By
Caroline Clemmons
Surely
each of us has memories that stand out as magical. Some are of things I’ve
read. Others are of those I’ve experienced. Those times that take away my breath.
One
of those is a decade or more ago when we lived in a rural area west of the
Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. On the evening news, the meteorologist announced
that Northern Lights were visible from some of the area. Hero and I walked
outside and were amazed. I don’t remember the meteorological explanation. The
Northern Lights were visible—probably not in the full expanse as in the
Scandinavian countries, but enough to surprise and delight us. Magic.
When
our parents were alive, we made what seemed like a gazillion trips to visit
them in Lubbock in West Texas. What would have been creepy to many, but fascinated
us, was the migration of Texas Brown Tarantulas we saw on one trip. Apparently this is an annual event for the male tarantulas to go to the local tarantula bars and strike up an acquaintance with a female tarantula. We were driving home when suddenly, dozens and dozens
of tarantulas rushed from one side of the road to the other. One, I had no idea
there were that many tarantulas living there or in any one place. Second, I had no idea they migrated singly or in droves. I still marvel we were able to see this occur. Magic.
My
favorite moment occurred on another trip. As we drove from Snyder toward Post
on Highway 84, a beautiful mirage appeared. Ahead of us was a the impression of the Rocky Mountains. The details were perfect—crevices, snowline,
peaks, etc., appeared as if we were driving straight toward them. I had read of
this type of mirror image, but this was the only time I’ve seen it. If you know
West Texas topography, you know that it is basically a flat tableland with
arroyos, rivers, and ravines. NO mountains. Yet, here they were, looking as if we were in Colorado. We watched
them for miles until—sadly—the image gradually began to soften, blur, and fade.
Neither of us has forgotten that event. Magic.
Another type of magic is electronic. When I see a favorite author has a new book for preorder, I select it. By release date, I’ll have forgotten. Having it show up on my Kindle automatically. Magic.
Ah, you know where I’m going with this, don’t
you? Yes, I have a new book coming April 21. LEVI AND THE MAIL ORDER BRIDE is up for preorder now on Amazon.
Here’s the link:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BZDT6Q1J
