Work Work All Week Long

Sometimes Life Must Be Pondered

I've had a hard time being motivated to write lately.  I know everyone enjoys our homesteading tales of wild animals, farm critters, and outdoor adventures; but it seems as of late, our days are full of one thing......... WORK--- All Day Every Day.

I've put a lot of thought into where we are lacking as homesteaders and I think our biggest issue is time.  For instance, I haven't been on my horse for over a week (That's Just Not Right)  ***Edit: Since I began writing this post, I have had some time to ride yipeee!**.  Life has changed a bit since the time of the real homestead movement West.  Now it's necessary to leave the home to find work... whereas "work" used to consist of living/survival: finding the essentials- food, water, and shelter.  That's not to say it's not work to live, quite the opposite really (we experienced this first hand spending our first winter in a travel trailer).  Especially in a climate with true seasons, keeping a garden, tending animals, and preparing for winter can consume a day and leave you longing for more hours and energy.  Add a full time job, building a house, driving to town, raising youngins and we are left trying to pencil in time for hunting season, pasture fencing, garden fence building, etc.    I'm not a big fan of the constant chaos, but we are not afraid of pulling up the old boot straps either. 

And Sometimes... Life Must be Lived... In Costume

Outside the home, I have started in on a regular schedule at work (as a bonafide Registered Nurse) .  While I still struggle with leaving home so often, the reality is, it's awfully nice to have a paycheck rolling in.  Personally, it's been gratifying finally completing SOMETHING, and finding myself in a career that is truly fulfilling for myself as a person and for the opportunity it provides my family.  I love caring for others, and while it's a steep learning curve, it's equally satisfying.  I'm challenged daily, and amazed every moment by the people who cross your path.... It's the start of something grand, that's for sure.

Back at home, the work continues.  Days off are morning to night construction projects, interspersed with cool off sessions in the pool, lake, or whatever cool body of water we can find.  A big accomplishment we have made though, in the last few weeks----- the roof rafters.  Your average modern home is built with pre-constructed joists; they come in on a big truck, all stacked neatly, bearing with them the amazing metaphor that is a roof-- that which blankets all your family's hopes and dreams.  The truck driver places them with a boom type truck, and poof, there you go... a roof.

Ridge Beam

Cam Below Ridge Beam

The 1st And Hardest Day of Roof Work

Satisfaction

'Tis but a figment of our imagination when building was so simple, and your driveway was wide enough to get said truck down.  2016 is a different story.  This go round, we are building our own roofing system.  Rafters, brackets, and lots and lots of sweat is what our roof is made from.

This would have been a good project to have had a camera crew. Speaking of crew, ours is generally one man, one woman-- apart from several days of family aid-- Praise the Lord for those.  Our system looked a bit like this: the top of our house is almost 30 feet in the air.  There is a huge ridge beam which spans the entire length of the house (that was another great feat in ancient engineering).  Our mission: to get 24' rafters connected to ridge beam and outside wall.  Now to the average orange shirt wearing, farmers tanned construction man plus crew and machinery, this probably wouldn't have been too big of a deal, but remember the one man one woman and minimal machinery part?  This is how it went: Cam cut and prepared the rafters and got 5-6 ready to hang.  then he walked up to the second story, up a ladder to the scaffolding he made that ran within reach of the ridge beam.  Meanwhile, I lugged the rafters through the downstairs window and positioned them at a just so angle, and proceeded to hoist them over my head at full arm extension, awkwardly setting the edge on the second story.  Then, I'd run up to the second story and haul them up, connect one end to the C-clamp connected to a pully system on the ridge beam.  We'd pull that end up to the ridge beam and set the other end on the wall.  Repeat times 20 on both sides, plus four end beams, four larger beams, and two dormer window systems.


It took around two weeks, with several set backs, in over 100 degree weather.  But, that metaphor of a roof, is in motion---and boy it looks great.  There has been several parts to this house that have seemed impossible, but it's truly amazing what IS possible.   Cam said even the guys at the local lumber store were impressed that just him and I were doing it--- adding a bit to our street cred around here, and adding much to our unshakable strength as a couple.  **A big thanks to our Dad's and Mom's for coming to our assistance though--- you are always there when we really need it.


Well, there you go, a tale of true homesteading.  No crews, no boom trucks, and too tired to enjoy the view at times.  Four people, all together, working their buns off; lots of mistakes, frustrations,  lots of sweat, and many things tacked on to next years to-do list.  Trying to remember to take time to enjoy what we moved here for: rides in the mountains, rodeos, lakes, BBQ's with good people, camping, and of course not missing the childhood of those we did this for. 

