Making Memories...

One more Christmas Ornament Workshop!

2012-01-11T19:18:00.000-08:00

December 14, 2011 - the Neighbors and I had a little workshop. Unfortunately, I didn't get everyone's photos... but here are a couple to show the fun! :-)

And a fun time was had by all! :-)

Below is a sample of each of the past 5 years' ornament workshops!

Christmas Ornaments - 2011

2011-12-11T14:24:00.001-08:00

Okay! We were "up to it" this past Monday afternoon and evening!
Another session will happen with neighbor/friend this coming Wednesday!

Must provide goodies!

Great Beginnings!

The ornament was placed on a piece of white felt with some very strong, double-sided fusible material
between them. A good steam press and a trim around the ornament gave it more "character."

I can hardly wait to get photos of the other finished ornaments!!
(Not very many were finished during the workshop. I provided a more ambitious project than I'd realized!)

Happy December - Anticipating Christmas 2011!

Christmas Ornaments 2010

2011-12-11T13:30:00.000-08:00

Last year (2010), we had a great deal of fun making Christmas Ornaments!

It was time for our 4th annual Ornament Workshops, here at my house.

(Apologies: I had many things to think about last Winter. While we did have fun at our workshops, there were worrisome things happening that caused me to miss posting. So, finally a year later, here is a post!!)

Two days' worth of workshops: afternoon and evening on 12/09/10.

12/10/10

The Aftermath!

The "Pattern" below. I made this "little fellow" in 1984.

What to do next year (2011)? Check out the next post!

A Visit to the Iowa State Fair Today!

2011-08-13T20:18:00.000-07:00

Due to Generous Friends, with whom we attended the Fair,

We Drove In Style! :-)

Home Again, Home Again...
We had a Great Day!
:-)

I'd Like You to Meet My Dad

2011-05-10T18:34:00.000-07:00

My Dad
(All the photos below were taken within the past year)

I’d like you to meet my Dad. He was born at home, on a farm, July 15, 1921. The eldest of seven children, six of whom reached adulthood, he remained on the farm after high school graduation, assisting in the livelihood of his family. In 1945, my grandparents purchased a farm and moved their family to northern Iowa. My parents were married June 28, 1947, continued to farm, and raised five children of their own.

Being raised during the Great Depression gave Dad a keen sense of economy and management. He was a consummate reader, and enjoyed learning about and discussing numerous subjects. He and mom loved playing games such as Scrabble, Phase II, and Boggle. If you chose to participate in a game of Boggle, you would soon learn they did not record three-letter words. Their vocabularies were immense and they wore the letters off the dice on four games over the years.

Dad was 5’9,” muscular and fit, due to the amount of physical labor he performed on the farm. As an illustration, in 1960, after having moved to a farm north of Clear Lake, he climbed the hanging rope, without the use of his legs, to the ceiling and back down again, in our domed gymnasium! He raised hogs, cattle, sheep, chickens and the normal corn, beans, oats/straw and hay. He tore down buildings and built buildings. Yes, he was hard-working. He never expressed displeasure with his life, worked tirelessly and very hard, all the while whistling as he went about his chores.

Yes, Dad was 89 years old at his death; nearly 90. However, had you met him even months prior to the onset of the cancer and its complications, you’d never have believed it. He possessed the energy and looks of a man in his mid- to late- 70s. Many people guessed this and he considered this a source of amusement and pride.

You would have liked my dad. He was fun, kind, considerate, and a gentleman; a man of integrity. He rarely criticized – more often stating simply “He/she does the best they can.” He respected the authority of special training; and he expected the honesty and conscientiousness that he, himself, offered. He was trustworthy and was “as good as his word.” If he said he would do something, it was finished to his best ability and in a timely manner.

Dad possessed a gregarious nature, a love of people, and a fine sense of humor. Dad laugh was infectious; often helping me, as a youngster, to locate him in a crowd. My dad was not perfect. But he was fun, interesting, fair, and a gentleman. He had a strong personality. He and each of his brothers employed a firm handshake and would often offer others a hearty clap on the back.

My dad was a family man. His family (and mom’s) was our extended family. There were family reunions and softball games. As a father, he was strict but fair. He was a very considerate husband, and he worked very hard to provide for his family.

My father was very artistic, but had little time, as I was growing up, to indulge interests of that sort. He once or twice mentioned that it might have been fun to work as a cartoonist for Walt Disney. It was after his retirement, that he began to enjoy many artistic endeavors. Many years ago (30?) he took one calligraphy class, purchased a book and taught himself to perfect the art. He practiced diligently; filling notebooks with many of his favorite sayings. He painted signs for many people, businesses and special occasions in the area.

For a few years, he enjoyed creating and painting Pennsylvania Dutch hex signs. He took painting and ceramics classes at McNeider Art Museum. While he didn’t pursue the ceramics, he continued to paint pictures for awhile.

He loved both wood-working and whittling. He made many intricate items such as model cars, plate hangers, fancy folding doll-sized rocking chairs, etc. from a variety of woods including oak and walnut. He graduated to intarsia; a form of woodworking picture-puzzle creations using several types of wood in each project – usually incorporating hand-carving alongside his various tools. One of his personal favorite creations was a hand-carved (including the bill, legs and claws) wren that he attached to a twig. It hangs on a wall at home.

