Russ-Stick Acres

In My Backyard

2019-01-01T17:51:00.002-05:00

This is how I start my day...

feeding the birds.

And enjoying the nature preserve that is beyond my door.

If you look to the right, you will see some legs. {If you squint...}

They probably belong to this fellow.

Bucky.

See his "buttons" emerging on his head?

It's such a blessing to have daily visitors, like clockwork.

Morning and night.

Coming to my door.

It's a good way to start the new year.

Deer at my door...

And a fresh snow fall with crisp cold temps,

and bright sunshine.

Let us move forward with gratitude for all we have, and don't have.

For it is His plan.

And we only need to be obedient to His Word.

Sounds easy, but it takes daily strength.

Strength that we only get from Him.

"Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.

For ye have need of patience,

that,

after ye have done the will of God,

ye might receive the promise."

Hebrews 10:35-36

I received a letter yesterday from one of my dear Old Order Amish friends,

with that scripture leading out.

What a perfect reminder to stay in the will of God.

I wish you many blessings in this new year.

Until we connect again, Lord willing ~

Sherry

Home Sweet Home

2018-12-05T09:36:00.004-05:00

"It is not on any map. True places never are."
Herman Melville ~ Moby Dick

Imagine...

If you could wake up tomorrow and have the day be free of any stress.
{Hint...you can.}

What does freedom look like to you?

Perhaps raising your own food?

Or simple preparation of that food?

Or making sure others are fed?

Simple transportation?

Live simply?

No mortgage. No insurance. No hassle. Just live...like our ancestors lived?

Build your own furniture, from your own trees?

You can.

I can.

Start with a teeny tiny idea.

Write it down.

Make it yours.

No one says you have to live like the masses. Mortgage-free living is attainable. Pick a small parcel. One that borders state land is also desired. (You get the benefit of having land around you, without footing the tax bill.) Of course, water on your property is very much desired, even a small stream. Water wars dominate the world today. Actually they always have...

The key is to start...to dream.

Focus on that plan.

Make it your plan.

Your desire.

Your dream.

Follow that dream.

And remember, "less is more".

Living simply goes hand in hand with living debt free. But don't beat yourself up if that is not currently the situation. You can work your way out. It's is doable, no matter how bad the situation is at this time. Please believe me on that...

Just start small.

And look for like-minded friends who will support you, and perhaps work with you in a community-type setting. Friends who lift you, and love you. And be there for you, in thick and thin. Friends who pull together.

The Bible teaches about non-accumulation. Our society teaches the opposite.

Where do you stand?

The choice you make today will affect your life forever.

You can do this...

"Delight thyself also in the Lord: and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart." Psalm 37:4

Until tomorrow, Lord willing. Hope to see you here.

Sherry

The Hunt

2018-11-27T10:07:00.001-05:00

As the new hunting season has emerged, I am thrilled for many reasons. Exploring the nook and crannies of the woods never gets old. Autumn brought many new adventures. See what I mean as I travel back to memories in northern lower Michigan: (NOTE: This time frame reflects fall of 2015...when I was still hunting (and trapping). I'm now a "watcher" instead of a "warrior".)

...As I opened the door of the cramped cabin to leave, I looked around. I was leaving it in good stead. Venison chili simmered hot on the working wood stove, our aging cattle dog, Zip, sighed and gave a look of resignation as I hoisted the crossbow, closed the door and headed out onto the carpet of leaves that would be my path. Autumn had arrived. And with it began my quest for our winter meat.

I curved around the back of the cabin, skirting the silhouetting trees that lined the dog yard. No sled dogs murmured or whined, as they have become accustomed to my daily solo trek.

I stopped at the same spot where the previous week I had surprised a coyote. The other morning, as I headed out to do the morning check of our trap line, I walked through a dense area and came out into a clearing overlooking a vista. I always stop in this particular spot to peruse the land, looking for anything out of place, or perhaps to catch a glimpse of a critter traveling through. As I was looking, a massive coyote climbed up out of a hollow in front of me. He also stood, looking about, scanning the perimeter. As his head was on swivel to the left, he spotted me out of the corner of his eye and jolted with the knowledge. Upon confirming me standing there, he shot off and sped across the land, making a wide arch, actually returning to our property, in particular the area of our sled dog kennel. I only had my side arm on me that day. But this opportunity also gave me time to admire his thick coat, and compare it to several of our thick coated Siberians, which reside in the dog yard. Coy-dog perhaps? He was no typical coyote. Today, however, no coyote in sight.

Although the Barnett crossbow was a heavy tote, I opted to take the long route back to my “blind”. Rain was spitting, but the threat didn’t appear to be long-suffering. I had my “hot seat” looped on my belt, so I knew I’d have a dry seat upon arrival. No worries.

Hearing geese overhead brought a smile. I stopped to watch. Today it was two gaggles, flying side by side. Soon, a couple geese broke off from their original flight and joined a gaggle that split off and headed southwest. Who knows why. Perhaps they knew of a good landing zone the others who continued south didn’t appreciate.

I put the crossbow on my shoulder and trudged on.

The woods always change…from morning to night, and every hour in between. The lighting makes the woods a new adventure each time I enter. Using the sled dog trails from years past, I have a well-traveled path. Deer and coyote tracks dominate. As I carefully monitor each step, I feel so blessed. I am thankful for Russ, who appreciates my love of being in the woods. Night after night of me coming home in the dark makes for an abnormal dinner hour, but we both embrace this time of year and the opportunities it offers.

As I walk on, a ruffed grouse whistles, alerting me to the fact that wings will soon explode in flight, creating a startled noise in the quiet of the woods. Many times, my heart would beat madly when these birds caught me unaware.

I think back to earlier this August, when checking the trap line was always met with a spider web forming upon my face when going through brush. So many spider webs I’ve sported this year. I would always smile when I saw “widow leaves” – those leaves that appear to be dancing on air – spooky – until you realize they are being held by a spider web.

I finally arrive at my “chair”. It’s a chair in the woods. A wooden, hand carved swivel chair, made by Russ. I had him pull it out of one of our cabins, making a perfect site for me, sitting under a huge beech tree, at the massive base. We built up the perimeter a bit, and the deer have no problem appearing in the clearing as I sit in the chair.

