UNDER CONSTRUCTION NOV. 2023-MARCH 2024

After the Leap

Welcome to our new adventure!

On March 8, 2022, my husband, Bob and I initiated a series of leaps of faith that I’ve chronicled here as a journal, of sorts—a way for us to remember our adventures “After the Leap.” Or, in our case—multiple leaps. It’s my hope that if you’re reading this, you might find encouragement and inspiration should you consider taking your own leap(s) of faith one day. Be sure to check in regularly for updates. After all, it is a work in progress, just like each of us. But I’m still a firm believer that it’s always the write time for hope for new beginnings, humor in the messy middle & heart for happy endings. 

Cows grazing minutes away from our homestead in Happy Jack, Arizona.

8/29/2023

Hello! I thought it would be a good time to pop in as August marks 15 months since Bob and I took our “leap of faith” and moved from the Phoenix Valley area to Northern Arizona’s Rim Country and a little cabin on two acres in the middle of the Coconino National Forest.

I believe that one of my spiritual gifts is encouragement—through the words I write and speak, as well as my actions (at least that is my hope). And one of the reasons I’ve been a bit slow to update our adventures is because, quite honestly, it’s been a discouraging season and sometimes I struggle to remain positive in the midst of the challenges. However, I realize that I’m only ever telling a part of our story, and if you’re reading this right now and you’ve taken your own leap of faith—and things don’t look like you’d hoped or planned—you might wonder: What did I do wrong?

That’s exactly the question Bob and I have asked ourselves for the majority of the past 15 months. We knew the transition was going to be a challenge. But if I’m being transparent, it’s not quite the real-life fairytale either of us envisioned. And we’ve been tempted to give up countless times.

But by the grace of God and by His strength, we’re still hanging in there despite every roadblock and detour that we’ve come up against. And we continue to hold onto the belief that we’ve been planted in this place for a purpose.

Yet we’ve had to “burn the ships” of our script—the one that we had mapped out for our lives on the mountain. In other words, we’ve had to burn our expectations, our hopes and our dreams, and also any blame, discouragement and disappointment. And to look at what God can do now, instead.

So where does that leave us? One of the most valuable lessons we’ve learned is that we cannot put our hope in people or in our circumstances, but in the One who is able. And to not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin (Zechariah 4:10).

Taping off the windows for next steps.
All of the decks (including the one off the loft, not pictured), have been cleared for work to begin!
Primer!
Great color match!
When our daughter visits, we hike.
This banana bread is compliments from our sweet neighbors who live a couple acres over.
My honey snapped this awesome cloud formation on an evening walk.
Have been doing a lot of cooking lately.

8/4/2023

Over the past several weeks, I’ve traveled to Minnesota and back, clocked in 15-20 miles on the trails, cooked some new meals and added to my gallery of photos.

After several weeks of 80+ temps, much-needed rain also brought a reprieve from the heat.
Stellar jay paying me a morning visit.
These are two separate trees that grew together for life.
Lots of sparkles inside this rock that I brought home as a souvenir.
Our “Jack” pine that we transplanted last spring is proving his resilience, despite his brown needles.
The lavender is in bloom!
My honey and I enjoying a breather at one of our favorite overlooks.
One morning we woke up to this natural tragedy on our back deck.

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7/11/2023

I’ve spent the past couple of weeks traveling, so I’m long overdue on Rim Country-living updates. Suffice it to say, there hasn’t been anything noteworthy on the cabin front, except that we’re trying to figure out how to keep the birds from nesting in our eaves (without adding spikes). Other than that, our exterior repairs are still on hold as we wait for contractor availability, and we’re enjoying the summertime temps in the 80s both on and off the trails.

6/22/2023

While we wait for our 20+ year-old windows to be replaced on our prow, we needed a way to help filter out some of heat that lays on the east side of our cabin for a good part of the morning. Today’s adventure included a 14-foot ladder and paper shades.

Waiting on the remaining paper shades to arrive as our temporary fix until the new windows are installed.

6/21/2023

Over the past couple of weeks, our adventures have included planting several of the “egg carton” rhubarb seedlings in different spots in our yard to see where they like to grow best. We also enjoyed a pre-Father’s Day visit from our daughter, which was spent playing games, talking into the late evening and taking walks, followed by dinner in town at a favorite Mexican restaurant (note to self: don’t order the vegetable wrap next time).

Rhubard seedling.
Fun new pre-anniversary game.

We visited the Pine Canyon Creek Lavender farm in Pine, Arizona and played tourist. What a fun mini-date between visiting the store, to enjoying ice cream at the local soft-serve truck and meandering through a gift shop.

The lavendar wasn’t in bloom yet when we visited, but as of 6/19 it had just begun.
The lavender store sells everything you can imagine made with lavender, from soaps to tea to cappucino mix. We picked up a  lavender blueberry lemonade mix and a lavender honey stick.
My honey and I “beeing” silly.
Yes, I ate the whole thing.

One morning, we picked up the Arizona Trail in a spot further down from where we’ve hiked before and ended up at Clear Creek. Due to the low water (which is clear like its namesake), it was easy to cross to the other side.

Clear Creek on the Arizona Trail.
The views from Pine Canyon Trail were incredible, but the trails were a bit precarious for us so we didn’t make it far.

6/6/2023

It’s been a while since I’ve popped on to update our adventures, but suffice it to say, we’re still in limbo as far as getting the major work started on the exterior of our cabin (while it’s good to know we’re not the only cabin owners waiting for contractors, it can be a challenge to practice patience). In the meantime, we’re prepping to tackle a couple interior projects on our list and I’m always trying new recipes.

Bob added an over-head storage rack to his work area in the garage.
Another new crockpot meal: healthy chicken pot pie soup.
Here’s a “skinny” oven-baked mac & cheese.

The weather has been perfect with low-70s and occasional rain showers, and the evenings are cool enough to be comfortable. We’ve been exploring new-to-us trails, I embarked on a mini-getaway to house/cat sit and visit with family and friends, and I’m beginning to finalize my summer trip plans. You can read about all about that by signing up for my newsletter here: Always the Write Time newsletter

Different office view: spent a long weekend in the Valley to house/cat sit.
My grand furbaby who I cat sit while in the Valley.
Not a new trail, but try to get in 1-2 treks per week… old or new.
Love how green the leaves are.
Prayer and planning has commenced on the front deck again thanks to the gorgeous mornings.

Until next time, remember: it’s always the write time for hope humor and heart.

5/18/2023

It’s been more than one year now since our move to the mountain! We hope to report progress updates on the exterior repairs soon. In the meantime, I’ve documented the latest and greatest on “film.”

I made this frame using twigs and a pinecone from our property.
We’re attemtping to grow rhubarb!
Mother’s Day treat: homemade lemon-blueberry streusel bread.
Coffee shop with books!
New favorite place to hang out and write.
Mother’s Day hike including two of my favorite peeps (my husband and daughter).
That view, though.
Our daughter spotted this little stick figure on our back steps.
Favorite pasttime when our daughter is in town.
Bob’s new workbench and peg board. It’s been so much fun to watch him set up his work space.

4/26/2023

Spring has settled in over the past week! While it’s greening up in the forest where we live (close to 7,000 feet), we did see some snow at 7,450 feet during our way into town on Taco Tuesday.

Taco Tuesday lunch date in Payson.

The latest and greatest: we had 44 tons of gravel delivered and spread to replace the dirt driveway.

Dirt vs. gravel.

We’ve also had more people drop in to give quotes on various exterior projects and explored additional trails.

View of meadow from a short trail off the beaten path.
Adding to my “collection” little by little (I usually run across a bone fragment once weekly).

And my honey is having a ball rearranging the garage and researching work benches.

Starting from scratch.
Getting organized.

In addition, I had a couple “accidents” in the kitchen—the first, my old shaker filled with homemade salad dressing cracked and I ended up covered in the sticky orange mixture, along with the floor and countertops (no pics, ha!) and second, I broke a two-cup measuring cup in the kitchen sink and we thought we’d have to take apart the disposal (praise the Lord, we were able to pick out all the larger pieces and then vacuum the tiny ones). Finally, we tested the blades to ensure there was no glass stuck in the disposal. Whew!

Someday I might share what I did to break the cup.
The largest pieces.

4/18/2023

This past week, we traveled to town for medical and supplies and topped off the trip with a pizza lunch date. We also returned to the trails to hit one of our favorites that had been impassable a week and a half earlier due to heavy snow melt and mud.

A week and a half ago this stream took creativity to cross. Turned around a little ways further due to slippery mud.

Slowly, the signs of life stir hope for new beginnings on the mountain.

Overlook on Arizona Trail.

We finally braved our first nighttime trek through the neighborhood, after which I captured a photo of our cabin lit up from within beneath a silver of the stunning, diamond-studded sky.

The expanse overhead was filled with pinpricks of light.

And now that spring has sprung, we’ve been tackling the exterior projects (stay tuned), as well as planning to explore a couple more nearby trail systems.

How cute is this little guy? Found him growing on our property.
Swapped out my well-loved trailrunners for a new pair I’ve been waiting to try out once the trails dry out a little more.

4/11/2023

Tiny traces of snow remain on the mountain, but I think it’s safe to say that we’ve bypassed spring right into summer. I’m kidding, although this week the temps have been closer to 80 F but they’re expected to return to the 50s and 60s. It’s been a fun week of exploring new-to-us trails, as well as tackling additional tasks on our list.

Lesson learned: the septic system should’ve been pumped prior to us purchasing the property. Good news: it’s brand-spanking clean now.
Latest DIY: removal of the ugly tree branch/painted light fixture and installation of track lighting.
Stunning view of Jacks Canyon from the rim.

4/4/2023

In a nutshell, the past couple of weeks have included travel for medical appointments and family visits, more snow, lunch date in town, signs of springtime, trying new recipes, stocking up the freezer and hitting the trails.

Signs of spring in town, with snow-capped peaks in the background.
Lunch date at a grill in town (bean burger & steak fries).
New recipe: eggroll in a bowl served with brown rice (big hit with my honey).
Have added another half-dozen meals to our in-cabin freezer since I took this picture.
During our latest shopping trip, I couldn’t spend what the store was asking for my favorite dressing, so I made my own: Honey French.
The 80+ inches of snow and resulting melt has resulted in overflowing tanks and streams. (Lone goose: we hoped he wasn’t injured.)

3/18/2023

What a fun week it’s been! To recap, Mother Nature gave us a sneak preview of springtime (on a Sunday) and back to winter (on a Thursday). Thankfully, no lasting accumulation (although the extended forecast might have different ideas).

Left: springtime, right: winter (note the bone collection).

We’ve also been enjoying our new view (seen through freshly painted prow window trim).

Funny how such a little thing like fresh paint can lift the spirits.

My honey and I also tackled a DIY over-the-stove microwave installation and I have to give him kudos for his hard work (yes, I helped a little, but mostly by reading the directions). Bonus: extra counter space!

Originally, the cabin had a fan over the stove. The new microwave looks and works great 🙂

With the snowmelt, we unearthed a cool discovery on the trails. We googled what the skeleton might belong to and came up with: cougar, racoon or coyote. If anyone has an idea, please drop me a note here.

Any ideas? Except for a tiny section of vertebrae, it’s intact (and remained that way on the hike back home). Updated 4/11/2023: deer head.