Dad loved researching and recording our families’ genealogies. At nearly 80 years of age, he began working with, and becoming fairly proficient on the computer. Dad finished the book on his paternal family several years ago, including photographs and a few stories. He possessed a wealth of stories and information. He and Mom traveled around Iowa and several other states to visit cemeteries and photograph headstones. A few years ago, he began his mother’s as well as my mom’s families.

Dad was once a member of a local school board; a member of a local community club; faithful church-goer and long-time (from the early 1960’s until the present) member of their adult Sunday School class from Manly; a Mason City Men’s Garden Club member for several years – putting in many hours in East Park; a member of the First United Methodist Church of Clear Lake for many years; and for the last several years, a volunteer in the “fix-it” department of the Opportunity Village store (where you could hear him whistling as he worked).

Advice I passed to children in my second grade classrooms included something he told me when I was young: “Watch your behavior. Every girl grows up to be a woman but not every girl grows up to be a lady. Every boy grows up to be a man, but not every boy grows up to be a gentleman.”

My father died Friday, April 29, 2011 of advanced pancreatic cancer that had metastasized in his liver and lungs. Although we thought he might yet have a couple of months’ time left, and had begun arranging for Hospice-home care, by Tuesday, April 26, the cancer (and more pain, despite the medication) had taken its toll. He was transferred to the Hospice House and rapidly declined.

You must know one more thing about my father. Although these past several months were so very difficult, my father retained his dignity. Throughout his stay in the hospital, he endeared himself to the doctors and nurses. On the day before he died, while in pain and distress, he was able to sit on the edge of the bed (with help) to address the doctor frankly. When the doctor asked him, “Howard, do you want me to be direct?” My father answered, “Yes, Doctor.” When he was told, “Howard, death is very near. Are you afraid?” My father answered, “No. Death follows life. Death is a natural occurrence. Death is the next step. It is the next step in life.”

My father was my hero. He taught me about life. And he has taught me about death and dying. And he did it all with dignity.

Photo was taken January 8, 2011

A Gift of Pysanky is a Sincere Wish for Your "Best!I

2011-04-24T03:46:00.000-07:00

Easter Blessings!

These are for you.* Check out meanings at the close of the post.

*(The reason I own these pysanky is that I dropped them prior to being able to give them away. If you look closely, you'll see a crack on each)

Bible verse 1 John 1:7 tells us that "The blood of Jesus (his death), God's son, cleanses us..." In the words of Max Lucado, Christian pastor and author, writes "Our Savior kneels down and gazes upon the darkest acts of our lives. But rather than recoil in horror, he reaches out in kindness and says, "I can clean that if you want." And from the basin of his grace, he scoops a palm full of mercy and washes away our sin."

I held three Pysanky workshops prior to Easter this year. A Pysanka is a decorated egg following the traditional Ukranian style and tradition. (plural: pysanky) A basket of pysanky is said to offer protection from evil.

Traditionally, you decorate, and give away to someone special in time for Easter, an unblown egg. The unbroken egg represents absolute perfection and purity with regard to the gift of life. However, I usually give away decorated, empty egg shell. It is much easier to preserve, as it takes a number of years (kept in a cool place) before the egg white and yolk dries out inside an un-blown egg.

You first segment the egg by lightly drawing with a pencil.
Never erase.
The pencil lines "disappear" between the dying and the removal of wax.

The colors, designs and symbols each significant meanings which you chose to use as you create an egg to give away. After you determine your basic design, heat a taper candle and using melted beeswax and a hot kistka, draw the design on the egg.

If you desire to incorporate the color white (meaning purity) in the design, first draw on the white egg.

Then you dye your egg with special dyes purchased from a Ukranian store.

The colors progress from light to dark, with the exception that light green and light blue are first used before orange. The orange dye will wash these colors out before progressing to red, brown, dark green or blue, or purple. Very often the final dye is black.

Upon completion of your design (this is a simple one), the beeswax is carefully heated, melted, and wiped off a small section of the egg at a time.

The final color on this egg was red; meaning we used the white of the egg, and yellow, a spot of green, orange and red dyes.

The last class I taught used the very same basic design but added other elements, symbols and dye colors. Their eggs looked like the one below when they finished dying them black.

Again, using the side of the flame and one small part of the egg at a time, the wax is heated and wiped off. Heating the wax at the top of the flame runs the risk of ruining the design by the soot of the flame (which is what we Wanted when we heated our beeswax!).
This is done slowly and carefully -
but is one of the most delightful, exciting parts of creating
a pysanka.

You will notice triangles, a star, pine needles, ladders, dots, crosses, narrow, never-ending lines (belts) that encircle the egg, and the colors white, yellow, light green, light blue, orange, scarlet, and black.

