Phone Issues

I have been devouring the book on the Pacific Crest Trail that I am reading.  It is full of personal stories.  Some of them are tragic and devastating.  It is so fascinating to read about all of the hikers who have traveled through that area.  I really resonate with them.

Today Lula and I returned, and we saw a little marker at the side of the trail.  Someone from Europe had left a couple of ceramic hiking boots with a little hand carved wooden sign.  There were three small pine cones nestled next to it.  It was a surprising find.  Generally, there is nothing out there but trees and nature-no sign of humans.  People are very conscientious about carrying out their trash.  It's such a pristine environment.  It makes me so thankful to be a California native.

Last night  I was woken up at 11:11 p.m. by a call from the power company telling me that the electricity would be cut off at the cottage again.  I am very grateful to have the cabin.  We consistently have  power, water, and gas heat.  I also have a huge stack of firewood.  My cell phone has been acting very strange.  It won't hold a charge, and even when I charge it, it drops down to 30%.  I ordered a new one, but UPS couldn't find my new address, and sent it back to Great Call.

I may just go replace it at Best Buy.  It's so important to have a phone, and I don't have a land line.  My old one is several years old, and I think it's wearing out.  I wasn't able to get a signal in Canyon Country for almost two weeks.  I think with the power outages the towers were affected.  I am careful not to drive at night, and  make sure  to choose highways that have call boxes at the side of the road.

I am glad that I still have an old fashioned address book, because if I were dependent on my phone, I would have been out of luck.  What is your phone situation?

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Soaking In the Energy of the Trees

Soaking in the energy of the trees up here has been so uplifting.  Wrightwood  really is a heavenly place.  I checked out a few fascinating books by hikers who have completed the Pacific Crest Trail.  The stories captivate me, because I know the area.  I walk sections of it, and pretend that I am traveling the entire way.  It really is a spiritual feeling.  There is so much history here.  The path is impeccably maintained in this area, too.  We all have a passion for hiking. 

Today I relaxed for quite a while by the fire.  It felt so cozy to drink coffee, read my library books, gaze at the incredible views of the mountains, and relax.  I was covered with a warm wool blanket that one of the previous owners must have crocheted.  It's impressive work.  The blankets are thick and heavy.  I love them.

 I finally took Lula for a walk on the main trail by Highway 2 this  afternoon.  She's used to going in the morning.  I lounged around, waited for more sun, and enjoyed a hot lunch.  I nuked  a sandwich of turkey ham with melted cheddar cheese on whole wheat bread.  Yesterday I worked nonstop for eight hours, so it felt good to be lazy and relaxed.     

 It's been thirty degrees here, so I am wearing all of my beloved hand knits.  The ladies at the library always compliment me, and ask me if I've made what I'm wearing.  I appreciate their enthusiasm.  The alpaca/wool gloves have really come in handy.  I knit them several years ago and they are still going strong.  Sock yarn is so durable.  It wears like iron.   Are you needing to wear gloves yet where you live?

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Back to Canyon Country, After the Tick Fire

little brown cabin in Wrightwood, California

Thank you for all of your comments on the blog.  I appreciate your care and concern.  I drove home very early this morning.  The sun was just coming up as I filled the gas tank with gas.  I don't let it get below half a tank anymore. 

There was some traffic on the 14 South, since the far right lane was closed at Shadow Pines.  I studied the charred hillsides.  The landscape reminded me of burnt cookies or toast.  It looks cleaner, though.  There's something about having that dry brush burnt away that gives me a sense of relief.

sweet little red cabin

I have done two loads of  laundry, cleaned up the yard, and am raking leaves this afternoon.  I put all of the pine cones into a large plastic green waste bin.  I will take them up to the cabin to use as kindling.  They make pretty decorations, too.  I watered everything really well this morning.  Fortunately, the plants all look healthy.  The temperatures haven't been too bad, and they seemed to handle the smoke just fine.  I refilled the birdbath, which was empty.

