Generally research states that people who live in urban areas are happier than those in rural areas. Most indicators of health mirror this research; urban children generally have brighter health status than rural children. Unless the question of crime comes up, most indicators of happiness and health status are higher among urbanites. That begs the question …
Summer bounty helped by bees
There are many folks in my small town learning to cultivate bees. There is more and more awareness that we have responsibility to save honey bees and those of us in the country will probably be the ones to do it. It is sticky business literally but also figuratively when we live with bears and …
Ghosts at old mining boom towns are worth the pass (if you’re up for an adventure)
The 1870s around Silverton and Ouray Colorado were a boom with silver and gold speculators. If you're an adventuring type (and have the right vehicle, or enjoy the long hike) the history, views and treasures you'll see in the mountains around this area never seem to end. There are remains of old mines and old …
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Raising Chickens
Birds are crafty creatures. They’re busy bodies too. After a year of raising chickens my son have a pretty thriving business going. We have steady egg clients, and we have grown to enjoy our chickens like backyard pets. We have found that chickens are strange and beautiful creatures. They spend their days sunbathing–spreading their wings …
Farmers’ markets and the best of summer small town
Farmers' markets in mid-summer in small towns abound with flowers, honey, vegetables and fresh fruit from local trees. Locals sitting in the backs of pick-ups talking with friends, selling my favorite green gage plums, grapes, chile and other summer produce are a lovely reminder of small town beauty. A Saturday morning in the center of …
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Are rainbows universal beauty?
I taught a writing class back when I lived in the city and I started with the question of "universal beauty." I asked my class is there was anything that everyone would agree was universally beautiful. There was much discussion, much theorizing, and finally the class decided upon rainbows. They couldn't think of anyone across …
Dirt Road Journal 