As I snuggled in for the long haul, I took inventory of my surroundings. Many pro hunters don’t factor in wind. I do.

Many do factor in scent. As for me, I have a theory about scent control. I control it by putting my scent out year ‘round. Every kernel of the non-GMO corn I feed has run through my hands, putting my scent on feed. They know me. They associate me with feed. I recall hearing about Iditarod Champion, Susan Butcher, feeding her Alaskan pups this way, smooshing her hands into the meaty mixture to get her scent mixed in. Whatever you do with regard to scent – be consistent.

I also hunt without any fuss. I know folks who bring coffee and eats to a blind. Coffee leads to elimination. Another issue. All bring unwanted scent.

As for cell phones and such. No. Never. If I were to bring anything, it would be a book. But I can’t even imagine doing that. I go to the woods to hear and see the sounds that are ever changing. I delight in the change of noise…the woods are never silent. Especially if you sit under a beech tree in the fall. The woods has so much to teach us.

One last thing. Look up. Cougars are here. You just never know when one might be in your neck of the woods.

This year, there were less skeeters.

This fall, in September during the “early Anterless hunt”, I was unsuccessful. However, I did enjoy an encounter with a young porky as I was heading in for the night. He was in the lane, nibbling on a dried out clover, unaffected by my moving toward him. Only when I spoke to him and neared did he turn his back to me and puff up. He seemed to resent the intrusion and finally toddled off into the woods. Although I had two firearms at my ready, I let him go, hoping I wouldn’t regret the decision come dog training on the trails.

Enjoy the woods, and the one who made it. ~~Mother~~ ~~Nature~~? No, Father God. Another good reason to look up…for Jesus said:

“Surely I am coming quickly”.

Side bar: Yes, many changes in the last 3 years. Life never stays dormant. One big one is submitting to the teachings of Jesus. More to come on what that looks like. For both myself and Russ.

Until tomorrow, Lord willing. Hope to see you here.

Sherry

Rooted in Love

2018-11-21T08:04:00.000-05:00

What's it like to farm in an unconventional way?

Check out yet another favorite farm family of mine.

Kip and Carrie Smyth and their children

Caleb/Joshua/Esther/Nathan/Joseph/Naomi
{Once you watch, you'll hear the nicknames of most...Esther Pie, JJ, Bittle and more.}

Their channel is called 1000's of Roots.

I don't necessarily watch their channel for farming tips.
I watch because of the love that flows between father and mother,
mother and father,
parent and child,
child and parent,
and sibling for sibling.
All under the headship of the God of the Bible.

You will be blessed...

And if the video didn't show for those who receive the Blog via email...here's the link:
CLICK HERE.

Until tomorrow, Lord willing. Hope to see you here.

Sherry

Everything Earthquake

2018-11-17T07:58:00.000-05:00

Why in the world would I, in northern lower Michigan, care about EQ's?

Well, even though I'm not a science geek,

I check in to the reports by Dutchsinse. (Michael J.)

He packs a lot into his hour+ videos.

They are visually appealing and his reports are mesmerizing.

In today's video, at the 25 minute mark, you will see why there is

a lot of land available for sale (cheap) in Colorado.

I've been watching Dutch for over 10 years.

I think you will enjoy his knowledge and expertise.

{OK...when I got my email update (a day late), I noticed the video was missing, but only from the Blog Post sent by email! How can that be...? But it was.
So if this happened to you, please click on HERE for link. That should solve it...}

The Bible also talks about earthquakes...and that makes it view worthy.

Luke 21:11 "And great earthquakes shall be in divers places..." KJV

Until tomorrow, Lord willing. Hope to see you here.

(And thank you for your comments!)

Sherry

5 Boys in a Camper

2018-11-15T09:09:00.000-05:00

Hitting the road is always exhilarating for me.

Imagine hitting the road, indefinitely, with 5 young boys in tow.

Brackin N Lindsay Kirkland make it work.

I follow this family and support their ministry in several ways.

I'd like to share their journey with you...

and in this video you will even hear my name mentioned.

Enjoy...

To get an idea of their amazing talent, check this out...

the boys even sing in this video.

Until tomorrow, Lord willing. I hope to see you here.

Sherry

The Watcher...Part Two

2018-11-13T22:14:00.000-05:00

Yes, watching is what I do.

Today was humorous,

as two little button bucks sparred.

A sign of things to come.

One of the two tried nursing from Mama.

She wasn't thrilled with that idea.

The kitchen is closed, as they say.

Instead, she taught them some bad habits.

While the Blue Jays and Chickadees looked on.

And finally, this big guy lumbered in.

I hope he stays safe when rifle season opens in two days.

If he stays where I am, he'll be just fine.

Until tomorrow, Lord willing. Hope to see you then.

Sherry

From Warrior to Watcher

2018-11-12T21:30:00.004-05:00

I used to look forward to this time of year.

The first big snow...right before Opening Day.

The hunt...

And now I just watch.

And they watch me.

This past summer, they became friendly.

And crept close...

Always around...

And they became my buddies...

Yes, my hunting days are over.

And I look forward to the future.

Until tomorrow, Lord willing. Hope to see you here.

Sherry

Cabin Living

2018-11-09T23:35:00.000-05:00

This was my driveway last winter, turning back into the woods.

I lived in the Bear's Den cabin.

No electric.

No running water.

Only an outhouse.

And I loved it.

Rustic.

But tonight...as I sit 40 miles north,

in my comfy heated domain (my Mother's home),

I am once again homesick.

The snow has officially arrived.

Sure, it snowed earlier this fall.

But tonight has the feel of a storm.

Snow is falling.

Winds are slamming the sliding glass doors.

Although oddly, I feel no change in my circumstances.

I have bare feet. No cold here.

If I were back at the cabin,

on my land,

I would feel connected to the storm.

A part of it.

Here, I am only a spectator.

And that saddens me.

But tomorrow I will visit, Lord willing.

And once again be a participant.

With socks on...and warm boots.

Until tomorrow, Lord willing. Hope to see you here.

Sherry

Pulling my Homestead Heartstrings

2018-11-08T23:20:00.001-05:00

For those who don't know, I'm currently away from my Homestead.

More on that later...but simply put, I'm 40 miles up north, assisting my Mother.

