Thank you - I grew up in a small town in E. Oregon and my life was much like you describe. It’s hard to believe how far we have come from those days.
I would add putting up a tent in the back yard and “camping” overnight, telling ghost stories by flashlight.
Playing kick the can or olly olly oxen free (sp?) with the neighbor kids ‘til dusk.
Drinking Hawaiian fruit punch, believing it was intoxicating and getting very very silly.
Going up on Canyon Mountain, throwing rocks off the hill, seeing pictures in the clouds, and watching as the stars came out.
“...I would add putting up a tent in the back yard and “camping” overnight, telling ghost stories by flashlight.”
My yard was only about 16x16 feet, but yes, we did that too with old bedsheets and clothesline!!
“...Playing kick the can or olly olly oxen free (sp?) with the neighbor kids ‘til dusk...”
I think - if its the same game - we called it “Tin Can Tommy” and we played it on our street... except we had to sort of dive onto the pavement when cars came down the street.
Those were amazing days to be a kid... But as I said; as long as YOU keep it alive and tell your kids, and grandkids, that country is still alive as well.
Things can only be taken from you if you LET them take it.
Thanks!