There's No Place Like The Homestead

We are back from a bit of a hiatus.  Left the chaos that was our life at home, and took to the wilds of Idaho.  We rented a beachfront house on Priest Lake with my folks and brother.  It was a bit of a walk down memory lane as my mom grew up going there with her family, and my folks in turn took us when we were kids.  Priest is a crystal clear lake with darn near Hawaii like white sandy beaches spotting it's shoreline.  It's off the main road far enough to not attract as many travelers as some of the other nearby lakes, but I was blown away with how many new enormously fancy houses there were.  The cabin we rented was perfect; old enough to feel homey, with all the modern amenities one would like for a laid back week (we do plenty of roughing it).  There was plenty of space for us all, and Cam and I were lucky to sleep on the screened in porch, falling asleep to the sound of the creek running through the property and swirled in fresh air coming off the lake.  We didn't really do all that much.... the weather was unremarkable which limited our beach time, but I was ok with that-- in fact I think it was just what we needed.  The kids enjoyed exploring a new area, living in a cabin, picking huckleberries, and of course having their grandparents at their beck and call for a whole week!  Cam did not stay the entire week due to houses that need to be built and animals to care for, but we were able to do some fishing, and explore the wilderness of the upper part of the lake.  Upper Priest is accessed by a waterway that reminds me of a combination of Alaska and the Everglades.  It opens into this secluded portion of the lake that is only accessible via boat.  There is no civilization in sight... heavily treed mountains surround you, and you get the feeling that if the world as we knew it came to an end, you'd be just fine. 

Our first visit to Upper Priest, was myself, my brother and my husband.  We must have had the powers of the earth on our side, as we hit a once in a season fishing time---- a mayfly hatch.  I have never seen more fish activity in my life, second to feeding time at a hatchery.  Fish were literally jumping in every direction (at one point I told my brother that maybe we should just troll around as they were sure to just land in our boat).  I quickly hooked a decent kokanee, and the boys didn't take long to catch up.  The excitement of the evening was centered on the fly rod.  Cam quickly changed gear to match the hatch, and floated a perfect fly.  It's so fun to watch a fly rod, as you can see the fish attack...and I may be known for my overzealous excitement with a fish on.  It's just one of those things that makes you feel like your an able person.  Cam hooked a couple on the fly rod, and my brother almost had one on it as well.  Talk about living!   Unfortunately, my dad and I did not have the same luck when we went several days later.  Leave it to me to gush about the miraculous fish infested waters, and then lead a man to a fishless day.  As Cam would say, "I guess that's why they call it fishing and not catching." 

After Cam left, my folks and I took the kids back up to the upper lake, and enjoyed a remote beach; my mom and the kids picked huckleberries, and Kendyl had herself a good long nap on the beach, and all the way home on the boat.  Land holds strong memories and emotions, there is nothing as stable as the dirt (or sand) beneath or feet to remind us of distant times.  Other memories we made this trip include a fun night of board games with the whole crew, Cam and Dad having epic chess wars, Barret learning chess, huckleberry pancakes, me catching up on two years of sleep deprivation, and sharing it all with a new generation.

Vacation is Tough on a Girl

Nevertheless, a week is a good amount of time to be away from home, and I'm becoming more of a homebody as I age.  The kids had a blast, but we were all ready to be back on the ranch and back to a bit of normal.  Bear told me "he missed dad, and our old life" on the morning we left, so I think we timed it fairly well.  Thankful for my parents for making it happen, it's a place that holds a lot of good memories!!   

Back on the ranch, we are right back to it.  Cam and Dad were standing the last big wall within hours of arriving back home.  It was a bit dicey--I'm quickly discovering that this house seems a bit more dangerous than our last, and it makes me nervous about the roofing process coming up.  As always, the guys prevailed though, without injury... THANK GOD!  Cam has really had to think creatively without a team of friends and equipment nearby.  We of course have had help, but it's been a much more primitive process this go round.  The focus to this project and others around our property seems to be returning though, and I feel these next few months will be fairly productive.

The Chief

After my folks headed back over the hump, I relished in my ducklings being back underfoot at home, and even put some miles on my big 'ol horse.  I weeded the garden, tended to the animals, and we took in a movie in town this afternoon.  It feels good to have more time to focus on the home, there is nothing that sets my flame afire quite like it.  Without guilt I was out in the garden after getting the kids to bed, and plan on being found there again tomorrow.  Time is a precious commodity, and there always seems to be more projects than the seasons can hold.  I feel like with school finishing, I am just beginning to soak in the fact we moved to Eastern Washington.  We moved yearning for a slower way of life, but truly when you start with bare land, and no work crew, there is not much simplicity that occurs.  Would I change it???  Well..... I'd definitely have a few more fences, and a milk cow....  a nice big barn would be ok.........but no, I think Cam and I enjoy a genuine challenge/struggle----- a fight, a proving field for our own warrior spirits.  It's what we are good at, and in our hearts we know it's why we are together... the endless pursuit of a way of life, the checking off of goals, survival--and most importantly the brick by brick building of our family.  This is our legacy in action.