Since I'm "temporarily" living a "normal" life, in a normal setting, I long for my old lifestyle.

I love living a simple life.

But for now, I'll settle for videos that mirror my lifestyle.

I'd like to share one with you...Shawn James.

His videos titled "My Self Reliance" are a big hit.

If you've enjoyed watching Dick Proenneke over the years, these have a similar style.

You may wish to take a peek and see.

Sit back and enjoy...

Until tomorrow, Lord willing. Hope to see you here.

Sherry

The Fisher

2018-11-07T22:52:00.002-05:00

I grew up in a family of fishers.

This is my beloved Dad, Chuck, on the river, with pole in hand and pipe in mouth.

He had the perfect temperament for fishing...never riled. Never in a hurry.

Always eager to dip a pole. Or two...or three.

My Dad started fishing in his youth. He loved it, and lived for it.

As he married and began to have a family, he shared his passion with his children.

When my older brother was young...

And when my youngest brother was older...

And then there's me.

His only daughter.

In the summer...

And in winter...

And as I grew older,

he taught my offspring,

eldest son Charlie {named after his Grampa}

to be a 3rd generation "fisher".

My Dad enjoyed the fishing {and hunting} opportunities Michigan had to offer,

especially living in a town on Lake Michigan.

But he also enjoyed being dropped by bush plane into the wilds of Canada each spring.

Yes...even snow in spring...

To know my Dad was to love him.

He was active in our lakeside community, in many ways and facets.

He was perfection to me, as a father.

That is why it was so hard to fathom him leaving this earth at age 60,

a mere 6 weeks after a diagnosis of cancer.

To me, the loss was unfathomable. The pain was raw. Unending.

That was nearly 30 years ago.

Since then, I have looked to a different Father for comfort.

One who will never leave me.

One who calls men to be

"Fishers of Men".

The one True God.

The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

I still have the treasured fishing pole of my youth.

It is perched on the wall in my Bear's Den cabin.

A Shakespeare "Back Country Special" with a model # 2052 reel.

I don't use it any more...

but it reminds me of my Dad...and all the treasured adventures we shared.

Now...my mind goes to a different type of fishing.

Jesus said: "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men."

My focus is now on the Living Water. On following Jesus.

May you also know the peace of doing so.

Until tomorrow, Lord willing. I hope to see you here.

Sherry

On the Road...Again

2018-11-06T23:33:00.001-05:00

Have you ever wondered what is around the next bend?

I've enjoyed following Brian of AdventureVanMan as he travels about, living on the road.

I think you will too.

(And yes, he even answers emails.)

Enjoy...You can begin with a Michigan trip, and travel on from there.

Until tomorrow, Lord willing. Hope to see you then.

Sherry

Farewell to Facebook...forever

2018-11-05T10:06:00.002-05:00

Yep, it's time.

I'm going back to old-school.

Sure, I'll miss my Facebook birthdays.

And I'll miss all of my *friends* that I have met over the years.

{I hope you follow me here...}

But, bottom line, we serve an awesome God.

And if God wants a person in my life, it will happen,

without the assistance of Social Media.

This I know.

After writing about it over the years...

Here...and here...and well, you get my drift.

It's time.

To every thing there is a season... See Ecclesiastes 3...HERE.

So my world just got a little smaller. But the quiet beauty remains.

But it's all good.

So here I'll be, Lord willing.

Abiding...

And there's no looking back.

Like the song we sung yesterday (me with teary blurry eyes due to emotion)

during worship at my small country Mennonite church ~

Wherever He may guide me, no want shall turn me back.

My Shepherd is beside me, and nothing can I lack.

His wisdom ever waketh, His sight is never dim.

He knows the way He taketh, and I will walk with Him.
Taken from the Church Hymnal, Hymn 384 "In Heavenly Love Abiding" 2nd verse.

Until tomorrow, Lord willing...hope to see you then.

Sherry

City Chick...a-Dee

2018-11-03T19:38:00.000-04:00

I never realized I would have a hard sell in the city.

Last winter, nestled deep in the woods, my birds appreciated me.

Upon walking in, they would greet me with songs and calls.

Then, without an invitation, they would land on my head.

I would tell them to wait...but I always had a smile while doing so.

They were my buddies...one of my simple daily joys.

And now, as winter is approaching, it has been decided I will stay in the city, assisting family.

In the city on the bay.

But there's a slight problem.

Although the deer in the city are tame(ish).

The Chickadee's...not so much.

So starts the hard sell.

I've been trying to win them over for the last couple months.

I hope they become like my other feathered friends, who live deep in the woods.

I would venture out of the cabin in the morning and upon my head they would perch.

One time I drove 1/2 mile away and got out of the truck, and upon my head they landed.

Sometimes they would sit on the wiper blade, waiting for me to exit the truck, peeking in.

But the city ones? So far, I've only had one land on my hand.

Now if only I could get the turkey's to show up also.

Life in the city would get a little better.

Until tomorrow, Lord willing...

Sherry

P.S. I hope my feathered friends in the woods, 40 miles south, will not think I abandoned them this winter. Who knows, perhaps they will find me if they fly north. I can only dream.

Old Things New Again

2018-11-02T12:12:00.002-04:00

I'm back.

Back to the world of Blogging.

Old-School.

I'm going to check in daily, Lord willing.

Come along for the ride...

Until tomorrow, Lord willing.

Sherry

Deer of the Russian Swamp

2018-07-06T12:36:00.000-04:00

Russian Swamp, you say?

I grew up in this area, and have returned for the summer months to care for family.

What a blessing it is to have the deer comfortable in my presence.

They come to the corner of the city, spilling out into the yard, from the Russian Swamp.

This area was named after the Abraham Seibert family, who moved here from the Ukraine in the late 1800's. They battled many things, but loneliness took hold. (More on this family later...)

So these deer are special to me.

They feel protected. And they are...

This allows me to access them, and have nightly "chats", and early morning "hello's".

But lately, the doe is showing more caution. Stomping her feet a bit. I wonder why?

Ahhh...it didn't take long to get an answer.

She's got 2 on her tail. Keeping up with Mama. {One peeked in my sliding glass door...very curious.)

And soon, these will grow and continue the herd (Lord willing...) of the Russian Swamp.

Until next time...