You might wish (or pray) for the person receiving an egg (depending upon the designs and colors used): triangle (geometric symbol for groups of three: holy trinity; father, mother, and child; birth, life and death), stars (represents God's love toward man, purity, and life), pine needles (health, stamina and eternal youth), ladders (prayers and journey or ascent into heaven), dots (can be stars and/or constellations), cross (represent Christian faith), never-ending lines (eternal life). Colors: white (purity, light, rejoicing), yellow (sun, stars, moon, harvest, warmth, perpetuation of the family), gold (spirituality, wisdom), orange (endurance, everlasting sun, ambition), red (happiness, hope, passion, blood, fire, ministry of the church), red and white (respect, protection from evil powers), blue (sky, air, good health, truth, fidelity), green (spring, hope, freshness, wealth), pink (success, contentment), purple (royalty, faith, trust, patience, fasting), brown (earth, harvest, generosity), black (center of the earth, eternity, darkest time before dawn, absolute), 4 or more colors (family happiness, peace and love).

This post is the property of

Our Anniversary!

2011-04-15T20:51:00.000-07:00

We spent our Anniversary weekend in Cedar Rapids at the Ceramic Center!

This is our instructor, Jeff.
What a patient person he was! :-)

He's centered his clay and is now creating a cylinder.

Up it goes!

Here's a bit of clay for me to work with.

A good lot of tools.

These are some of our pots.

Jeff has to finish them for us...
and we'll be picking up the final product soon.
(I'll show you later!)

Thanks for a great time, Jeff!

Fun Times in the Windy City (Chicago!)

2011-03-24T20:20:00.001-07:00

We drove to Chicago Thursday, March 17th.
Yes! St. Patrick's Day.
Mr. Shady's sister Claudie and our bro-in-law Har' took us to a local Country Club that was serving a St. Patrick's Day meal! Fun!

We took the Metra downtown on Friday, March 18, 2011.
There's still green water in the fountain.

Upon reaching Millennium Park, we found the Cloud Gate sculpture
created by Anish Kapoor. (Locals seem to call this the Lima Bean Sculpture).
Click on the photo below to visit an official site.

Below, Mr. Shady is ready to walk the Nichols Bridgeway to the Art Institute's new wing.
(I was so happy, because we spent several hours at the Art Institute Museum!!)

Friday afternoon found us driving from Elmhurst to Glenview to visit and stay with friends for a couple of nights.
These are their "youngest kids." :-)

Saturday, March 19, 2011
Jenise and I visited the Chicago Botanic Garden.
Yes, I know it's so early that nothing much was "out,"
but what a place of promise!

Please click on either photo above or below to visit their site.

Their tropical greenhouse.

The arid desert greenhouse.

If you had one of these plants below . . .

or better yet, a whole passel of them, would you make . . .

This? :-)

Japanese gardens

And winter aconite!

A special violet/primrose show.

Sunday, March 20, 2011
Jenise took me to the Chalet this morning - what a great nursery/gift shop!

After lunch, we returned to our bro- and sis-in-law's house.
Claudie took us to the Elmhurst Historical Museum.
We were able to view an extensive display of Ann Frank's life
and the general state of affairs during this very difficult/tragic time period.
(click on the photo below for information)

Monday, March 21, 2011

We stopped at Starved Rock State Park,
Ogelsby, Illinois.

We stopped here on the way home.
Click on the link above for a LOT more information about this scenic site!

This lodge was created by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

What a special time we had. Many thanks to our family, friends and Mr. Shady. :-)

Mailing These Tomorrow!

2011-02-11T19:59:00.000-08:00

Three little granddaughters are getting new skirts and outfits for their dolls. I hope the skirts fit! :-)

Getting Ready for Christmas!

2011-01-14T21:25:00.000-08:00

'Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house
Shady was running--- less quiet than a mouse!

The downstairs was littered with fabric and ware,
In hopes she'd sew pieces together with care.

Granddaughters would get clothing, little jumpers and such
and their dolls would have matching - for nothing's too much!

With Mr. in his recliner and Shady in her gown,
She continued her running, both upstairs and down.

While down in the basement there arose such a clatter,
Mr. Shady roused to ask what was the matter...

But away Shady flew to her machine, like a flash,
stitching and sewing and finishing quite fast!

As he looked at the fabric-strewn floor down below,
Mr. envisioned the projects, and so...

while retreating and climbing back up the stairs;
Shady popped out with her pattern and shears!

She placed fabric together and stuck in her pins;
With pieces constructed - Christmas magic begins!

Quite quickly she made them, three jumpers in all
And she laid out the dresses matched by the ones for the dolls.

Then back to the cutting and sewing and joys,
It's on to the p.j.s for two little boys!

Now collar, and sleeve, a front and a back,
the pant legs, a pocket, elastic and hem tack!

Now stand back, admire and with a camera - "Snap!"
Fold them, box them and give them a wrap.

To the top of the stairs, to the top of the day
Shady was ready for Christmas - let's all say "hooray!"

What fun!
Now I'm working on some little skirts...
and more p.j.s?

Making Memories over Christmas Celebrations

2011-01-06T13:12:00.001-08:00

A Sweet Way to Make Memories!

A Visit to Gothic House

2010-10-08T18:32:00.001-07:00

A visit to Gothic House with Cindy

I Went Home Last Week . . .

2010-07-25T11:25:00.000-07:00

. . . to visit my parents and whatever family I was privileged to see!

This is Dad, Aunt MEA, Mom
Aunt M and Uncle S
Dad and Aunt M were celebrating their birthdays this month...
and I timed my visit perfectly! I got in on the celebration!!