In other news: it was pretty great when our adult daughter asked if we had time to chat and the three of us spent almost an hour and a half on the phone. Looking forward to seeing her in person soon. Momma needs a real-time hug. Also started writing the first draft of my next book and I have to say I’m pretty excited about the story!

For anyone interested in a microwave brownie-in-a-cup recipe, I tried this one out and it’s a winner. I think it would be entertaining for kids, too, with all kinds of modifications you can make to taste.

After: Once I took the first bite, I forgot all about taking a pic.

3/10/2023

Exciting times on the mountain! Second coat has been applied to the high-reach areas and now the interior painting is complete! Scheduled exterior repairs and a fresh coat of stain for this summer. Next up: over-the-stove microwave delivered and ready to install, gravel to be delivered and spread in driveway and walkways, chimney and prow work, sunscreens for select windows, window replacements and window treatments. To start with LOL

Before and after (during second coat).

3/2/2023

Where has the past month gone? Between our bi-weekly trips to town, keeping up with the 60+ inches of snow and odds and ends cabin updates, we’re keeping out of trouble. Here’s the latest and greatest photo diary.

This hearty turkey vegetable soup (more like a stew) hit the spot post-hike.
Here’s another crockpot meal that made 20 one-cup servings. I usually throw together one meal per week, which keeps our freezer well-stocked.
If you’re looking for a cupboard liner, look no further. This is the bomb!
Can I just say? My worship leader gave me this 🙂
By far the coolest bone I’ve added to our collection.

We bought a True Temper snow shovel from Home Depot a few months ago. The screw came loose and lo and behold, there’s no way to get in there to tighten it (see circled area). Bob contacted the manufacturer and they had no suggestions, except to fill out a warranty claim. Unfortunately, we missed the 90-day return policy at the store and the 30-day manufacturer’s warranty. So Bob added his own two screws. Snow shoveling hack: use vegetable oil to oil the scoop (must be dry) so snow doesn’t stick.

Bob added two additional screws to tighten the scoop to the handle.
The latest snowfall produced about 14 inches not including drifts.
Our “official” weather gauge 😉

2/12/2023

A lady who attends our church is giving me all sorts of pointers on how to extend the life of our food—and actually shop less. Until I start implementing hers, here are a couple more of my tips.

Chopped greens & veggies.

With about 14 days between supply runs at present, keeping salads fresh had been a struggle for me. But, I think it’s safe to say I’ve discovered a hack that works—for me, anyway. Once I chop the produce, I stick a paper towel in each bag of greens, as well as inside the top of the chopped salad, before sealing. The produce lasts longer and the salad, itself, keeps a good 4-5 days, depending on how much veggies I chop.

Peppers for our salad: I thought the baby pepper was super cute.
Yes, I just learned it’s possible to freeze avocadoes. Add approx. 1/8 tsp. of lemon juice and freeze one avocado per bag, for up to 1 month.

2/4/2023

During the past week, life has taken on a different tone (one of added excitement!) in our space, beginning with news I shared with my monthly email subscribers in February, as well as another life-changing “call” (stay tuned!). Readers are the first to hear, so be sure to sign up here.

A trip to town for our supply run, followed by a yummy lunch at La Sierra Mexican Restaurant, topped off the week. How cute are these stamps, though?

Fitting where we live in Rim Country.

Bob finished off what he could with the high-reach painting (waiting on another bid) and moved on to some other projects on his ever-growing list, including the removal of the screen door on our front entry, while I’ve started edits on one project and celebrate recent wins: a contract to publish a story in Guideposts new book (releasing February 2024) called Exploring God’s Promises: Hope, and the sale of “Jack” of All Trades in Woman’s World Feb. 6 issue. More news forthcoming.

In the meantime, I made some homemade bagel “chips” the other day and, even though the recipe says to bake for 10 minutes, I left these in for 15-17 minutes but will try 20 next time as I like them even crispier. Only uses three ingredients, too!

2 plain bagels, sliced in half & 1/8-inch pieces, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon seasoned salt. Bake at 350 F for 10-20 min. until darkened & crispy.

1/28/2023

Received this beautiful bag of lemons from a couple who lives in our neighborhood and attends our church. They have a second home in the Valley, and gifted us some of their recent harvest. They did not go to waste!

Squeezed these bad boys to make about 6 1/2 cups of juice & pulp.
Froze the juice & pulp in ice cube trays and then transferred to freezer bags for easy storage.
Who knew you could freeze lemon zest?
Good for up to 3 months in the freezer.
These lemon-blueberry muffins were a big hit with Bob and me. Yum!

Tried a new cleanser we picked up at Walmart for our stainless steel kitchen sink. Talk about shiny! And no bleach, either. It works on porcelain and other surfaces, too.

I highly recommend Bar Keepers Friend Cleanser Powder.

My honey cleaned our dishwasher last fall, including the filters, and again this past week. Elbow grease, white vinegar, YouTube and it looks brand new.

We recommend keeping up with the cleaning every quarter.
Like brand new!

Gamechangers! These new gators kept the snow out and my feet dry on our latest 3.3-mile hike through 2-3-foot drifts of snow.

One-size fits all, waterproof and easily adjustable.

1/21/2023

This week, we experienced a bit more accumulation on the snow front (gators are on order). Have enjoyed a few more hikes and plenty of crockpot meals.

This lovely 3-miler is within walking distance from our cabin.
Homemade potato soup with some personal tweaks (added ground turkey & wild rice).
Homemade cornbread and split pea soup with cubed ham.

Bob taped the areas on our prow that he can reach and painted the first coat.

Still have the high-reach areas to tape and paint, which will likely require scaffolding.

And the latest excitement: propane fill—our second of the season.

Our heat and generator run on propane, so I appreciate timely fills.

1/13/2023

As I predicted, the latest snowfall is melting fast with another storm expected this weekend. In the meantime, Bob is reworking some HVAC venting under the cabin sinks, and we now have the trim needed to begin the storm door installation (the first of four). During our town to Payson this week, I established myself as a new patient at a medical clinic there, and we opened up a safe deposit box at our bank branch. Little by little, we’re continuing to make the transition from Valley life to Rim Country. Oh, and I’m back to experimenting with new recipes.

Pre- and post-bake: Sheet Pan Chili-Lime Tilapia & Vegetables (it was a hit!)

Today marks eight months since our leap of faith, and I am in awe of how much we’ve accomplished since the beginning. Yet in other ways, it seems like we’ve always lived on the mountain. Or that we were simply waiting until the time was right to take possession of our land. We’re both in a strange space of being “okay” without knowing what’s next so, for now, we continue plugging away and taking plenty of timeouts to enjoy our little slice of heaven. Speaking of which, today’s hike was another magical trek that included 2–3-foot drifts in some spots, a babbling brook and plenty of sunshine.

Several yards from the overlook on the Blue Ridge segment of the Arizona Trail.
My next purchase: gators to keep the snow out and my socks dry.
This was the most action we’ve witnessed at this typically dry canyon bed.

1/8/2023

A day trip to Flagstaff for supplies included 40 degree temps and sunny, gorgeous views and an hour-long visit with a sweet couple who previously resided in our small community and attended our church. While they appreciated our time together, I am convinced it blessed Bob and me the most.

Snapped this picture while running one of our errands in Flagstaff.

1/6/2023

Happy New Year! 2023 began with two days of snowfall measuring between 10-12 inches, blanketing our slice of Rim Country with a clean slate. With the next 10 days of forecasted temps in the 40s, however, we don’t expect it to last long.

View of back property from garage service entry following Jan. 1-2 snowfall.
Cool icicle formations on Christmas bells overhanging front deck.

A couple pieces of fun news: while Bob has been taking down and repacking the Christmas decorations (so glad we opted for simple), I’ve been prioritizing my writing-related tasks and I’m thrilled to see the small beginnings of fruit, including two new stories accepted for publication (see https://chrismadayschmidt.com/).

Stay tuned for updates on the next cabin project to make the cut: installing a storm door at our back entry. In the meantime, enjoy the latest pic I snapped from the loft where we practice our daily yoga (and where I write #allthethings).

Sunset 1/4/2023.

12/26/2022

So much fun with back-to-back events over the month of December. Between non-stop Advent activities and Bob’s work on the cabin (the master bath Phase I is now complete!) and church commitments, we’ve still managed to eke in a few trail treks—who would’ve guessed we would love hiking in the snow after two decades of triple-digit desert hikes? I finally decided on a pair of winter hiking boots that I tried out on the latest trail and I’m super happy with my choice (Merrill brand).

All dressed up for one of many Christmas events at our church.
Exploring new (to us) trail system close to home.
Recognize anyone? Here I’m playing with the worship team for our church’s Christmas Eve service.
My new Merrills (bottom pair) are a gamechanger!
Wild turkey tracks… captured in the wild (along the Arizona Trail).

Also, I have some fun writing news to share in my next email (sign up here to keep in the know)!

This week our daughter and her boyfriend are visiting for the holidays and this momma bear could not be more thrilled. End of week, I hope to sketch out a loose writing plan for 2023, create a new (revised) envision board and pray for the year ahead. If you’d like me to include you in my prayers, please drop me a line.

And for each person who stops by to read about our journey “After the Leap,” my prayer is that you will be blessed in the new year with hope for new beginnings, humor in the messy middle & heart for happy endings. And most of all: to experience the unfailing love that God showers on humanity through the gift of his Son, Jesus Christ, and the indwelling of His Holy Spirit.

12/13/2022

Our second snowfall (with real accumulation) gifted us with a fun “snow day,” which included snow angels, snowmen and trudging through at least seven inches of the white stuff. We truly live in a winter wonderland. In some ways, it felt as if I were looking through the eyes of a child, with delight, as we enjoyed the break from our projects and commitments to laugh and play.

Snow angels: one of our daily Advent activities).
First snowman of the season, complete with carrot nose.
I spy little birdie footprints on our master bedroom deck 🙂
Our welcome bear is having a tough time seeing what’s going on LOL

12/8/2022

Over the past couple of weeks, Bob and I have spent every day reading our Advent devotions and engaging in an activity. Here’s one of my favorites so far: an Appreciation Station. We have several deliveries expected before now and Christmas, so it’s fun to share our thanks in a tangible way.

We added salty snacks and just recently stuck in some granola bars for our deliverers.

Bob finished painting the master bathroom and is moving onto the kitchen. Once that’s complete, we get to pick out window treatments. Still have a few high spots to paint overall, but what we consider “Phase I” of the updates is getting closer to the light at the end of the tunnel.

Master bathroom before & after: What a room brightener going from a putrid brown to Floating Feather. Now to install the lighting, mirror & towel racks.
Kitchen before (pumpkin orange), and after (first coat of Floating Feather).

11/28/2022

What a whirlwind Thanksgiving weekend. I even neglected to take pictures from our gathering with 21 other church peeps for a yummy feast, followed by bingo and cards. And then there was music practice for Sunday worship, the community tree lighting and the first day of Advent with our traditional scripture readings and daily activities.

Annual community tree lighting.
Tree lighting followed by caroling.
The nativity.

I received an early birthday gift to accompany the season as we prepare room for Jesus in our hearts and celebrations.

Lovely devotional to incorporate into our Advent celebrations.