Sherry

As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God... Psalm 42

Clinging to HIM

2018-06-02T10:40:00.000-04:00

It’s official. Warm spring breezes and lots of sun, with a touch of rain to bring on the budding of trees finally occurred. In addition, the deer have emerged from the “deer yards” further north on the Cedar River. I saw the buck who has “hung out” the last 3 years, return. I’ve also seen other tracks on the lane, and under my bird feeders, but haven’t visually spied them…yet.

Spring is officially here, as evidenced by a trip to Mackinac Island's Grand Hotel with a dear friend to attend a women's conference. Win-Some Women.

But I’m saddened. The fox that went from being fun to watch all winter, went to being feared. He/she snatched my beloved rooster, Stewie, carried him to the edge of the woods and violently ended his short life. After Stewie came up missing, it took several days to piece together the story of his demise, clever fox that he is.

Stewie, aka “Stewpot” was a special rooster. He was a gift from my Amish friends last fall. It was a pleasure watching him blossom into a full-fledged rooster. He came from good stock. Days before he was killed I was telling my Amish friend that he loved to strut around the property with his 5 “girls” and crow and crow. And now, he is gone. Silence dominates the property. Only the hens remain, with their protector slain. A sad day indeed.

It’s spring. A time of renewal. But my mind is on things eternal. As with Stewie the rooster, the vapor of life is evident.

“Trust in Him who will not leave you, whatsoever years may bring. If by earthly friends forsaken, still more closely to Him cling. Hold to God’s unchanging hand, Hold to God’s unchanging hand. Build your hopes on things eternal. Hold to God’s unchanging hand.”

It’s easy to focus on the “things” that we all face. Aging dogs, foxes that kill our beloved farm animals, medical issues of those we love... or just getting through a day without strife. It can bring us to our knees. And it should. We should be on our knees – in prayer. Being close to our Heavenly Father is what makes this all doable.

As for me, I’m clinging to Him. Clutching Him. I’m grabbing at the hem of Jesus, dragging along.

I have had so much change these past few years since having my eyes opened to the teachings and Words of Jesus. The whole counsel of God.

In our case, after 15 years, we have accepted the fact we are in a “marriage” not pleasing to God. (See “The Seeker”.)

The vow of my first “and two shall become one” marriage, taken at age 20…still stands, putting my 2^nd marriage in an adulterous state. Luke 16:18 – Jesus said: Whosoever putteth away his wife, and marrieth another, committeth adultery: and whosoever marrieth her that is put away from her husband committeth adultery.”

Simply put, there is no Biblical option for remarriage as long as your first one-flesh covenant spouse is still alive. None.

And so, to be obedient to my heavenly Father, our Creator, the separation has taken place over these past few years. Russ and Sherry are no more. Actually, we never were in God’s eyes, as my Maker has always seen me united in marriage to my first husband, until death.

But.. through it all…the shock, the loss, the pain, the tears (oh-so-many tears), and the remorse and repentance {brought on by Biblical knowledge}, I am still thankful.

I am closer to God: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. I hold that “unchanging Hand” every waking hour. And I know He will not let go. I have that blessed assurance.

Having lived in my little cabin for over the last year, I’m starting to settle in. Last autumn I finally gave in to the acceptance of my new surroundings. It took one question to make me realize that fact. Upon being invited to join in at a quilt gathering at a nearby Amish community, I was telling the women around the quilt how small my cabin was…when this wise woman said {in her Pennsylvania Deutsch accent}…”but does it feel like home?” The question caught me off guard. I had to stop and think. “Well…yes, I suppose it does...” is how I replied. And since then, contentment has crept in. My little cabin in the woods is “HOME”.

For now, I am living on a separate 10 acre parcel that isn’t even connected to the other 30. It feels right.

The separation has occurred in stages, like s-l-o-w-l-y ripping off a worn out - still sticking BandAid… And through it all, we have felt God’s presence and patience and direction. We know Christ is returning for His Bride (the church) soon and we want to be receptive to what God has in store for us – individually.

But for now, I’m here. On the land that I know. And love.

I know that on the 4^th of July, I can walk in the woods on a magical path, lit by fireflies.

By the 22^nd of July, the clover turns the land into a purple haze of beauty.

By the end of October, the color literally takes my breath away.

I don’t know where this path of obedience will lead, but I do know this. God, our Creator of the universe, the Author and Finisher of our faith, is the same; yesterday, today and tomorrow.

He never changes.

And I will hold on to His unchanging hand as I figure this out.

Many blessings to you and yours.

More soon…Lord willing,

Sherry

1st Year of Berean Bush Living

2018-04-24T15:31:00.000-04:00

Welcome Friends. I wonder what your life is like…as spring emerges.

I was at an outdoor Auction this past weekend (up north, not far from the Mackinac Bridge) when I felt like I had emerged from a long winter. Call me “Ursa” (Latin word for Bear). I don’t travel in the winter, so my outings are few and far between over the long winter months, with only local travel. Even so, the winter went by fast... until a week ago.

Excited to spend time with my beloved visiting son and his sweet sweet girlfriend last week, I “poo poo’ed” the warnings of a storm. Everyone was talking about it, but I didn’t hear it. It even escalated to Severe warnings on my weather radio, but I showed casual interest…as my calendar showed mid-April. J But late Friday night when I stoked my woodstove and laid my head down to peer at the moon out my small “south” window, I drifted off to sleep with warm thoughts of a day well spent with my loved ones. Then…it happened. I woke to a “rush of heavy snow” ~~sliding~~ crashing off the metal roof to the ground. Oh my…I haven’t heard anything quite like that all winter. I reached over to stoke the stove, and slipped back down deep into my sleeping bag. Then it happened again. Woosh! THUMP.

All night long it continued…Woosh…THUMP, and again….Woosh, THUMP. Upon awakening Saturday morning, I thought “this can’t be good”. The night before, I had pulled my truck deep into the woods, not heeding the warnings of the impending storm. The truck was now “buried” – going nowhere, no time soon. In the next 24-36 hours we would have 22” of snow. (Actually, I believe that is a conservative figure.) Short story is…I couldn’t get out of the woods, with the truck, OR on foot. I tried…but the snow was SO DEEP I couldn’t walk in it without snow shoes. It didn’t help that the snow had the consistency of sugar/sand. This had landed on previous snow, and so far this month alone we have had 39”. (A local record was said to be broken…) I headed back to the cabin, struggling through the snow, and settled in. The classical story of the boy with his grandfather and the goat...buried in their cabin…came to mind. "Buried in the Snow" by Franz Hoffmann.

