Nostalgia

RICH'S NEWS FROM LAKE WEBEGONE

When I was a kid, my parents and often a close aunt and uncle would go on excursions to Crater Lake. On the way just past Union Creek was a gorge that we would stop and clamber over rocks and lava trails to view. Cheryl and I went up finally to see it. It's just a mile or so up the road from Natural Bridge Campground. And it is truly a gorgeous site and well worth the visit.

What took me by surprise was the sadness that came to me while sitting near where as a kid we would view the Rogue. No specific memories, but a feeling of being part of that family. All gone now except for my brother. I don't recall “being impressed” with the view back then, but now the view is stupendous. Is it my eyes or perception that has changed?

Natural Bridge Campground is a favorite of locals and a well-kept secret. More modern camps are nearby with water and real bathrooms available. Most non-locals will go there instead. 

As I check in with people and talk, I find connections to my youth. A man a few days ago said he was from Jerome Prairie and lives a mile from where I lived for my first 15 years. Met people who know one of my cousins, etc... Cheryl - I think - feels as if she is a bit on the outside of the Southern Oregon clique. But it reminds me of how even now S Oregon is a small community.

In other news, 4^th of July proved to be lots of local folks who have come here for years. The camp was filled with children, bicycles and activity. And today on the 6^th, it's all back to normal. 

Today was hot and this reminds me of the hot days of July when I used to buck hay in 90+ weather, and just as in those days we have returned from having a root beer float. My body cannot handle the heat quite as well as then. But it is certainly not like living in Aquin, Haiti, where it never cooled. Everything's relative.

And now at 5ish it is cooling down and quite lovely.

Nostalgia can enhance the experience of this moment as I remember and collect new memories. I suppose the longer you live, the more the intricate web of your life reveals itself.

Rich