Shiloh and Me and Haiku Rocks: The process....

Our process for Haiku Rocks

The Haiku (or Senryu)

1.        Find some place(s) for contemplation.

2.        Find the inspiration.

3.        Stare at a blank sheet of paper.

4.        Start again.

5.        Follow the inspiration and explore the captivity of 5-7-5.

6.        Re-read, tweak, and hone this lovely poem.

7.        Read again in 5 weeks – decide it is not worthy – discard.

8.        Start again.

The Rock (We thought the rock would be the easy part!)

1.        Hunt the island shores for only those rocks that will accept laser etching.

2.        They must be large; bigger than a paw, smaller than a hand, and

3.        Dark in color, zero to minimal pitting, at least one flat surface.

4.        Wash the treasures and let them dry completely.

5.        Pre-treat these beauties over night for their laser experience.

6.        Present them to the laser – cross fingers and claws that technology is smiling today.

7.        Smile with pride at your batch of 3-5 hopefully perfect rocks from the process.

8.        Remove the laser pre-treatment – this is the first time we learn of our success.

9.        Grimace at the reality!

10.  We maintain a not even 25% rate of success even with the rocks we have so carefully chosen!

11.  Praise all the rocks: Some are headed for Woods Hall, the others for the discard pile.

12.  Start again.

These are painstakingly crafted, one-of-a-kind treasures made by God and Shiloh and me.

We all hope you enjoy these island-centric Haiku rocks.