It was later in the day that Russ showed up to “rescue me”. Good thing…as I was low on H20 and “substantial” food. (I usually head up mid-day to tend to the dogs and when I didn’t that day, he knew there was a problem.) We don’t use phones for such things. Wouldn’t work anyway, since only one of us has one. But I’m only ½ mile away… {And yes...I could have melted snow...)

On the way out to the main lane, which was also sketchy, I stepped off the narrow path and went down nearly to my hip on one leg. Unless a friend, or tree, {or a thick-coated-eager-to-please canine} is near to grab hold of, it’s difficult to get free as the snow holds you firm. Like quicksand. {Sidebar: I had just watched Pilgrim’s Progress several days prior, and know full well the dangers of straying from “the narrow path”. During the movie, I kept thinking…Christian…don’t get off the path again!! Isn’t that how life is…we can see it so clearly when it’s someone else who is “in trouble”…or making wrong choices.}

Well, the next five days were rough. I won’t bore you with the details, but after five days, an angel was finally dispatched to come and plow me out, at what I felt was minimal cost. {When one is desperate, you are willing to pay dearly.} This was in addition to the usual front-end loader driver who had tried on Sunday night, but couldn’t get in the woods due to too much snow. My truck finally got out, and I felt such a relief. It still isn’t easy getting around, a week later. But having the wind stop blowing, and the sun shining brightly…sure makes trudging through a wintery slop in my knee-high MUCK boots bearable.

But the best thing of all was the “wake up call” I received in this storm. Some of the plans I had for next year, including moving the sled dogs deep in the woods, are scratched. Bottom line, I need them near the water source. I truly would have had an impossible time getting water for that many critters, plus me.

And I know one thing…I’m getting a new-fangled pair of snowshoes. I do treasure the old ones, but need something lightweight to skitter over the snow. {Catching your tips and falling in snowshoes is no picnic either…}

So in a week’s time, the weather went from deadly to drop-dead gorgeous. At the Auction, exactly one week later, the sun glistened off the remaining snow on the auctioned-off property. Temps climbed into the 50’s. You saw sheer enjoyment in all you came in contact with – people came out in droves to enjoy the sounds of the auction rings and announcers and visit with their neighbors. Spring is near! I even ended up with a sunburn! My Amish friends did too…as they were working the food booth at the Auction. (YUM…I headed home with a pan of cinnamon rolls, a groaningly delicious loaf of bread, and chocolate-ty whoopee pies…YUM indeed.) I also loaded up a couple of newly constructed Bluebird houses, sold by the bright-eyed smiling Amish boys at the Auction. Perfect timing, as I plan to set up a Bluebird trail on my “ten”. (Days before the big storm I saw a bright blue male BB checking out an old BB house, near the Wee.)

In addition, it was so good to be up in my “old stomping grounds” and view Little Traverse Bay (Lake Michigan) half open, half covered with ice. Beautiful country…northern lower Michigan.

As I headed south at the end of a long day of auction and errands (oil change for my truck/critter feed at Tractor Supply, etc.) I felt renewed. I had survived the winter. I was looking forward to getting back to my little cabin in the woods.

In addition, I am looking forward to the summer and preparation for another winter (firewood, etc.). Twelve cord served me well this year. This morning, “Woody”, my Pileated Woodpecker was thrilled to find 2 new suet cakes right outside my window in the cake feeder. He is such a fixture – visits daily. One of my many “day brighteners”.

This morning I enjoyed my morning cabin coffee (with water heated with a foldable Sterno Camp stove) while watching the riotous antics at my bird feeder. Besides Woody, I have goldfinches, a bevy of other woodpeckers, 3 black squirrels, several red squirrels, emerging chipmunks, chickadees (of course) and more. I’ve also had a tall red fox visit several times, one time almost crossing paths with me! Who can blame him for wanting to check out the flurry of activity? Of course there are more critters, such as the raccoon that raided my birdfeeder one moonlit evening. And I look forward to the return of the deer, (and yes, even porkies and skunks…)

How about you? Did you survive the winter? I hope so…J

Until next time…Lord willing,

Sherry

P.S. If you are wondering why I moved out to my little cabin on April 23, 2017, a year ago, here’s the beginning of the story back in April of 2015... The SEEKER.

The rest of the story, my story… is forthcoming. Woosh…THUMP.

Woodsy Winter

2018-02-07T15:09:00.001-05:00

Yep...I'm here. Winter is in full swing.

And my little woodstove is firing hot. All is well. Lots of firewood remains to swing into spring.

The chickadees aren't even waiting for me to get to the cabin before they come land on my head. Are they beggars... or do they like me? I won't answer that...

I'll check in soon. I'm writing, but have to go from pen to paper, to lap top, to thumb drive, to local Library. It takes some doing, but I'm committed. Lots to tell...stay tuned.

Miss you all..."see" you soon, should the Lord tarry.

S

P.S. No cabin fever...yet.

P.S.S. Coyotes a plenty - view in broad daylight. They don't give me a second thought.

Peace...and Quiet

2017-12-04T11:46:00.001-05:00

Hello Friend -

I'm still here...still living in my small cabin on ten acres, waiting for winter to set in.

In the meantime, I have the chickadees landing on my fingers when I call to them, trusting me for their treats.

Life is simple - my "Berean Bush Living".

I'll check in more soon, Lord willing, and fill you in on the stories that are piling up.

Until then, be blessed.

Sherry

Simply Sled Dogs

2017-08-11T14:51:00.000-04:00

This past week, with August upon us, I shuffled around some dog equipment to get ready for Fall Training. While hauling an armload of old harnesses to wash up to sell, I hoped none of the remaining six dogs would notice as I tip-toed past the dog yard. Anyone who has had a sled dog, or a dog for that matter, knows how just a “jingle” of a leash will send a dog into a frenzy of excitement. It’s that way with sled dogs. Even the sight of a harness will stir them into action.

