Along a picturesque, winding Stillwater Township road (just outside the city of Stillwater, Minnesota) is a fallen log with a hollowed area. Many years ago my husband was cycling by, and the log happened to catch his eye. An object sat in the hollow opening. He doesn’t remember what it was, but he knew it was intentionally placed. The next time he cycled by, he looked again. The original item had been replaced with something different. So began his tradition of cycling by the log to see the objects. He later took me to see the log, and now, as a simple joy, we will sometimes route ourselves past the log just to see what is inside.
The item usually represents a season, holiday, or tradition. I always look around to see if anyone I could ask about it is nearby. I’m curious about the story behind the practice of placing an object. Who started it? When and why? The log is somewhat out of sight and would likely be missed if one didn’t know it was there. So it isn’t like placing the object is an attention-seeking gesture. Rather, the item seems to be placed as a happy little surprise for those who pay attention and are alert.
Today, after raking leaves on a cloudy, drizzly day, we went for a relaxing drive, winding our way to the log and curious to see if the pumpkin from last week had been replaced with something new. Sure enough, a turkey perched in the pumpkin’s place.
This silly log has become a happy detour for us—even a bit of a destination. We still haven’t seen anyone nearby to ask about it, so it remains a fun little mystery. I wonder if the person placing the objects knows how much those of us who wander by are delighted by the ever-changing surprise.
Is there a simple joy that you keep coming back to?
Mary
What a simple and very sweet tradition. And such anticipation and joy it can bring to others. Lovely. Thank you for sharing this story.
Susan
Mary, I’m glad you enjoyed this. Stories like these are my favorites – the simple little surprises of every day life that bring us joy.