John Rachel asked Cheryl Colwell:

What is it about the countryside around Ashland which inspires you? Are there particular features, rocks, trees, animals?

Cheryl Colwell Sorry about the two-year delay. Life got pretty dark for a bit.

I live outside Ashland, Oregon and stare up at Mt. Ashland from my dining room window. To the east, the sun breaks over distant mountains, usually with a spectacular display of color. At night, the moon rises large over those same mountains. To the west, the day ends much the same way.

We have a large pond where I take time for devotions. While I sit there, turquoise, persimmon and black-and-white-checked dragon flies buzz around. Frogs swim up and stare at me. A large heron lands on a tall arch and searches for fish.

It is a peaceful place where I let my mind calm. I keep a journal next to me and jot down things I don't want to forget, which happens more frequently these days.

In four weeks, we are leaving this place after being here for twenty years. I've moved through periods of grief and resolve and am delighted we have found a new home that will be even more perfect for the stage our life is in. The moon will still rise outside our dining room window and I am certain I will take this ability to draw inspiration from nature where ever I go.

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