Huckleberries

Obsession is defined as "the domination of one's thoughts or feelings by a persistent idea, image, desire, etc." As I was happily, even if tiredly, preserving my day's treasures last night, I wondered at what point I would be classified as obsessed. Is it that I physically get angry at work because I have to be there instead of hunting down the next bountiful patch? Or is it that I no sooner arrive back in the town limits before I'm already craving the next trip? (And get anxious at the thought of missing the time slot to pick them at their peak?) Maybe it's when I fall asleep to the image of the deep purple berry just waiting for me to pluck it from its bush.

It's not just any huckleberry that I can't get enough of. Don't get me wrong; since I discovered huckleberries, I've loved them. With the exception of a few trials of exotic fruits from the grocery store, I grew up on the apples and bananas. It was much to my delight to discover our own little exotic fruit grown in the Northwest, and even more so when I found out they abound in Idaho! I enjoy the hunt, the stomping around in the wilderness, the Craps-point-number-roll excitement of finding the "jackpot" patch, and providing for myself and my family. And while I am finding myself tempted with greed and territorialism, it's the knowledge that they are not My berries that keeps me grounded. They are a blessing that proves to me that God cares about my heart's desires and I am ultimately loved.


Note to self: 4 cups of whole berries does not equal 4 cups of crushed berries. As I crushed the berries, I immediately regret the decision to make jam before just canning them whole. Oh well. There will be more, there will be more. :)