red and green cabin with flowers

I fed and watered Snow White, my Silkie.  She had laid four eggs while I was gone!  I was floored.  Usually my hens don't lay eggs at this time of year.  Thrilled, I thanked her profusely.  I plan to do some baking.  I will probably make pumpkin or banana bread, and maybe some Snickerdoodles. 

cabin with fir tree cutouts

I usually leave down some pine needles and leaves as mulch, but will clean everything up today.  I don't want anything in the yard that can burn.  I will compost the leaves.  I have two large bins for green waste.  They will be recycled into mulch at the plant.  My fruit trees look terrific.  So far, so good.  The wind is supposed to pick up tonight at 11:00 p.m.  The Santa Anas are what cause the most trouble.  I keep imagining green, healthy gardens and light rain.  I think it's so important to focus on what you want.   

I took these photos in my neighborhood up at the cabin for you.  It has been such a refuge up there.  It's hard to believe it's just sixty miles from where the Tick Fire was.  How are things in your area?

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More Fires

Hi Everyone,

I just logged on to the Internet at the library up at the cabin.  I was shocked to see how bad the fire in Sonoma is.  There is also a new one, near the 405 freeway.  Yikes!  My cottage is about fifteen miles from the latest fire.  The wind is what makes it so dangerous.  My friend in Australia also posted photos of horrific fires there.

My neighbors said that things had calmed down a couple of days ago.  The roads had reopened, and people were going to Trader Joe's and Stater Brothers, stocking up on staples and groceries.  We weren't  sure how long it would last, though.  They told me that the air is like an ashtray or bbq, and recommended that I just stay up here in the mountains.

I feel safer up here, but am still going to pack a bag, and keep in touch with what's happening, just in case.

Lula and I took an amazing hike on the Pacific Crest Trail this morning.  I stumbled onto an incredible campsite.  I sat at picnic tables there and had a tuna sandwich and some fruit.  Lula munched on dog biscuits.

I hope everyone in California and Oz has a safe place to go.  I plan to call my neighbors again and see how things are going.  I was planning to return today, but have decided to stay put.  I appreciate your concern, and hope that you all are doing well.  I will try to get to your blogs soon.  I have had a lot of messages to answer from friends.  I'm sorry for the delay.

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Tick Fire Update

Hi Everyone,

Thank you to those who called and wrote to check up on me in the Tick Fire.  I am safe at the cabin.  I have been in touch with several of my neighbors.  The fire was burning a block from my cottage.  I am shocked that many of the people on my street have chosen not to evacuate.  They will let people out, but not back in...

I have offered space in my home to several people in the area.  I would be afraid to stay there in this situation.  The fire moves so quickly.  The heat is incredibly intense. 

I tried to return yesterday to water my garden and feed my chicken, but all of the roads leading into town were closed.  They weren't allowing any foot traffic, either. Thankfully, one of my neighbors is taking care of my chicken for me.  She took all of the kids over with her, and they had a fun time.  It can be stressful being cooped up in the house in this kind of situation.  People are running out of things like milk, bread, and other staples.  We don't realize how quickly we go through them.

It made me realize how important it is to have a stockpile, cash, gas in the car, a bag packed, and all of your documents.  Fortunately, I am prepared, and brought everything with me.  My intuition had told me to pack my Suze Orman valuables box and my passport.  I do wish I had packed all of my hand knit sweaters, though.  Oh well.  So far, our houses are still standing.

I will answer your blogs as soon as possible.  I have limited Internet access at the library.

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Standing In Your Truth

One thing that financial expert Suze Orman stresses is the importance of standing in your truth.  It takes guts and strength, but we need to stand up for ourselves, and to not let others  walk all over us.

When people trample our boundaries, they are not honoring who we are.  Many people will flip into denial, rather than admit that they are breaking the rules, crossing the line, or behaving in a sneaky or dishonest manner. 

