Today I have retreated to Machias, where I sit by the woodstove, snuggled in its warmth, while snow swirls around my little house.

I have come here to heal from Firefighter Snowman's death and the pain I witnessed his fellow firefighters experiencing. I was a long, dreadful week. And so when it was over, I ran to Machias. Where it is quiet and peaceful. Where I can sit and write, paint for hours and cook big wonderful meals to share. I can also...