The Hatch

Dedicated to Grandma

Where The Hatch was born

There is a feeling that washes over me when I start walking down that modest path. Hearing the gravel crunch beneath my feet, smelling that fresh coastal air and taking in the calmness of the momentarily tamed ocean. Watching as the morning works its magic, draping it all in peace. All while knowing that when I round the corner of that little cabin that built me, I will see her sitting there, drinking coffee, doing the crossword. A simple good morning smile and a “how’d you sleep?” and then I’m sitting beside her gazing out at that beautiful landscape, feeling the type of comfort only The Hatch can bring. We don’t even have to talk. I can feel her love as she sits in that old rocking chair with the rusted joints and the yellow panels that have been replaced a dozen times. Her in her housecoat, me in my pajama shorts and old cabin sweatshirt. Sometimes, we stay silent. Listening to the wind chimes and the seagulls, or, in earlier days, the low hum of Grandpa's AM radio from the kitchen where he sat listening to the news and playing Sudoku. Other times, I get to hear stories from Grandma’s youth or young adulthood. Regardless of the conversation, or lack thereof, on that front porch with Grandma, I am settled. On those mornings, relaxing comes easy. My Grandma has taught me so much, she has spoiled me with love, lessons and material things. But the greatest gift she has ever given me is The Hatch.

When my world is spinning out of control. When I can’t make sense of the thoughts in my head. When everything feels too overwhelming, The Hatch grounds me. The Hatch is versatile, and always comforting. The greatest hatch of all will forever be on that front porch with Grandma. That is the holy grail of hatches. Luckily, I am able to channel that feeling of peace into other hatches. Not quite as powerful, but still magical. Sometimes, The Hatch is me, my coffee and my writing. Other times, I’m joined by best friends and mimosas or family and breakfast treats. My husband and I have shared countless hatches, simply enjoying the peace together or dreaming up ideas for our future. Most often, the dress code is pajamas and slippers. But this is not a strict policy. The Hatch can be silent or it can be filled with laughter. It is not weather dependent. Hatching can happen outside or indoors. My back deck with my dog has become one of my favourite versions. A good hatch around a campfire in the woods can be among the most calming. While a cozy hatch curled up on the couch with a few good friends as the snow falls outside can be especially comforting. Big life decisions are often discussed, as are fun anecdotes. Plans are made, or sometimes broken. Opting for a Long Hatch instead. Relationships grow, understandings deepen. Tears are shed, both happy and sad. The only constant is that there is no sense of urgency, no rush. Just comfort. The world slows down during The Hatch. For an anxious mind, this is truly remarkable.

The view from the original Front Porch Hatch

In my world, the words “I’m hatching” require no further explanation. It is the perfect description for that special time between waking up and starting the day. Done right, The Hatch can last all morning, even into the afternoon, also known as The Long Hatch. Our busy lives don’t allow for many, but, oh man, what a restorative experience. Allowing myself time to rest is challenging, but in the form of The Long Hatch, it feels natural. Lists and obligations seem to fade away, responsibilities cease to exist. It is well known amongst those who love me that The Hatch is dear to my heart and that The Long Hatch is one of my favourite ways to spend a day. When we go on little trips together, my friends and I love a plan. We adore a spreadsheet. We live by the motto of Organized Fun. We always want to make the most of our precious few days, so we pack that itinerary to the brim. Over the years, The Hatch has crept its way into our itineraries. Giving it even more versatility; The Hatch doesn’t always have to be spontaneous or occur naturally, it can also be planned. Sometimes, when the stars align on our little getaways, our scheduled hatch freely flows into a long hatch. These days are glorious. On rare, and very special, occasions, The Long Hatch has actually earned its own spot in the itinerary. My bachelorette weekend was one of these special occasions. An entire day at that house in the mountains was dedicated to The Long Hatch. What a wonderful treat that was. These girls just get me.

The original Front Porch Hatch has evolved over time. Occasionally, it is still just me and Grandma. More often these days, that porch is packed with family. We all share a collective appreciation for The Hatch and we do it well. We are seasoned hatchers. There is a bond there that only The Hatch could cultivate. Even with all of the confusion of more than a dozen adults, two to four young children and at least three dogs all essentially sitting on top of one another, the world still slows down. There is still a sense of calm. Proving, yet again, that The Hatch is magical.