Echoes from the Wander

05 January 2026

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Stirring from hibernation.

That’s the closest truth I have.

I’ve been still for a few days—still enough to notice how much motion lives just beneath it. My body asks for rest. My mind insists on forward pull. I’m learning to let both speak.

A compromise feels right.

My working manifesto:

STILL CURIOUS
STILL HERE
STILL—
REACHING

I hope your winter gave you whatever your quieter dreams required. Winter only visits once a year. It deserves attention.

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Reflections

Last week

I sat silent—when my racing heart allowed.

A new cardiac issue has me renegotiating stillness. I expect it will resolve over time. It may wobble me as the year begins, but it will not stop me.

Within those limits, I worked deeply on my Threlraan syllabary and finalized the rules of this alien language. The task has been vast and intricate—and unexpectedly joyful. Though I’ve never read Tolkien, I remain in awe of the devotion required to build a language that holds.

After a minor saga involving the correct pencil, I began a digital art course in Procreate with Lisa Bardot. One week in, my favorite drawing is still the pear—and I’m learning to love that.

I’m working toward illustrating an origin myth for Mycte, the homeworld of the Biet Lagos. I think of it as an adult/children’s book: one story, layered for different eyes. I may test the waters with a fuller version later this week.

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What’s ahead

I’m researching a new essay series—one that may bring earlier work, including the Star Archive, full circle. Timing remains fluid.

I’m still sorting through my father’s words. The surface glimpses unsettle me. They also pull me forward.

Poetry and phaiku continue to call, as they always do. Most surprises will likely be mine—but I’m glad when you walk alongside me.

For now: quiet.
Intentionally.

—Jennifer
JL Tooker

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