Summer at Little Lava

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Little Lava is a remote farm on Iceland's west coast, accessible only across a lagoon that floods twice daily. Surrounded by a lava field, the farm offers stunning views of mountains, volcanoes, and the pristine Icelandic sky. In this narrative, the author shares his experience of restoring an abandoned house on the farm, spending a summer with his wife and young son in a life stripped of modern conveniences—no heat, electricity, or running water. Inspired by Henry Beston's reflections on solitude, the author sought a place at civilization's edge and found it in Iceland. Amidst this backdrop, he faced profound personal tragedy: the shocking murder of his mother in Pennsylvania. In the vast, quiet spaces of Iceland, he grappled with his grief, finding solace in the land's rich wildlife, history, and mythology. The coastal house became a sanctuary, a place for healing and reflection as he navigated his sorrow. He describes Little Lava as a refuge where he could begin to envision a future less overshadowed by pain. This work is a thoughtful exploration of nature, loss, and resilience, capturing the unique landscape and spirit of Iceland through evocative prose.