With cell phones, everybody has a camera now.  I have found that one of the most effective tools in dealing with people with boundary issues is to tape or photograph them.  They will not climb your fence, trespass, or let their dog run through your yard if you if you document it.  The camera doesn't lie.  This also can help if you prefer to avoid  getting  into an argument. 

A fellow dance teacher once told me,  "Just remember, every time you set a boundary, someone is going to try and cross it."  It takes consistency and firmness to teach people that they can't take advantage.  Have you ever had someone in your life with poor boundaries?  Sonia Choquette says that people with good boundaries are respectful of other people's boundaries.  I have found this to be true.  What do you think?     

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Learning From Your Parents

Yesterday  I felt like I flew through housework and chores nonstop.  That's how my poor mom used to live her life.  She would frantically clean the house all day, for about six hours per day.  In between, she was making dinner, packing lunches, folding laundry, and taking a few short breaks. 

The older I get, the more I appreciate how beautifully she kept our home.  It took constant work and effort, and she put that time in every day.  I wonder if she would have been happier if she had spent more time in nature, like I do.  She did enjoy sunbathing on our patio, and listening to the birds.  She would usually read a romance novel and have a glass of wine, or two, or three...

This morning Lula and I hiked together and admired the Fall colors.  The birds are hard to spot; they seem to hide in the trees, and act very afraid.  Those near my cottage are always out in the open, and frequent the bird feeders and bird baths.  I guess there are more birds of prey out in the wilderness.  it's a whole different vibration.  We stopped and had lunch by a stream.  I packed some dog biscuits for Lula.  I munched on some beef jerky, a couple of small white nectarines, and a few sugar cookies.  Food tastes so delicious when you're out in the mountain air. 

Yesterday I took care of some paperwork that needed to be finished, and I feel much better today.  I wrote my dad's obituary, printed out my flight information and hotel reservations for an upcoming trip, and paid my utilities and property taxes.  My parents were always very organized.  They planned ahead, and stuck to a daily schedule.   It really does reduce stress to have the bills paid, the meals cooked, and your plans firm.  What did you learn from your parents?

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Are You Happy or Unhappy?

a picnic at Grassy Hollow Visitor Center near the cabin

I've been thinking recently about why some women over fifty seem so unhappy and depressed.  A lady that I taught yoga to years ago told me,  "When you get older, you can either become  bitter, or more loving."  She was very bright, kind, and generous.  In her smile and attitude I saw the kind of  person that I wanted to grow into as a senior.

Most of the women I know who complain are usually upset with their families.  They aren't getting their needs met, and they don't look elsewhere for happiness.  Many want someone to take care of them.  I don't have children, so that's never been my source of love and companionship, although I loved teaching my girls when I had a teaching career in dance.  The boys were wonderful, too, but it was mostly a female environment.

I think having an  healthy routine is key.  Daily exercise, (that you enjoy,) puts you in a higher state, mentally.  It also discharges negativity.  Many depressed women don't exercise.  Looking your best also raises self esteem.  If your hair, skin, and clothing makes you feel attractive  and sexy, your vibration will be different than someone who hates how they look and has low self esteem.  Daily showers, clean clothes, scrubbed nails, brushed hair, and a bit of lipstick can do wonders.

What really seems to influence our mood in my opinion, is having a home and garden that makes you feel comforted.  It's satisfying to feel proud of your living space.  I am shocked by how many people are now surrounded by stuff, and a lot of it doesn't even belong to them.  If you have objects that are broken, dirty, dusty, or rusty sitting in your yard or home, it will bring the energy down greatly.  In the early days, people really nurtured their homes, and they just had what they needed.  Many people now are drowning in stuff that they don't want, use, or have the space to store.  It can make you sick. I've had people want me to store their extra stuff for them, and I don't take it.  I spend a lot of time keeping my environment clear, and those who hoard sometime take that as a signal to try and start moving their excess into my area.  Sometimes you have to claim your space.  How does your space feel?  Are you happy or unhappy?

