Kathleen, Queen of the Desert

Originally published in LLL US Western Division’s Connections #73, September/October 1997

“All through the year we are getting ready; getting ready for fishing, for berry picking, for potlatches, getting ready for winter.” Agnes Bostrom, quoted in Always Getting Ready—Upterrlainarluta, by James H. Barker.

Central Yu’pik Eskimo elders of Southwest Alaska stress the importance of upterrlainarluta, Yu’pik for “being every prepared.” There is always winter to prepare for. There is always food to get ready. There will always be a new child to welcome into the village. A visitor to make room for. A trip to pack for. An elder to honor. Harvesting greens, birthing, skin sewing, and enjoying each other’s fellowship in their own harsh environment require a continuing cycle of preparation.

When I lived in Alaska, we thought about winter year-round. We kept an eye out for new products—new shovels, thicker socks, boots—or a way of outfitting the mud room that might make the going easier the next cold season. And during the winter itself, we had a consciousness, an awareness of the few hours of daylight, the need to keep a lookout for wandering moose in our backyard, and to keep warm clothes in good repair. To us, always getting ready meant an attentiveness to what was required.

And although I have a much softer existence living here in suburban Pittsburgh, I do appreciate some of that “always getting ready” philosophy as a mother, a La Leche League Leader, and an editor.

Soon after I send off a Connections draft for review, I start compiling the next issue’s draft. I am always getting ready for the next issue. I may be collecting or creating art, corresponding with writers, making photocopies, or typing an article into my computer. But every day I am doing something—assembling, drawing, choosing, and organizing.

La Leche League responsibilities beyond Group work often mean finding a pace and routine that fit family life, energy fluctuations, and personal style. Always getting ready for this publication—my own upterrlainarluta—is what works for me.