Intervals (description below*) put out a call for work reflecting places no longer there. Not abandoned, but lost now to time. Erasure.
* Intervals is an experiment in call and response—between prompt and reply, between Pictura and its contributors. Each exchange becomes part of a continuing conversation, carried on in the spaces between our regular issues.
Hidden Valley Ranch is an example of something tucked away in my writing portfolio, a flash memory/vignette of family vacations to central Kentucky to Hidden Valley Resort. The word resort here used very broadly to mean a family-owned and operated seasonal tourist “destination” featuring a swimming pool, barn dances, outdoor game area, and guided horse rides. I thought I was the only one, but when I first wrote about Hidden Valley and posted it on my blog over 12 years ago, I was surprised at the number of responses from readers Googling and finding my memoir post. These folks also remembered Hidden Valley and shared their recollections—similar to mine—of the homespun low-key recreation.
What is it? Something so ordinary and non-epic that has stayed with us? Perhaps, we felt safe, with family, loved and protected. It didn’t cost a lot, but has become a lasting memory.
Links to Intervals—I’ll let you know when piece is live at site.
Jane Hertenstein 
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