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8 Hair Mistakes That Make You Look Older

Toxic Headache From the Chimney Cleaning

the daily hikes are rejuvenating to the spirit

This morning I woke up with a nagging headache.  When I went to light a fire last night, I didn't realize that the flue was closed from the cleaning.  I think some smoke got into the house until I quickly opened it.  It's amazing what smoke and fumes can do to our lungs in a short time.  I aired out the cabin today.

Lula and I hiked portions of both of these trails over the weekend

I wasn't sure if the smoke caused my ill feelings, or if I was fighting off a bug.  I took a hot shower, washed my hair, and then soaked in a hot bath with epsom salts and baking soda.  That's a powerful and healthy  way to clear the aura.  I had taken a sauna last night, so I probably should have washed my hair.  I didn't want to go to bed with it still wet, and was exhausted from all of the hiking and walking.  I felt slightly weak.   I am very sensitive to energy.  If you sweat like mad, you probably should shampoo.  I was too lazy, so I just took a cold shower.  My scalp felt yucky.

I love the feeling of the earth beneath my feet

I ingested a couple of cloves of fresh garlic, (which I chopped up into tiny pieces and swallowed like pills,) and laid out on the chaise lounge in the sunshine.  I relaxed and listened to the birds out there.  At night when I take Lula out to go potty, I can hear an owl's soft song, "Who, who." It sounds like she is right above me, and wish I could see her.  I adore owls.  A considerate neighbor is quietly sawing wood to prepare for the winter.  The birds seem to hide during the day.  It's as if they are not used to being seen by people.  I can hear them chattering, so I sit very still and try to find them.  Sometimes I stand on the wraparound deck bench and lean against the Jeffrey pine.  It's a challenge to locate their silhouettes.  I can feel the movement of the trunk of the tree behind my back.  We sway together.  How is your health today?

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Had The Chimney Swept

Today the chimney sweep and his partner came to clean my chimney at the cabin.  They were so cute!  I was very impressed with their work.  They were a little dusty with the black chimney soot on their faces and hands.  It reminded me of the movie Mary Poppins.  That is one of my favorite dance numbers of all time,

 I didn't expect was that one of the chimney cleaners was a young woman.  She was so sweet.  She had actually been one of the waitresses at The Blue Ridge Inn when I went there for dinner last week.  It reminded me of when I was her age, and had several different jobs.  I paid them $10.00 extra as a thank you.  It's heart warming to see young people starting their own businesses, making excellent money, and becoming independent.

The chimney hadn't been cleaned for two years.  The seller hadn't been using the cabin, because her husband was sick.  The home inspector let me know that it definitely  needed to be done.  I'm glad I took care of it right away.  It feels good to tick off those jobs on your home maintenance list.  Apparently it was very dirty.  Not anymore!

I asked how often I should wait between cleanings, and he recommended having it done after burning  two cords of wood.  That's about how much  I have left in the wood pile, so I will keep track and then call him again.  Have you had your chimney swept recently?

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Fall Flowers and Homegrown Fruit

Best Kept Secret is a fragrant rose that is a blushed pink and is  mildew resistant

Today I delivered several bags of homegrown pomegranates to my neighbors.  Everyone was so appreciative. It was fun to chat with people and catch up on their lives.  Riding the bike in the sunshine was such a pleasure.   I'm inspired to plant more fruit trees.  It's amazing how much fruit one standard tree can provide.  I'm so glad that I didn't give up on this tree during the drought.  The fruit was tiny and deformed for years.  This year, it's excellent.  The rain and extra water made all of the difference.   

