Adventure 412: Fracless Day Two

Farm Fresh Happiness

Some joys in life are worth repeating, sort of like capturing lightning in a bottle, and even though many may say "You can never go back", I respectfully disagree. Every time we visit the Hooley Clan in Filer, Idaho, my spirit shivers, electrified as it were by the joy, peace, and love these people offer us. it's all consuming just as the bright light from a flashing bolt. The only thing missing is the pouring rain; rather, there is an outpouring of genuine interest, generous intention, and all that is left is a tingle of joy so refreshing we feel renewed. We left Boise at about 7 A.M. We arrived in Filer just in time for Sunday School at Filer Mennonite Church, where we've visited so often now, the members of the congregation welcome us as old friends. The drive, while short presented a bit of a challenge due to the dense fog and the patchy slippery roads. No matter. We took it slow and made it safely. After church, we became pampered "farm fed" guests. We enjoyed a freshly butchered rash of roast beef, green beans which had been canned fresh from the garden, a mixture of roasted root vegetables, shredded cabbage, and home made apple sauce. For dessert, we had yogurt made from Molly the Cow's fresh milk, topped with canned cherries, plums, and peaches. Along side, Pat Losser, Loey Hooley's sister, presented us with fresh baked short bread so jam packed with filberts they could have passed for nut bars. After lunch, the men sat in the living room and jibber-jabbered while the women did the same at the table. After what seemed like mere moments, it was time for a family tradition of  enjoying popcorn, which Tom Losser grows. We kept the jibber-jabber up talking the gamut from animal husbandry to woodworking to Andy Hooly's upcoming marriage to weather to faith and love and hope, and not once did anyone pull out a cellular device. There were no distractions, just honest heart to heart communication. What a joy. i can't tell you how uplifting these visits are for both me and Judy. Tonight, we're staying with Tom and Pat in their guest room. It's like an AirBandB except better because the price is right! Our yearly travels have included visiting these fine people on our way South and our way North. They never give us the impression we've overstayed, and again, if what we need in this world is love, the Hooley Clan is happy to oblige, which makes life good, especially today.

Boot Camp report: No alcohol, no exercise. A fair amount of excellent food.

 We've come to know many of the people who attend this church due to our helping one year as volunteers for their annual MCC sale.

 Tom popped this fresh corn, which I must tell you is like no corn you can buy in a supermarket.

 Our bed for the night.

 The powder room.

 Pat, our hostess.