Childhood: Best Experienced Barefoot With a Trusty Friend

There's

Holding the Line

I've made it.  I have officially and successfully completed the nursing program.  It's quite a strange feeling really, and I'm not sure that I have completely wrapped my mind around the idea that I don't have to stay up until 1 AM to study tonight.

These last two years have been a grind, one of the biggest and most intense challenges that I have faced.  Natural labor, well shoot, that only lasted for around 10 hours (and was fabulously amazing).  I'm at a loss for adequate words for how this venture has changed me.  I am a worker by nature, my parents have given me the drive to attack whatever challenge at hand with 110% effort.  I don't nap, I can't sit for long, and I like to be moving forward.  That being said, I have been treading water for many years... searching for something, outside of family, that I could apply myself too.  Nursing was about the farthest thing from my radar, as I grew up with a nurse, and heard all the gory details from a young age.  Be it rebellion, or common sense, I wanted nothing to do with it (despite the amazing nurse my mother is).  But when I was faced with having a significant other (and the prospects of a family), I wanted something that would honor them, and satisfy my "people centered" nature.  I began this journey almost 10 years ago, when Cam was generous enough to support me quitting my job to get my nursing assistant certification and go back to school.  Looking back, I think I was fairly lost..... Boy, how times have changed.

If you've been following along since the beginning of my blog, you would know that we moved the weekend prior to me starting school.  The first day was one of the worst.  I didn't have internet access, so therefore did not do an assignment that was due the first day (what a great first impression).  We were living in our 24' travel trailer in our meadow, which has since burned, with an outhouse, and generators when we really needed power-- and Barrett the first day sliced his head open with a bungee he stretched out too far and came back to split his head open.  Tears, many tears, questions of what the heck I was doing, and little sleep characterized those first months.  Quarter by quarter the pattern repeated with incremental improvements.  We moved our trailer up to an area I could have internet service, then eventually into our shop.  Every night was about the same.. kids to bed around 8, then my work began and didn't stop until around 1 AM.   AND CAM.... Cam has been the soldier, marching me through the motions, providing strength, warm meals, encouragement, and frankly overlooking the times when I reached the end of my rope.  He's taken on daily care of the kids, helping build our shop, and now building a home.  Our transition to different roles has not been easy, but yet nothing we ever do seems to be "normal," and easy has never been in our cards.  I have often mourned the loss of my role in the household, and am still trying to realize the scope of my efforts.

BUT... here we are.  On the other end of sacrifice.  We have made it, intact, as a family.  After we built our first house, Cam and I often said that if that could be done with a newborn, nothing could stop us.  But I'm fairly certain, nursing school takes the cake.    We continue to persevere as a family, and really that is all we could hope for.  On a personal level, I have found something that is so innately a piece of my being, that I can't help but pinch myself to now be getting a paycheck for it.  There is nothing as amazing as being able to touch lives the way nurses can, to truly help those in need, or to give respect to a life.  It is something that no one can understand unless you stand in those shoes.  I am proud of myself for FINALLY completing something, but the best reward is having someone in need thank you for your help, your non-judgemental presence, or the kind touch that turned an awful situation into something manageable.  That is powerful!

Right now, I am enjoying nap time without a huge textbook... I brushed my horses, tended to animals, and am preparing for the speech I was asked to give at our pinning ceremony (YIKES).  I feel both a huge weight off my shoulders, and the anticipation of starting a new job and all the learning that is yet to be done.  Most of all I am grateful.  Number one, hands down for my husband, that has gotten me through it all, seen me cry more times than one can count, who has reassured me I am still a good mom despite my absence, and who has been a large part of the reason I completed this.   I'm thankful for all the friendships made, and new family gained.  I'm thankful for the opportunity to have proven to myself what I am capable of............... there is no one who can crush a spirit more like yourself, but I think I'm finally getting through my thick skull what I possess inside of me.  I'm happy to be able to care for my family well, doing something I truly enjoy.   

So here is to new adventures, new beginnings, and more time being at home.  Here is to the struggle that leaves us so far from the person we were when we began.  Here is to the success of a family unit and the demonstration to children of what it takes to reach goals.  Here is to a good night sleep....... 



 

Spare Tires

The Backwoods---Literally

It's not like we live in the Alaskan bush, the wilds of Alberta, or the plains of South Dakota.  To some it may seem so, but as far as remote, we are  truly only somewhat part of that gang.  Let's just say that it's far enough out to make you think ahead a bit more, but close enough that you don't have your own accent.  You make a longer mental grocery list (I never remember to bring the paper ones anyway), you get gas before your gas light comes on (hopefully way before), you think a bit differently about medical services (as in don't get hurt bad enough that you have to take a ride in a helicopter), and you generally have a back up to the back up plan.  Most activities fall under this umbrella of self preservation---- think a little harder now, suffer a little less later.

