I took a birthday journey last weekend and turned 32 on Friday in a boat on a misty mountain lake with good beer, a good friend, and my fantastically good dog.
It was the first I’d been away from the farm for more than a night since this chapter of my life began two and a half years ago. Although it was wonderful to be on the road, camping and exploring through beautiful Southwestern Virginia, coming home to the farm was a sweet new pleasure. Never before have I lived in a place in which I was so invested—physically, spiritually, emotionally and creatively. These investments return a feeling of rootedness and connection to this very particular patch of earth, which is exactly what I was seeking when I left my transient life of roosting in anonymous apartments around the country.
In fact, I like the feeling of returning so much that I am going to start traveling more, just so I can come home.
And while we’re celebrating comings and goings and getting older and moving deeper instead of faster or more often, I’ve made it to my 200th blog post!
Hello,
I dont comment often but I wanted to wish you a happy and beautiful birthday. I find inspiration in your blog and greatly enjoy your updates.
Also, I have been meaning to comment on how wonderful your photography is and these photos are top notch thus far. I love them. Although I would struggle to leave my beautiful gray Seattle you leave me wishing I lived in the mountains of Virginia.
Nerissa, thanks for your comment and birthday wishes! I am so glad you are enjoying the Bonafide Blog and I hope to keep inspiring you!