home again

I've made it back to Oregon! I've been gone only eight weeks, but it feels like such a long time. Luckily we have webcams these days to make home not feel quite so far away. There is something about seeing someone that makes the world of difference.

My return to Oregon was welcomed with snow and hazardous road conditions (as well as airport delays). I love having a little bit of snow, so this was no big deal. Though the snow and cold lasted longer than normal for our area, in true Willamette Valley fashion the snow has turned to rain and the snow is melting away. In fact, today was darn near warm at 30-something degrees.

Honestly, Mississippi feels as "miles away" as it is right now. Since I've returned I'm just having fun with Miso and Emma (including a typical-to-Miso run in with a raccoon on an afternoon walk) and starting (yes, starting!!!) my Christmas shopping. The chickens have grown so much since I left! Our hen-turned-rooster Kung-Pao really gave me a what-for this morning...all full of cock-a-doodle-doo!! They are really funny to watch in the snow. The chickens step carefully through the snow and huddle together in the nest box at night. I don't think they appreciate the snow.

Though the workaholic in me says I still have work to do, I'm taking advantage of the holidays to catch up on some reading, cook, see friends, and spend quality time with Cameron and the girls. I look forward to visiting with everyone before heading back to Mississippi. It's hard to believe I am only 1/3 of the way through my internship and there are still many months ahead!