Every time we pack up
for a cabin trip, the dogs watch with great anticipation. They eagerly await
the command to get into the back seat of the car. Once on our way, they sit at
attention through most of the ride. For Bridget and Koi, the cabin means twenty-six
acres of personal territory where they can roam and explore.
Yesterday, the noon sun
gleamed against rock and scrub, bleaching out the wildflowers while casting
shadows with harsh, sharp lines. While David and Mom visited inside, the dogs
and I hiked up the back hill, meandering along the deer trail. I paused only
long enough to snap a picture, slowed down only when descending along the rocky
path.
Later in the afternoon,
Mom ventured out for her own hike. Zigzagging between rocks embedded in the
driveway and road, David maneuvered Mom’s wheelchair down the steep hill. He
took her over to the new poles. A few months ago, one of our “neighbors” asked
for Mom to sign release forms to tap into the electricity on our property. Our pole
wasn’t the closest tap-in point, but another landowner had refused this man’s
request. Remembering how nice the owners to the ranch abutting our property had
been years ago in giving right-of-way, Mom agreed to help out the next
electricity link. Eventually, this man hopes to build a home and live
permanently on his acreage. 
We keep a journal at the
cabin, and I took a moment to jot down the details of our visit when we came
back from our walk. The previous entry, dated six months before, made me
realize once again that we need to make this trek more often.
Within four hours, Mom
decided she didn’t want to spend the night. Although I longed for an evening of
star watching and a morning of soft light for photography, I knew that Mom’s
request to return home needed to be honored. Every time we make it to Leakey
with Mom, I fear it may be her final visit. I want to keep these trips positive
and pleasant. We quickly cleaned, organized, and reloaded the car.
Bridget and Koi,
tuckered from their sunny hikes, settled immediately into sleep once the car
rolled down the drive. I know, though, that they’ll be on the watch for signs
of another trip to the cabin.
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