I spent a lot of my childhood in Oregon. I was born in California, raised for many years in Massena, New York near the St. Lawrence Seaway and Canada, but both of my parents were from Oregon. All of their families stayed here, so we were always heading to the Northwest to visit grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. My mother had many siblings, and one of her older sisters lived on a ranch in eastern Oregon. Their two sons inherited the land and homes and so last night we attended a bonfire there in Grass Valley. It was their tenth bonfire and our first experience of this event. It was really a spectacle.
What made the event very special for me was that my son came to visit for the weekend, and this is one of the reasons we decided to attend. He spent many days of his childhood on this ranch with my uncle, aunt, and cousins and has great memories that are treasured by him alone. Having him in the house sleeping in our guest bedroom was my treasure, my comfort. We never stop being mothers and protectors ever. We love in a way that is beyond explanation or reason. It just simply is.
My son loves animals and communicates with them in a way that is uncanny and mysterious. And so life gives us many gifts that we can honor and accept if we are willing.
how special-a memory to treasure.
Family and roots are a treasure…
when all else may be gone that is
always there. Having a sense of
feeling grounded and rooted carries
you through life. Very nice : )
I wish you “warm” and happy memories!
What a wonderful weekend for you!
How good it is to have your son “home” for just a short while. I know how that feels. Don’t you just feel complete? And to see him interact with your small friends feels good too.
It sounds like the bon fire and all the time spent with your son was wonderful.
Ahh….the pet whisperer….don’t you love to see the animals respond to some one with this silent talent!
ah. yes. know this well. does your son live far away?
I can tell by reading your post that you are having a wonderful visit with you son. I can read your happiness. Enjoy!
Phyllis I grew up in Southern Oregon, west side. We had leaf pile bonfires in the fall too, but the one I really remember was the neighborhood night Christmas tree bonfire after Christmas every year. That was spectacular. Thank you for reminding me of this. I am glad you had some Oregon time in your growing up years, it is such a sweet place. Oh, and my husbie is a cat whisperer too. So your son has to be a good man, cats know this. Love, Julia