October has now rolled in and is getting situated. It’s pushing the boundaries of a good visitor, by bringing in heavy rains. I looked at the weather report last night, and there was a 100 percent chance of rain, so I can’t say we weren’t warned.

Few around here have much to say about the rain. It just is what it is, to quote a cliché of a friend of mine, who, whenever I ask her questions, gives me this retort. Or maybe people aren’t complaining because there were so many nice days in September.

The rain is causing the leaves to come off the trees. May, when the leaves appeared, was not that long ago. I was euphoric, seeing them appear; first there was the green haze, then after that, the trees were a light green in color. After, the leaves turned dark.

This, the golden leaves, they are falling, falling, creating more visibility. When I now walk the horses and dogs up and down the road, I look over toward the Crawford’s place across the river, and I envision living there. Pete would not go for this because it would be difficult getting in and out – the driveway is long – and there is no access to a trail system.

I remember when Sandy Ferris, who was our veterinarian, put in a cross country course – she drove at least 100 miles each way to do this – mowed at least five acres. And she even built or had built a water jump.

I would do anything to have a horsey friend about now – someone to ride with who lives around here, preferably with an Icelandic horse or two. Gosh, everyone moved away – Vicki and Hunar included. Vicki was a sport horse enthusiast and considered Hunar to be a small sport horse – showed and jumped him. Trail riding with her was interesting because she would always make him do dressage moves.

Yes, this is what I am most missing right now – a good horsey friend. I do have horsey friends in Fairbanks, but they are 350 miles away. Enough of my whining. I am of the belief that if you want something bad enough, it comes to be. At least this has always been the case in my situation. I have been lucky this way.

The book project continues to have its highs and lows. The trick right now is to focus on the highs, which is what Pete is doing. I mention bagging it, and he comes right back saying that he has done this or that or the other. I am constantly amazed by his tenacity.

Speaking of tenacity – Jane Goodall died today. She was a very tenacious person – there must have been times when she was doing her animal behavioral work when she became very discouraged. In a way, yes, she remains a role model to me.

Next: 265. 10/2/25: Onward and Upward