I planted this Bougainvillea along the driveway

 

 

 I was thrilled to see that the Bougainvillea has finally flowered.  I love the color; I was actually afraid that it was dead.  Still, I continued to water and mulch it, and it is finally looking healthy and happy.  This plant is drought tolerant, and doesn't need a lot of care. I am hoping it will get huge.  I plan to put lots of it around the cottage.  I think it will look beautiful and am pleased that it will be able to stand the hot summers that we get in Canyon Country.  I hope it gets stronger and larger.  

I got some hand laundry done while I was home.  I knit the socks and hat.  The cashmere sweater I bought on sale twenty years ago.  It's still so warm and soft.  I can usually find these on clearance at T.J. Maxx in January or February.  This one was $25.00.  It washes up to beautifully.  What have you been doing around your home?

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Living in the Woods and Hiking

trail head in Autumn

I have noticed that since I've been spending time up at the cabin, it has made me really appreciate life at the pink cottage.  There are so many contrasts.  The climates are totally different.  Up in the mountains, I build a fire in the fireplace, gaze into it, and have a tendency to veg out and read.  When I drive back down to Canyon Country, I get busy cooking, gardening, doing laundry, cleaning, and paying bills.  It gives me a nice balance.  I work at the cottage, and gather wood, hike, play, and relax at the cabin.

stopping for a rest after hiking a mile

Today I picked most of the pomegranates off of my bush.  They were starting to split, so I knew they were ripe.  This harvest has been by far the best in several years.  The fruit is so healthy.  Having the rain last season made all of the difference.  I gave out bags of them to my neighbors.  I have several more  to share with friends up at the cabin.  They seem like the type of people that would really appreciate home grown fruit. 

it's so nice to have land and space

I notice that my knees act up a little in the colder climate.  I'm not sure if it is all of the stairs, the temperature, or the new hikes.  All I know is that when I am back in the warm weather at the cottage, my knees feel fine.  I remember hearing about old people moving from cold states back east to places like Las Vegas, for the warmth.  Now I understand why.  It's interesting how our joints respond to temperature and wetness.  I've been enjoying sitting on the sunny porch while I'm home.  Lula loves to lounge in the backyard, too.  She appreciates the sunshine as much as I do.  She has made it clear that she is eager to hop back into the car and get back up to the mountains, though, too.

I walk down through these trees to the street below, which takes me into town

I remember my mom commenting on how big the kitchen is at the cottage.  It's true.  It's an old fashioned one, and  is ideal for cooking, baking, and soap making.  I can really spread out and be comfortable.  Even though the cottage is tiny, it is very well designed.  The garden feels welcoming and healing, too.  I love sitting out there and admiring the roses, cosmos, zinnias, and sunflowers.  All the hard work has paid off, and it's waiting for me when I arrive.  The gopher plant and amaranth are in bloom, too.  Soon the citrus will be ready to pick.  I am excited about new crop of  Meyer lemons.  It has been years since I've had a successful harvest. I had almost given up on that tree.  I'm so glad that I didn't.   I love that variety; they make the best puddings and cakes.  Are you harvesting anything at your place?

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From the Cold to the Sunshine

view of the mountains on our last hike; it feels otherworldly up there

It's been interesting traveling back and forth between the cottage and the cabin.  The weather is SO different!  I wear sun dresses and sandals at the cottage.  The roses and zinnias are still in bloom.  The artichoke plant from last year is coming back to life.  The hanging baskets are colorful with pink geraniums in bloom.  I love sitting out in the sunshine on the porch.

Lula takes herself up to bed early

Meanwhile, back at the cabin,  I have a fire in the fireplace constantly.  I close off the lower living room and kitchen, and the rooms become warm and toasty.  The heat rises, and by the time I go to bed, the bedrooms are also comfortably heated, without turning on the gas heater.  

I went to an interesting seminar on safe hiking at the local hardware store in Wrightwood.  It was excellent information.  I have been carrying a backpack now when I hike.  It's so important to pack identification, warm clothes, water, matches, first aid supplies, your health insurance information, and food.  You just never know what will happen. You can also help other people in need if you run into them along the way.  

