From the Introduction by Joseph Wood Krutch to Thoreau: Walden and other writings.
“The lessons he had taught himself, and which he tried to teach others, was summed up in the one word ‘Simplify’. That meant simplify the outward circumstances of your life, simplify your needs and ambitions; learn to delight in the simple pleasures which the world of Nature affords. It meant also, scorn public opinion, refuse to accept the common definitions of success, refuse to be moved by the judgement of others.” p.1.
Directly from Thoreau:
”Men have an indistinct notion that if they keep up this activity of joint stocks and spades long enough all will at length ride somewhere, in next to no time, and for nothing; but though a crowd rushes to the depot, and the conductor shouts “All aboard!” When the smoke has blown away and the vapor condensed, it will be perceived that a few are riding, but the rest are run over – and it will be called, and will be, ‘a melancholy accident ‘.” p.2.
Next to our bed, Heather has hung on the wall a needlework sampler. Yes, it read ‘Simplify’.
In these COVID times, it is sometimes difficult to accept the government imposed simplification. From my previous blog post, Rocky Hebb noted that The Inside Story bookstore in Greenwood is outside of the municipality. He further raised the question, whether a book is an ‘essential good’?
The best antidote seems to be working in the garden or getting the orchard in good shape. Or walking down through the property to the Annapolis River. Or bicycling along the Middle Road to Middleton.
Heather LeBlanc responded to my previous blog post with an update on The Mapannapolis Project.
They have announced Mapannapolis 2.0. It started in 2011. Ten years ago. We look forward to the next ten years of progress. It would be wonderful if this initiative became part of a formal relationship between COGS and the community.
With the sale of Andrew’s farm, we have a new audience for background information on Annapolis County. We look forward to welcoming Sinead, Robert and family (some time later in 2021).
Acknowledgements
Thanks to everyone for their blog feedback. In particular, Rocky Hebb, Heather LeBlanc and Sinead Wills. Heather shares the pleasures of garden and orchard. Edward shares his graphics talent.
References
Joseph Wood Krutch, 1962, Thoreau’s Walden and other writings, Bantam Books.
Postscript
It appears that Annapolis County along with adjacent municipal units has resolved the Valley Waste Disposal issue. Hopefully, this is the sign of better collaboration, as we go forward.
Ernest Blair Experiment 
Bob
When we next talk, let’s have some conversation about Mapannapolis.
Brian
Brian Arnott Principal Novita Interpares | Leaf + Branch
novitainterpares.ca >
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Brian:
Happy to provide more information/insight.
Cheers,
Bob
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