11/17/2022

Yesterday, Bob and I took a walk in 25 F windchill (tried out my new ski jacket and it’s a winner so far). I ordered a bigger pair of winter hiking boots to compare sizing. While the original ones fit great, if I wear extra large socks, I’m afraid my little piggies will be too cramped. Also decided to keep my snow boots—for me and/or guests.

New fleece-lined ski jacket.

Bob has been working tirelessly outdoors raking pine needs, replacing insulation in the crawl space under the cabin, insulating our exterior pipes and sawing dead wood on our property. He just ordered a wood-splitting axe and we lit our first fire of the season this past week. What a blessing to be able to burn fuel from our own land.

First fire of the season (burning oak from our property).

I’m not as much help as I’d like to be due to my writing and editing commitments, but I’m keeping savory soups and chilis in our tummies, clean warm clothes on our backs and an orderly interior.

One of the many crockpot meals I’ve been making.

Also gearing up for this year’s daily Advent activities and Bible readings, writing letters for The Letter Project and fundraising for our local food bank. Have you signed up for my emails, yet? I’ve got some exciting news to share soon and my readers are always the first in the know.

11/6/2022

Two days post-first snowfall and most is already melted in plenty of time before the next one.

Only errant patches of snow remain two days post-snowfall.

We took a day trip to Flagstaff to discard our hazardous waste, and to drop off Amazon returns at the closest UPS store that reads QR codes #ruralliving.

Gorgeous view enroute to Flagstaff.

Also hit Home Depot and Sportsman Chalet to check out stuff for winter. If I’m being honest, I’m a bit overwhelmed with #allthethings and hope our next “snow day” will be a chance to catch up around the cabin—with a little playtime thrown in.

Still researching winter boots that can double for hiking and work with snowshoes.

11/4/2022

Bob asked me as we trelked through our first snowfall: Are we crazy for doing this? He meant moving to the mountain. Heck, we still don’t know why God brought us here, but we continue to make an adventure out of it. Which is exactly what He called us to almost six months ago. Nearly four inches of the white stuff clocked in on our deck railing. We still aren’t quite ready, but Mother Nature had other ideas.

All we need is smoke coming out of that chimney.
Sunrise.
The view from our master bedroom.
Welcome to our winter wonderland.
View from our kitchen.
Visitor on our back property.
Morning view.
In our backyard.
Set a “hedge of protection” around Jack Pine to keep him safe from being trampled by elk and other forest visitors.

10/31/2022

And just like that, October is over.  Still hiking as much as time allows, and Bob’s still busy with outside projects to prep for winter. We’re expecting our first snowfall this week and, as for this former “Valley” girl, I’m excited! I just need some winter hiking boots and I’m all set (although snow shoes will likely end up on my birthday wish list). Holiday events are gearing up at church and it’s also time for me to plan our family Advent activities. Check out the latest pics from the cabin and #mountainliving.

Homemade cornbread.
Homemade chili.
Gamechanger: flannel sheets!
Fun finds at the Dollar Tree.
Another trophy for our collection.
Second to last hike before our first snowfall.

10/25/2022

There’s a gorgeous oak tree in our driveway visible from my office space in the loft and our living area. Bob informed me we’ve got a couple dead trees on the back of our property that we can cut up for firewood. And the driveway is all lined with the rock he collected, ready and waiting for a couple tons of gravel. We’ve been advised to wait until spring, however. Which is when I believe we’ll probably end up getting the siding repaired and stained, along with the deck. In the meantime, we’re continuing to work outside to prepare for winter (water heater blanket up next).

Gorgeous fall colors and rock lining the driveway.

10/24/2022

Last week, I returned to the Valley to cat sit my grand furbaby. En route, my “service engine soon” light flashed on, a beacon that accompanied me throughout the winding mountain roads in the middle of nowhere. Thankfully, I was able to get cell service and make an appointment at my dealership the following day. Although the warning light blinked off just as randomly as it appeared (before heading to the dealership, no less), a code was stored and evidence indicated it was all about the gas we use in the colder climate. Whew! And then today I woke up to a whole new level of adventure.

We’re definitely not in the Valley anymore!

10/12/2022

The other morning, the outdoor thermometer displayed 38 F. Which meant it was time to get the heating unit checked. I’m happy to say it passed with flying colors, and we also learned our backup generator works—except on “auto.” So at some point soon we need to have that serviced but, until then, we can switch it on manually if the need arises. And today we had the chimney cleaned out so we can use our fireplace this winter. Yup, our own chimney sweep. [Generator update: my honey and a wonderful neighbor figured it out and it works like a charm. Even had the chance to test out how it worked during a power outage mid-October.]

Chimney sweep prepping to clean.

And how about that heart in our loft railing? Or is my #romancewriter eyes seeing something that isn’t there?

A little love in my loft.

I cannot forget to give kudos to my honey for all the work he’s been doing on our property—from “mowing” to lining the driveway—to make it more “firewise” and welcoming.

Part of our property cleaned up.
Collecting rock and adding a border to our driveway (prior to adding more gravel).

10/11/2022

Our woodpecker dilemma continues. We’ve tried different kinds of noisemaker and “windsocks” set up strategically around our cabin, which has helped to mitigate the attacks but not alleviated. In the meantime, we’ve decided to move forward with repairing the damage and painting the exterior; waiting on bids. Still getting out on hikes, weather-permitting. Stumbled across a bone fragment on the latest trek.

Bone fragment discovered on the trail.

But the newest adventure was a ride-along with eight other ATVs on a nature trail haunt in search of fall colors. Our first time out and we had a blast—the scenery on the mountain and from our vantage on the Rim did not disappoint. This coming weekend our daughter returns and I’m already planning hot and hearty soups to help keep her warm (as the average temps keeping dropping).

First ATV ride!
Pretty as a picture.

10/5/2022

Yesterday, we spent the entirety of the day (10 hours total) commuting to and from Flagstaff, where we had our second car prepped for the winter. In addition, we’d also experienced a low-tire pressure reading, which stayed on our entire drive (70+ miles one way). We’d just figured it was due to the colder temps and higher elevation; however, it turned out to be an irreparable nail puncture and we ended up with two new tires (and a heftier bill). Afterward, we stopped at the Coconino Humane Society and visited with four dogs. We’d been toying with the idea of fostering or adopting, but after an hour of scratches and running around the outdoor pen (the dogs, not us), my allergies and asthma flared up big time. We also came to the realization that our hands are full enough in this season without adding another warm body to care for.

Snow-capped peaks en route to Flagstaff (Lake Mary Road driving northwest).
I can’t say I’ve ever seen Amazon deliveries via train car (Interstate 40 driving east).

10/2/2022

This week’s #mountainliving adventure included a trip to the closest landfill (about a 40-minute drive) for the first time to dispose of a mattress—talk about slick—and only $7.50 for up to 280 pounds.

Buckhead Mesa Landfill

It was great to free up additional room in the garage just in time to set up the box freezer we finally purchased. Talk about a gamechanger as far as freeing up space in our top-load freezer that came with the cabin.

7.0 cubic foot box freezer.

9/28/2022

Days (and sometimes weeks!) go by before I realize I’m remiss in updating our #cabinlife happenings. Bob’s most recent toy: a Little Green Giant. He’s pretty excited to use it for some of the areas he wasn’t able to paint due to height, as well as miscellaenous outside repairs.

Little Green Giant.

Bob also just recently borrowed one of our neighbor’s weed whackers on steroids to “mow” the back 40. Our property looks a lot more kempt. And check out our resident wolf spider: apparently “Wolfie” is one of the good guys so we’ll keep him. When I was out for my morning walk, I ran across one of his relatives.

Wolfie.
Wolfie’s brother.

On one of our last hikes, Bob and I got caught in the rain and turned back toward the trailhead. The path was pretty muddy so I opted to take a detour on the grass and stumbled onto our best hiking souvenir to date. And yes, I Googled it to confirm it’s a bona fide elk jawbone.

Elk jawbone.

9/22/2022

Tonight’s view from our front deck included both the sky preparing for sunset and a post-precipitation color display.

View from our cabin’s front deck.

9/18/2022: Zucchini, elk and the demise of my side garden

Cool tip: if you have a zucchini and can’t use it before it goes bad, wash it and shred, and then scoop into a freezer bag; remove as much air as possible. Seal and keep in freezer for up to a year (see instructions).

Shredded zucchini ready for the freezer.

The other day, a herd of elk grazed on our two acres—a sight to behold. The bull’s rack was huge and his mating call otherworldly.

Herd of elk grazing on our property.

The next day however, the destruction they left behind reminded me of my missing petunias earlier this summer. Only this time, I did not find any flowering plants cast aside to salvage.

Before & after the elks enjoyed a colorful dessert.

9/12/2022

Hosting our first overnight guest went smoothly and we can’t wait until next time—because it was our daughter! We packed so much into our brief visit—from laughter to conversation to hikes, walks and games, to meals and sharing an early morning coffee on our back deck.

Family hike on Arizona Trail.

I picked wildflowers for her arrival, which brightened up our space, but it was the memories that lit up my heart.

I picked all of these blooms and grasses from our yard and neighboring community.
Progress: guest bedroom.
Progress: guest bath.

9/8/2022

Today’s trip to Payson was about seven hours there and back. After filling a 16-ounce to-go cup at the gas station, I dropped off Bob at Home Depot and navigated to the local lab for a blood draw. Without an appointment, the wait time: 90 minutes. So glad I made an appointment! Afterward, I met Bob at Home Depot and was thrilled to learn the bathroom mirrors we’d wanted were in stock (this is a whole other situation). After a “Christmas in September” shopping trip, we picked up our groceries at Walmart and then the fun began: packing the trunk for a safe return.

Almost like a Jenga game or some sort of puzzle.

We hope to install the mirror and shower rod and give the whole cabin a good scrub down before our guest arrives tomorrow. Also treated myself to a candle that practically jumped into my cart at the store.

Inspiration.

9/7/2022

Yesterday, the lights for the guest room were delivered and we installed them, but not without creative finagling. The house box was not centered with the fixture plate, which required drilling a hole big enough for the wires from the box and fixture to go through and connect. The ground wire would not reach, so we had to cut the brass ring and flange from the fixtures ground and attach to another bolt closer to the house box. Thankfully, this worked. And now we have light! The mirror is still en route.

New lights & creative finagling before hanging in guest bath.

9/6/2022

Labor Day was spent “laboring in love” around the cabin: made a big pot of homemade heart-healthy salmon and corn chowder (yum!), assembled a shoe rack and straightened our supply closet (formerly our pantry), folded laundry and finished a book (“My darling Husband” by Katherine Belle). In the afternoon, Bob and I hiked what we call our “6130 junket”—an hour loop on the trails behind our neighborhood. Topped off the day with yoga, a light dinner and devotions and all ready to tackle a short week.

Heart-healthy corn chowder <3
Supply closet all tidied up.

9/5/2022

The countdown continues with four more days until our first guest arrives, and the progress we’re making is exactly what we need to keep on keeping on [stay tuned for pics]. We still have some waiting on deliveries for the bathroom, but hoping they arrive as scheduled (or ahead of time!). Once we completed a few more minor tasks over the weekend, Bob and I hit the trails for a 90-minute out-and-back trek along a five-mile stretch of Arizona Trails’ Blue Ridge segment. There’s a 20-minute section that’s up hill all the way and quite the cardio workout at 7,400 feet elevation. We ran into two couples—one at the trailhead and one in a campsite we passed through. The latter couple has been hiking the AZ Trail in segments from Tucson all the way up north of Happy Jack (I can’t remember exactly what they said). Out of 800 miles of trail, however, they guesstimate another 500 miles to go (#goals). The first couple seemed a bit lost, so we offered navigation assistance. And at some point during our hike—maybe then, maybe at the lookout—it hit me: this mountain is our “home.”

