The Land of Oz

Jumping between hay bales, catching fireflies with cousins, and going on hay-rack-rides fill my childhood memories in the great state of Kansas. My mom, dad, brother and I used to road trip in a VW van from Alaska to Kansas in the summer to spend time with my extended family. Visits back have become less frequent in recent years but FINALLY this spring I got the chance to spend time to make it out-- it was super nice to be back and see most everyone.

OK, I have to brag about my Grandma Doris. If you get a chance you should really read this article below from the front page of the paper (click on image to enlarge).
She's a truly an inspiration. She has found something she loves to do (namely canning and cooking), works hard it to the point of mastery, joyfully shares her passion, and is constantly giving. I only hope I can be as generous, healthy, and young at heart when I'm 89 going on 90 years old!
Anything that could possibly go into a can and is edible, she's canned. Above is part of her supply of fruits, vegetables, salsas, jams which she has picked locally from gardens/trees, prepared, canned. The supply is considered to be "low" because it is spring and harvest season is ahead and she freely gives these canned treasures to everyone who visits. And the taste of her canned goods, picked and shelled walnuts, jams/jellies, etc are out of this world... especially knowing how much care and work went into the production.
We got to help in the yard a bit. Luckily, Grandma has my Aunt Monica and family as one neighbor, and my Aunt Donna and her family as the other neighbor-- so even though she doesn't often ask for help, two of her daughters and family is a hop, skip, and a jump away.

Here we are visiting the farm where my Mom grew up. My Mom and Dad enjoyed the farm and originally planed to return to buy it after teaching school in the Yup'ik villages of AK... but they fell in love with Alaska and never moved back. Fortunately, the farm is still in the family with my cousin, Daniel, and his wife, Rachelle, taking fantastic care of the place.

Mom still loves farm animals and is working on convincing my Dad that they need chickens in their back yard in Alaska.

Jus and G'ma

Here's Jus and I at my parents' first house they bought together after they got married. My mom was happy to leave this fix-er up-er house as it was struck by lightening numerous times.  And that part is another story....

Anyway, thanks for reading and for sharing in my family story!

Katrina Foster Ronsse