I, too, get excited this time of year, especially when a full moon approaches. (Hello to my full-moon musher friend Shannon…J)

It is nearly 9 years ago that Iditarod/Yukon Quest “Mega” Champion Lance Mackey (from the incredible Mackey family of mushers) was here for a full-moon weekend, giving his testimony about all things dog. His presence still lingers, and I hope someday it would be possible for him to return. Lord willing. {Lance is truly one of a kind, as is his record in both the Iditarod and Yukon Quest.}

Once I sorted through the maze of harnesses, I ended up with working harnesses for four. (Two of our dogs are going on 16 years of age - their pulling days past.) I took the semi-clean harnesses out back to my cabin in the woods and hung them by the front door, under the protection of the porch. There… My cabin was complete. My hickory rocking chair sat in the opposite corner, across from the harnesses that brought plenty of memories. Inside the cabin is the bunk I now sleep on - the same bunk Lance Mackey slept on when he visited for 3 nights. Some nights I lay in the darkness and hear my sled dog Skunk let out a sigh of contentment from her comfy dog bed near the front door. I wonder if her dreams are like my dreams…of the incredible life of sled dogs and folks like Lance Mackey, who fill our hearts with an amazement and awe of a lifestyle like no other. Once you have experienced it, it’s hard to let go…but you still have the memories.

Memories like this…

Waking at 5, I beat the rooster’s demands. I attempt to shake the hold of a good night’s sleep, as I scheme a plan to stay warm. After deciding there is little I can do from my vantage point, I leave the comfort of warm flannel sheets and heavy comforters. Scooting off the end of the bed, I take one step to begin my early morning decent down the sturdy cabin ladder. Knowing each rung results in a five degree temperature dip, I grit my teeth and make a hasty departure from the loft.

Once in the heart of our small cabin, I scramble to throw on my morning clothes. I hold each article of clothing next to the open door of the wood stove, hoping the smoldering embers will provide some heat to my chilly wardrobe. Again, I grit my teeth as I decide this process is getting me nowhere and I should just get dressed, sans fanfare. Layer, layer, layer, cotton kills, cotton kills, cotton kills runs through my head as I hastily dress for the cold winter morning.

After fidgeting with the woodstove, I’ve managed to create a good fire. Two fat and aged lab-mix dogs are happy with the results as they settle closer to the woodstove and uncurl. Not being a coffee drinker, I have to rely on rote skills to get me started in my sequence of chores. Breakfast will wait. The rule in this house is…animals eat first. I grab my headlamp from the hook by the cabin door, fit it over my fur hat and begin to venture out into the dark snowy morning.

I stop to fill two five-gallon water buckets at the spigot on the cabin porch. It’s a relief to hear water surge up through the pipe. My city-turned-country 15 year-old cat greets me by raising her head from her porch bed.

Once outside, I’m amazed at the snow received the night before. My warm bunny boots are silent, but clumsy, walking on the fresh powder. The only sound is the small plastic red sled, floating behind me in a serpentine fashion as I glide over the wind-sculptured snow, carrying two buckets of sloshing water. The quiet is interrupted by the first howl of greeting as I exit the woods and approach the dog yard in the clearing.

The dogs knew I was coming, before I even put my foot on the last rung of the cabin ladder. Astro, our blue-eyed Alaskan “gate keeper” can peer the 100’ from his sentry by the dog yard gate. He sees through the naked deciduous trees and into our main cabin window. Once he sees light and movement in the cabin, he announces my arrival to the others. {We put Astro by the front gate so he could overcome his shyness. It worked.}

Now the dogs can hardly contain their exuberance as I fight with snow to gain entry into the front gate, knowing the snow would be too deep at the feed room door. Once inside, I can scan the 30 dogs in the dog yard, and make a light beam contact with each pair of eyes. 10, 20, 29…where’s the 30^th dog? Oh yes…one pair of eyes fail to beam back. Our current blind dog, Buddy Jr. However I can still see his excitement of being “shined upon” nonetheless. (We have 14 more dogs…they are up in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, running the trails, with Russ riding the runners - training for possible future races.)

TO BE CONTINUED:

Side Bar: So many things have changed. The two “cabin dogs” (Satch and Hootch) have long sinced passed. Satch at 18 and Hootch nearly that.

The cabin kitty also.

And on a brighter note…I now drink coffee – started late in life. Wish I had started sooner…. I wish a lot of things. But the memories linger...

Until next time, should the Lord tarry -

Sherry

My Daily Gift

2017-07-27T15:45:00.000-04:00

It’s still early morning as I sit on my little cabin porch, enjoying my Amish-made hickory rocker. Thinking back, it’s been 25 years or so since I first hauled this rocker from mid-Michigan to northern Michigan. It has served me well over the years with comfort and memories. (It bears the chew marks from my Border Collie pup, years past.). But I digress…

I’ve been up for hours soaking in, and studying the Word of God. John 1:1…”In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” I fell asleep last night doing so, and began once again upon awakening. I feel like I’m working on a Master’s Thesis. And in a way, I am! About the Divine Master, my Lord and Savior. Actually, when I attended college, right after high school and then later on, I studied hard. (Unlike high school…). I even made the President’s list for a perfect grade with 12+ credits per semester. In addition, I was asked, and joined, Phi Theta Kappa (a smarty girl’s honor club). But that study was NOTHING compared to this. I’m studying as if my life depended on it. And it does!

A friend of mine wrote these words:

“The grace of God, and the leading of the Holy Spirit will always direct our lives to full obedience of the established principles of God’s word. This is the true freedom in Christ. Any other direction is tragedy indeed.”

So far, my Berean Bush Living is working out as planned. A beautiful setting for God’s creatures and creation – and to study His precepts. As I write this (by hand, later typed for your retrieval) my morning visitor lets me know it is breakfast time. A chipmunk waits for his morning snack. I started putting cereal, or walnuts on one of my logs on the wood pile. Now it has become a ritual. (I adore “chippy’s”.)