Chris, the man who gave the lecture, works in search and rescue.  He told us that many people just go out hiking with nothing, and they end up lost, or in the dark without a compass, map, or knowledge of where they are.  It can happen really quickly this time of year.  Once I got disoriented on a hike in New Mexico.  I had just moved there.  I ended up asking my dog, "Where's the car?"  She hiked straight down the mountain.  I was all confused and turned around in my mind.  In actuality, we were just above my guest house, but I couldn't see it, because the incline was so steep.  What a close call.

Chris told us to have a flashlight,  as well.  The older I get, the more conservative I become.  I also carry pepper spray and a rod iron bar.  Hiking boots with well defined tread make a big difference, too.  I have some snow boots on order.  They're made in Canada, so I'm sure they're excellent quality.  I have a feeling it is going to snow soon.  I can smell it in the air; it reminds me of my childhood in Seattle.  We shall see...

What do you take with you when you walk or hike?

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Nearby Fires

I'm sorry that I haven't been able to comment on all of your blogs.  We have had some fires in the San Fernando area recently.  I am making arrangements and getting organized.  It's nice to have somewhere to go in situations like these; the freeways can get clogged.

Once I figure out how to post on my blog up in the mountains, I will.  There are a few extra steps I need to learn.  I use the Internet at the local library.  Thanks for reading.

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Exploring Your New Town in Retirement

I have been getting to know the new neighborhood  in the past few weeks, and it's exciting.  I think some locations just feel "right" to us.  Whenever I drive into Wrightwood and see all of the trees, I feel like I am home.  I relax, sigh, and my heart opens. We all resonate with   certain places, geographically.  It's difficult and uncomfortable to live in a place where you don't feel that connection.  It's so important to our happiness and well being.

I was excited to post some more photos for you, and then realized that I forgot to bring them with me.  It seems each day I am forgetting something new.  Oh well.  I will post them in the next few days.  This afternoon I went to the Farmers Market.  I can walk there.   I was very impressed with the array of goods and the quality of the produce.

I bought some Wonderful pomegranates, a couple of zucchini, two small melons, and a basket of luscious figs.  The fruit is expensive, so I don't know how often I will shop there.  It is convenient, though.  I also like to support the farmers.  They have to pay for their gas, time, stalls, and all the work that it takes to grow food.  I think I've gotten spoiled by the inexpensive prices at Valley Produce, in Santa Clarita.

I'm looking forward to trying one of the line dancing classes there.  It's held at the Community Center.  There is  also a free movie night.  The hikes and walks have been amazing.  I just love wandering through our neighborhood, and admiring all of the cabins.  They make my heart sing.

I got a post office box at the post office, and met some very friendly people there.  Everyone I ask seems to really enjoy living there.  It's different than Los Angeles, which is almost always warm and sunny. Many people move back after leaving.  It's a slower paced way of life.  We all love Winter and the snow.

I went out for dinner at a lovely restaurant that the seller recommended.  It had such an elegant atmosphere.  Some of the customers looked like skiers. Outdoorsy types are so healthy looking.  They all have rosy cheeks and big smiles.  They seem energized by nature and their auras are radiant.  I love it!  Do you feel at home where you live?

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Admiring the Nearby Homes and Cabins

this is one of my favorites

One thing I love about the cabin is that I can walk anywhere I need to go.  The post office, grocery store, hardware store, library, and restaurants are all a very short distance from where I live.  It's nice not to need to use the car.  I love the exercise, and the scenery walking to town is exquisite. 

the mature trees and gingerbread detail give this one so much charm

I always admire the stone work on these cabins.  I love the contrast of it against the wood.  Everyone in this area has a fireplace or wood stove.  Even the restaurants usually have a roaring fire going.  It really adds to the atmosphere and makes you feel welcome.  Once home, I find that I  want to brew a fresh pot of coffee or tea,  lay on the couch, and stare at the dancing  flames.  The sound of the  crackling kindling  brings back childhood memories of Christmas to me.  My dad would always build us a fire.  It was something that we all enjoyed.  I kept it going.  

