Saturday, February 6, 2010
Between the Eternities
“We are all travelers in this world. From the sweet grass to the packing house, birth till death, we travel between the eternities.” Prentice Ritter from Broken Trail
Thursday, February 4, 2010
An Amazing Woman
This post may seem a little off topic but in reality it is a foundational part of the dream and actualization of the Yonderosa. Please pardon the mixed up rambling.
My heroes are my Grandparents and I was blessed to have all four well into my adult life. I'm going to share one of them with you in this post.
My Grandmother was born into a hard working family in the southern United States with roots back to the American Revolution. Her father was a successful businessman and pillar of his community. Her Grandfather (mother's side) fought in the Civil War. He was wounded in several battles and ended the War as a POW. He survived the long walk home across several states once he was released - a harrowing ordeal that isn't commonly reported in the history books. He later became a Doctor. Both of these men she greatly admired and loved. As a girl she rode a horse to school. They lived in town but had a large lot where they raised chickens and grew a garden. The home was nice by the standards of the day and her father would walk home for "Dinner" (the main meal - mid day) with his family.
In her mid teens she met my Grandfather and they married when she was 18. They literally lived "dirt floor poor" but they were both industrious and quickly improved their situation as they earned better jobs. My Grandfather had brothers working in the Pacific Northwest and encouraged them to move. Seeking a better life they borrowed some money, packed up the few belongs they had a set out to start a new life away from their families right in the middle of the Great Depression. My grandfather quickly found employment and his with ability and leadership skills advanced rapidly. By the time World War II came to America he was not allowed to enlist or be drafted because of the importance of his job to the war effort.
My Grandmother worked as "Rosie the Riveter" during and after the war. Her petite size allowed her to access areas in the tail sections which made her valuable to the Boeing company even after enough men returned to fill the positions.
The family continued to prosper in the years following which allowed them to buy a nice home on a large property that they raised two kids, had horses, a big garden and created a beautiful yard. They even built a swimming pool that years later I learned to swim in. The area wasn't so crowded then and they both enjoyed the many nearby outdoor opportunities this area is (was) blessed with.
The 747 project took them north and they found another home where they once again built an amazing garden and yard. With her kids grown and out of the nest she had more time to pursue other interests - like motorcycles... How many kids can say that they rode around on the back of their Grandmother's motorcycle? Not many now and a lot fewer then. Later she would be the first person in our family to buy a computer...
Our stays with them were always filled with adventures - road trips, fishing, camping, gardening, auto mechanics, woodworking, art, cooking.... were just a small sampling of the activities we were exposed to.
They had a Yonderosa of their own. 5 acres on a great Steelhead river. Steelhead fishing with a fly rod is high church to many anglers and they were enthusiastic members of that congregation. I was too young to fully appreciate it but the magic of the river, the mountains, the critters and the beauty imprinted deeply upon me.
Grandmas are well known for their cooking abilities and this Grandma was on another level. It didn't matter what it was, it was good. Everything from vegetables freshly picked garden to a plain white bread sandwich would be a feast to remember. Even finicky eaters succumb to her culinary prowess. A place at her table - whether that was in the dining room, on the tailgate of a truck, on the beach or along a trail is a reward beyond compare. A Thanksgiving dinner with Grandma would test the limits of self control with the endless sampling of delectable delights.
I have been blessed with many sittings at those tables. Only in your Grandmother's eyes are you perpetually too skinny. A little over a decade ago we'd have dinner regularly together and up until recently at least monthly. Last month I enjoyed another fabulous meal and her company. Even north of ninety I marveled at her independent and vibrant spirit.
After my Grandfather died my Grandmother remained in her home for a few years. I lived nearby and was able to help out whenever she needed chores done. A dislocated hip and subsequent replacement prompted the home's sale a move back into town and closer to son and daughter. With the proceeds of her home's sale she loaned me the money to build my current home. That project has paid dividends many times over and made buying the Yonderosa possible - yet another connection to and legacy of her wonderful life.
For my entire life she has been a source of great support, encouragement and sage advice. Through her I can link back distant generations and history. She is inspirational though she would never say that about herself. There is so much more I could write about this amazing woman and could never articulate it well enough to give much more than a glimpse who she really is. I am proud to be her grandson.