Dad and Mom's Backyard Garden

Dad's side - looking towards Mom's

Mom's side

The trellises on either side of the gardens are Dad's. He loves his climbing roses... which have been affected by this year's rainy Spring weather, I think. They normally are covering the trellises by now... and would be in full bloom!

Visiting my Aunt MEA's garden on the way home!

'Betty Boop'

What is this? I took a "close-up" photo for detail, but it's a grassy plant of some sort.

More to come... :-)

Gabby Garden Gals

2010-07-09T16:05:00.001-07:00

Five of us toured SE Iowa today!

First, we visited Tender top Nursery. They maintain lovely gardens both in the shade and in the sun, and three ponds that are very intriguing. They sell plants for any environment. This is where we began our purchases. My little Toyota Camry has a trunk that dares to compete with the storage of most SUVs. ha! :-)

In went our first purchases.
(To be quite honest, I didn't purchase these (not available) ...
but the are definitely on my wish list!)

Next we visited Lowe's - home/garden/lumber store. Of course we were interested in their plants, especially the bargains. We found a few!

Again, in went quite a number of purchases, but they fitted in perfectly with much room to spare.

(I DID purchase this!)

You can see that it's already "in place!" :-)

After lunch at Culver's (yum!), our next stop was Hilltop Gardens, owned by Gerald Hobbs. Mr. Hobbs is a member of Cedar Valley Iris and Day lily Society. He not only grows but develops new varieties of day lilies. A copy of his plant list is here.

Hmmmm. Those look interesting . . .

We're all smiles as we look for the perfect flowers!

Into the trunk went several of his day lilies ... check out the trunk!

Our next stop was Hillcrest Hostas & More, just west of Donnellson.

Yes - we found a few plants to bring home. Most of our purchases were miniature hostas.

There are two spaces left . . . just the right size for Becky's and my hostas. :-) The others had to balance their purchases on their laps, all the way home! ha.

A fun time was had by all. We missed the rest of you! Next time! :-)

Christmas Ornaments 2009

2009-12-18T12:05:00.001-08:00

You would like to try these, I think.

A wee bit of origami folding, a bit of gluing and tah-dah!

You'll need to be ready to make a bit of a mess. You'll need paper cut into 3" to 4" squares. (I used drawing paper. It's nice and white and a good weight to work with.) We used 3" squares, making the finished product a little more delicate looking.

You'll need colored cardstock (if you visit a scrapbooking store or craft department, you'll find some nice pieces), narrow ribbon and beads. Colored "pony" beads are nice, but beads used for jewelry (with larger holes in the center) are also very pretty.

Each little book takes three pieces of pre-cut paper.

1) Fold the paper in half, matching top edges and corners as perfectly as possible. Sharply crease the fold.

2) Unfold, turn your paper so your crease runs vertically and fold your paper in half again, matching the top edges and corners and creasing sharply. Unfold. Your paper looks as though it's been divided into quarters.

3) This time fold your paper into a triangle, matching the corner and two edges as perfectly as possible. Crease very well - you can even flip the triangle over and crease the back side as well.

4) Notice in this second photo, I've taken the creases (the mountain-folds) and pushed them down to make "valley folds." Each side section will be pushed behind and between the front (and back) little square sections of paper.

You'll end up with a paper that looks like these below. Do this same procedure to each of the three papers. Each of these will create a page of your book.

5) Your next step will be to decide the shape of your pages.
Below shows the shape I'm making mine.
Your first page will be your pattern for the other two,
as well as the pattern for the front and back covers.

(Perhaps you can discern other shape ideas as you see the finished books further along in this post.)

6) What ribbon will you use? And what paper will you use for your covers?

7) In the first photo below, you will see my three folded pages and two covers. This is important before you glue: Make sure the pages line up, so that the front of each page is facing you. The back of the first page will be glued to the front of the second page. The back of the second page will be glued to the front of the third page. Use the glue very sparingly. Even the tiniest bit of glue sometimes escapes and will stick the pages together, so don't wait too terribly long to open them... just in case you need to separate the parts of each page.

The first photo below shows the glued pages. You have glued them so the center of the pages are all together. I am holding the center below.

8) Next, place a thin line of glue from the center to the outer tip of the top page. This is where you'll glue one of your ribbons.

9) Next you'll glue (again, sparingly) the entire top of the book and set the book cover in place.
repeat with the back of the book. First the ribbon, and then the cover.

10) Open gently to separate any pages (or half pages) that might be stuck with a little glue.

11) Slide a bead on your ribbons. Push it down to keep the book closed for the moment. Tie a good knot in the end of the ribbons . This ribbon will hang the book on your Christmas tree (and the knot will keep the bead on your ribbons!)

At this point, you might decide to decorate the exterior of your little book. Or you might just write something like, "Christmas 2009" on it. :-)

Some of my friends and I had a couple of workshops. The photo below shows three of us (when I finally remembered to take photos) with a finished product.

Here are some of my neighbors. We worked a bit last night and ended up with some great ornament books!

Tah-dah!

Here are a few that are on my tree.

Yes, you can write in the them. It was easier for me (!) to finish the book, let it dry, lay it out on the table and open one set of pages at a time for the writing inside. It's fun to find a little saying or inspirational piece.

