it. Don't feel guilty about the pleasure you take in the things you enjoy. Celebrate them.

—Austin Kleon, Show Your Work! 10 Ways To Share Your Creativity And Get Discovered

Is it possible to crochet a freeform spiral like a fiddlehead fern?

Spiraling fiddleheads unfurling along the trail remind me of Lisa Doherty’s 100 day project of freeform crocheted spirals. She’s going with the impulse to let them go wonky and it’s bringing her so much joy in the creative process. Maybe I’ll get out my hook and give it a try, too!

A flowering cherry tree makes an ordinary parking lot near me into a fairyland.

I’m also loving 72 Microseasons — Iki is making a gorgeous substack filled with haiku and images of Japan’s microseasons. I’ve learned there’s a word for fallen cherry blossoms: hana-fubukui which literally means “flower snowstorm.”

I think the fallen petals look just as beautiful on the earth as on the tree.

Notice this moment and Feel it.

Why not let this new microseason spark a creative experiment for you today? Then let it add to the pollening!