Bob at the lookout on our mountain “home.”

8/31/2021

Following a day filled with contractor bids, prepping the kitchen for painting (Bob) and writing (me), the two of us “snuck” out for a 4.7-mile hike on a familiar 90-minute segment of the Arizona Trail. Only this time, we experienced our first standoff… with a cow. While the calves and other females moved away from the trail, one particular cow stood her ground and stared us down. It appeared she might charge, but we were not daunted. Speaking with a gentle tone, I told her we just wanted to go on our way and wouldn’t hurt them. Minutes ticked by (okay, maybe seconds), and finally momma backed down and retreated. But she kept an eye on us the whole time. On our return, she refused to budge from the path, however, until Bob raised both arms and waved twice, a hiking pole in one hand. Exciting and disconcerting at the same time. Moral: never underestimate a bovine protecting her herd.

The cow on the far right initiated a standoff with us.

8/29/2022

Progress! Isn’t it fun to compare before and after (or in-progress pics)? My honey is doing a wonderful job on the interior painting! He just finished the second coat and then the fun part: replacing lights, mirror and accessories. (Vanity and bath/shower surround will be a future update.) Still working to get the guest bedroom in order before our first overnight guest arrives in just 11 days!

Guest bath in-progress: before & after first coat.
Guest bedroom: current situation.

8/25/2022

This week’s trip into town was a biggie. Picked up supplies for continuing our cabin updates and also an early birthday gift for Bob. Can I just say? Kid in a candy store. We’re planning on another trip next week because we have a bit more urgency spurring us on as we prepare for our first overnight guest in just 15 days!

Pre-birthday shopping at Home Depot.

8/20/2022

I call this entry “YouTube and a prayer.” Last night, at 9 p.m., we discovered an issue with the toilet in our master bathroom. Bob turned off the water to the tank and, after church the next morning, we decided to tackle it. When we still lived in the Valley, last fall our refrigerator water line sprung a leak, and Bob found a “how to” YouTube video, ordered the part and we replaced it together. So after Googling the issue this time around, he landed on a troubleshooting video for our float valve brand. When I say I had a blast coming alongside him and disassembling the toilet parts (we pretty much took apart a toilet and put it back together again), I’m 100% serious. And when a tiny piece of rubber fell down the bathroom sink and we had to take apart the sink trap, I learned even more. Knowing we live an hour from a major store, and that getting repair techs up to the mountain is a challenging and drawn-out process, drove us to DIY. And I’m happy to say it was a “simple” task of cleaning the sediment off each part that did the trick. Isn’t it true that the more we learn in any area of life, the more confident we become to tackle the challenges ahead of us? But it always helps to begin with prayer.

Learned how to fix a float valve.

8/19/2022

Today is the 18th anniversary of Bob’s near-fatal crash at the hands of a drunk driver. Read here for more info. To celebrate his life, we played a game of Cribbage, walked and practice yoga, and then read our daily devotion and ended our evening in prayer. Nothing big or bright, but almost sacred in its everyday familiarity. He painted, I wrote. And we reminsced about that period of time almost two decades ago.

8/16/2022

Only two more rooms to paint (and some out-of-reach spaces) now that the loft is complete! It’s been slow going, yet it’s hard to believe we’ve already lived in our cabin for more than three months. Our “staycation” is officially over but filled with even more fun, including a day trip to one of the nearest towns (Pine), lunch date at THAT Pub & Brewery (elk burgers are my new favorite) and lots more games—at home and at the neighborhood clubhouse.

Lunch date at THAT Pub & Brewery in Pine, Ariz.

We continue to acclimate ourselves on the mountain; e.g., we don’t need to revisit “that” trail ever again, Irish Spring seems to keep critters away, the forecast cannot be trusted and there are a lot more trails to explore than we originally realized. And to get involved: church activities each week, keeping up with #allthethings in the community. Yet, life is slower-paced and that’s been an adjustment in itself. When we were in town last week for supplies, the aisles at Walmart were teeming with people and I was very anxious, which makes me think I might just be a little more adjusted than I thought.

8/10/2022

Today we parked our SUV at a National Forestry sign and followed three different sets of directions 1.5 or so miles (tacked on .3 miles when we missed a turnoff) to a trailhead tucked into the Clear Creek Wilderness. We followed an unmarked footpath that’s touted as 4.2 miles in and out, but we clocked it at just shy of 7 miles (with the extra steps from the car because we don’t have a high-clearance vehicle). The views were incredible, the path mostly navigable as it crisscrossed several sections of the dry creek bed. At the end, we did see water in a shallow part of the creek and then, on the way back out of the canyon, the storm clouds rolled in and the thunder boomed—propelling our return at a much-faster pace. The rain began about 30-40 minutes before we reached our car, and I stopped to put on my poncho to protect my backpack’s contents. We were pretty wet by the time we reached our vehicle, where we ate a picnic lunch I’d pre-packed and that always tastes better after a hike. The sky opened up even more on our drive home, washing away our boot prints, I’m sure. But not the memories from our outing.

Clear Creek Wilderness area off FR 142.

8/8/2022

Today is day three of Bob’s and my “staycation.” We’ve been having a blast taking a break from commitments and exploring nearby walking paths and new hiking trails (as well as the tried-and-true). We even had a little BB gun target practice, and I discovered it’s like riding a bike and my husband is an amazing shot! Games galore, movies, and breakfast for dinner and we still have four days to enjoy a go-with-the-flow, tourist mindset. The best part? No packing was required and the price is right!

BB gun target practice.

7/26/2022

We heard that it’s been a lot wetter on the mountain during this year’s monsoon season than previous years. And I never thought I’d say this, but I love the rain (if you know me well, then you know that I haven’t always felt this way… only within the last couple of years). While my petunias have seen better days, our “Jack” pine continues to hold his own and the wild grasses and foliage are thriving. It becomes a juggling act and a race to beat the next downpour to get in our walks and hikes—adds some excitement to the mix. Bob’s been doing a wonderful job painting the interior, with most of the living area under his belt (needs help with the high areas), as well as the master bedroom; the guest room is next on the list. A week ago, we took a short trip the 124 miles back to the Valley for medical appointments (for me) and a haircut (for me). The highlight was hanging out with our daughter and her boyfriend, and meeting our new grandfurbaby Daisy—a two-year-old gray and white rescue kitty. Temps hovered around 112 F compared to the 80s we left behind. While we looked forward to getting back to the cooler temps, the goodbye hugs were extra hard.

Daisy, our 2-year-old rescue grandfurbaby.

7/18/2022

We’ve continued to debate the siding issue to deter the woodpeckers. It’s funny, because the first quote we received is right around the amount we paid for our first home in 1989—a 750-square-foot fixer-upper with 1/8 of an acre in the Midwest suburbs. I told Bob we’re coming “full circle” three decades later—only this time our fixer-upper is a 1,469-square-foot cabin in the forest with two acres and we paid about 11 times more for it. Newly married the first time around, and strapped for cash, we performed most of the updates and repairs ourselves. Over the years, we hired out more of the work with each home. But now, “semi” retired and self-employed, we’re back to doing a lot of our own fixes again. Google and YouTube make it a lot easier, although progress is much slower. Yet the satisfaction of investing elbow grease into our home feels good.

What a treat: after a recent rain, discovered elk in our backyard and deer in our front yard.

7/11/2022

I get so wrapped up in the day-to-day that I get sidetracked from these updates. Recent activities include joining the church worship team on my trumpet, backing into a tree in my front yard and continued painting on the cabin front. And more hiking.

A tree in our front yard jumped out at me.

7/8/2022

This morning a huge centipede on my kitchen floor surprised me but what was worse: it wasn’t dead. Disclaimer: didn’t think of taking a pic. Spent half the day in Payson and, while Bob shopped at Home Depot, I had so much fun on an “artist’s date”—you can read about these here. Browsed and visited with shop owners and patrons in the cute Swiss Village strip “mall.” And splurged on a melt-in-your-mouth slab of dark chocolate caramel fudge (I’ve already got my eye on a giant chocolate chip cookie for next time). Picked up a sweet little something at Candy’s Christian Gift Shop—if you’re in town, be sure to stop by.

Artist’s date: Swiss Village Mall in Payson, Ariz.

After Walmart run and topping our gas tank, we were back home an hour later. Just before bed, one of our smoke detectors beeped three times. Several minutes later, it did it again. We Googled reasons and learned the no. 1 reason for this—if other reasons have been eliminated—is dust in the detector. We brought our ladder in from the garage just in case it continued, but it didn’t! I ordered canned air from Amazon so we’re prepared if there’s a next time.

7/7/2022

Life on the mountain is settling into more of a routine, at least for me. Up to journal, spend time in prayer and devotion, walk for about a mile and a half or so, return to the cabin and tackle my tasks for an hour. And then for the next four hours, I work on freelance and writing projects. I’ve blocked a window in the afternoon for “other” (which typically means I’m playing catch up on writing or other things I’ve let slide by the wayside). And then Bob and I either practice yoga and walk, or explore a trail—getting back to hiking 1-2 times per week (which had been a Valley norm) has been important for both of us.

Arizona Trail Happy Jack Trailhead (passage #28, I think).

In pioneer—or mountain-living, Episode 2, I made a homemade sweet pickle relish on the 4th when I discovered I forgot to buy it for our potato salad. It worked in a pinch!

I just eyeballed all the seasonings and added to diced celery and red pepper.
Final result: homemade pickle relish.

While I’m hard at work at my laptop in the loft , Bob’s been painting his heart out. It’s amazing how a fresh coat of paint can improve overall feelings of well-being. We’re learning a lot of lessons daily—if you’d like to keep up with these—and more—sign up to receive my monthly “Always the Write Time” email—in which I share news about life, sneak peeks at what’s happening on our mountain, chances to win free stuff and links to my weekly blogs. I love to connect, so don’t be shy. You can also find me on Twitter (@Alwayswritetime) and Facebook (Chris Maday Schmidt, Author). I’m on Instagram, too, but I don’t know what I’m doing yet—ha!

Floating feather, first coat.

7/3/2022

This morning, after pulling out my trumpet two days earlier, I joined another trumpet player, the choir, pianist and organist, in worship at our church. So much joy. And then a close to six-mile hike that revealed stunning views topped off a well-lived day. Low-key 4th planned—just cooking some favorite foods and a batch of Triple Berry Crisp. Subscribers to my email (sign up here) can download a copy of the recipe.

Pano view along Arizona Trail, Blue Ridge Segment (passage #27).
Horned Mountain lizard posing for the camera.
Can you spot the difference?

7/1/2022

Today I received a call from church—an invitation to practice with the worship team for Sunday’s service. Did I mention it’s been about six or seven years since I last picked up my trumpet? It was like coming home.

6/30/2022

Productive day on the mountain. Our handyman began deck repairs.

Repairs to deck stairs in progress.

