The other day I went out and explored the area where I live and I found some amazing sites tucked away beyond the hills no where near pavement.  I went out on my four-wheeler just to go riding, and to my amazement found several places that I have overlooked before.  I believe that it is important that we take a look into what we have around us and see the beauty of our local home rather than always trying to plan a trip to a far away place that will end up costing hundreds of dollars.  I just fell in love with all that was around me and I didn't even know it was there before...  Life has beauty all around it for us to enjoy, we just have to stop ourselves in our busy schedule and look around. Never take things for granted, you never know when things will change and they will never be the same after it.

To me the countryside is what makes living in Linn County such a blessing, there are so many places that you have to drive miles to get away from the hussle and bustle of the city life. I find it very peaceful and relaxing to go out in the evening to enjoy the crisp air. One evening I walked my dog, and while doing so I remembered why I love it so much more than the city life, a person can walk the dog without having a leash and stay out in the field as long as one might want.  It just seems to me there is a lot more freedom out in the country that you don't have in town or the city. I will always love the country and no one will ever be able to change that about me. I especially love taking pictures of the country and farms. It hits home for me to see the farms in photos. 

My home was once a farm, before we moved there, and I can see the farm life all around me when I am home from college.  The drive to college is awesome!! Mainly it's all country for the first half till I get to Marshall then it's four-lane there on out where as before that it's all two lane country roads. There has been countless times on my way through there I have had to slow down or stop for farm equipment to pass or I have to follow them for a few miles (till I can pass them safely) down the road.  I can't wait till the fall colors come in, the drive will be such a beautiful sight!