I once made a dear friend on the internet.  My very first essay had appeared in the American Thinker, and I the editor (Thomas Lifson) forwarded an e-mail from his friend Aussiegirl/Helen.  She was such a sweet person and we quickly became great friends.  She was also a terrific writer, having been a regular poster at Lucianne.com and hosting her own website Ultima Thule.  I had just started my own blog, and Aussiegirl gave me so much encouragement that I continued writing in spite of less than stellar success.  I often considered our sites complementary; she would frequently post on my work and I on hers.  (She was brilliant.) 

Ultima Thule was a terrific site, and Aussiegirl had a breathtaking depth of knowledge.  She was as likely to post on archaeology as on politics, on classical music, or opera, or especially physics. Her natural curiosity and love of learning made her site one of the most fascinating I have ever encountered.

Unfortunately Aussiegirl passed away at the beginning of the year after a prolonged illness. I miss her terribly.

Her husband David has kept the site going, although he has been unsure what to do with it.  It was Aussiegirl`s pride and joy, and David does not want to let it die.  He has been working through a number of her unfinished pieces, and posting when possible.

Today marks the birthday of Ultima Thule, and David wanted to post a new work to commemorate.  He has posted a pensive musing by Aussiegirl on the the passing of the seasons and the approaching winter in the West.  It`s good to hear Aussiegirl again, if only for a moment!

For those unfamiliar with Ultima Thule, be sure to read back through her archives; she has some of the best writing available on the internet, and there is bound to be something to please everyone.

Heaven is richer, but we on Earth have lost a bright light.  I`m glad David is working to keep that lamp lit.

We miss you, Helen! 

Posted by: Timothy Birdnow at 06:40 AM | Comments (4) | Add Comment
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