A Barter System

Jeff and I are staying the summer, well the end of April through mid September, at Remote Outpost for no charge in exchange for helping maintain the grounds and buildings. This averages out to 2-3 hours of work per day.

Charlotte and Gary Nichols began creating this slice of paradise some 25 years ago. What was once a dairy farm and eventually an overgrown run-down RV park has evolved into a picturesque place to relax and bask in nature along the Middle Fork Coquille River.

This is a one-of-a-kind RV resort and “working” here is an honor and joy, not to mention a delightful educational experience!

So, what do we do, you ask?

There are 5 acres of land that need mowing,

weed-whacking, vegetable and flower planting, and watering. Jeff and Charlotte share the Hustler Zero Turn riding mower.

I like my self-propelled walking mower for cutting the grass between sites, in front of the Pavillion, and beside Cabin One. After mowing, I flush the mower out to keep it in good condition.

While Jeff weed-whacks, I water the hanging pots and garden beds, including the “splashes of color” flowers and vegetables which include tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, zucchini, and crookneck squash. We will plant carrots soon.

Earlier in May I helped Charlotte rake the flower beds to prepare them for planting and then we mulched with redwood bark. This process entailed a trip to Coos Bay for Charlotte in the truck. Returning with a full truck bed of bark, Jeff shoveled loads into Miss Daisy

so Charlotte and I could spread it in the gardens. A back wrenching day, needless to say!

Watering and mowing are zen-like activities for me. I get lost in the moment as I enjoy the vibrant reds, purples, pinks, yellows, and whites. The wild daisies poke through and the fragrant Sweet Williams add their soft, sweet scents. I pinch off the spent blooms to encourage new growth and the marigolds respond with a spicy aroma that stays on my hands until I wash it off.

I never enjoyed gardening as much as I do now. Charlotte has inspired me! Also, the cool mornings and evenings here take the sting out of the hot afternoons.