Also: first hail storm, followed by a steady rain. Over a half inch clocked in on our weather station.

Hail storm.
Weather station on upper deck, west side of cabin.
Clocking the weather activity.

Another trip into town for supplies. This time we split up: Bob at Home Depot and me at Walmart. It worked great! Picked up several gallons of paint to begin the interior updates.

Going with the lighter of the two shades (Floating Feather).

And I couldn’t resist a few pillows for the outdoor seating areas.

Seating area off the master suite.
View off back deck.

6/29/2022

We heard a first today: a cattle drive on the mountain about six miles from our cabin. The steers sounded like horned instruments—so cool. I’m also excited to report that our “Jack” pine tree is perking up after more than a month since we transplanted him. He’s even sporting new growth!

Our Jack: surviving and thriving.

6/28/2022

Today was the day! We finally felt up to a hike—albeit less strenuous than our normal “junkets.” But oh. So. Needed. We ended up on a 3.1-mile stretch of the Arizona Trail and soaked in the idyllic scenery and lush greenery compliments of our recent rains—even the fire restrictions have been lifted. We would’ve loved to make it further, but Bob’s energy is still lagging. Hope to return or explore another trail soon.

Blue Ridge Segment (passage #28) of Arizona Trail.
Into the forest we go.
Reservoir.
Spotted during our hike: could be wild savory, related to rosemary and thyme.

6/26/2022

Although not 100% recovered since becoming ill, Bob and I are definitely getting better, evidenced by our ability to walk longer distances and take a couple trips to town for supplies. Work has begun on our deck repairs and we picked up a couple paint samples to confirm the interior shade. We also chose light fixtures and mirrors to replace the ones in both bathrooms, and we’re looking at towel racks and new shower rods. Picked up a wheelbarrow so we can move the yard waste and rocks. After our trip to Home Depot and a Mexican dinner date at La Sierra, we made it home in time for a walk where we took a picture that captured seven elk, including a baby, among the trees. Lots of intermittent rain showers this week with more in the extended forecast has really been greening things up.

Family of elk.
New Husky wheelbarrow.
Double rainbow on one of our evening walks to the mailbox.
Juniper tree, one of many on our property.

6/20/2022

This morning, I woke up feeling like a human being—I am encouraged! Father’s Day was super low-key. The day before, I made crockpot potato soup, so that was our meal. We spent most of the afternoon sitting on our front porch reading and playing Cribbage. Even though we have a hard time seeing any health progress, we did practice a half hour of yoga and followed it up with a mile and a half walk. Baby steps.

6/17/2022

Over the past few days, I’ve started to make phone calls and line up contractors to come out to our cabin to prepare quotes for various projects. Bob and I are able to get out and walk a little, gaining bursts of strength each day. Chomping at the bit to get our health back. It’s slow going, but I think we’re on our way.

6/13/2022

Today marks one month since we moved to the mountain. I want to give a shout out to our Blue Ridge Community Church family who came through for us when Bob reached out: our pastor personally shopped and delivered to us over-the-counter remedies, Gatorade, chicken noodle soup and a rotisserie chicken (for homemade soup). In other news: as of yesterday, there’s a new fire on the Coconino National Forest radar. With all the wind we’ve been having, it’s definitely something to watch. We also had our first (light) rain a couple days ago, with a lovely cloud cover. Could use more of that! Here’s to feeling better soon so we can get back on the trails and start enjoying our mountain paradise.

Homemade chicken noodle soup.

6/8/2022

Suffice it to say, it’s been a tough couple of days. One word: COVID. While it’s put a damper on life “After the Leap,” it’s one more adventure in the books. I mean, first time as a patient in an ambulance! Kudos to the Blue Ridge Fire District and Banner hospital in Payson for their care. And to my hero, Bob, who navigated the forest roads two hours roundtrip without hitting any of the myriad elk we passed. Transparency alert: we’re both struggling with doubts and fears, and this latest excitement has only intensified #allthefeels. But as long as we have breath, we have purpose. And hope that we’ll persevere through the “messy middle.” After all, two are better than one.

Blue Ridge Fire District.

6/6/2022

If you need a good porcelain cleaner, this pumice stick works miracles on stains. Our toilet bowls look almost brand-new. After church yesterday, Bob and I spent the majority of the afternoon reviewing our tasks list. We rewrote each item on one page per category (or room/area), and then came up with a budget, estimated the various fix-ups and, next up: prioritize (again) and create a timeline to accomplish; much like we did when we prepared our Valley home for sale. We were going to make a new meal for the week, too, but our freezer is packed and we still need to order a box freezer.

Stains in your toilet bowl? This works miracles!

6/5/2022

Yesterday, I drove somewhere for the first time all by myself. Granted, it was only a six-minute drive, but it was a big deal for me! I met four other women at a trailhead called: Arizona Trail Blue Ridge Segment. The four-mile hike with a hiking group I joined for women in Happy Jack was exactly what my soul needed.

Arizona Trail Blue Ridge Segment (part of a 790-mile-long trail system close to our cabin).

Afterward, I whipped up a veggie chili con queso. Even though I forgot the chili powder, it was yummy. I took time to give myself a much-needed facial, too, while reading on our back deck. And then in the evening, we attended happy hour at our community’s club house. Met so many more peeps. I finally feel like I can make this work (the adjustments “after the leap” have been a lot more challenging than I expected). Late night walk (saw one lone elk) and another night in the books.

Colorful and super tasty veggie chili con queso.
Very easy to make.

6/4/2022

One thing I neglected to mention: Last weekend, I noticed a fine green powder on every surface in the cabin. At first, I’m thinking: dust. And I’m talking a lot of it. We were used to dust in the Valley, but kept our windows shut for the most part. At the cabin, we’ve been opening windows in the cooler mornings and evenings. Bob and I realized it wasn’t dust and then a peep from church (the one we ran into at Home Depot) confirmed it’s pine pollen. And an interesting thing: it’s sticky. Apparently three days of heavy winds carried the pollen everywhere. Note to self: Keep windows closed while pollen is dropping.

The day was less productive as far as visible accomplishments, but that’s because it was a writing/freelance-heavy day for me. Swung by church with gifts for Christmas in July event, and took a pic from two different spots in front of our property (I wanted to know what two acres look like but it obviously doesn’t capture the “back 40” too well).

My favorite shot of the front of our two acres.

6/3/2022

Yesterday I lived a page out of “The Pioneer Woman”—ha! I had a blast working in the kitchen—a way for me to refuel, in a sense. One thing that concerned me regarding living so far from services and a gap between shopping trips was how to keep our produce fresh. So far, I’m pleased with the results. We’ve enjoyed two weeks of fresh salads daily (I actually make a big batch of salad every four days and store in an air-tight container in the fridge), and we’re still using veggies for cooking/salads before needing to touch any newly purchased produce. It takes a bit of front-end work, but it’s been worth it. And we haven’t had to make any side trips to replenish, either. I Googled advice and here’s what’s been working for us: same day (or next) of purchase I wash, dry, chop (if desired) and store.

Washed, dried, chopped and labeled veggies for future use.

Extra zucchini? After chopping up zucchini for a crockpot appetizer I plan to bring to happy hour on Saturday, I used the leftovers to make a delicious batch of zucchini crisp. The two of us devoured it in one day. Oops! But hey, it’s zucchini.

Yummy zucchini crisp using 2 1/2-3 cups of zucchini.

The bag of kale I bought two weeks ago was starting to look a little suspect, and I knew it wouldn’t last another week. So I tried this simple recipe: big batch of bite-size kale (cut out the stalks) and 1 tablespoon olive oil (toss to coat). Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon sea salt. Bake on parchment paper for 20-30 minutes at 300 F. Next time I’ll use less oil and salt (or more kale).

Kale before baking.
Kale after baking.

6/2/2022

Shopping update from yesterday: Yogurt date was fun, Home Depot not so much… except we ran into a church peep and bought an awesome new rake. Ended up at Ace Hardware for nuts and bolts to mount our TV but discovered (too late), we were sold the wrong nuts. We still are not big TV watchers (going on a year next month since we kicked the habit), but it’ll be at least two more weeks with the TV propped up on the hearth unless we make an extra trip to town for replacement parts. After a nine-hour day, here’s what we know:

  1. Shopping for groceries and household get its own day.
  2. Everything else gets another day.
  3. By the Bucket for the win (if you didn’t see my previous entry about this spaghetti franchise and you live in the Valley, it’s a gamechanger).
New rake from Home Depot (comes with baby rake… I know, right?).

6/1/2022

Big day trip planned for shopping. Hard to believe it’s been two weeks tomorrow since the last one. While Amazon is a great option, there’s nothing like seeing what you want to buy up close and personal. This time we ended up building in a mini date to break up the morning.

Yogurt Yum in Payson, Arizona.

5/30/2022

After a writing workshop on Zoom Saturday morning, I crawled back into bed where I spent the majority of the day. Sunday I was up for church but, by mid-afternoon, back in bed. Nothing earthshattering, just fatigue, backache, fever, aches and sore throat. Missed out on movie night at church, but did get a walk in Sunday evening. And Bob showed me our very own Charlie Brown Christmas tree in our backyard.

Charlie Brown Christmas tree.

This morning I woke up fever-free, but with a head full of sinus gunk. I determined that when you’re 40-60 minutes from the nearest services, the best course of action is rest. I’ve also been reading a lot. While I write sweet, inspirational stories, I’ve been hooked on reading suspense/thrillers for the past year or more (two of which I devoured this weekend). Bob’s been more than picking up the slack between raking pine needs (still); trimming branches away from our roof and deep-cleaning the cabin.

5/28/2022

You know you’re having a good time when… you forget to take pictures. Last night’s fish fry, the first of the season, was a hit. Bob and I showed up a half hour into the event and it was in full swing, including a couple musicians playing old hymns. We were welcomed by greeters and also stumbled into people we’ve met at our church. After accepting plates filled with “home-caught” cod and some other variety, fries, coleslaw and cake, we found a shaded picnic table occupied by residents (all part-timers) who live in our development. What a treat! Before we left, another new friend introduced us to a couple in our neighborhood who also attend our church. As we got into our car to drive away, I asked Bob what he and another gentleman had been chatting about. Apparently, “Jim knows a good electrician.”

And then, on our evening walk, we ran into a neighbor (who’d been at the fish fry) along with her “blue” named Maverick. Our neighbor was packing and said over the past week, they’ve seen bobcat, bear, coyote and wolves; none of them have appeared afraid of humans. I’ll be sure to take better care when venturing on my own (took my first solo walk yesterday morning, which proved uneventful). Oh, and funny story: As part of “fire wise” guidance in the Coconino National Forest, homeowners are to rake up and bag pine needles around our dwellings. At one point, Bob sent me a picture of what happened as he was raking, along with the noted caption.

When your rake breaks, and you’re 40 minutes from the nearest hardware store, you improvise. #cabinlife

5/27/2022

Moved around furniture, cleaned out the pantry and put all the items in an armoire we brought from our previous home. Opted to use the pantry as a closet to hold paper products, coats, shoes and boots. Rearranged the kitchen table and plan to hire an electrician to install additional cannister lighting (and remove the chandelier). With every personal touch we add, my growing pains seem to lessen. Tonight is a fish fry at the Baptist Church to the north of our new church, a big community event as I understand it. Our Jack pine is struggling with his new home; hoping it’s just going to take a week or so more for his roots to settle in. I can relate even on my good days.