Stress Relief in Natural Form

Fishing is not exempt from mishaps it turns out... but before I get to that--first some true fishing lore.  Fishing opened up in our local lakes in the end of April.  It brought with it an influx of campers to some of our favorite secluded sites.  It's been interesting to watch the flow of "Coasties" (a not so endearing term used by locals for those deriving from the WEST SIDE).  I've noticed two times of the year when traffic around here increases.. modern/rifle hunting season and the beginning of fishing season.  It does put a bit of a kink in our plans, but it's hard to blame the travelers when you see the surroundings.

We too have taken to the lakes... three of them already this year to be exact!  All four of us packed in a small aluminum boat, 4 rods, lots of snacks, and excessive fishing JUJU--- not sure how you could get more American than that.  The kids have really stepped up their fishing game this year.  Both got new rods courtesy of Dad, and have learned how to operate them independently.  I told the kids about connecting with their inner fishing master (like their mother frequently does) and letting out the good vibes... aka JUJU; needless to say....Kendyl will tell you all about the JUJU of her line each and every time she lets it out.  Our first trip out was epic.. the kids caught fish after fish, to the point of not wanting to put this story in print for fear of increasing the traffic.  It was a classic childhood moment in it's most pure form.  AND THEN.............................................................

Mother Nature's Gym

The battery runs dead on the trolling motor.... and we are about 3/4ths of the way to the boat launch..... in the middle of the lake...... with two kids, a hungry dad, and a mom with a lot on her schedule.  Spare tire time!  Luckily Cam thought ahead and purchased oars for the little boat, last fishing season.  The moral of this story is, as I mentioned, think ahead --- and you don't have to swim (but you may still end up with sore arms).

Our other outings have been quite successful, we have a new battery, and seem to be cruising along nicely.  We even caught our first kokanee, which are essentially land locked sockeye salmon (nice red meat and all).  Talk about a gift from the lake!  Thank GOD for JUJU.

The Man

Besides fishing our days away, we have actually been quite busy (hence the break in blogging).  I am on the 20 day countdown to graduation, and have been up to my ears in work.  I'm not sure I have wrapped my mind around the fact I am nearly done with school, but I have to tell you it feels pretty darn good.  Cam has been busy with furniture building as well as stair/second story construction.  Unfortunately the farming has been slow with me preoccupied, although we "borrowed," a local boy-goat to hopefully help the baby goat situation.  The kids quickly named him Thunder!  Despite the reputation of billy goats, I really like this guy, and am going to be sorry to see him go.  He's a little stinky, and a little ornery, but man he is funny!  And will hopefully bring us fall babies and some milk.  Life on the farm teaches many valuable lessons, including where baby goats come from... Ask Kendyl, she'll tell you "Mom, so Thunder will just get smaller and smaller and then we'll have baby goats?"  ***Insert ideal parenting comment here*** 

"There are some things you learn best in calm, and some in storm"- Willa Cather

We had an epic FAIL of a getaway to the big city in Wenatchee last week.  We thought we'd get out of the hills for a night, celebrate my possible gainful employment at the local hospital, and take some time to enjoy eachother... Well, it was a nice thought!  We were forgotten at the restaurant we went to eat, Kendyl ended up quite sick, and in the middle of the night our hotel room ceiling started leaking water and a couple of the tiles fell down.  Needless to say, I didn't get any sleep, Kendyl was miserable, and we left early in the AM to get home.  Another score for the mountain ponderosa---and a good laugh at the best made plans.





The world around us is warming up, the wildflowers and greenery are helping us forget the summer of destruction, and lake swimming is right around the corner.  Although it often feels like survival mode around here, there are moments of perfection... perfect peace in watching the kids reel in a fish, hike a new mountain, visit a ghost town, or enjoy the view from our own, soon to be front porch.  Those are the moments that make the work, the stress, the sleepless nights, all worth it.  For every other moment, there's a spare tire.          

Framing

We've made a big step on Strong B.A.C.K. Farms.... I've moved forward with our thoughts on homeschooling and we have officially made it official that I will be a home school mom and our munchkins will be homeschoolers.  Please spare your groans and judgements for a few and hear me out (or don't and simply wait for me to finish documenting my thoughts and check out the next post)....

Telling people you are homeschooling, is much like telling people you are moving across the state.. most people don't believe you, the majority question your sanity, and a select/miniscual/nonexistent percentage have an interesting comment such as: "Oh that's interesting... or Yikes it could be good or it could be  very bad.... or How the heck are you going to do that?"

This has been a conversation that began several years ago, when I started talking to Cam about not wanting to send the kids off for school; it began as a little flicker that kept being fueled by my own research, books/articles I read, people we encountered, and observation of our children.  I remember not knowing quite how Cam would react when I approached him about the subject, but after presenting him with my reasoning, he has been on board ever since.    It is definitely not a choice for everyone, and I can most definitely respect that, but it's one that is consuming my efforts; and igniting a new passion.

