Big Dreams and Days to Come

I've had quite a bit of time to sit around and daydream in the past two months.  Most of the time I dream of future homes, occupations, and adventures.  I wish that I could spend all day sketching the small cabin that I've created in the corners of my mind.  Some inspiration has come from here:  http://freecabinporn.com/.  There are many variations with different components taking priority: a log stove or fireplace, cozy covered porch, window-seat, rocking chair, chicken coop, small garden, library, orchard around the house, wood-fired sauna...  I retreat to this imaginary place almost every evening as I cuddle into my Arcata bed and dream of the future.  Someday (hopefully sooner rather than later), I'll turn these daydreams into reality and build a perfect retreat in the Sierras.

It's funny...I lived in a garden studio for 2 years here at college, and while the living situation was not perfect, there were so many comforts in that small space.  I remember waking up every morning to the song of birds outside my window and watching hummingbirds through my kitchen window as I washed up after meals.  I remember the smell of flowers drifting through my open front door and my landlady's lab-poodle mix poking her nose in to beg for a piece of bacon...the sound of rain crashing down on the roof and me worrying that the little house would wash away with the winter storms.  For all the stress and hassle of upkeep on the studio, most of my happiest memories here at school took place out of that one room home.

That being said, my new (although not so new after living here for 7 months) apartment offers so many sweet experiences!  Although the lack of rain and snow is a worry for the California environment this season, it means that I wake up in a bath of sunshine every morning.  I have been setting my alarm to wake up and enjoy the radiant spread that warms a whole corner of my room around 8 AM; it perfectly covers my bed and provides an ideal spot to slowly wake-up and read before rolling out.  Another highlight: our small back porch.  At first, I thought it was too small to use in any fashion except to house my tiny cedar sapling.  Not true!  The railing is a perfect bench and has been used as a seat to read, oil boots, paint toenails, and enjoy a beer on a warm winter day.

I never was one to realize how much a good home affects one's mood, but it's remarkable how the weather and your surroundings can brighten your day.  For now, I'll keep daydreaming about chickens and rocking chairs and acres of fruit trees.  But soon!  So soon!  I want to live my dreams and not spend so much time sitting around and making plans.

Until next time,
Kate