Fish fry at Calvary Baptist Church.

5/26/2022

This week has been non-stop projects and making our cabin “ours.” Because it came furnished, we’ve spent a lot of time making adjustments to better suit our needs. One way has been by rearranging furniture, disposing of items that don’t serve us and incorporating our own “touch.” The loft area, where we practice yoga and I work, was one of these areas. I love how it turned out, complete with space to tuck our mats and workout accessories (baskets for the win!). Talk about a loft with a view!

Loft area set up for yoga: if you look closely, the trees are visible beyond the prow window.

One exciting thing: When we moved the desk, a critter fell out from the bottom <shudder>. To think I’d been writing at that desk for more than a week with a dead bat underneath it. Today, more of the same (no bats, hopefully). But first: time to breathe in some fresh mountain air.

Very crispy and dead bat.

5/23/2022

Spent time at church in the morning and exploring the national forest in the afternoon. While there’s an entrance to the latter from our neighborhood, we’re a bit confused on public access. But we located miles of trails to enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing come winter. This week, we need to buckle down and tackle more projects on our list, as well as unpack additional boxes.

Exploring the forest.

5/22/2022

Of all the projects on our list, I’m not sure planting a dozen-and-a-half petunia warranted the time we spent, but plant therapy is a thing. Touching the earth has a serious effect on our mental health and physical well-being. Studies show this in healthcare design, and I believe it helps to ground us. Plus, it sure is pretty. Now to ensure our resident deer and elk don’t get any ideas! Saw a couple herd of elk again—one across from our cul-de-sac and another while we walked to get our mail. I pray I never take them for granted, or the stars overhead or the beauty of my surroundings. Psalm 49:4 says: “The heavens declare the glory of God.” Indeed.

Sprucing up the front & side yards.

5/21/2022

Friday was a windy one—wind advisories for the whole area. But, in the sun, the temp was pleasant. In the late afternoon, Bob and I “reported for duty” at our new church’s “A Salute to Our Armed Forces” dinner and event. It was so much fun. Music, stories from veterans, historical video clips, yummy appetizers and then Bob and I helped serve the main meal mess-hall style. I wore my mom’s old apron (from the 40s or 50s I’d guess), and after Bob dished out slabs of grilled beef, he passed the tray to me for a healthy dollop of potatoes and down the line we passed the tray.

A Salute to Our Armed Forces dinner & event at church.

On our way out, the pastor thanked us for our help. Afterwards, we experienced our first drive in the dark—and talk about dark! As we drove through our neighborhood, we slowed way down to watch for animals. We pointed out lights lining one of the properties. “We could do that,” Bob said. But when we pulled into our driveway and grabbed our phones for light, we both looked up. Natural brightness as far as we could see, compliments of the entire night sky lit up with countless twinkling bulbs. I’ve never seen so many stars—an inky canvas dripping in diamond-studded luminaries. Between that and the laughter and fellowship, the hearty meal (seconds of the homemade blueberry cobbler for me!), all of it—so much to take in when it’s only been a week since we arrived to begin our new adventure.

5/20/2022

The latest big adventure: half-day trip to town! Within six hours, we hit the bank, Home Depot and Walmart, stopped to wash the car window and to grab a snack from the grocery bags for our drive back (note to self: prepare a healthy snack in advance). During our drive back from town, we heard a loud “pop” that sounded like it came from our back seat/trunk area. We soon learned that the elevation change caused one of our bags to burst (thankfully, the contents stayed inside). That was a first for us!

Burst snack bag due to elevation change.

While in town, checked out box freezers and wheelbarrows and decided that we need to order online for delivery. But picked up some fancy new work gloves for me.

They fit like a glove (ha!).

Also found our closest bank and made a deposit, then shopped for groceries. Only forgot two things (yay for Amazon!). Pleased that our pantry holds all of our food items. Shelving in the garage will take care of non-food and “overflow” items.

Awesome pantry space under the loft staircase!

Super excited about the flowers we purchased. Many momma’s days in years past, I’d plant a patch of petunias—sometimes with my girl, sometimes solo. It will be fun to have color.

Weekend project.

Very windy conditions today and tomorrow and we volunteer at church tonight. Still need to do more research on woodpecker deterrents. Taking suggestions here.

5/19/2022

About that inventory of “things to do” (see 5/18 entry), we prioritized it using a technique my friend and former colleague (thanks Michelle!) once advised: easy/quicker items first. This fosters a feeling of accomplishment when tackling the more time-consuming projects. Also, I made our first homemade meal in the cabin (googled “recipe with tilapia, sweet potatoes and veggies” and came up with this one: OLD BAY TILAPIA, SWEET POTATOES AND VEGGIES. It really turned out as yummy as it looks (added a tossed salad and quinoa as sides).

Old Bay Tilapia, Sweet Potatoes and Veggies

Planning our half-day trip into the nearest big town to stock up on a couple weeks’ worth of groceries and non-food essentials, as well as bigger things we want to consider at Home Depot, such as the box freezer for our garage. I really would like to pick up petunias to plant. Bob signed us up for our first volunteer stint at the church Friday night for a “Salute to Our Armed Forces” Dinner event. What better way to dive into fellowshipping than with two pairs of feet?

5/18/2022

As I mentioned in my previous entry, we now have shiny copper internet function at our cabin! Although Lucas, the service technician—former Army vet stationed in Hawaii—said it wasn’t superfast, I think it works great. Spent several hours getting caught up on online projects and, while I had “all the fun,” Bob’s afternoon consisted of crawling on his belly underneath the cabin to replace insulation that various critters had used for bedding and whatnot. He emerged covered in dirt with a big smile on his face—and reminded me of a boy playing in the dirt. I have a pretty good feeling he’s in his happy place. He then informed me we need to buy more insulation. But thankfully, the area in question has since been critter-proofed so any work we (he!) does should stay intact. He also showed me the rocks he arranged into a better pathway around the cabin, and he inventoried the interior and exterior for repairs, etc. A lot more now that we’re here, but it’s all part of the adventure and not much different than any other home purchase; e.g., maintenance, upkeep, repairs, etc. Just different scenery!

Back of cabin and where Bob crawled underneath to replace insulation.

After yoga practice in the loft, I looked out one of the windows and saw two coyotes cut through our property (sorry, no pics). Oh, and I’m getting used to the well water—both with the “hardness” and drinking—it’s not much different than the filtered water we drank from our fridge in Scottsdale. And I clocked our walk to the mailboxes at 1.75 miles roundtrip; not too shabby! One more tidbit: regarding the altitude or elevation, both Bob and I are still adjusting, which we’ve noticed on our walks when on inclines. Good cardio!

5/17/2022

The internet is scheduled for today: crossing my fingers and toes. While so much of our day-to-day information network can be handled via our smartphones, we still rely on the world wide web for VPN and website updates, email work and bill pay (yes, I know there’s an app for that). [Updated to add: we have internet!] The past few mornings, Bob has been opening windows and doors when it’s still cool out to bring the indoor temp down. That way, as the sun beats on the cabin, the temp remains comfortable. This morning, I left our bedroom and saw that the living area, kitchen and loft doors were wide open. Not complaining about the cold (I promised, after all), but, “Where can I write so I won’t freeze, and my fingers work?” (It was 49 F outdoors.) Bob flashed me an impish grin and we compromised by closing the kitchen door and opening the master door.

While yesterday was equally split between unpacking and writing, breaking down boxes and paper wrappings, I ended up not finding a pair of glasses that I like to wear for workouts. I fear I left them behind. They were a favorite: animal print and most-recent Rx. I pray they’ll show up, like my spice rack finally did. [Updated to add: I found my glasses! Of course, there will be a forthcoming blog about that LOL]

Highlights: 1) Bob planted our pine tree—our first “live” Christmas tree—that we’ve kept alive in a pot since the end of November. We named him Jack. Doesn’t he look happy?

Jack: Before
Jack: After

2) I gave my stovetop some TLC (twice around). If you need a hack to get your flat top looking like new, send me a note on my Contact Page. It’s not 100%, but I think the third time will be the charm and I’m very pleased with the results.

2x hack (message me for details) for flat top stoves.

3) A surprise phone call from my BFF Jennie. So much laughter and joy and connection. Beyond grateful for awesome cell service and the ability to bridge the 1,500+ miles between us.

5/16/2022

The big adventure Sunday: attended our first church service!

Blue Ridge Community Church, Happy Jack, Arizona.

Funny how I could feel nervous about that after the leap we already took. But I had nothing to be anxious about: very friendly and welcoming “peeps.” And the message was engaging. We were invited to stay for a potluck after the church business meeting, but we weren’t prepared and, truth be told, I had a lot of writing to catch up on. With the final move last week, my word count on one of my major projects had been suffering. So we left, armed with a flyer of upcoming events and ministries and volunteer opportunities and I imagine we’ll return. While I spent the afternoon writing (back on track!), Bob finished installing all of the cabinetry hardware in the kitchen and bathrooms. I love how it finishes it off. We’re heading out on a morning walk soon. The temps are divine—yesterday’s high was again in the mid-80s. I do know wintertime will bring a trade off, but for now I am enjoying the reprieve.

New cabinetry knobs & pulls really tie it together.

5/15/2022

Took a trip to the post office before noon on Saturday. It’s about a 15-20-minute drive on a two-lane highway bordered by national forest. Guess who forgot the post office is closed on Saturdays? Oops. But we did stop at the gas station and mini market to visit with Red, who welcomed us with hugs. She said, “Have you been up here during one of our winters?” We told her no, but quickly added that we’re from the Midwest. She waved her hand in the air to punctuate her next words: “Oh, then it’ll be a walk in the park.” I amended—“Or forest.”

Post office: isn’t it cute?

Yesterday’s high reached the low 80s; today’s is forecast at 84—compared to the triple digits we left behind. One cool thing: the loft where I write and we practice yoga gets about 10-15 degrees warmer thanks to heat rising. The afternoon consisted of hours of unpacking boxes, wiping down drawers and cupboards. At one point, I became frustrated: while my kitchen space is ample, I brought more “stuff” than we have room for. And it took me a long time to find a logical flow. But I did stop and sit on the back deck between runs to/from the garage. And I appreciated the silence, the healing balm beneath the canopy of trees. A walk mid-evening served as the highlight of my first full day with both feet “in.” A herd of elk—a half dozen or more—crossed the road in front of us. And the moon was huge! As we walked, another resident stopped us with her dog: “Heads up,” she says. “But a black bear just walked through our property and is headed that way.” She points the direction we’re headed. No black bear sighting on our part, but a few bats overhead signaled it’s time to return home. And now, in the light of day, my petty frustrations dissolve. Church is in a couple hours and a woodpecker has located our siding: a top priority is to deter that guy. We had enough damage at our old home when our roof leaked. #cabinlife

P.S. And we have our mail key! Didn’t even have to go back to the post office to get it, after all, as Dan, the mail carrier, contacted us from our boxes, and Bob hopped in the car to go meet him. I’ll have to clock the mileage. Next up: lessons on “How to Keep Woodpeckers from Using our Cabin to Store their Food for Winter 101.”

Sharing the road with one of a half-dozen elk.

