When we first looked at this property three-and-a-half years ago, Steph, the former owner, the realtor and I found ourselves on the other side of the slate quarry. From that vantage point it was possible to look back and see the house. In the other direction the Grimm Meadow (the name for the marsh) spread out before us. It was a lot of land, certainly more than we’d ever owned. And we were embarking on a different lifestyle.
The first part of this post is haunting, and my heart goes out to you. When my husband has not been well, I've grimly considered how I'd take care of our acreage if he died before I did. How would I maintain the irrigation ditch or drive the SkidSteer to plow the driveway or do the countless other heavy-duty chores? I think about having to move to a low-maintenance place closer to medical facilities when we're near retirement and less mobile. To read about you bravely facing that situation, and mustering on, fills me with admiration as well as concern for you. Best wishes to you, and keep doing what you can do! Thank you for writing.
I think about this often - the "What ifs" and "What thens" of circumstances shifting to make this lifestyle a lot harder, if not impossible. I'd like to think I'd be strong enough to stick it out, but who really knows until it's happening to you. It's a personal decision everyone has to make for themselves.
I would say, most of all, be kind to yourself and consider where and in what circumstance you will be able to experience the moments that truly make your soul shine. Easier isn't always better.
Regarding others, this saying comes to mind: "If they mind, they don't matter and if they matter, they don't mind". Those who love you will continue to love you no matter where you live. <3
Re: The Left Turn, I admire your outlook. I have a brother on a farm in rural Quebec in a very similar situation, and attitude. Living on peninsular Halifax, my choices are different... I suggested to my spouse about 10 years ago that perhaps we should be looking at a condo. "The only way I am leaving here", she said very clearly, "is in a coffin". Amen, & no regrets.
Charles, You don’t know it but you give me strength and purpose. I hope you realize how many people you have touched. If I get a chance I want to get down to NS to see your place and catch up. Take care my friend.
The first part of this post is haunting, and my heart goes out to you. When my husband has not been well, I've grimly considered how I'd take care of our acreage if he died before I did. How would I maintain the irrigation ditch or drive the SkidSteer to plow the driveway or do the countless other heavy-duty chores? I think about having to move to a low-maintenance place closer to medical facilities when we're near retirement and less mobile. To read about you bravely facing that situation, and mustering on, fills me with admiration as well as concern for you. Best wishes to you, and keep doing what you can do! Thank you for writing.
I think about this often - the "What ifs" and "What thens" of circumstances shifting to make this lifestyle a lot harder, if not impossible. I'd like to think I'd be strong enough to stick it out, but who really knows until it's happening to you. It's a personal decision everyone has to make for themselves.
I would say, most of all, be kind to yourself and consider where and in what circumstance you will be able to experience the moments that truly make your soul shine. Easier isn't always better.
Regarding others, this saying comes to mind: "If they mind, they don't matter and if they matter, they don't mind". Those who love you will continue to love you no matter where you live. <3
Re: The Left Turn, I admire your outlook. I have a brother on a farm in rural Quebec in a very similar situation, and attitude. Living on peninsular Halifax, my choices are different... I suggested to my spouse about 10 years ago that perhaps we should be looking at a condo. "The only way I am leaving here", she said very clearly, "is in a coffin". Amen, & no regrets.
please please please be well Charles as soon as possible and forever
Charles, You don’t know it but you give me strength and purpose. I hope you realize how many people you have touched. If I get a chance I want to get down to NS to see your place and catch up. Take care my friend.
I hope you stay well a long time and get over the fatigue. Take care.
Charles - you’re an inspiration. I love reading your articles. Be well my friend.
Just read your “tales” aloud here to my sister and Keith. We’re with you in spirit my friend.
Hi Ken, thank you for such kind words. You're welcome down here any time, my friend.