I just finished my 4th year here in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. Everything about Oregon still amazes me. The winters can be long, dark, and rainy, but the rewards of a beautiful spring, summer, and fall season are well worth it. The seasons here remind me of my life’s attitude. If I get caught up in the darkness and loneliness of “winter” (these days it could be likened to the Covid-19 pandemic), I forget to keep my eyes focused on the warmth and beauty right around the corner. There are still days when I experience “winter”, even in July. “Winter” right now is the fear of having to return to school while this invisible virus continues out of control. “Winter” is also the fear of not returning to school and being caught up in a massive state and federal budget crisis. But if I only focus on “winter”, I’ll miss what’s going on around me right now. April Farms has grown into my colorful sanctuary. The orchard trees now look like they have a purpose and are bearing healthy, wonderful fruit. The pastures now feed our steers, which in turn feed others when the time comes. The lavender has matured into a lovely sea of purple that brings peace and joy to all who visit. Today “winter” is gone. The beauty of summer is in my heart, and I feel blessed by the sights around me.
