Sometimes, at night, the Studio Barn seems to steam, or hum, Maria’s mind filled with colors and shapes. This is how I picture the Studio Barn looks to her, sitting up on its hill, as she cranks out quilts, bags, potholders. She is no longer my girlfriend, but my fiance. I went to the bank today to try and hand over documents so that I could sell a small parcel of land I own nearby – dealing with banks these days is pretty challenging if you don’t love paperwork and documentation – and I am glad that in the country, people still know one another. I am considering joining a credit union, as I don’t think I want much to do with banks.

Credit unions are non-profit, and people answer telephones there.