Night Time Adventures at Lake Chopaka

Here are some of the criticisms I think homeschooling faces and my own two sense... Like I said feel free to skip over, groan out loud, tell me I'm crazy but stay tuned for future adventures this will bring (and know these are but one person's thoughts). 

Being Weird (AKA Interesting): Generally one of the most common replies I get regarding homeschooling is something about kids turning out weird, not knowing how to interact, social awkwardness, etc.  One of the funniest quotes I've seen regarding home school recently stated "I've seen the village, and I don't want it raising my child." HA!  Does anyone else feel like life has just gotten a bit too much lately?  Like it's spiraling out of control and unable to stop, with television mocking the existence we now face.  Schools are no longer a tried and true safe place, bullying has become the product of national campaigns, teachers are expected to parent but have no power, and our children are falling behind-- then are chastised for not making the marks.  So... does attending school to face peers from broken life circumstances, to conform to a broken country make you more able to interact effectively??  There is of course something to say for exposure to all walks of life, but why not prepare your child's own character prior to expecting them to deal with situations that are beyond their years of understanding.  Why not give them tools and confidence in themselves before asking them to sort out the social network of their peers; keep them safe and grown them strong.  If nothing else... let them be a bit weird, for they will be far more interesting.
          
Time: Hours in the day is one of the biggest issues that has hindered my desire to send my kids to school.  Kindergarten has gone to a full time everyday schedule.  That means up at 7, home by 4.  Unless of course you want to play a sport, practice karate, or participate in Scouts.  Then your 5 year old suddenly has a 12 hour day on their hands and you have less than TWO hours to impact your child's life.  TWO hours to inject your family's love and moral structure.  For a child like Bear, sho still naps by the grace of God, every three days or so, I'm not sure he's physically ready to start punching that time clock, and honestly I want more of their time, more of their attention.
 

Bird House Projects with Dad

Learning to Learn and Wanting to Explore:  I've done some reading on how people learn, and have discovered things I never thought of.  The traditional classroom, is itself so opposite of a benefit to a growing mind.  Walls and the inability to move don't provoke thought quite like living, smelling, touching, and feeling your lesson.  There is of course teaching discipline, and growing the ability to focus.  But since I have began working with Bear on his reading, I've found it grows quite naturally, and without much complaint-- and generally I find he asks for a lesson before I am even ready for the next; he will gladly sit down and study something or work on a project.  Our classroom has changed with the seasons, from the shop, to on top of my bed, to the lake, the meadow, or the mountains.  I'll spare you the details of what I think my personal homeschooling approach will be, but I'm hoping it will create little ones who are able to learn anything well, to memorize, to reason and to enjoy the process... Hopefully they will learn how to use their minds instead of just finish a worksheet.  Did you know you can teach things like logic and character??  What a novel idea. 
  

Framing a Future and A Family Unit: What will this do for their future?  Will they go to college?  Will they fall off the bandwagon and need therapy for the hardships they've endured?  Will they find mates that think they are odd or otherworldly?  I'm really not sure, but I don't think heading down a predictable path prepares you any better for the uncertainties of life, the curve balls, or the hurdles you may or may not encounter.  What my hope is, is that we create a safe foundation, a strong base, and an unshakable family unit that can weather it all.  I hope our children learn to work hard, to problem solve, to enjoy each other, as well as enjoy the power of play and adventure.... because that is what they will see being home more than being away.  I hope they learn to be family members, to care for animals and their neighbors, to survive life in the country, to build, and to explore.  Should they one day read my stories, most of all I would like them to know that we made the choice to give them something different, to give the most of ourselves to invest in their lives.....to frame what we think will be a meaningful life     

Finances, Effort, and Time

Spring is a busy season on the homestead.  The snows of winter not only bring a quiet, beautiful, peace, but also force you to slow down--you don't leave the house for frivolous reasons, your adventures tend to have a shorter radius, and hunkering down is mighty fine.  The melt seems to scream "GAME ON."  I wrote last year on the true meaning of spring cleaning (picking up everything that got forgot before the snow fell), and it holds true for yet another year--and the chore list seems to have done nothing but grow.

My friend Em and the Wall Crew

We enjoyed a gloriously long weekend together.  My schedule this quarter, has allowed for several luxuriously long weekends that have allowed us to focus on tasks at home and get the most out of the lengthening days.  My being home has allowed me time to focus on the kiddos as well as enable Cam to get some work done on the house.  The framing stage of building is so fun, because you see change each day, and finally get a look at what your home is really going to look like.  And I'd say it's looking pretty awesome....  Looking out the windows up there is going to be heaven.  We were lucky to have some friends from Twisp over the last weekend to help us raise two of the four walls, and then Cam and I finished the third this week.  Cam says it's all coming back to him, and I'd say he's doing a fine job!  The front wall will be a bit of a challenge as it's quite tall; one of our neighbors who is a master carpenter has offered some help as well, for which we were very grateful.  Four walls.... The kids have been so excited to see the changes... and are sure enjoying the flat spot to ride their bikes!  It feels good to see my husband up there working on our home, and while we swore up and down we would never build a house EVER again, this one seems a bit more fun.... and so exciting.  On the house docket remains: power/water lines to the house, a septic system, and that big 'ol front wall.  That should keep Cam busy for quite some time!

