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why paint rocks?

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Letter to the editor: Noticing What Is Good

To the Editor,

In a world where we are constantly reminded of what is wrong, I think it's time to take a moment to recognize what is right. Let's turn our attention toward a breath of fresh air right here in Ellensburg.

Most of us who have rented have experienced the frustration of a bad landlord. It can make everyday life stressful and turn what should be a home into a source of anxiety. That is why I think it is important to recognize the people who do it well.

As a longtime community member and builder here, Tyler Glahn has quietly earned the respect and gratitude of many people in Ellensburg. In a time when housing is expensive and our town is growing, he builds with quality rather than cutting corners. What he builds is built to last, and that pride in craftsmanship is something tenants notice. My brother recently purchased one of his homes, so I've had the chance to see firsthand that the same care goes into the homes he builds as his apartments.

What has impressed me even more is that this is not just Tyler’s work—it is a family effort. His wife, Katie, and his sons, Ben and Landon, work alongside him. His sons have grown up around this work, and it is clear they are learning the same values of hard work, pride, and commitment to others.

I also want to recognize Chris, who is such an important part of the team. He is involved not only in caring for the properties but also in the building process itself. He works incredibly hard, takes on so much, and somehow still has time to make people laugh. He has a great sense of humor and a way of putting tenants at ease. And if you know Chris, you know he has a soft spot for every cat he meets. Those little things make tenants here feel cared for.

And don't forget Morgan, who helps keep everything moving behind the scenes.

I hope we, as a community, treasure everyone who helps provide quality housing in our community. We need more people who care about the quality of what they build as well as the tenants who live there. I'm not saying he's perfect by any means, but I believe we need to notice what is good and appreciate it.

Sincerely,

C. Ray 2026

This picture surprised me—rocks and a box I painted over the years for their family. Katie Glahn sent it in a text message saying “ We have our morning coffee with our favorite pieces of art every morning.” That felt wonderful.

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Processing

I give rock offerings to the gods

as I dance away from the Prehistoric Predators, happy that

these prison guards have no power over my scratchings on rocks.

No data, no goals, no mission and vision statement.

I bless the patrons with my smooth rocks and hope they will be my Pardoners.

And as I tiptoe through alleys and quiet streets, I drop offerings to show I do not hate.

People of my town, won't you please pardon me for being myself?

Cray 2022

These are rocks that Heidi Otis and I decorated for Dachshund on Parade, June 18th in Ellensburg.

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Why I paint Rocks...

I have learned from teaching that a captive audience is not always a willing one, which takes away some of the fun of communicating. I find painting and leaving rocks as a gentle way to impact a willing mind.

When a person picks up one of my rocks, it's their choice, and whether or not they keep it or toss it aside doesn't matter. Either way, they decided it themselves.

When they find the rock, are they feeling worried? Scared? Grief stricken? In love? Victorious? Bored?

Whatever they are feeling, the ‘found rock’ can possibly soothe, distract, remind or otherwise participate in the moment.

I leave these rocks around town with the intent of adding a dimension to life.

I left this rock in the Art class at Ellensburg High School today.

I left this rock in the Art class at Ellensburg High School today.

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