The opportunity arose today, to engage in another one of my favorite pursuits. I call it meandering. We hop into our truck and explore the surrounding countryside, taking scenic back roads and discovering new vistas of the southern Wisconsin landscape. Often we have no destination, the fun is being surprised by the journey itself and the discoveries we make.
Our part of the state is rich with incredibly beautiful scenery, which I plan on sharing in future posts since I left my camera at home.
Today, we headed west, through rolling hills and cornfields as far as the eye can see, interrupted only by stands of hardwood trees and the occasional lazy stream. Everything is lush, ripe and green, waiting for the harvest soon to come. Cows of every variety and color fill the pastures and barnyards, placidly grazing or relaxing in the shade.... we are America's Dairyland after all and we love our cows.
Wisconsin is also home to many Amish families. We pass their quaint farms and I am awed at the lack of any modern amenities. Today, one family's horse was hitched to their buggy, waiting to travel on a highway shared with motorized vehicles. Another farm had the hand wringer washing machine sitting on the front porch, a cooler and more scenic spot to launder their clothing and just a few steps from the clothesline where they hang them to dry in the summer air. A different world altogether than what we are familiar with.
So, our meandering adventure was a success. I feel very peaceful and grateful that I am able to live in such beautiful, natural surroundings, close to the land and its seasonal rhythms.