Me Getting Personal with the Nail Gun

Child of Spring- Wild and Free

Our fruit trees and berry patch are sure loving all this spring sunshine.  Nevertheless, we did take my Uncles advice and throw up a deer fence, following a late night ransacking of my pear tree.  It didn't cause much damage, but I had blossoms and chewed off buds on the ground covering little doe hooves.  NOT OKAY!  I had been hoping our dogs would keep the deer at bay, but not the case.  Following the fires we hadn't seen many deer in our area, but they are back and in FULL force.  I must have seen 200 deer on my way to school this morning (picturesque but makes for an anxious commute).  So, in true TEAM BROWN fashion, we threw up a piece meal fence to suffice until we build something more permanent/fancy.  It seems to have done the trick though, but I'm pretty sure the deer could jump right over it if they wanted to (which could be tasty....).  Along with the deer, many other animals are finally returning along with the regrowth of vegetation.  We have had whole herds of turkeys, our owls are back, the Sandhill Cranes have been flying, and my neighbor that I ride with said she just saw a mama bear with a cub the other night.  It's good to see, because it was really starting to feel like the moon around here with the ashen landscape.    Spring happened so fast this year.  In fact we have a wild plum tree that literally bloomed overnight.  We had been waiting on it, and checking buds, and then all of a sudden it looked like it had been snowed on.



I've come to the conclusion that when you do things yourself or chose to live out in the wilds a bit, life takes three things: financing, effort, and time.  Unfortunately, life rarely gives you all three at once... Luckily though, a lack of one is often compensated for by an excess of another (which usually means effort makes up for anything that gets thrown your way).  Right now, time is a little short, and the days simply not long enough to finish all we'd like to get done.  We have to prioritize and set ourselves up for success in the coming seasons and years, when hopefully our ratio is a bit more inline with our project list.... And a house is probably a bit more of a priority then another garden bed, or fences for that milk cow I've been searching for.. darn it!  It's a good life we're building, it feels just right.

 

Roots

It's been a practically perfect week around here.  The sun has been out in full spring glory, warming to the low 70's.  We are finally starting to smell the pine trees again after several months of snow and a lingering burnt smell.  As I finish up my homework and begin to write, I'm working with tired eyes, and listening to a quiet house full of sun-kissed sleepy heads that have spent 90% of their day out-doors.   


The kids and I spent a beautiful afternoon Wednesday planting fruit trees.  This was on our NEED to do list this year, as, like I once read in a book, "The best time to plant fruit trees.... was LAST year."  There are many wonderful things this activity brought to my mind:

*Direct supply to the canning cupboard-- with the price of food becoming more and more ridiculous, it's hard to justify organics, so why not skip the bumpy trip to town and grow your own?!  An investment of time and sweat is SO worth it when you can line your cans up in fall and enjoy that wonderful food while you're snowed in during the winter.  We are still enjoying fruit from last season, and the kids are hooked on "making their own."  They are convinced that home-canned fruit is good enough to be dessert... Who can deny the yumminess!?   
*Dirt therapy-- there is nothing as satisfying as working around the "farm."  Getting your hands dirty, caring for your family, and getting things done!  We tend to have full plates, a fair amount of stress, and not enough hours in the day; but when we are all home, working outside, there's a buzz in the air; contentment all around.  A garden certainly is time and money... but it's also a product of dedication and love.
*Teachable lesson for the littles-- Where food comes from is most definitely something we strive to teach our children; but with this comes the work that goes along with feeding yourself.  It's never as easy as "lets just buy some plants," or "let's just butcher...," it all takes effort and investment when you don't outsource the work.  I was so impressed that Barrett completed the whole project with me this afternoon; usually attention spans get the best of chores, but lately he has been very focused.  He had shovel, dumptruck, and motivation to get this project done.  I can imagine his pride when he gets his first bite.  Kendyl also enjoyed the project, and was great moral support--enjoying the 70 degree weather in her undies and tennis shoes.  What a character! 

****Check Fruit Trees off the Seasonal To-Do List: Bees and Veggies Remain.. as well as a garden fence, hmmmm a milk cow would be nice, need more fences for that, DARN LIST anyway...

