“A stark wind pushed through the sugar sand beach. The waves of the lake sea charged, smashing against the walls of the pier, and the grimy, shadow figure debarked.”
–From The Sugar Sand Messages by Julie Braeutigan
It’s close to the end of November but anyone that lives in northern Michigan or follows the history of the Great Lakes and shipwrecks knows all too well about the Witch of November: the November gale. It’s an unpredictable weather pattern and the cause of the White Hurricane of 1913, also referred to as the Big Storm and the Freshwater Fury. It was an unprecedented storm that lasted 3-5 days, depending whether you read old news clippings or read about it from the National Weather Service. Ice accumulation on the ships, whiteout conditions, 36-foot-high waves, and 80 mph winds resulted in the worst maritime disaster in the history of shipwrecks.
According to historical documents, the following steamers were lost during the storm:
Argus, James Carruthers, Hydrus, Leafield, John A. McGean, Charles S. Price, Regina, Isaac M. Scott, Henry B. Smith, Wexford and Lightship No. 82, along with several others. It is estimated that 250 men lost their lives.
So why am I bringing this up? It’s November and sometimes the storm on the outside is brewing just as much on the inside.
It was this time last year that I started a new season in my own life. I made up my mind to divorce an unfaithful husband, I lost the extra weight I had gained over the last ten years, and even though my future felt tumultuous, I was ready to take the helm and navigate a path to calmer waters. Did that actually happen? Not so much. 2022 was probably one of the rockiest years I have ever had and even though it’s a little early for end of the year recaps and New Year resolutions, I can say that this November has been the end and the beginning of another chapter in my life. I’m still in the middle of a storm, but I’m making my way through. I’ll hold the elixir and arrive at the shore from where I first set out. I’ll look out at the water and sit under the stars breathing in the universe, changed.
Afterall, what else is there?
This November, dear writers, ride out those storms and work harder than you ever have at creating your piece of art, your heart, your message. Accept the journey and write your way back to shore.
Here’s to you!
Now go write.
–Julie Braeutigan
Notes from the Boat 