5/14/2022

Once upon a time, a girl and a boy moved to a little cabin in the woods and they lived happy ever… After the Leap. We made it! It was a mad rush to get all the last-minute items stuffed into bags and boxes before our final walk-thru of the rental property—the home in which we’ve lived for nearly 11 years. We’d hoped to pray over the new owners and to say our good-byes properly. As it was, we barely allowed enough time to quadruple check all the nooks and crannies. After a few quick errands, however, we stood in the shade of a tree and held hands and lifted up the people who’d one day move in, our travels and the beginning of our new adventure. Several stops later, including a grocery stop to tide us over a week or more, we arrived at our new home—greeted by a committee of no less than a half dozen deer grazing and lounging on our property. My pictures don’t do justice. Unloaded both vehicles after turning on the water and spent a few hours unpacking, wiping down, arranging… with more to come. But there’s no rush. No timeline. We rearranged furniture in our living area and it makes it so much cozier, too. A walk and a yoga session in the loft brought normalcy when anxiety may have threatened to move in. Today we need to make a trip to the post office to check on our mail keys that we’ve been waiting on for two weeks. Life in a small town…

A family of deer served as our “welcoming committee.”

5/13/2022

Some people refer to Friday the 13th as a bad omen. When I chose it for our final walk-thru at the home we’ve rented for the past 57 days—and the day we make our final transition up north—I actually did it with intention. My maternal grandpa was born on Friday the 13th so, although I never met the man, it’s always been a good day in my book. It’s been non-stop preparations for closing one chapter so we can fully immerse ourselves in the next. Saw the kids last night. Hugs that I wish I could bottle and take out when FaceTime just won’t cut it. Forgot to takes pictures, but the memories are tucked away in my heart. I met my cardiologist yesterday, too. No surgery is required at this time for my heart defect, but we have a plan moving forward that includes appointments scheduled in the Valley mid-summer and early fall. He gave me his blessing to enjoy, to hike, to do what I’ve been doing to be as healthy as I am. The key: keep my blood pressure low. It’s creeped up a bit the last two visits, whereas I’ve always run low. So of course I wanted to freak out, but no time for that. Today’s devotional really helped settle my restless heart: I was reminded once again that God will go with us. And that Jesus invites us into new spaces and He wants me to rely on Him in the unknown. He wants to use each new thing that He allows in our lives for our benefit and His glory. Amen.

When you need courage and strength for the road ahead.

5/11/2022

It’s been a whirlwind between wrapping up loose ends with one foot in the Valley and one foot in our mountain home. Ongoing arrangements still in the works… a representative from State Farm stopped by our property yesterday to take pictures and submit for our homeowners’ policy. I also confirmed our internet hookup for Tuesday of next week. We went with the fiber optic high-speed 500 gigabytes per month, which also comes with a land line. I heard about this company from Leslie at the water company. Word travels. A wonderful bonus of needing to be in the Valley this week is getting to hug friends and family we haven’t seen in months—even years. Trying to keep some sense of normalcy by sticking to routine has helped with this feeling of being lost or ungrounded. Daily walks and yoga. Morning coffee and prayer. Consistent writing time. And while we won’t be able to see everyone, it’s comforting to know we’re only a phone call away.

5/9/2022

Yesterday was by far one of my best days among many. Hanging out with my girl, new friends, family. And I referred to our cabin as “home” when talking about it. I’m counting down now until we pack our final bags into our vehicles and make our way back up north: four. I decided I want to grow our own vegetables in pots: tomatoes, beans, peppers. Maybe a few herbs. I’ve tried growing gardens in the past, both potted and in-ground. While it’s not a passion, I look at it as a blessing not just for our table, but to share with others. Yes, it will be a while. But it’s fun to dream. That’s how this adventure began: with a dream.

5/8/2022

Today I get to spend most of Momma’s Day with my best girl, the highlight of being back in the Valley. And then Bob and I are invited to dinner at another couple’s home, along with their family, which I’m looking forward to. Something weighing heavily on me, however, is a situation that my cardiologist brought to my attention the week before we moved our belongings up to the cabin. While I’ve lived with a congenital heart defect for more than a half-century, I thought I had at least a decade before I needed to be concerned about it. Turns out an enlarged aortic root is common for patients with a bicuspid aortic valve. But I learned my sisters are worried that I’m not taking it serious because I rescheduled the echocardiogram I was supposed to have last Friday. Unfortunately, the doctor’s office is still waiting for insurance to approve the test, which is the reason I rescheduled. However, I promised my sisters I’d have it this week before heading back up north. If insurance still hasn’t approved, I’ll deal with that at a later date. I do prefer to know if surgery will be required sooner rather than later, as I’ve still got a lot of adventuring left to do!

Walk through our neighborhood last week.

5/7/2022

We’re back in the Valley now since mid-afternoon on Friday. We stopped a few times on our way, which helped a lot. In Payson, we picked up By the Bucket spaghetti and garlic bread, enough to feed a family of five. It was so good, and we have leftovers for days! We both already miss our new home, the change in scenery. But I had been thinking: if my contentment in life depends on my circumstances, where I live, what I’m doing, the good and the bad and the ugly, then that is self-centered. But if I lean into my faith in Christ, that’s Spirt-focused: the key to grounded contentment. Self and temporal things are wishy washy. But Spirit is eternal and never-changing. It’s strange, though, this one foot in and one foot out. And I do look forward to both feet firmly planted on the soil of our wooded parcel. I noticed my skin is adjusting to the move, too. Well water vs. softened city water. My skin is drier, and breaking out. An outward glimpse of how we adjust to our circumstances, only a tip of the iceberg that doesn’t reveal the other adjustments taking place beneath the surface. Both of which need time.

5/6/2022

Yesterday was a page from a perfect day. While I spent a good chunk of the morning on phone calls with doctors and labs and insurance, my view of the woods was calming; the sun warm on my skin. I remember the seller’s realtor telling us when we first looked at the property: “If you wake up in a grumpy mood here, all you have to do is look outside.” Indeed. The afternoon flew by in a flurry as I wrote at my desk in the loft, completely at peace in my happy place, followed by yoga and a long walk to continue our exploration of the community. Not far from our cabin, a trail between vacant lots leads to the entrance of the national forest. We took it a little ways, surrounded by a thicket of trees, but turned back soon as we weren’t dressed for a hike. Minor repairs and more cleaning and unpacking has helped to make the cabin feel more like ours; rearranging furniture and purging items that don’t “fit;” time and TLC. And looking out the windows as we unpack and settle in. We still have one foot in the city, however.

Trail in our community that leads to the national forest.

5/5/2022

A second night of deep sleep. Could be sheer exhaustion with all the work to make the new space our own. Or perhaps it’s simply the peace that we’re right where we’re supposed to be. But that wasn’t my attitude earlier as doubts once-again flooded my mind—this time following a trip to the biggest town near us to return the U-Haul. I kept asking myself: Why did we move to such a remote area? Did we make a mistake? How will we keep our produce fresh in between our once- or twice-monthly trips to the grocery store? Yes, questions like that! We barely scratched the roads around our neighborhood during two miles of exploring, but we did view a herd (?) of deer resting in the shade of the pines in an empty lot. We’d wanted to locate the trash receptacles where we’ll need to transport our trash when our bin is full. As we made our way along the paved road, a gravel pathway close by, Bob and I talked; shared. We’re both scared. But we are confident this is where we’re supposed to be in this season. As we returned to our home, we walked the perimeter of our acreage and I thought of my ongoing prayer for two years: Lord, you enlarge our territory, your hand is upon us to bless us, to keep us from harm and free from pain (1 Chronicles 4:10). He has, indeed, enlarged our territory, and we’ve committed to take one day at a time to ground ourselves where we’re planted, and to grow in our new space—and the community—as we meet others and pursue the plans God has put on our hearts.

Deer in the shade of the pines.

5/4/2022

Yesterday, with a packed 15-foot truck, me in our SUV following, we met our new friends who gave us the keys to our cabin, showed us how to turn on the water, shared information about our propane tank and how low to set the thermostat when we leave for an extended period (didn’t know about toilet hoses, etc. cracking in winter cold). And then last night I got scared. Concerns regarding internet (we ended up returning the Jetpack), about being so far from… everyone: my daughter, my doctors, my… old life. I missed my Arizona room; and our small amount of furniture I did bring doesn’t “work” here. A professional cleaning still leaves a lot of work on our end. Even though it’s furnished, it was someone else’s first and to make it ours takes time. Little things. And my shower turned cold before I even finished. Note to self: ask Bob to check the water heater settings. Also, friends ask: How far away from emergency services? Yes, it’s an hour. But not really: 5-10 minutes to the fire department. I will cast all my cares on Him because He cares for me. ~ 1 Peter 5:7 And I know these are normal emotions and I know it’s an adjustment. It just hit me all at once.

Over the mountains and through the woods.

But the man across the kitchen table from me is the same. The one who holds me up when I fall. I write about that in Two are better than one… Oh, and I wrote in the loft last night, and it was very very good. And now, the morning after, the sun shines through our cabin’s windows, reminding me why we’re here. Washing away the doubts that darkness revealed when Bob and I finally fell into bed. Today we return the truck and continue cleaning, start unpacking. On the road again tomorrow.

Rest stop + top the tank.

5/3/2022

Today is the day (again)! Yesterday we picked up the U-Haul—a 15-footer. Bob had worried up until the weekend that it would not hold our belongings, but after he measured out the space on the garage floor, he felt better. Turns out we have a lot more space to stack boxes, but he kept everything pretty tight from about ¾ of the way back. Unfortunately, we have several more boxes we packed last night that need to be finagled in between a few pieces of furniture we decided to bring. We’ll be living at our old home for another week and I’d hoped to keep a few more things on hand, but it makes better sense to transport as much now as we can. The big challenge: finding everything that I threw in the boxes just because “it fit.” That’ll be the fun part! We are shooting to leave at 10 a.m. to fill up the truck and then hit the road. Expecting at least 4-4 ½ hours with stops and a slower speed. Tips on packing a truck? Bob used YouTube to get an idea of how best to arrange the contents. And again: we have too much stuff. Praying for safe road conditions, as well as a stress-free trip. My mantra: Philippians 4:6-7.

15-foot U-Haul.

5/2/2022

Pick up U-Haul in 2 ½ hours! Hope to finish packing and load today, up north tomorrow. I can be assured of one thing: even after months of purging, we still have too. Much. Stuff.

4/30/2022

We did it! We took the leap! Although by now it must be what, the third or fourth one? The wire transfer and recording of our deed went smoothly, and shortly after 1 p.m. we became the humble owners of our cozy cabin in the woods. I must admit here and now: my fear was near crippling as Bob drove us to the bank. “Do you still want to do this?” he asked me. “Yes! But I’m scared!” And he said, “I am too.” And I thought of that day as a little girl, again, when I was too afraid of jumping into the water at the pool. “But I don’t want to wonder or regret—I want to live this life to the last drop.” So we showed up early for our appointment. But up until the transaction went through, my nerves were heightened. Yet once our banker said the funds had wired, an overwhelming sense of peace washed over me. After we’d crossed our t’s and dotted our i’s, we headed to the Verizon store to pick up our jetpack, to my former employer to pick up a delivery and to Home Depot for a few items we need when we head up on Monday with the moving truck. It’s really happening! Speaking of moving: still have so many moving parts in the air. But I expect the dust to settle one day in the future. I think it will be a long while until then, and that’s okay.