Lula is leading the way home

In just ten minutes, we are at some of the most gorgeous hiking trails in California.  It's a quick drive, and there's no traffic.  The other night I sped out here after it got dark.  I was the only car on the road for the entire time, once I had turned off the highway, towards the mountains.  I guess people go home after work, eat dinner, and stay indoors.  It's such a different feel from the hurried pace of the city.

I stumbled upon this community garden the other day.  It looks like it's very popular.  There are all kinds of different plants growing.  I noticed some grape vines.  From what I've seen, red apples and pears do very well here.  They get the chilling that they need.  How is your garden doing?

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Walking Home From the Library

I took this photo as I was walking home from the library.  I found out that it's closed on Sunday.  This was the first time since the dog attack that I have walked anywhere from my cabin.  I left Lula at home, and brought a long rod iron bar with me.  This is my street.  I think it's just breathtaking.  

My favorite cafe is called the Village Grind.  It's such a sweet little place.  They allow dogs on the patio.  I go there regularly.  It's so different than Starbucks and the other chains.  I love the charm and attention to detail.  They have terrific reviews on Facebook, Yelp, and Travel Advisor, which are well deserved.  "It's small, but it's ours," the owner told me with a smile.  You can really see the love and care that they have poured into this place.

This door leads to the patio.  They also have al fresco tables near the entrance.  Most people in Wrightwood like to sit outside and gaze at the mountains.  It's mesmerizing.  It looks like they have quite a selection of wine, as well.  That old fashioned popcorn maker gets regular use.  The sandwiches are excellent, too.

Lula and I have been hiking every day.  I bought a map of all of the trails at the local hardware store.  It's exciting to explore all of the different areas.  It's a camper and hiker's paradise up there.   The air just fills up your lungs with oxygen.  It's so healing and rejuvenating.

I noticed these brightly colored red berries on our hike.  They look so festive.  I'm not sure what they are.  I bet the birds love them; they remind me of holly.  Have you been doing much walking or hiking where you live?  It's my new passion.

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Doing Laundry and Picking Pomegranates

I came back to the cottage to catch up on some chores and writing.  The cabin doesn't have a washer and dryer, so I do my laundry here.  I also have my trash collected at home, rather than paying for it at two different places.  I have so little, because I compost and recycle most of what I use.  This is where I do my blogging, fill my Etsy orders, and catch up with online friends like you.  I also made a fresh batch of nectar for the hummingbirds.   

Yesterday I took my car in to have the oil changed.  I just realized by reading the receipt that I have been having this done twice as often as I need to do.  Next time I will wait for 6,000 miles before servicing.  I paid the owner to show me how to put the snow chains on my tires.  The new style is different than the pair that I had twenty years ago, in Santa Fe.  Next, I need to buy some snow boots and hiking boots.

For the first time in several years, the pomegranates look healthy.  I think last year's rain really helped.  I also fed them compost tea.  They taste delicious, and are ripening more each day.

I fed the roses, and need to feed the citrus trees, as well.  Some nocturnal animal has been picking my navel oranges and leaving them on the ground.  (sigh)  I put some netting up, but I think I need to buy more to cover the tree completely.  These are the blood oranges.  I will spread compost around them next time I am home. I save my fruit and vegetable trimming up at the cabin, and bring them back to the cottage compost pile.  I would attract bears if I composted up in the woods.

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Swinging On the Deck Overlooking the Forest

the swing is beautifully made and it's threaded through the beams

One of my favorite features of the new cabin is the swing that's out on the deck.  It is so freeing to sit there and swing, enjoying the view of the gorgeous trees and mountains.  On my way home from the library last night, I noticed a young girl swinging in her front yard.  It was so sweet to watch her.  You don't see that as much anymore.  Most people seem to spend a lot of time glued to their phones.

