Just the Idea of It

They're baaaack! And they brought lambs!

The kickoff for winter comes in the form of a large herd of sheep that arrives overnight and grazes the field. There's rich and nutritious alfalfa, and the temporary electric fence just rolls out and clips to temporary posts.

The dogs discovered nearly right away the advantages of keeping clear of the fence. And at first, the sheep curiously watched the dogs as they ventured near, clearing a path for the Lab but mistaking Lily for a cow. 


Grown up mosquito repellent testing went on this year at UC Davis in an esteemed lab. We came away inspired and encouraged. On with the experimenting! And on with the planting of lavender, lemongrass and eucalyptus!

The kennel found its final resting place and the dogs can now be safely outside without us. Perimeter fencing is coming soon. Maybe even gutters for the house.

Lily still lights out after farm equipment and ATVs driven by farm workers wearing low brimmed hats.  She has her own History that she yearns to remember, but we'll still work on listening skills in January with an obedience class.

I suppose December with its dark, short days makes us more reflective.

Hard Working Hands

It was a very hot summer with a very large number of mosquitos! A year of unexpected loss and uncertainty. A year that in a lot of ways was a reality check. A year of breaking down barriers (thank you, Lily) and pulling closer the relationships we treasure. And for me, 2013 was about maneuvering the minefield of a changing work landscape and coming to terms with my age.

What I will remember most, though? The sheer joy of country life overtaking my spirit.
   


Clay Critters by Denise on FB

The rumbling sounds of the tractor and the high hum of the power tools; the dogs racing around the yard chasing squirrels and tennis balls, ears flapping in the breeze. They are such goofballs.




Clay Critters by Denise on FB



Pickled baby artis & cukes
 

I enjoy canning and cooking with the veggies and fruits we grow, and the pride in harvesting a more robust crop of olives after tending the trees.

A Zamora Dragonfly

I don't mind so much the dust and being knee-deep in leaves on the gravel drive, or the work ahead to whip this place into shape. It doesn't bother me to catch a field mouse in a Tupperware cup and gently put it outside.

Those are my moments: weddings, and celebrations big and small, and laughing happy tears with the re-telling of old stories. Living it up right here, right now.

And now, something else on the horizon: considering retirement, so sweet and so near.