On this last trip up north, one of my favorite events took place. A few of us gathered by the fire, sheltered from the falling snow in the comfort of the cabin, providing the perfect conditions for minds to contemplate things. The conversation did not disappoint. You may notice a stark absence of our typical … [Read more…]
After spending the weekend with friends up at the cabin, trekking through the snow, cutting up fallen trees, playing cards, and participating in all the normal shenanigans that take place on a trip up to the land, I started to feel something I hadn’t felt in quite some time – the urge to write. I … [Read more…]
I wouldn’t say I have an extensive teaching career. I wouldn’t even begin to judge what kind of teacher I am. I just like the act of sharing what I know and love with people. I instructed my first class in the Navy in 1997 – Team skills and concepts. It was a module in … [Read more…]
“There is nothing permanent except change” – Heraclitus I don’t think I need to reflect on how things change. I can’t imagine one person who’s lived through a year of the Covid-19 pandemic who doesn’t understand change. What I can reflect on is the changes that Rustic Pines has undergone, and a little on where … [Read more…]
It was a dark and stormy night… one with a biting chill in the air. There was something else there too… a certain foreboding hanging on the breeze. The day started well enough. Plans were in place for a friendly meeting with a Navy brother, Dennis, who would make use of our little respite in … [Read more…]
One thing was for sure, ready or not they were coming. Katie and I spent the weekend before trying to finish up the campsite and clean up before our guests arrived. Most people were planning on arriving on Saturday morning, but one couple was planning on arriving Friday afternoon. They would be testing out our … [Read more…]
We sat talking with an “up north” neighbor this afternoon… A guy that’s become a good friend and helpful asset. He drove down to look at the new driveway. It was the first time in over a year that he ventured down our way, and as we talked, we walked from the new driveway, to … [Read more…]
Rain… and Campsites… Yeah, yeah, I know, you want me to hurry up and get to the alien abduction. Secure your tinfurl hat and read on, I’ll get there. John: We’ve made two trips since our last post… one weekend right after another. We have a goal, a time sensitive one. Since my boneheaded move … [Read more…]
When we started this blog, we did so with the intent to update after every single trip. Our first winter it was not a problem! Since we had no shelter, no road, and no comfort, we had plenty of fodder for the blog. It seems our misadventures make for great dystopian stories. Our first summer … [Read more…]
Happy St Patrick’s day folks! Today I pay hommage to the little slice of Irish that is part of my heritage. As I am writing the blog this morning, I am listening to one of my favorite Irish rock bands, the Blaggards, to get me in the mood for the day. I celebrate all food-related … [Read more…]