baby Eleanor slept all the way there
and then woke up
hottest afternoon of the year
but when we stepped into the barn’s thick walls
it was cooler
Eleanor in Oma’s arms
we looked around
at tools and stables
and then went into the attached house
where my great grandparents lived for thirty years or so
then Taunte Marie lived for another 40 years
her kind presence permeated the house
and yard
and ample garden
we lived in the house and furnishings
baby in arms smiling
and looking at everything
and everyone
she has a stake in this house-barn
which will remain for many years
showing the way
of the quiet in the land
