Denise Campbell (@FDCTamu)

The first cherry tomatoes have ripened. Unlike past years I planted only 4 tomato plants, a few herbs, and nothing else this gardening season. Having a husband who was an integral part of every activity was wonderful. It is also difficult as every single activity, garden bed, jar of canned food, and barn full of equipment and tools reminds me that he is no longer here. It has been 6 months. Someone recently apologized for not attending my husband’s memorial service, saying the shock of his sudden death overwhelmed them and they just didn’t know what to say. I have come to realized that there is truly nothing that can be said. Death of a spouse is like a tsunami that overwhelms everything and leaves the world changed forever. Grief comes in waves; some gently, and others so strong they knock you to the ground. These waves can come from expected sources like a birthday, or from the simple act of filling a hummingbird feeder. Homesteading, or living rural is different than city life; and the relationship between spouses is often deeply intertwined as they work together to build, garden, raise animals, cook, can, raise children, etc. It is a good and satisfactory life. I believe this country would be far better off if people returned to their country roots.