I don't know the names of all of the trees up there yet.  This one is one of my favorites.  It's so delicate.  I had never seen it until I moved up to Wrightwood.  The shade of green and the soft, light texture makes me marvel at nature's artistry. 

This is the sun room.  The couch is SO comfortable, and it folds out into a bed.  The one by the fireplace also makes into  a bed.  I guess if I ever have trouble climbing stairs, I can just sleep by the fire.  The seller told me that she used to sit in this room and do jigsaw puzzles, while  watching the snow fall.  It has a   large picture window.  I will probably recline on the comfy sofa and knit. It's so plush and soft; it makes me want to take a nap.  I'm terrible at jigsaw puzzles.  The thought of doing one completely stresses me out...the pieces are so small, and there are so many of them.  Maybe I'll give it a try, anyway.  She left some up in the guest room.  There are also several board games.  I don't have internet up there, and I may keep it that way.   

There are several birdhouses out on the deck.  I love the different shapes and styles.  There is a huge stash of bird seed in the pantry.  I'm not sure if I will feed them; I don't want to attract rodents.  I'll leave them up for decoration.  The attention to detail in the decor really impresses me.  It's so special. 

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Vintage Cabin Furnishings

I love the front door.  It is pure quality.  The letter box is very sweet, too.

I took some photos up at the cabin to share with you.  The seller left the place completely furnished.  It is amazing!  Anything you need is there.  It is so comfortable and cozy.  I felt as snug as a bug in a rug, as we used to say.

Here is the kitchen.  It takes me back in time.  The stove is petite and electric.  It reminds me of my mom's  when I was a child.  

The oven is spotless.  The lady who took care of this house and her family  for twenty years was an impeccable housekeeper.  The cabinets are just lovely, too.  Everything is in excellent condition, and so well made.  The original owner built it.  He was from Germany.  What a talented man!  I love the ceiling beams.

The kitchen is small but  efficient.  It has a gorgeous view of the mountains and pine trees.  It's like a painting.

The bedrooms are just big enough to fit a bed, and small chair, and a dresser.  They remind me of children's rooms.  In those days, bedrooms were built to be just big enough for sleeping.  There is also a tiny loft with a hand carved ladder.  I'm sure the boys in the family loved sleeping up there.

Do you have a small or large house?  Do you use all of the space, or find that you gravitate toward one favorite area?   Lula likes to hang out upstairs. Sometimes I hear her tripping.  It's a lot of extra sounds with four legs.

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First Night at the Cabin

my favorite part of the cabin

Last night was the first night we stayed at the cabin.  It was so incredible!  The bed is really comfortable.  Lula somehow knew which bed we would be sleeping in, and she was waiting for me in the master bedroom, once I got upstairs.  She looked like she was smiling and saying,  "I'm all ready for bed, in our new place... " She  is so funny.  She has been glued to my side since the Rottweiler and Mastiff attacked her. We are even closer now.  It's funny how going through something like that together strengthens your bond.

this is the view from the deck

The bed was really comfortable.  Sitting by the fireplace and knitting during the day was such a treat.  I have been longing for a fireplace for twenty years.  I am so looking forward to the snow.  It is going to be a stunning winter wonderland up there.  Now I need to buy some snow boots.

the fireplace is so cozy and warm

I met a few more neighbors.  I have really lucked out.  They seem very fit, outdoorsy, and happy.  People who love the mountains seem to have something in common, spiritually.  I feel very at home there.  It's so peaceful.

I stacked up some wood for the evening

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   
 We went on a new hiking trail today.  The landscape is so green and healthy.  The pine trees and oaks make all the difference.  It feels so healthy and healing to hike in the mountain air.  A cabin in the woods is like glamping.  You have the best of both worlds. How are things with you?

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