from the Ninth Wave Arts caretakers

A red squirrel arrived in early January, working diligently to gather nest materials from a roll of animal-friendly burlap that was simply too large for her to maneuver. She pulled and wrestled with it, making many earnest attempts, but with little success.

She was determined to find a way—holding to it as if it were her personal New Year’s project—but after some time, she paused and took a break.

During that pause, we helped her along a little. The burlap was unrolled, a few pieces cut, and tucked into places nearby where she would likely look. When she returned with renewed focus, there was a quiet joy in watching her secure the pieces, carrying them one at a time to where they were needed, fortifying her nest.

Another day, during a stretch of freezing rain, a tuxedo cat—without a fixed home, and known to visit often and share in small adventures—appeared at the door of Ninth Wave Arts. He huddled close to the window and called out for attention.

He was met with care, offered a bit of time just inside the entrance (and a few snacks) to dry off and warm up.

He gave thanks in his own way—with rolling, with conversation. There was much to share from his day, and while he has yet to show any desire for a permanent home, it seems he is keeping his options open.

Not long after, while sweeping the floor, an intricate spider’s web was noticed in the corner of the Ninth Wave Arts kitchen. It was speckled with something green, giving part of it the appearance of a tiny, translucent egg. A closer look revealed it had likely been dusted—quite unintentionally—with matcha powder from a recently prepared tea.

The idea of “ceremonial” tea took on a new meaning.

At the centre of the web sat the spider herself, a delicate weaver tending steadfastly to her chosen corner. She was left undisturbed, held in the quiet beauty of her green-tinged web.

There is a daily interweaving here with these beings of the land—and many others—and they with us. As they move through their days with their tasks and wanderings, so do we.

Here’s to the year ahead bringing continued opportunities to meet these beings, to honour relationship, and to invite deeper connection. May there be the fulfillment of a squirrel’s New Year’s wish, the sharing of news from a passing cat, and the quiet company of tea with a spider.