Believe it or not, I've had a number of little workshops this past week or so. I missed pictures of several of my friends - my wits were not about me! But we each ended up with some great ornament books... and hopefully some good Christmas 2009 memories, to boot! :-)

Last Year's (2008) Ornament were Christmas Angels. Click here to read the post.

In 2007, some of us created wire and bead stars.

Maybe next year you'd like to join us too! :-)

You Would Have Enjoyed This, Too!

2009-12-07T17:20:00.001-08:00

A good friend of mine and I enjoyed an elegant evening last night!
We attended the Christmas High Tea,
at Village Cups and Cakes in Keosauqua.

Each table was decorated by a person of the community.
Each table was unique and ranged from elegant china to collector dishes.

This is our table... before the meal arrived.

I spent a little time with my camera...
looking for "special effects!"

Isn't this pretty?

How about this?

Our main course included a variety of entrees.
Each was delicious... and I cannot begin to tell you what they were.

You might recognize cucumber sandwiches on the right and
a spinach tart on the left.

The desserts were decadent!

Neither of us could finish either plate... but Oh!
We enjoyed trying!

;-)

Here are a couple of quick photos of three of the tables near us... (their aftermath).

Here are our high school carollers, singing acapella.

What a delightful way to begin readying for Christmas!

Saturday, October 24, 2006 - Flood Relief work

2009-10-26T05:53:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, August 15, eleven of us drove to Cedar Rapids for Flood Relief work. Nine of us spent the entire day painting, while two others were assigned finish-carpentry work in a nearby house. We painters finished the ceilings and walls of the entire downstairs, including the breezeway and garage-turned-family room! The photo (above) is of the home we painted.

On (this past) Saturday, October 24, a group of six of us return to Cedar Rapids. Four of us had painted on the house described above.

There is now a "Block by Block" initiative sponsored in part and managed by our church denomination. It was wonderful to see the tool trailers, holding any tool and/or implement one might need, sitting conveniently near any house that was being worked on.We witnessed work being done on a two-block area. Our home was very near the corner of one block. Next to "our home" were three others with volunteers from around the state, as well as locally, were working. On the back side of our block, abutting our backyards, were the sounds of work in other homes. On the block past ours, there were also homes being restored by volunteers, on both sides of the block.

This small series of photos show most of the block in which we were working.
(I was returning to our house from a porta potty at the far end of the block.)

(Looking from the house above down the block towards our house.)

Our house is the green one... past the yellow wheelbarrow and to the left of the last pile of junk.

Our house is this next one... the green one.

Once I found myself standing on the sidewalk in front of our house, I zoomed in a bit to photograph people working on the house beside us.

It was a beautiful, sunny day... just cool enough to make working hard a comfortable endeavor.

This is our house. It was not a large home. The damage to be addressed was again on the first floor. We began by surveying the situation with an on-site coordinator who was very skilled himself. There were very specific problems to address in this 100 +/- year-old home... including leveling about 1/2 or more of the floor by replacing (he first thought) one floor joist in the basement. It soon became clear that our fellows were very apt. Their skills and problem-solving abilities were up to the task, and they created and replaced four beams ... or two full ones and two 1/2 lengths.

Am I correct in my terms? Are these not beams, instead of joists, that are being created?
*This is "Shady, Junior" ;-)

This is the way they were taken to the basement (through a window). The coordinator is on othe right.

Setting the beam with a jack. (Coordinator's son on the right)
These next two photos show the new beams in place.
Looking up at this ceiling, you can see the old joists...

Some of our fellows worked back and forth within the jobs that needed to be done. I, on the other hand, was the only female with very limited experience but a clear mind about doing whatever I could, stayed upstairs and helped with the installation of OSB subflooring.

Oh...okay. Here I am, somewhat posing... sheesh.
(that pink thing is my camera case)

By early afternoon, it became apparent that while some beams had definitely improved the situation upstairs, one area was stubbornly resisting their efforts. This area proved to need extra care and understanding (beyond the not-so-gentle persuasion being used below!)...

(The coordinator swings mightily.)...which resulted in whittling an uneven original ceiling beam that went 1/2 way across the ceiling below, adding more floor joists, and in just plain replacing part of the floor with a sheet of thicker (3/4") OSB subfloor.

Before this OSB was laid permanently, a couple more joists were added in the basement for stability... into which screws were drilled - holding down this panel of OSB.

We were not able to finish laying the 1/2" OSB, but it won't take long for someone else to finish the job. (Meanwhile, the finished product looks great!)

Also addressed was 1) the small but precise job of creating a 2x4 box with an additional upright to fill a space that might have been once a window, to better secure future sheet rock,

(Mr. Shady and Shady Junior)

and 2) a header (below) in the ceiling of the first floor that was quite in need of leveling. This took the use of another jack to raise it to its proper height on one side and add another 4x4 support, from floor to the header, to keep it level. The jack was then removed.

With all the sweeping, sweeping, and re-sweeping, as well sweeping and cleaning the basement, we left our home with the look of Promise! The hope of restoration will be finished by those who can do the necessary electrical work, sheet rock, flooring, painting, trim, etc.

Eventually the original home owner will be moving back into her home. We are feeling privileged and happy to have played a part in this rebuilding effort!