There is something about planting trees that seems fairly permanent.  While I snapped pictures of the kids, I was already planning yearly shots by the growing trees to document both their growth.  Seeing them grow and finding shade, a place to rest, or a snack.  The fires this year taught me a bit about the sacredness of the place you call home and your land-- a feeling that's multiplied by the memories you make and the sweat you put into it.  The more we form, the more memories are made, the deeper the roots go..................

We had quite the finish to my spring break.  A trip home for my Grandparents 60th Anniversary, and a celebration of my 25th (ok ok ok 30th) birthday.  I've actually been really looking forward to 30...no hesitations; I guess that is the feeling that comes from extreme wisdom, and being pretty ok with where your life is at.  Cam planned a surprise dinner with cousins, and friends and while I'm really not at liberty to discuss how much fun we had, I came away feeling incredibly lucky for the people in my life.  My grandma always used to tell us how much she liked to takes us out in public, because she felt so proud; and I felt just like her looking around admiring my husband and his efforts as well as the wonderful people my family members are, and those they have in their lives----so happy for their happiness.  It's really something to watch people you have grown up with navigate life-- I knew we would move on from capture the flag of course, but seeing these new families emerge is really amazing.  Families, houses, careers, we are all very different, yet I still feel the likeness of all the time we spent together growing up, and a common goal of a grounded life.  Having a husband that makes it all happen ain't bad either.

Celebrating my grandparents was very special as well.  Being married for 60 years stands on it's own as an accomplishment.  I can't help but think about the weekend and what they have created.  Two people who didn't have much, didn't know many people...and the wonderful village they have created.  Memories of time spent in their home are some of my best, and so much of where I am now is a product of the roots I was blessed with and stories I inherited.  Good food, laughter, loudness, games (lots of games), a splash of craziness, and lots of hugs-- family is a complex tapestry, but these two have given us a wonderful beginning to all our stories.  Very thankful for that.

Lumber Package Has Arrived

Returning home, we were all a bit wore out, but I couldn't rest for long as I had to start my FINAL quarter of nursing school.  It's still sinking in that I am almost done!  It's a gut twisting combination of excitement and shock/fear that I will soon have real people's lives in my hand (not really something to take lightly)--- it's beginning to feel like the end of school is the beginning of yet another challenge!!  My schedule is looking quite nice though, which is allowing me plenty of that dirt therapy I was mentioning earlier, along with much appreciated family time.  Today we started early again planting strawberries and blueberries.  I'm trying to be better about letting the kids be really involved and not minding so much if my rows are straight (silly I know, but meaningful when you are small and trying to help).  We groomed the horses and took off several layers of their winter coats.  Cam had a table buyer come in from Idaho today, to buy his latest creation, which was exciting!!  Following that we visited the neighbor's puppies and took ourselves to town for lunch.  We skipped naps and went to the lake for "homework" time while Cam worked on his latest order, a huge farmhouse table for a friend of mine.  Barret read several three letter words during reading time today, which was fabulous!!  I so enjoy seeing their light bulbs go off, and a sunny lake setting makes it picture perfect.  We topped off the day by heading to Fish Lake to roast dinner up there.  Both baths and bedtime are well deserved today....................... I'd call that success.   

Rodeo

It's amazing how time stands still when you are about to get hurt.  I can distinctly remember when I broke my nose at 10th grade basketball camp in Eastern Oregon.  Frame by frame I watched that elbow travel toward my then-perfect nose, and amazingly I had time to contemplate the lessons my dad gave me regarding self defense and a swift, effective, jab to an assailants nose, while praying this was not to be my end.  Flying off a horse is quite similar, and in fact the effect is enhanced now that I am almost 30, and not quite as limber or "bulletproof," as my 16 year old self once believed.  I have sure enjoyed my journey back into the horse world, and while it evokes many happy memories, it also brings back and illuminates the fragility of our own skulls, and the confidence it takes to climb on a 1200 pound animal.

It was a nice evening ride on the big Chief... we were joined by my neighbor, whom we encountered on the driveway.  We headed down the road to check out the goings on at a property down the way that has recently been purchased (a chunk of land I have coveted for some time due to it's size, terrain, and natural water feature).  Chief has been doing pretty good in the hills, and we have been building trust, but he gets a bit hot when he heads for home, and is built like an off the track Thoroughbred (which makes for an interesting combination).  After meandering through this property to check out it's creek and fence line, we turned for home, and Chief turned on his inner bronc.  I sat him well for a good turn, but he let out a strong kick, and I went sailing over his head.  As I flew through the air my inner voice was aflutter "I need to get my foot out of the stirrup..... shoot, I can't believe he launched me, I want another shot at staying on!...... Why did I use this saddle instead of my usual, I certainly would've stuck in that one.... Thank God for soft ground (this is soft ground right?)..... seems like I've been flying for a while, how's this landing going to be."   Then thud, all's quiet on the Eastern side.  One thing I've always been is a good lander, and I'd say I stuck this one with a 10 point landing, no structural damage, and a good story when I got back home.

