Well howdy, ya'll.  It's been a year and half since I've moved upstate NY.  Some people call this God's country, or the boonies, or just plain hillbilly land.  On a regular basis the various churches, and there are so many of these, either hold a lunch or a dinner at their site open to the public, as a way of bringing in funds.  I've been to a few of these foodies, and I must say it's pretty darn good. And, if you want seconds on anything, you just have to ask for it, or wait for it, because there is usually someone walking around asking if there's anything else you'd like to have.  And, it seems that this is more than giving us a break from cooking.  It's mostly a way to socialize and to catch up with the events of the town, the weather, your neighbors and to make future plans together.

I still haven't put the pen to the paper and started my next book yet because  I've pretty much been floundering around trying to find my niche in this new environment.  I've been seeking out things to do, places to go, and people to see, as they say, and I've had some really interesting and enjoyable experiences.  One of the main gaps I had to fill in was finding a place to sing as it is truly my first love.  I was lucky to have met two women from the Lakemont Congregational Church who asked me to come visit their place of worship.  I'm so glad I did so.  That very first day, I auditioned for the pianist and I was welcomed on the spot.  Now, we've set up a regular rehearsal once a week, where we seek out a tune that would be appropriate for the Sunday service.  Anita, my piano accompanist, has many songs to choose from and I've added some ideas from books I have as well.  Together we somehow manage to find a tune that the congregation enjoys listening to and singing along with. 

I do believe I have a new title for my next book though.  I'm now leaning towards: "Reborn in the Country: Transference into Freedom and Beauty" and yet I'm not completely sure about the subtitle.  I do feel so very comfortable around this place, among the people, the birds, animals, and the environment itself. For example, it surprises me just how many country songs I know whenever I hear one sung in concert or played on the radio.  I seem to be quite familiar with several melodies. I have such an affinity deep within my soul that it makes me think I was here before in another lifetime.  And so the title, "Reborn in the Country" seems quite natural for me. Do you agree?

I really believe this is a very beautiful area.  I only have to go outside my driveway a few yards down the road, and the scenery just takes my breath away.  The fields look all neatly measured out so perfectly and I say "God Bless the Farmers" as I'm drawing in my breath in awe of this beauty. 

This place is quite a difference from where I used to live most of my whole life.  It was totally "citified" all the way.  And that meant, noise, pollution, crowds, competition, and downright meanness.  Here, however, the people are so calm and laid back.  They truly take the time to speak to you a while when they see you, truly caring whether or not you're all right, and ready and willing to help you out if necessary.  I've made sooooo many kind and considerate friends out here.  It literally fills in the gap of the people I've left behind, those who are just too busy or feel it's just too far to drive up here. Sadly, they do not know just how much they are missing.  Dundee, NY, Yates County, the Finger Lakes is my new home.  Like I said I feel like I've been reborn in the country.