I was so proud of our fellows. They worked with the coordinator (and his son, who worked until noon) so wonderfully. They accomplish a LOT and the coordinator was very happy and quite satisfied with the days' work!

The OSB subfloor that was laid... this photo looks to the right,

and the photo below looks to the left of the front door.

Check out the above photo: On the right, you can see the 3/4" OSB that was laid in the floor.

As an aside, last Summer I was able to work with a group in Oakville. Later, Mr. Shady (but not I) traveled to and worked on a house in Iowa City.

Before leaving Cedar Rapids, Melissa (a main coordinator) stated that they're so grateful for the many, many volunteers that come to work and accomplish so much. But, it sounds as though November's slate of volunteers (so far) is slim. I wonder if we could get a group together to head back up next month??

Wouldn't YOU be interested in helping? Believe it or not, a group of workers in one of these houses was from Northwood, Iowa. This is a small town in North Central Iowa, just off Interstate 35 and south of the Minnesota about 12 miles or so. :-) This is very near where I grew up. It was fun to meet them!

Have a wonderful day!!

PS As a footnote, I wanted to mention that the owner of this home is a 70+ year old widow who thought she had no recourse but to purchase a FEMA trailer in which to live. Due to meetings that are being held during this "Block by Block" rebuilding endeavor, the residents and home owners are learning that their homes ARE being rebuilt with the promise and/or hope that they will be able to return to their homes before too long. A blessing from these meetings are that they are able to establish relationships and friendships and gain encouragement during this bleak time in their lives.

Visiting Dad and Mom Last Week

2009-09-27T17:48:00.000-07:00

I was so happy! I drove to visit my parents Sunday, Sept. 20 and headed back home yesterday, Saturday, Sept. 26. What a variety of "engagements" we had!

My youngest niece's 15th birthday party Sunday night was only the start! No pictures, but we had a nice time and visit. :-)

Monday
I was treated to the view of seeing Canada Geese in the small field Mom and Dad's yard. This first photo shows them without using much telephoto at all. I zoomed in quite a bit to get the next two photos. At the end of this post, you'll find a short video of the geese. They are cleaning up the sweet corn that was left in this field. lol.

Click on the photo so you can really see them!

My parents and I joined a group of their friends for a day's excursion to Iowa Falls. There were some very interesting sites to see, as well as a riverboat ride complete with lunch!

Tuesday morning, we packed some 5-gallon buckets in the trunk and drove into the County where they recycle city yard waste to make compost (free-for-the-taking) and shred huge piles of mulch (also free). We wanted a few pails of compost for the garden.

Here are two humongous piles of yard waste. The has obviously been standing longer.

There were rows and rows (long ones) of compost in the making. This huge machine drove up one side, turned, and drove down the other side... chewing and chopping as it went.

I used my telephoto (!) to get a better view of this machine and the work it was doing.

We were disappointed in that there was no finished product "for the taking" quite yet.

Tuesday evening, we drove to my brother and sister-in-law's home for dinner. Their daughter Sarah and her husband and one-month-old baby (son) came to visit! Yea!

This is my mom (Great-Grandma!) with the baby.

On Wednesday, we did a little shopping (I found a bargain on Blue Rug Junipers) and divided a few plants in my parents' flower garden. After lunch I headed back to my brother & sister-in-law's home to begin a little landscaping around their new pond. You can see some of the results here. My sister-in-law helped after work and we both were forced indoors due to the fact that nightfall is happening earlier these days!

Thursday: We "baby-watched" while Sarah visited the dentist. She returned afterwards and ate lunch with us. Thursday evening we went to my new favorite movie, "Julie and Julia!"
(Visit this site for a fun movie trailer, etc.)

It began raining Thursday during the night and continued throughout Friday morning. Dad and I took a car to the "Auto Hospital," I dropped him off for his weekly volunteer job, returned home and waited for the A.H. phone to ring. Then Mom and I each drove a vehicle downtown, and I left mine at the A.H. We stopped off at a beautiful city garden that is growing larger and more beautiful every year (did I say I didn't take my camera? What a mistake!)

It wasn't long until my car was finished. Mom and I drove over to pick up Dad, and we all three drove to the Auto Hospital and brought our vehicles home. ;-)

At 5:30 P.M., we met my dad's two brothers and their wives (my uncles and aunts) for a nice dinner. Afterward, we visited in one of their homes; playing UNO and having a blast! We left for home around 11:00 P.M. Who says terribly grown-up grown ups have no fun??

Saturday morning found us all driving to my Aunt MEA's town. Her Garden Club was having a plant sale and coffee/brunch. We enjoyed visiting and meeting several of her nice friends. AND Mom and I each picked up some new plants!

What a great time we had. The days sped by so quickly. Hopefully I can get there again before too very long!

Here's a short video of those geese. Once, Dad counted 85 of them.

In the Neighborhood Tailgate Party! :-)

2009-09-15T12:34:00.001-07:00

Something's "brewing" at the neighbors' house!

Looks like Erlacher lost his shirt...

... twice!

