The last post was right at the beginning of harvest 2020. Landmass Wines had come to be a part of their harvest of our Pinot Noir grapes. Immediately after, the fires had us surrounded and we were ready to evacuate. It seemed the fires just added yet another layer of tragedy to the complexities of the year. While the farm and house remained safe from immediate danger, we were grief stricken, as so many in the area lost their homes and livelihoods after such a trying year. Rod was able to help Patrick and the gang over at Stangeland Vineyards transport and destem our grapes. It was fun to observe him participating in the next step in the winemaking process.
Renovations Resumed
Once harvest and the fires were no longer in the forefront of the day to day activities, we decided to move forward on the interior remodel. While it took longer than planned, meaning holiday feasts were made on a hotplate and in a toaster oven, we are happy with the final results. We look forward to having people visit safely in 2021 with the open space that will allow for better flow in and out of the farm.
As a needed break from the banging and chaos, we journeyed to the coast and did a few amazing waterfall hikes. Using the Explore Oregon Podcast, we were able to find some clever ones within a days drive.
freshwater that goes into Pacific
Ryan and Lauren came to visit around Christmas. This was truly a blessing as we had really only been working and doing the house renovations. Our circle was only the two of us, as we adhered strictly to the Oregon Covid-19 guidelines, not only for our safety, but the safety of the patients we would interact with while at work. We took advantage of some nice weather and explored the northern part of the Oregon coast. Cappi even went along for the ride. Restaurants remain closed for dining in, but the hotel we stayed at had room service and was a short walk to see the amazing Haystack Rock. We got to build a fire on the beach and roast marshmallows, as the sunset, which I highly recommend.
We were finally able to visit Landmass Vineyards and do a barrel tasting right before Christmas. I can hardly wait to drink a toast with the finished product. We bought a bottle of Papi at Fish & Rice and ate sushi in the car on New Years Eve, waiting for Rod to return from working in the ICU in Texarkana.
Which brings us to now. Covid-19 is still here, the tragedies of discrimination persist, but I am hopeful that there will be change soon. I know that good can come from bad. I work to be optimistic and find joy in the smallest of things. We will start pruning the vines soon, which means that new growth will follow. The predictability of the seasons brings reassurance that things do change. While I know that change can bring challenges, this past year has taught me that we all have the ability to persevere and I look forward to the day when we can all be together again and toast to those we have loved, lost and longed for this past year.
Get your shots, wear a mask, wash your hands.
