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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