Word from Coldfoot

Dear Friends and Family,

Two days ago, I met the cold, slate waters of the Arctic Ocean and took a plunge, whole-bodied. But for the crescendo of bracing for hours if not days for the freeze and the wonder, can I do it, I might have lingered. I might have let the experience live a little longer—oceanic waters enveloping the body, offering a taste we know before we know breath—but I did not and it did not matter. I was received as I came. I was given an unexpected baptism. And the experience and the journey to and now from these waters have left me nearly absent of word. . . .

So, I share for now from Coldfoot that I made it to Deadhorse and remain on the Dalton for a few more days as I make my way back toward Fairbanks.

Sending love from inside the Artic Circle,

Renée

P. S. I see your thoughtful comments and Substack Notes from Sunday’s letter, and I look forward to sitting still to respond in the days ahead when I have reliable connection again.