One hundred columns Thank you, readers of A View from the Woods, for allowing me to write this, my one hundredth column. I began 18 years ago, when then-editor of the Fillmore County Journal, John Torgrimson, called for prospective columnists to apply. Thinking I might enjoy the discipline of writing about my experiences in this beautiful rural area, I hoped others would like … [Read more...]
A little of this, A little of that
Small towns are having a difficult time surviving, let alone thriving. Young people graduate and move away because there are no jobs. Dwindling populations cause stores to close so people drive to big box stores out of town to shop. This causes more stores to close. It is a vicious cycle. If a town loses a school, it might make matters even worse. County seats are … [Read more...]
A View From The Woods
Restoration and degradation As cars pull in full of people dressed in sensible shoes and long sleeves, the annual wildflower walk of the Harmony Garden Club is about to commence. A warm, sunny morning welcomes us as the first tinge of green is visible in the surrounding forests. Our hosts, members of the group, welcome us to their several-hundred acre property. Everyone is … [Read more...]
A little of this, A little of that
I am ALMOST positive that spring (the season without snow but with green grass and flowers will arrive) just like it always has. Spring will be followed by summer and that great American Tradition: a vacation which entails sponging on your relatives for a cheap getaway. Just buy a summer lake cabin or a time share or move to an exotic location and relatives that you have … [Read more...]
A View From The Woods
Winter grumpiness prevails; spring bliss to appear soon By the time my dear readers see this article in mid-April, I hope and pray that warmth and thawing have returned. However, at the time of this writing in early April, there is massive grumpiness throughout the land. Snow and cold weather haunted us with a vengeance in March and April. We barely dodged two winter storm … [Read more...]