There are many old adages regarding climbing back on the horse after he bucks you off, and it always amazes me how simple, yet how very complex that can be.  In this instance, I had no problem hopping right back on (once I caught my horse), but there are times when it's not so appealing.  Life changes a bit when you have little ones to tend to, and responsibilities to meet; suddenly flying off a horse is cause for alarm.  Don't count me out quite yet though, I'm already planning ways to improve this horse, or at least how to attach a bucking strap!

Grateful For Good Friends

 It's spring break for the Brown clan.  I completed this quarter on a strong note; it was one of the most challenging, but one of my best.  I feel like I am peaking at a great time, with entering the job market on the horizon.  My countdown is below 80 days!  It's a bit surreal; this has been more work than I ever imagined; a test of wills, work ethic, and desire (and a roller coaster of my dealings with these elements).  While I question what the heck I am doing nearly every day, I know how much I do love caring for people in deep moments, and can't think of a profession that is more up to the elbows in people lives.


 

This One's a Beauty

Home time sure is nice though, I mean amazingly nice.  Not having to stay up late doing homework, being able to focus on what's in front of me, and enjoy the scenery; such a nice reprieve from my hectic school schedule.  Cam has been able to get some work done on the house with our neighbor, and has finished several tables, one of which sold today, and the other which is going out at the end of the month. His latest table is gorgeous, and I think I'll be sad to see it leave!  He already has another order for a large custom piece that will be made from rustic/reworked wood (pretty sure I'll end up wanting that one too)!  It's pretty cool to see how these projects progress, and he's sure been doing well at it.  One of the families that lives close to us, had him do one with wood burned vines and leaves on the top; it turned out really cool. Thinking we may be needing a website fairly soon here, or a boutique..... (it was my childhood goal to run a cash register-- motivated from the beginning you can see).  All I can say is... I am not going to business school!

Several nights ago we packed up the trailer and camped up at Fish Lake.  It was gorgeous!!!  The Sinlahekin is really the area that started our fascination with Tonasket and the Pine Creek area where we bought, and it never fails to impress me.  The snow is finally MOSTLY melted, and the days are getting longer and sunnier.  We had a secluded spot right on the lake, and were the only people in the area.  The wind was blowing fairly hard when we arrived, but calmed right down, making for a peaceful night.  The kids were SO excited to be out camping, and to sleep in their bunks... which is very strange, because after you live in a 24' travel trailer for over two months, you really can't fathom EVER wanting to be in it again.  Remarkably though, it must be like pregnancy amnesia, and we all had silly smiles on our faces.  We hiked around, let the kids roam, and barbecued some delicious steaks and spuds before all sleeping like babies.

We woke, to a dead calm lake front view, the smell of camp fire on all of us, and a percolator ready for coffee.  I bought the kids some of those little boxes of sugar cereal to have in the trailer, for a treat because they never get cereal at home.... score another one for the trailer.  Before fixing breakfast we hiked around the area a bit and went in search of the sound of running water.  The snow melt has reorganized life around here, there is running water through field irrigation ditches, low meadows, and often times across our gravel roads.  It's bringing some life back to the dust and ashes left behind by an extremely dry summer and a fire filled fall.  Our hike took us a ways up the hillside, near the back road to Conconully.  The kids were troopers and excited to see where the water was coming from.  We ended halfway up the mountain, and at a beautiful waterfall.  I am so grateful for these moments of family exploration; I love seeing the kids enjoyment and their minds taking in the world around them.  They have a sense of pride too, when they can return and see how far their little legs have gone.


Back at home, we have done much of the same; getting outside, exploring places where snow is finally melted, and enjoying eachother (we even went to the big city of Omak for a movie).  Bear and I worked on Chief a bit today, and I'm glad to see his comfort zone is growing a bit.  We took a quad ride around the lake nearest us, and did a bit of exploring up there.  After dinner we set out for another walk around the property.  We still have a creek running through our meadow, and a small pond in between our property and the neighbors.  I got a kick out of seeing ducks in it!  It's like our geography has been mixed up; it wasn't that long ago we were marveling in how dry the dirt was several feet deep.  Unfortunately, most of our meadow/ravine area still looks like a war scene, and while grass is coming back in some areas, others are bare and rather dismal.  I'm hoping the moisture will help the grass re-seed to help bring our wildlife back in.  In the meantime though, we are enjoying following the rivers, and hoping, as I've mentioned this translates to a non-existent fire season.

We have talks of garden and orchard going on around here.  It's harder than you think to start with bare land, and plan out every aspect of your homestead.  Trees are a rather permanent feature, and we have to think ahead for water needs.  I'm liking the feel of things around here right now though--Cam's got a good thing going on, the kids are blooming into wonderful adventurers, I'm counting down days of school, and things seem to keep landing right side up.  Spring is a time for action!