Status Quo

Tuesday, May 07, 2024

Today, I’ll gather the dogs and head out into the countryside with a camera. I plan to search for and record random signs of this spring’s arrival. To me, it’s apparent because my garden tulips are popping. I’m already weeding, and weeds are the green surrounding almost everywhere. However, this green merely seduces me here in Central Oregon since the weather insists on clinging to “cold and dreary.”

I work part-time in a department store and often see customers purchasing lots of summer-style clothing. Most say they plan to depart Central Oregon this week or next and spend time in more summery places, like Mexico, Hawaii, and Costa Rica. I recall wonderful summertime weather and wish for it; am slightly envious of those traveling from cold weather.

As an intrepid homebody, I find those envies situational and momentary. I prefer staying home and making do with what’s around—my dogs, a camera, and, in cooperative weather, a horse to ride. Those make the local surroundings beautiful enough and deeply pleasurable despite our chilly spring times. To me, nearby open spaces are “The Tops.”

Nearby spaces allow for quick escapes from the urban grid. They make staying home as lovely as being anywhere else, and maybe more so. Connecting easily with nature offers a sense of peace and tranquility. Time spent in nature with my animals gives me “elbow room” or “breathing space,” reduces stress, and improves my mental well-being.

If this growing city becomes a more crowded urban environment, I’ll reconsider not wanting to travel. Nowadays, that’s a moot point because Central Oregon still offers the best of both worlds. We can access the excitement and opportunities of urban life and easily find open spaces nearby to relax, recharge, and connect with nature.

Dear Friends: Springtime will happen, is happening; and anticipating is exciting. Diana