The Bears might have lost the game,

but we enjoyed the evening anyway!
(They'll win next time, won't they?!)
:-)

Fun at Old Thresher's

2009-09-06T18:48:00.000-07:00

This year was the 60th Annual Old Thresher's Reunion in Mt. Pleasant, IA. We attended with one of our nephews, his wife (whom we claim as our niece), and their two daughters. (You may observe that child number three is due very soon! :-)

L: We boarded a trolley car from the camping/parking lot to the grounds.
R: Some of the "scenery"

L: Have you ever heard of a 1920 Ford AA "Doodlebug?"
R: I have no idea what this is, but it's old. ;-)

Some cute pictures, which involve the purchase of taffy apples!

Some of the "Gunslingers" agenda

"Wanted Posters" in the Post Office

These desperate looking criminals were found in jail...

Walking by a tent with entertainment... here we have "Dueling Banjos."

Riding another trolley car, out to the Log Village

Oak Ridge School - modeling a one-room school.

Spinning sheep's wool into yarn

Oh, no! A Train Robbery!

The weather was great. We surely enjoyed our day! I'm so glad they called us to join them. :-)

P.S. Abigail Esther was born early Monday (Sept. 7) morning. She weighed 7 lbs 9 oz. Just on time. :-) Do you suppose all this walking had anything to do with it?

Making Stepping Stones

2009-08-10T13:09:00.000-07:00

This is one of the pre-cured stones... just before it was wrapped in plastic.

Last Thursday, as you can see, was August 6. A group of us met at J and S's house to make stepping stones with J and S's children, E and J and their friends S and L, twin daughters belonging to S and T.

We were all ready for an adventure! :-)

Step One: Getting ready.

Step Two: Add the water.
E and J are in the foreground, while S and L also look on.

Step Three: Mix.
It's time to stir the mix. Whew! Hard work!

Step Four: Pat into the molds.
(In this case, we used plastic trays for flower pots.)
The mix was pretty stiff, but everyone was game to pat it into the molds.

This is one of the stepping stones...
before the curing process.

It was wrapped in several layers of plastic
(used mulch bags)
and left to cure for three days.

After the three days' time,
the plastic was removed and the stepping stones unwrapped.

I hear they turned out satisfactorily!
That makes me feel good.
I haven't seen them yet, but I'll use that excuse to stop by.
:-)

P.S. I just received an email from T with photos of S and L's stones in their garden at home. Here's a peek for you!

I'll see what I can do about getting a photo of E and J's stones. :-)

At Mom and Dad's

2009-05-25T18:51:00.000-07:00

We so enjoyed our weekend!
The weather was sunny with cool mornings and warm afternoons.
Mom and Dad have a beautiful garden with trellises that Dad has built.
We're posing in front of one of them.

Dad and Mom

We girls!

and I get to pose with Dad, too!

I'm not sure what "Mr. Shady" was doing, but he missed the photo-op!

Good Times with Friends

2009-04-27T11:00:00.000-07:00

A Girls-Only Party!

A tea party, complete with tea, coffee and chai
as well as scones and biscotti.
There was also a choice of lemon curd
and Devonshire Cream for the scones.

Chai
Combine in a crockpot:
2 quarts (8 cups) water
8 tea bags of black (I used green decaf) tea
3/4 cup sugar (1/2 cup is plenty)

In a large tea ball, put
16 whole cloves
5 cinnamon sticks, broken
16 whole cardamon seeds (optional)
8 slices fresh ginger

Place tea ball in crockpot.
Cover; cook on HIGH 2 - 2 1/2 hours.

Discard solids. Refrigerate.
Add a little milk in your cup prior to serving.
(Can be served hot or cold)

****************************

Cream Scones

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated white sugar
2 tsp bakingn powder
1/8 tsp salt
1/3 cup cold unsalted butter
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

Egg mixture for brushing top of scones:
for top:
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 Tblsp heavy cream

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Place rack in middle of oven. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.

In large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Cut the butter into small pieces and blend into the flour mixture. The mixture should look like coarse crumbs. In a small measuring cup, combine the whipping cream, beaten egg, and vanilla. Add this mixture to the flour mixture. Stir until just combined. Do not over mix.

Knead dough gently on a lightly floured surface. Roll or pat the dough into a 7" circle, about 1 1/2" thick. Cut this circle into 8 triangular sections. (I cut into 12 sections.)

Mix the 1 lightly beaten egg with the 1 Tblsp. heavy cream and brush over scones. This helps to brown the tops during baking.

Bake about 15 minutes or until lightly browned and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and turn broiler on high. Sift confectioners (powdered) sugar over the tops and place scones under the broiler. Broil for just a few seconds, turning the pan as necessary, until the sugar had melted and turns golden brown. Make sure to watch carefully, as the sugar turns golden and burns very quickly. Transfer to a wire rack to cool. Serve with Devon Cream, whipping cream, Lemon Curd, and/or your choice of jelly.

******************************

Lemon Curd

3 large eggs
1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (2 - 3 lemons) (DO NOT use bottled lemon juice)
3/4 cup granulated white sugar
1 Tblsp finely shredded lemon zest
4 Tblsp. unsalted butter at room temperature,
and cut into small pieces

In a double boiler, or stainless steel bowl over saucepan over simmering water, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and lemon juice until blended. Cook, stirring constantly (to prevent curdling) until the mixture becomes thick like sour cream or a hllandaise sauce. This will take approximately 10 minutes. Remove from heat. Whisk the cut butter into the mixture until melted. Add lemon zest and let cool. The lemon curd will continue to thicken as it cools. Cover immediately (so a skin doesn't form) and refrigerate for up to two weeks.

