The Afterglow

This last week has been an emotional journey for me, for many reasons.

It began with our two horses leaving for their new homes.  

Traveler and Buck.

And two back-to-back trips to the Amish, with my friend Ellen.

More, much more, on that later...

And smack in the middle was a visit from my youngest son, Mark.

Mark usually visits every summer, 

flying from Richmond (Northern) California, 

back home to see family.

(We all grew up on Little Traverse Bay in Petoskey, Michigan...

Home of the Million Dollar Sunset.)

Mark is proudly referred to as "my golfer son". 

I love it when he comes home.

You can take the kid out of the country, 

but you can't take the country out of the kid.

And yes, the ball made it to the woods... 300+ yards away...with ease.

He always spends a day at our place.

To relax and connect with the critters.

And help Russ around the farm with chores and such.

And we always head up to Petoskey, for the rest of the family time.

My Mother, Jackie, hosted a dinner at her lovely home, much to our delight.

Catching up and relaxing.  That is what vacations are for...

And reliving the good ole' days, through stories and laughter.

And a time to even ponder the future...

But alas, once Mark leaves, I'm left with a heavy heart...

wishing for a lifetime of days with my son.

But for now, I'll settle back in.  

Dreaming of an even simpler life mirroring the Amish, as we move forward in our own dream. 

One of farm, family, and simplicity.  

The simplicity of being God-sufficient, and abiding in Him.

Until tomorrow, God willing.

Back in the Saddle

Having been without Internet for days, I'm back.

And with so many stories to share.

Simple stories, from our "40"...

But today, I'm joining my good friend, my parallel friend, for a little road trip.

Just a day trip, but oh so special.

And Russ is now walking, so I can leave knowing he will be fine for the duration.

Thank you for all your comments, cares and concerns. 

I'll respond, and update you upon my return.

God willing.



Wringer Wash Day

It's back...

The time of year that clothes can be done in open air.

I love using my wringer washer.

A gift from my good friend, Ellen.

One I treasure.

I love watching it, hearing it, and being part of the process.

From start to finish.

Topping it off with fresh dried clothes on the line, 

suspended by wooden clothespins. 

(Today I did two loads.)

One of summer's many sweet gifts.

Until tomorrow, God willing.



Sign of the Times

This sign on my farm friend's fence brought a chuckle.

Not that AC Ellen needs the warning or protection of a sign.

She's surrounded by dogs that love her...

And love their life on Serendipity Ranch.