The Rainbow Connection

June 2019

University of Washington. Working on Public Philosophy Network Outline. Getting Back to the Books

watercolor painting of my friend's son Noah 

June has been a whirlwind of adventure, traveling through the Pacific Northwest through Oregon and Washington then coming home for a week of rejuvenation before heading out east for Rainbow Gathering in Wisconsin.

Adventures

Modal Zork

While I was in Portland, Oregon I messaged my sister, Echo that I met working with Peace Village at Rainbow Gathering (Oregon, 2017.) I asked what she was doing that night and she said she was on her way to Portland to see Modal Zork. I was really surprised, I had forgotten that she lived in Oregon. I cleared my schedule for that night to go out and see her. The music and art was a lot of fun, and it was amazing to see her again. She gave me the greatest hug that I needed so badly. 

Chuckanut Mountains Hike

I stayed with my friend Scott in Washington and had the opportunity to hike with him and Jeff one day in the Chuckanut Mountains. It was a beautiful hike and really useful to reconnect with both of these friends from another time of my life. I felt a lot of nostalgia spending time in Washington. I have some deep roots here from my time pursuing my formal education. 

Dead and Company

I didn't realize that there was a Dead and Company show in Washington until I was already in Seattle staying with Scott. When I found out, via Facebook, the day before the show started I began putting together my resources looking for a ride, because I knew I wanted to go but I also knew I didn't want to spend 6 hours in my car by myself to get there. On Friday I went to the food bank to volunteer with Scott and the awesome volunteer coordinator, Marie Clare saw my Grateful Dead shirt and told us that she was driving down Saturday and then driving right back because she had to work Sunday. I told her that worked for me! And asked if I could get a ride if I pitched for gas. I got to meet her sister, brother, and father. They were a great family who were very welcoming to a weird hippie stranger. I told her sister Caroline I would give them 5 stars on Yelp, so, there ya go, 5 stars. 

The concert was amazing. I appreciate the music so much now compared to my first show in 2017 when the only songs I knew were Friend of the Devil and Ripple. Now I feel like many of them are tied to memories and relationships deeper than the ocean. 

Zions National Park

I went to Zions with my friend Damon that I know through Utah Harm Reduction Coalition the weekend when I was back in Salt Lake City. We hiked Angel's Landing which has definitely been on my bucket list, and I bought this dope Indian Blanket Jasper from the gift shop. 

Playing with Jaiden and Kat

Playing with kittens in Jaiden's backyard <3 (ecstatic dance friends) We also made some art together. 

To Infinity and Beyond!!!

A couple days ago I set sail to Rainbow Gathering (in Wisconsin this year) with my friend Sam. I know Sam from UNI 2015, when I was diagnosed with schizophrenia, he has the same diagnosis and has been a loyal friend through the years and has been a major pillar of support for Voices in Wonderland since it's foundation as a Hearing Voices support group. 

Deadhead Art

Writing

Here is my primary stack of research for the Public Philosophy conference in March. This paper is getting written if it is the death of me. Tickets for the event are on sale: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/5th-public-philosophy-network-conference-tickets-59229426810?aff=ebdsorderfblightbox

Community

Co-op

I had an awesome opportunity to spend some time at an artist co-op in Denver the last few days and help out with gardening and see how they operate. The owner has a bus out front and the couple staying here have an indoor free-range rabbit and a very nice doggo. After Rainbow Gathering they are planning to get chickens. This co-op is still in the formation stage and I'm excited to support them as they grow and expand. 

Suki was a great roommate/bunny, super soft and cute.

With Haley in her garden

My friend Rebecca from Healing Mountain massage school came over one evening and made art with me. 

A short original song 

Rainbow Gathering 2019

I'm bringing art supplies to distribute at Rainbow Gathering, hoping to inspire art and encourage others to share their stories and create, thereby opening their throat and sacral chakras. Also, spreading awareness about my organization and the projects I have been working on for the last couple of years. 

Happy Trails

Because I know myself, I am making this post early because I'm heading to Rainbow tomorrow and I don't know where I will end up from there. I know that wherever I land will be where I am meant to be and that brings me great comfort. Until we meet again darlings. PEACE.