the wilderness used to be quieter

In my summer paradise. This day between the sea and the forest I expected to be a quiet one, with nothing heard besides birds and my mother's voice.

Unexpected additions, however: A grey owl keeping me awake at night. Heavy rain. Messages from two friends, not yet aware of my voluntary and almost total isolation here, who requested a get-together. A poodle barking wildly and two unexpected visitors. My brother giving me instructions in his big brother voice. The (probably imagined) hum of electricity. And a radio talk show that had me transfixed.

Expected noises: The birds. And my mother's unsolicited list of all the maintenance work to be done around here.