This morning a couple hours into my study I needed to stretch my legs. Upon stepping off the porch I thought about retrieving my side arm. I thought twice. Naw…I’m just going to the clearing – no need. I can sprint back to the cabin if necessary. (Oh how our minds trick us…me sprint?? J) So I headed out to the clearing, surrounded by nearly neck high green ferns. I scan the vast area, looking for any sign of deer. (One time, myself and my dear “cattle dog” Zip came into that same clearing and saw a buck’s antlered head “floating” on the ferns. At least that is what it looked like. The deformed antlers on one side added to the floating “creepy factor”!) Today I only saw a cloudy, rainy sky to accompany the cold northern Michigan weather. As I was about ready to return to the cabin, I saw to the east a large animal swiftly emerge from near the base of the ferns, cross the lane, and enter the woods. I had to blink twice. I t looked to be the size of a wolverine, but the large (and I mean large) white stripe gave it away. I stepped into the woods for a better look and watched as it headed in the direction of my deer blind area. This summer, several skunks have found their way into a live trap, so it is time to get it reset. (Skunks are notorious for devouring our baby bunnies.)

Barely a day goes by when God doesn’t share one of His wonderful gifts with me. Wildlife, or sign of such. Raw beauty abounds in my wooded abode. The nightly dance of the firefly brings awe. Who can deny thy creator? Not I…

I was getting to the point of asking God for a daily gift and I had to stop myself. (Something along the lines of…”God…would you please send a deer through so I can see its beauty?”) But He does it anyway!! He knows how much it pleases me. I can almost imagine His smile (we are told we are made in the likeness of Him) when my heart beats faster upon seeing a deer or smelling a possible bear while walking at the cabin at dusk. All are gifts. From Him. Thank you Father.

But my greatest gift of all is His Word to me. To YOU. It’s contained in His God-inspired Word. Dive in. Read your Bible. Start where you wish. I don’t follow a routine, I go where I feel I need to that day. I use King James Version (KJV) only. I do not use a study Bible (one that has notes written on the page next to God’s Word, by people hired for their opinion.) They are not God-inspired. They are someone who needed a writing gig. {Very dangerous to lean on a study Bible.} Remember the serpent in the Garden…ssssssssssssssss…”Ye shall not surely die…SSSssssssss”

Your Bible is a gift – open it. Read it. Live it. Some people say it is Basic Instruction Before Leaving Earth. So true. And if you desire information on how to order a nice, but not expensive, KJV Bible, contact me. I can assist.

I hope you enjoy your gifts today! However small.

I’ll check in soon, should the Lord tarry…

Sherry

P.S. When reading the Bible…keep your ears and eyes open to His still small voice. So that means…No TV, NO phone beeping interruptions, NO radio, NO distractions. Only you…and GOD. Blessings to you!

Night Scare

2017-07-13T15:54:00.000-04:00

My journal continues…

Tuesday, May 30th

A nightly visitor shows up at my cabin. The question is...who? Or what?

I wonder… Coyote tracks and deer abound, but who is breathing near my head on the outside wall of the cabin? In the still of the night, that can be quite disconcerting.

That was just the beginning of my "scary nights". I had a different scare the night before. I brought fresh-from-the-mill wood scraps to burn to take the chill off the night air. Well…my stove “took off”. Upon opening the top lid, an ember floated down beneath a crack in floor boards. Also a crack appeared in the chimney leading to the heavy shiny insulated chimney. I held my breath as the fire took its time to settle down. The little cabin heated up like never before! The next morning I realized I dodged a bullet with a smoldering log and a perfect storm for carbon monoxide. Needless to say, I'm looking forward to my new stove getting into place soon.

Wednesday, May 31th

Figured out my nightly visitor. I awoke at 2:30 a.m. last night to something hovering on my porch – making lots of noise by my door. Nails scratched on wood, schuffling leaves ensued, twigs breaking, etc. Once again, I held my breath as I aimed my dim flashlight toward the door. Yep...a porky was revealed. He lumbered off, looking over his shoulder at the inconvenience of being “found out”. He returned some time later to say “hello” on the other side of my bunk wall. My thoughts, of course, go to when I begin bringing sled dogs out to visit. Porkies and sled dogs don’t mix. NOTE: He's probably the one I came across last deer hunting season. I was heading home after a night of hunting, and I saw a porky ambling down the lane ahead of me. I got as close as I could and chatted with him for a while. Well, he bristled and I chatted. I had my .30-.30 and my side arm, but it wasn't an option. He wasn't hurting anyone. Yet...Lord willing.

Until next time, should the Lord tarry… {I’ll eventually get current...so much to tell!}

In His Love -

Sherry

Where I Lay My Head

2017-07-09T16:07:00.000-04:00

And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of Man hath not where to lay his head.” Luke 9:58

Checking in again, my friend. My previous journal notes were from April. I’m months behind, so I’ll try and catch up. Before I do, I had a thought. This cabin living can be done on any level. If you dedicate a “prayer closet” in your home, you can make it comfortable. Even with this cabin living, I’m keeping my supplies at a minimum. I procured a “bear barrel” from the local resale. {Nothing can get in this old-timey canner.} But I’m being careful not to have too many distractions around me…food or otherwise, so I don’t lose focus on the reason I’m there – to study the Word of God. However, nature always has a way of capturing my attention, if not on the 10 acres I’m on, then on the other 30 acres that the property entails. Here’s a small sampling…

5/9/17

I’m filled with gratitude for 4 new bunnies at the main Wee House. Grey/black/Blonde/Merle. Later named Frosty, - , Pumpkin, and Snickers. {Their “mama” is a big white Californian, and their “papa” is a big orange/copper rabbit (born here) who is called “copper bunny”. They are both loose on the property, but live at the Wee House.} The little black one was too daring/dancing/darling – and unfortunately met her end before she could be named. That hurts the heart…to see them get to such an age, only to have the laws of nature come down upon them. I believe it was a fox.

The little black bunny wasn’t our only loss. Our special rooster was taken out also, along with my favorite pure-white hen who faithfully gave us a blueish-green egg.

This morning, as I stood and watched the white Mama rabbit fill its mouth with twigs, grasses, and leaves, I had to smile. She was going to kindle soon – giving us another batch of newborn bunnies – in the woodpile next to the Wee House. As I watched her, something caught the corner of my eye along the berm of our property to the east. It was a huge healthy-looking fox…trotting with a purpose, coming closer, weaving in and out of brush. He was headed for the area of the dog yard. Hence…later that day, our remaining 3 hens were moved to a safer enclosure. We also have 1 broody hen sitting on 5 eggs. We hope one of those 5 eggs hatches out to become our new resident rooster. This will keep a 4-generation line of roosters, starting with a beautiful and kind, Java rooster, who was eventually snatched just feet from the coop in broad daylight, by a coyote. It causes a heavy - living so close to nature. There are times when I desire to cage them…to keep them safe. But at what cost…? Short life of freedom, or long life of bondage? It’s a tough call.