4/29/2022

Today is the day we become the owners of our little cabin in the woods and it’s still scary! Maybe a tad more as it gets closer to becoming a reality. Due to a couple doctor appointments that just popped up, and logistics, it seems we’ll have to return to town and stay a bit longer after our initial move up north. But perhaps that will allow more time to say goodbye to friends and family before we head up until our next batch of appointments bring us back.

4/28/2022

Tomorrow, we close on our cabin. Yesterday our realtor joined us for a final walk-thru: the one where we get a final look at what we’re getting into—all the idiosyncrasies of someone else’s once-upon-a-time “forever home.” While Bob and I see ourselves there for a long time, we of course cannot say it will be the last stop on our journey. But I can say we plan to wring out every last drop of adventure we’re able to. A hose in a bucket in the garage—water filled up to the 1/3 mark—prompts questions. Is it an AC condensate line (learned that it’s actually from the heater)? A green-lidded box close to the septic system initiates more unknowns: what was that again? Because as fun and exciting as this move is, we realize we have a lot to learn, as well as adapt to. But we’ve been preparing, in a sense, for almost a year. First with the mindset of initiating movement to attract possibility and freedom (check out my blog posts titled: Getaway of a lifetime). Second, by decluttering and downsizing—minimizing the “things” that trap us and weigh us down. And third: by making tiny, incremental changes over time and dreaming up our perfect vision: by “en”visioning it. Loose hand railings on the main deck out back—something the inspector and we missed. I’m sure we’ll find other items and our list will grow. But so, too, our patience, our capacity to slow down—I hope. To appreciate the simpler things. I explained how our septic system works to our realtor during the walk-thru and she seemed duly impressed. The more we learn, the more confident we feel; the less scared and fearful. But it took the leap first. And no “What ifs” allowed. One more day! I’d better finish packing.

4/26/2022

Yesterday, I spoke to “Leslie” at the water company for our community. She was a hoot. “Why are you moving up here?” she asked with true curiosity. “Why do you ask?” I respond. “There’s nothing to do up here!” she exclaims. And all I can think about is the miles of forest bordering our neighborhood, of berry picking, endless hours writing at my desk in the loft flanked by windows that bring the woods up close and personal. The adventure of our first (and 15th) snowfall. When I was a kid, my dad brought me to a family friend’s cabin: Billy B we called him. A bona fide log structure with no running water but a well we pumped water from to heat over the woodburning stove—hot water to wash the dishes and bathe in. While the cabin had electricity, I remember my dad having to turn it on upon our arrival. And without heat, we learned how to keep the cabin toasty in the wintertime by stoking the wood throughout the cold nights, with piles and piles of blankets covering us on the pallet beds in the loft; plank floors cold to the touch. We could see our breaths in front of us as my dad would climb down the ladder to add logs to the metal chamber in the dark of night. And heaven forbid if you had to use the restroom at bedtime! This required a trip with a flashlight through the front yard and across the road to a double-seater outhouse—frigid in the winter months. But my best memories are of those short days and long nights near the lake in Northern Minnesota—where my dad taught me how to shoot a 22-caliber pistol. How to cook potatoes in a skillet and how to be a kid without all the comforts of home. While our new cabin does boast two bathrooms (indoor), running water and electricity that doesn’t run on a generator, there will be similarities. Further from services, and Mother Nature’s display of four seasons. And back then, internet wasn’t even a glimmer in my mind, yet today it’s almost a necessity. Leslie told me to get the fiber optic service in our  new community. We already had planned on Verizon’s jetpack in spite of negative reviews that it slows down after 15 GB. I guess that means less time on social media and more time in nature.

4/25/2022

Are we crazy? With four days until we close escrow, it may be too late to ask that question. We’ll need to purchase a water heater blanket to insulate the appliance in the colder winter temperatures. Trying to work out logistics now—getting services hooked up, determining where we’re going to drop off the rental truck once we unload next week. Attempting to sell remaining furniture. Saying goodbye to the kids.

4/23/2022

My latest task: I applied for water service at the cabin. While it is a well, it’s managed by a company for at least two subdivisions that I’m aware of. And there’s talk about the community actually purchasing it, so we’ll see what happens with that. Bob has taken care of the electrical and propane. Really need to start packing and possibly advertising additional furniture we still need to sell. Was feeling overwhelmed a bit by end of day. Head spinning as we still need to review healthcare options. Trusting God’s guidance.

4/22/2022

We spent hours researching home warranties and praying for direction but we seemed to run into roadblocks each time we found “the one.” Had hoped for a one-year peace of mind, but find more peace in doing nothing. Scheduled a pickup of remaining furniture that didn’t make the cut. With us downsizing from an 1,825-square-foot rambler to a 1,469-square -foot loft cabin, fully furnished, we need to be wise on what we bring. At least we have a two-car garage where we can store boxes as we unpack. Change can be difficult, but sometimes (all the time?) it forces us to grow.

4/21/2022

In one week from tomorrow, we close on the cabin. The housekeeper came today. And we heard on the news reports that another forest fire is northeast of our property. All I can do is pray.

4/20/2022

Yesterday the two of us itemized a half-dozen repairs that we requested the seller make prior to close on escrow. Most had been noted on the inspection report, while a couple were observations by Bob and me. The sellers graciously offered a generous credit in lieu of repairs, along with housecleaning. Ladies, need I say more? What a double blessing. A week from today, we’re planning on the final walk-through. In the meantime, I’m meeting deadlines for my contract client, as well as sticking to editorial deadlines for my freelance submissions. Did someone say retirement? That was several leaps ago now, but I definitely need to come up with a new definition for “retirement.”

4/17/2022

Today Bob came to me with #allthedoubts. And the day before, after our drive to the cabin for the septic inspection, it was me who started to think about everything the cabin needs, what has to be done before winter, the repairs and maintenance, the financial outlay—and overwhelm paid an unwelcome visit. Up until then, peace had been my daily companion. After all, we knew we had the Lord’s blessing, that His presence filled the cabin on our very first visit. So what had changed? We shared with our realtor our thoughts and feelings and she labeled it “buyer’s remorse.” She suggested a Ben Franklin list of pros and cons. We pulled out a piece of paper and went through the exercise. While we have yet to “weight” the items, we do know that we would regret turning down this opportunity. And that we can always test the waters; if it doesn’t fit, we can move on to the next adventure. After all—it’s not the destination that counts, it’s the journey.

4/16/2022

Our third-round trip drive to our cabin in a little more than two weeks. The septic inspection went well. Our inspector, Lonnie, gave us the tour of our own “personal wastewater treatment system.” For city folks, our questions made Lonnie chuckle a few times. There’s an aerator, an intake, a filter that does its thing and a treatment “tub” where it treats the wastewater for three days before sending it to the outtake where it travels through a “leach field” but, in our system’s case, a pressurized mister system. Finally, any remaining water flows back into the outtake. A control panel and alarms will alert us to any issues with the system, at which time we call Lonnie. We also walked through the cabin again. We tested water pressure, counted cabinets and drawers so we can order handles and pulls. And we added to our list of minor repairs and things to buy. In the meantime, more time spent in the mountains meant it was harder to return to the Valley. At one point, I spied movement through the trees on our adjacent lot. I thought that either the skinner trees had grown feet or really thin people trampled across the grasses. Turns out it was a herd of female elk crossing our property. What a humbling sight.

Septic system (not a herd of elk).

4/15/2022

We’ve been researching healthcare options and primary care doctors that serve the area surrounding our little cabin in the woods. It’s encouraging that many providers offer telehealth appointments with their everyday practice, especially because our home is approximately an hour drive to the closest large city. One very important consideration is that the fire department is up the main road from us and the EMTs can perform emergency services and stabilize should a helicopter or ambulance transport be necessary. Our home in the Valley is about a half mile from a major hospital and any other kind of service you can think of. Soon we’ll be about a 20-minute drive from patches of wild strawberries and blueberries (but beware of bears!) and 15 minutes from the post office (once recorded on the National Register as the second-smallest post office in the country). We’re located adjacent to the Coconino National Forest, with paths that lead to the Arizona Trail. We don’t have a public library closer than 45 minutes, but the “clubhouse” in our neighborhood shares books on the honor system. We’re exchanging the hustle of the Valley for the hush of the woods. The seller’s realtor and his wife have become our first new friends. They told us that a few years ago the area was evacuated during a fire that hit the forest. Bob and I listened to their story of adventure with rapt attention. While we don’t wish for that exciting of a story to tell, we know we’re in good company. And I can’t wait to wake up to the whisper of the wind through our trees.

4/14/2022

In 15 days, we close escrow on our cabin. Tomorrow is the septic system inspection—ours is apparently a newer and sophisticated “Jaguar” model. As long as it does its job, I’m good. The seller’s realtor suggested we get an annual maintenance contract on it. While we’re at the property for the inspection, we plan to look around at the items that came up on the home inspection we attended on Monday. During the 15-day inspection period, we can ask for any repairs and/or back out of the transaction. We see common things for a house that’s 20 years old. And then last night Bob informed me we’ll need to buy ice scrapers for our cars. Already at the top of my list! Are we just plain crazy? We’ve been residents of the Southwest Valley for over 22 years and our average highs will change drastically. But I’m excited. More sweatshirts and comfy yoga pants; fires in our woodburning fireplace; quilts piled high on the four-poster bed. Maybe I’m wearing rose-colored glasses—me, whose ears hurt when the wind blows and temps are in the 60s! But we know it’s time. That this community is meant to be our “new tribe” of peeps (that’s the term for the full-timers in our neighborhood). I’ve always wanted to be a peep. And we knew we belonged the moment we set foot on the property, just after passing the “Welcome” sign—a wooden bear propped on a tree stump. I’ll miss being closer to our daughter, but we’ve got a perfect guest room already made up for her. I’ll miss our Arizona room that we built this past December—a birthday present to me (and anniversary and Christmas and Valentine’s Day…). But every view from our cabin’s four decks is smack dab in the forest—hard to beat that. We’re making tradeoffs—sacrifice, or compromise?

4/11/2022

Bob and I met the inspector at our soon-to-be cabin at 10:30 in the morning. The 2-hour 17-minute drive seems to go faster each time. And it never fails: when we leave the desert and enter the pines and junipers, our minds clear and our spirits relax. There’s something about the towering wall of trees bordering us—hemming us in—as we make our way to what the seller’s realtor calls a “tiny slice of paradise.” Four hours later, armed with a notebook filled with my chicken scratching of things to buy and repair, replace or research, the two of us headed back to the Valley—weary but refreshed. It’s a good thing, because we drive up again in four days for the septic inspection. From bore beetles to woodpeckers to back-up generators to heating our home with propane to learning a whole new way of living at 7,200 feet—I think about what the realtor said: “You’re taking a big step, kids.” To which I replied: “Not a step—a big leap.”

4/5/2022

Bob and I put an offer on a cabin and two wooded acres in Northern Arizona, and it looks like we close end of April. We asked our realtor if our Mitsubishi Outlander would work until we can get a four-wheel drive. His response: “You’ve got yourself a fine mountain vehicle.” The countdown begins!

3/31/2022

Today was my last day of full-time employment!

3/8/2022

We sold our home and we have 62 days to figure out where we’re going!