This post allowed me to gather some of the thoughts swirling around in my mind. Earlier this week my Grandmother had a major stroke. If she survives it will mean the end of her living independently, something she fears more than anything else. It tears at my heart, not wanting to let go of her yet knowing that her spirit can not be contained in her broken body. Much of what I've written I've shared with her in the past yet I am filled with regret of not telling her more. I hope to get another chance. It is times like these I realize how blessed I have been and regret taking even a single second for granted. For fifty years she's been a big part of my life, a constant and seemingly unstoppable. Accepting this new reality is difficult. We've put it in God's hands. Thanks for the prayers, support and a chance to brag about my Grandma.
My heroes are my Grandparents and I was blessed to have all four well into my adult life. I'm going to share one of them with you in this post.
My Grandmother was born into a hard working family in the southern United States with roots back to the American Revolution. Her father was a successful businessman and pillar of his community. Her Grandfather (mother's side) fought in the Civil War. He was wounded in several battles and ended the War as a POW. He survived the long walk home across several states once he was released - a harrowing ordeal that isn't commonly reported in the history books. He later became a Doctor. Both of these men she greatly admired and loved. As a girl she rode a horse to school. They lived in town but had a large lot where they raised chickens and grew a garden. The home was nice by the standards of the day and her father would walk home for "Dinner" (the main meal - mid day) with his family.
In her mid teens she met my Grandfather and they married when she was 18. They literally lived "dirt floor poor" but they were both industrious and quickly improved their situation as they earned better jobs. My Grandfather had brothers working in the Pacific Northwest and encouraged them to move. Seeking a better life they borrowed some money, packed up the few belongs they had a set out to start a new life away from their families right in the middle of the Great Depression. My grandfather quickly found employment and his with ability and leadership skills advanced rapidly. By the time World War II came to America he was not allowed to enlist or be drafted because of the importance of his job to the war effort.
My Grandmother worked as "Rosie the Riveter" during and after the war. Her petite size allowed her to access areas in the tail sections which made her valuable to the Boeing company even after enough men returned to fill the positions.
The 747 project took them north and they found another home where they once again built an amazing garden and yard. With her kids grown and out of the nest she had more time to pursue other interests - like motorcycles... How many kids can say that they rode around on the back of their Grandmother's motorcycle? Not many now and a lot fewer then. Later she would be the first person in our family to buy a computer...
Our stays with them were always filled with adventures - road trips, fishing, camping, gardening, auto mechanics, woodworking, art, cooking.... were just a small sampling of the activities we were exposed to.
They had a Yonderosa of their own. 5 acres on a great Steelhead river. Steelhead fishing with a fly rod is high church to many anglers and they were enthusiastic members of that congregation. I was too young to fully appreciate it but the magic of the river, the mountains, the critters and the beauty imprinted deeply upon me.
Grandmas are well known for their cooking abilities and this Grandma was on another level. It didn't matter what it was, it was good. Everything from vegetables freshly picked garden to a plain white bread sandwich would be a feast to remember. Even finicky eaters succumb to her culinary prowess. A place at her table - whether that was in the dining room, on the tailgate of a truck, on the beach or along a trail is a reward beyond compare. A Thanksgiving dinner with Grandma would test the limits of self control with the endless sampling of delectable delights.
I have been blessed with many sittings at those tables. Only in your Grandmother's eyes are you perpetually too skinny. A little over a decade ago we'd have dinner regularly together and up until recently at least monthly. Last month I enjoyed another fabulous meal and her company. Even north of ninety I marveled at her independent and vibrant spirit.
After my Grandfather died my Grandmother remained in her home for a few years. I lived nearby and was able to help out whenever she needed chores done. A dislocated hip and subsequent replacement prompted the home's sale a move back into town and closer to son and daughter. With the proceeds of her home's sale she loaned me the money to build my current home. That project has paid dividends many times over and made buying the Yonderosa possible - yet another connection to and legacy of her wonderful life.
For my entire life she has been a source of great support, encouragement and sage advice. Through her I can link back distant generations and history. She is inspirational though she would never say that about herself. There is so much more I could write about this amazing woman and could never articulate it well enough to give much more than a glimpse who she really is. I am proud to be her grandson.
This post allowed me to gather some of the thoughts swirling around in my mind. Earlier this week my Grandmother had a major stroke. If she survives it will mean the end of her living independently, something she fears more than anything else. It tears at my heart, not wanting to let go of her yet knowing that her spirit can not be contained in her broken body. Much of what I've written I've shared with her in the past yet I am filled with regret of not telling her more. I hope to get another chance. It is times like these I realize how blessed I have been and regret taking even a single second for granted. For fifty years she's been a big part of my life, a constant and seemingly unstoppable. Accepting this new reality is difficult. We've put it in God's hands. Thanks for the prayers, support and a chance to brag about my Grandma.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
January Teaser
Our neighbors emailed me a picture they took last weekend. We've had a spell of warm weather and much of the snow is gone. Great to get a peek but is sure makes me want to get back.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
2010 - Getting Back
A January visit will depend on getting good weather at the right time. We are eager to get back.