5/10/17

End of the day. 5:00 p.m. at the cabin. The Hermit Thrush and Pileated Woodpecker vie for air space. One melodic. One a banshee scream. But both beautiful to my ears. The crow also. I love the crows…and they know it.

The woods are alive with greenery, bugs and beauty (no skeeters yet…) I nearly stepped on an adult snake 2 days prior while cutting through the woods enroute to the cabin.

It has been cold, but sunny. Today is warming up. I’ve been sick, but now feeling a tad better, and hacking/coughing less. Hauled the last of 12 cord of firewood to my new cabin home. And my new icebox (you put a block of ice inside to keep food cold) was wrangled in the door. Cabin now feels like home.

5/27/17

Up very early. Auction day in my community of friends (Old Order Amish) for a family who is moving to a new “daughter settlement”. I will be leaving soon for the hour trip. Upon looking out the back window of my 8x8 cabin, I do a “double take” as a big doe steps out and crosses across the back. Wow…I didn’t even have to leave the cabin to view her! Later, I saw tracks circling the cabin. Lots of deer activity at this time.

Earlier this morning, I curled my cold fingers around a cup of steaming coffee as I stepped from the woods into the sunlit field to warm myself in the morning sun. I scanned about, looking for the deer that makes its presence daily. Sure enough…I hear a foot stomp the ground in disgust. {I must be interrupting HIS morning routine!} He topped it off with several LOUD snorts to show his final word on the subject. Hmmm…I had already received a scolding from the red squirrels in trees circling the cabin, as I exited. Now I hear the caw of the crow announcing movement in the woods. To balance this out, my ears are delighted with the sound of the Hermit thrushes singing their heavenly/harmonic melody, and more. One calls, another answers. And so it goes, up and down the scale of notes.

Earlier, I found a young snake in the outhouse. Hmmm…where is HIS mama, and slithering siblings? I shudder at the thought, as I scooped him in a bucket and take him farther out into the woods to a new home. As I leave for a busy day of friendship/food and good conversation with my Amish friends, I marvel at the “stimulai” I’ve already experienced this morning. My new Berean Bush Living is anything but boring. And the night hours provide even more curious investigations as I figure out my “visitor”.

I’ll check in soon, with continued journal posts, should the Lord tarry,

Sherry

Berean Bush Living...Begins

2017-07-05T16:04:00.003-04:00

Wendell W. Price said this:

“There are many activities I must cut out simply because I desire to excel in my pursuit after God and holiness.”

This describes my living deeper into simplicity and solitude. Berean Bush Living.

{At the Bear's Den...}

In the Book of Acts 17:11, it is stated that the Berean’s looked deeper into God’s Word (scripture). I want that…

For me, it boils down to small cabin living. Essential living only. Lots of quiet time – no outside stimuli such as TV, radio, computers, or Smart phones. {I still have a radio, but that is “wearing thin” also, and will soon be the last to go.}

Nope, just my Bible and books. And what is needed to continue my card (snail mail) ministry that has become so important to me. {And hopefully others…}

This past April, I spent my first night in my 10-acre wood. Despite going to sleep hearing the crackle of a wood fire, I awoke to seeing my breath. April still holds onto winter on the 45^th Parallel. So does May…June...

The mornings are beautiful. I’m awakened by increasing light, accompanied by melodic bird songs. I start the small woodstove to perk coffee and make breakfast (oatmeal, dotted with granola given to me by a friend who makes it and sells it).

While waiting for the camp coffee pot to perk, I turn my devotion toward God’s Word.

The Second Night

I arrived at the cabin after dark, thankful for the lighting made by flashlight. The cabin is sans (minus) electric or plumbing. I quickly started a fire to take the chill off and then settled down to read before retiring to my bunk. It had been a long day, moving more items into the cabin. Over the years I have made my life very simple with regard to material items. My books will be my greatest bulk, and even those are scaled down to just a very select few. I’m very appreciative for the rustic hand-made bookshelf that newly adorns one wall.

“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt , and where thieves do not break through nor steal; for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” Matthew 6:19-21

The cabin living resembles my “normal” living situation for the last 16 years, although this time without electric. Outhouse isn’t as “fancy”, but it is adequate.

Wood is put up for winter already – that is a good feeling. (Thank you “AC Ellen”.) Twelve cords should bring the winter into spring. I hope.

A new stove also sits, waiting to be swapped out. (Again, thank you “E”.) Heat is good. And wood is something I’m careful not to covet. Oh, how I love a stacked pile of wood.

As I write this in the early a.m., the sun is streaming in. I hear the resident pileated woodpecker knocking out the bugs in a nearby tree. Earlier this morn, before the sun rose over the trees, I heard the gobble of a wild turkey. This is the first year in the last three that I haven’t bought a hunting tag for the Spring season… He has no threat from me. (Did he ever?)

Once I’m settled and get used to the rhythm of the woods, I’ll bring a dog in for the night. Come winter I’ll definitely bring one of the sled dogs. They will enjoy the outing. And the warmth of the woodstove.

Third Morning:

Arrived at dusk last night. Much better. No fire in the woodstove needed. Settled in to read, no clock to limit me.

Woke to the “Tom’s” calling the hens, circling the ten acre wood. Lots of deer tracks (sign). My stand (which is actually a “sit”…) is just steps away through the woods.

My smaller space feels good. Very good. I like tiny cabin living. Just the essentials – know just where everything is. My mind goes to “Temple Grandin” and her “hug” machine. Yes…I am MORE than content to live in an 8 x 10 cabin. It feels like it’s giving me a HUG.

I’ll sign in soon. Lots of wildlife to report! I had a nightly visitor…with 4 legs. Can you guess?

Plus, I had a visitor in the outhouse with NO legs. Can you guess? YIKES!!

Until next time, should the Lord tarry…

Sherry