In the sliver of morning before darkness meets light, I leaned against the stoop, bundled in my thick robe, cradling a second cup of steaming hot coffee.

Frost lay heavy on the roof of the chicken coop and woodshed across the yard.

The sky showed young pockmarks and scattered strips of light, while one proud star refused to budge from its fading canvas.

The wavering crescendo of croaking frogs was the only sound, until the distant rumble of an automobile rolled down the street.

My neighborhood was awakening.

The skies would lighten soon, the town would open its doors and life in northern California and southern Oregon would begin.

It was a Saturday and when the weekend comes, outdoor adventure begins for everyone.

As my last drops of coffee turned cold, I stepped back inside, sat down at the computer, and got back to the grind; just another working stiff.

Sometimes, I have to remind myself that there is life beyond this keyboard. Unfortunately, indulging in the great outdoors is often an afterthought for many of us. It's easy to get caught up in the societal vacuum of making money and connecting with technology. As editor of an outdoor website, I'm very familiar with the powerful irony between real life and actual living.

I owe a hearty thanks to Frank Galusha, who, in 2006 created MyOudoorBuddy.com, for which I have worked for over 10 years. Frank Galusha saw the need to bring the outdoors in by aggregating original, local and regional information and articles with NGO and governmental agency reports and news related to the area known as the “State of Jefferson.” 

Under new ownership since 2016, MyOutdoorBuddy's regional coverage has expanded significantly as we continue to cater to our online audience by publishing up-to-date outdoor reports and original articles. 

Whether it's climbing a mountain, strolling a country road, fishing, hunting, kayaking, skiing, flying a kite or simply watching the sunrise, mother earth provides an endless playground for our enjoyment and serenity.

Passionately, the contributors and columnists at MyOutdoorBuddy.com strive to share their knowledge and adventures from the other side of their door's threshold. It is our hope that their adventures and awe inspiring photos will stimulate your urge to step outside and embrace the outdoors.

As we celebrate the hope of the season, I'd like to personally thank each and every one of you--from our contributors, to our readers and advertisers--for your dedication and continued support of MyOudoorBuddy.com, and our promotion of the gentle use of our resources.

This Christmas, may we all be aware of the air we breathe, the water we use, the steady earth beneath our feet, and dawning of a new day.