Looking toward the Yonderosa moments ago...
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Looking Back at 2009
2009 sure didn't seem to like a whole year to me... It went by way too fast. 2009 was a good year though, progress was made at the Yonderosa, comfort and convenience improved, adventures were enjoyed. Each visit was eagerly anticipated and our enthusiasm remains high. When we aren't there, we're thinking about there.
Our first visit in 2009 was in February. The snow as knee deep. The landscape was peaceful and the quiet amazing.
I was back in early April to put down the porch deck, pickup and deliver windows, siding and soffit materials.
In May the siding got underway.
In July the focus switched to the interior. We added a window, insulated, back sheeted (to serve as the nailing substrate for the interior wall finish - Rough Sawn Fir - a goal for 2010) and soffited the porch.
The Place is really starting to come together.
A few days after our July visit our excellent neighbors informed us of a fire caused by a lightning strike right next to our cabin! We are very thankful to have observant neighbors watching out for us. The fire was contained and extinguished. Too close for comfort.
In August we insulated and sheathed the floor.
In September we were back with the Murphy Bed and another load of cabinets I built in my shop at home.
Later in the month I made a solo trip over to do the flooring.
A brief visit in October allowed us to haul over more cabinets and a sofa.
A short trip in November allowed me to get another cabinet over. Still have three more to build for the kitchen, but it is useable now which made our December trip very comfortable
In December we enjoyed the fruits of our labor - staying warm, eating well and fueling the excitement for further progresss. 2009 was an excellent year for us. We are optimistic that in 2010 our efforts will yield more rewards and happy memories at the Yonderosa.
Our first visit in 2009 was in February. The snow as knee deep. The landscape was peaceful and the quiet amazing.
I was back in early April to put down the porch deck, pickup and deliver windows, siding and soffit materials.
In May the siding got underway.
A Moose visit was a highlight in June
A few days after our July visit our excellent neighbors informed us of a fire caused by a lightning strike right next to our cabin! We are very thankful to have observant neighbors watching out for us. The fire was contained and extinguished. Too close for comfort.
In August we insulated and sheathed the floor.
In September we were back with the Murphy Bed and another load of cabinets I built in my shop at home.
We also had a Bobcat stroll by while I was eating my breakfast.
WARNING - graphic description of nature to follow - NOT the Disney version
I rarely see him but he leaves us lots of evidence he prowls the Yonderosa regularly - several Turkey kills this year and I just found another deer killed just on the other side of the creek - near where three others were killed by cats last year. I had assumed it was a Cougar as they are abundant in the area and Deer are their primary prey. Once I saw size of this guy - easily as big as my Labradors - I wasn't so sure. I spoke with a State Biologist and he said that large Bobcats will indeed take Deer.
I'm not certain he killed this most recent deer - a Mule Deer doe - I saw her tracks in the snow where she walked to the kill site and LOTS of coyote tracks. I looked hard but didn't find any definitive cat tracks but my theory is that the deer was killed by a cat, the pack of Coyotes waited until the cat was finished or was driven off of the kill. There were lots of areas of flattened snow near the kill that weren't used for feeding and my assumption is that the Coyotes waited for the Cat (Couger or Bobcat) to leave or drove it off once enough of them had arrived. Once the Coyotes took possession they ripped her into pieces (Cats feed with the carcass intact) and consumed her. It was facinating in a CSI kind of way. My curiosity piqued, I spent a few hours looking at tracks and the remains trying to discover what had happend. It was sad and exhilerating at the same time.
Back to our regulary scheduled programing.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Cold tested
The insulation performed better than expected. With temperatures well below freezing we used about three bucks worth of propane for the heater.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Cozy Inside
Whatever cosmic alignment had been preventing us from visiting the Yonderosa finally relented. We snuck over for a relaxing weekend on bare and dry pavement and escaped before the big scary storm due to arrive hours after we left.
I fired the heater and before long it was nice and toasty inside. What better way to spend a relaxing weekend than inside a cozy cabin with someone you love? The quiet, the beauty... amazing.
More details of our winter adventure later.
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