By Michael P. Schenk

As fall approaches, is it time to evaluate how often you used all your outdoor furniture, gazebos, pergolas, firepits, etc.? Maybe the thought has never crossed your mind. We put away much of the above – certainly not the gazebo – but we have through the years created a wonderful outdoor treasure trove of furnishings. How often did we use all these amenities? And, quite frankly, where did the summer go? I am certain it is not just me asking these questions and wondering whether we are getting use of these assets? I know I am addicted to outdoor furnishings and the comfort of being outside enjoying them. We have somewhat of a tradition of enjoying a glass of wine and just watching the deer come and go and our dog’s pursuit of scaring them off or trying to enforce the boundaries of his domain.

Our yard is being attacked by chipmunks in what seems to be a growing population. They are fast and seem to be harboring under our new deck which is not animal-proofed in spite of assurance to the contrary. They dig and can squeeze into the tiniest of openings. We have a house being constructed near us for the first time in many years. It was bound to happen, but we believe many animals – including bees – have had to scramble for new homes. So many deer, squirrels, and yes, based on the smell of the inevitable, skunk at night are becoming the newest citizens of our mostly wooded lot. Some of course are welcome and are a curious part of our daily lives.

Laughter and fun conversation filled our home the other day. Getting together with friends is a joy not to be taken for granted. We have a small family and most of them live quite a distance away so time with friends over common interests, but mostly for bonding over having a meal together, is just plain killer. Whether it is just four people or ten, it gives purpose to the day and days leading up to the get together.

I ran a 5K the other day, and with all the strange interactions that seem to occur regularly, I had a heart-warming exchange. A young lady, a kindergarten teacher, ponied up to me and noted we were running at the same pace. She asked, “What do you think if we run together, as I am not a runner, but my grandma could not join me today.” So of course I said let’s make a go of this. I was running, or laughably call it running, my very slow pace and because of this young lady I sort of forgot the time and distance and ran for way over the time I usually run for the first time in years. We talked some and she kept a close eye on me as admittedly I was breathing heavy but this kind act and reach-out is just an example of why we live here in Ottawa County and of the decency in many people. As an old man, I was thrilled to finish without stopping and despite the rain and being therefore drenched, it was a memorable life moment. Keep an eye out and an open mind, not all is lost is spite of news media reminders of all the backbiting and negativity of this current day. Excepting of the course the good-news Beacon.

I will close with one final “Is it Just Me” moment. Why do I carry with me in my vehicle so many shopping bags yet inevitably hardly ever remember to bring them into the store. I have tried leaving them on my front seat, and alas, this does not even work. Well, there is hope as I suppose someday this mission will be accomplished.

Our CD player – yes, I still have hundreds of CD’s – crapped out on me, but stuck in my head is once again a Little Anthony and the Imperials song “I’m Going Out of My Head.” Over and over, day, night, you name it. I know the words by heart as this was my first Motown album given to me by my mom many, many years ago.

See you around Ottawa County and hope you voted!!

MPS