Summer of '65

One of the family traditions during my growing up years

was "the big vacation" we took to Minnesota

where my parents' were raised. 

We always drove, it took almost 4 days.

We would go in the summer and stay about 3 weeks

visiting family and taking part in family life, traditions.

This first one was Summer of '65

I come from a line of farmers

in the western part of Minnesota.

Here's Uncle Jim, just a part of his work day.

I've always felt that I should have been born in a different time,

or maybe lived in a different place.  I've always loved

being outdoors, enjoyed nature and the seasons.

And I've never been afraid of hard work!

I've always wondered if I could make it as a "farmer's wife". 

The daily chores that come with farm life, raising crops and animals,

and of course, your own family.

Here's my sister with cousin Jerry on the pony.

I sure don't remember it's name!

It evokes a different time, different culture

and in reality I know it could be harsh living,

dealing with snow and blowing cold,

the flooding that comes with spring after a hard winter,

and the humidity of summers.

But there's also a joy in watching the results

of all a person's hard work:  planting, harvesting.

Even the small joys of tulips and daffodils as they poke through

when spring arrives!