The Campfire Trail: August 6 - DIY Homestead - Brute Strength and Awkwardness

August 6, 2022

Day 229 of the Adventure

Saturday Morning Fire

A good friend of mine (he'll know who he is if he reads this) used to cite a favorite phrase when things worked out for him. Often when he didn't really expect them to. That phrase was "Brute Strength and Awkwardness". Over the years, I've often had that thought race through the back of my mind when surprised by an outcome that didn't seem possible. The statement implies that no matter what other forces may have been brought to bear on the situation, Brute Strength and Awkwardness may have been the deciding factor when it was all said and done. Bravery, courage and determination occasionally get the credit for accomplishments and even good luck at times. Looking back though, sometimes I think just brute strength and awkwardness deserves our recognition.

As we embarked on our real estate business and then the various resorts, all of the above attributes were present at one time or another, I'm sure. As we are now enjoying the process of building up a Self-Sufficient, Do-It-Yourself Homestead, people have referred to it as brave and courageous. Maybe, but then again, maybe it's just stupid and will only work out through brute strength and awkwardness. I have always been really good at starting things. Things that need to have a pathway blazed through them once they've been started. When looking at entering into an adventure of any kind, certainly it is better to count the costs of completing it ahead of time. I would even suggest a cautionary plan prior to the start. The only big problem with counting up all the costs, or potential costs ahead of time is that overthinking tends to creep in. Then everything seems to paralyze until pretty soon, the best ideas sound terrifying. When this happens, I tend to fall back on one of my personal favorite principles; "When in doubt, just figure it out". I use this on myself a lot and on others occasionally. It's something that has merit but can also quickly offend. I apologize if you've ever heard me say to you "When in doubt, JUST FIGURE IT OUT". I was simply applying my personal "kick in the butt" phrase I typically keep reserved for myself.

When considering the beginning of an adventure (and that really is how I view most things in life) I like to apply the wisdom of another friend who offers the following advice. "Just fire the rocket, then you can make adjustments along the way". I've always felt that was pretty good advice. You cannot adjust course if you are simply standing still. When considering a dream that is part of your "Life Goal Bucket List, I recommend acquiring a mix of bravery, courage, planning, impulsion, and even a heathy measure of Brute Strength and Awkwardness.

Carry On

Adventure Quote: “The journey is the destination.” ― Dan Eldon

Base Camp Coffee of the Day: B-52 (Kahlua, Irish Cream, Amaretto flavors)

Click the following links to start your own adventure with us:

A recent Sunday Morning Outdoor Breakfast

Morning coffee with a Visit from a Fawn

Shelley's Channel Early Morning Walk