Makes 1 1/2 cups. You may whip 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream and fold into lemon curd for a lighter curd.

*******************************

Devonshire or Devon Cream

4 ounces mascarpone*
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 or 2 Tblsp. granulated white sugar
Zest of lemon
* Mascarpone is a soft unripened cheese that belongs to the cream cheese family. It comes from Switzerland and Italy anad is a thick, rich, sweet and velvety, ivory-colored cheese produced from cow's milk that has the texture of clotted or sour cream. Its delicate and mild flavor is great with fresh fruit and is probably best known for its use in Tiramisu. Produced mainly in the fall and winter, it is sold in plastic tubs and can be found in specialty food stores and in the deli sectin of some grocery stores.

Place all the ingredients in a large bowl and beat until the mixture holds its shape and looks like softly whipped cream. Use right away or cover and refrigerate until serving time.

Makes about 1 1/2 cups.

Note: This can also be used as a filling for tarts or with fresh berries.

A great time was had by all!
Friends are one of life's Good Fortunes!

One Last Post on Arizona

2009-04-16T18:57:00.000-07:00

The first thing we saw at the Sonora Desert Museum

outside Tucson on Tuesday, April 7 was this docent
with this barn owl.

She explained that this owl had been found and delivered
to the museum as a very tiny baby. Instead of
leaving it where it was, someone had moved it.
Thus, it's been a part of the "museum staff"
for a number of years.

Almost one of the first things we were able to watch was a rapter display. They have rapters "trained" to stay within the immediate area while they discuss each bird's characteristics.

I have no idea what this plant is, but it was spectacular.

Isn't this a great view?

There was a pane of glass between us,
thank heavens. :-)

In the hummingbird aviary, we spotted a hummer
on her nest.

This little hummingbird has a bright purple
"front," but it preferred to sit in the bright sunlight.
Consequently, this silhouette is the best I could do.

Again, I know not what this is...

but here's another variation of this blossom!

This is a photo of me with my Aunt.
She's such a fabulous person!

And, yes. I'm wearing braces.
At least for the next few months.

We left Tucson Tuesday afternoon and headed
north to Phoenix/Mesa.

On Wednesday morning, we headed for South Mountain Park and Preserve. We had packed our lunch ahead of time, so we first stopped at Dobbins Lookout and enjoyed the view! Here we are, overlooking Mesa and Phoenix!

After lunch, we drove to a trail head and began hiking again!
Of course, can you tell who's at the end of the pack?
Yes, it's Miss Camera Lady! ;-)
An interesting shot of a group of saguaro cacti!
:-)
We found an obliging bicycle rider to take our photo.
I just couldn't get the hang of the self-timer!
Good friends!

After returning home, we rested a bit, changed clothes
and headed out for dinner.
Have you ever heard of the Organ stop Pizza restaurant?

The pizza may or may not have been good. I can't say as I remember tasting it! ha. It was the entertainment that draws the crowd every night! The place is huge and can hold around 700 people! There's a huge main floor as well as a balcony for dining.

Center stage sits a huge Wurlitzer Organ. There are photos and information about four accomplished musicians who take turns playing this organ. While we were there, Lew Williams played.

Quoting from the menu/brochure, "the unit orchestra, later known as the theatre pipe organ, was designed with imitative orchestral tones in mind, rather than the customary liturgical sounds found in church instruments. The theatre organ has been described as part military band, part symphony orchestra, and part theatrical sound effects. The Wurlitzer product was considered by far the best organ.

This particular Wurlitzer theatre organ was built for the Denver Theatre and was installed in 1927. The organ was used regularly until the 1930's. This original organ was a "style 260," having three manual console and 15 ranks/sets of pipes. Organ Stop purchased the instrument in the early 1970's and undertook the mammoth task of rebuilding the instrument. After several additions from other ill-fated Wurlitzers, the 23 rank organ was installed in our original facility in 1975. In 1997, a larger four manual console was added. Through the years, several rare sets of pipes have been added, including a massive set of 32' wood diaphones. As of 2006, the organ has nearly 6000 pipes. The massive quantities of wind required for operation are provided by four huge turbine blowers. The resulting instrument boasts 78 ranks, 17 tuned percussions and innumerable traps and effects and is the largest Wurlitzer in the world!

The building's design is expressly for the enjoyment of patrons, with the organ installed in four chambers at one end of the restaurant. 43 food ceilings provide unparalleled acoustics. The console is "presented" on an 80000 lb. rotating hydraulic elevator."

Needless to say, this was also a highlight!
We had a wonderful vacation.

I hope you've enjoyed the sample of our trip. :-)
SG

More Arizona Memories

2009-04-14T19:46:00.000-07:00

April 4

These are the Superstition Mountains.

We'd studied these mountains last Fall during tutoring sessions. Briefly, Jacob Waltz discovered a gold mine and seemed to have plenty of money. Just prior to his death, he gave a clue as to the location of the mine. Many people have searched for this mine, over the years. And many people have died trying to find it. (I have no idea if it is still "lost.")

This is the "Superstition Saloon" in Tortilla Flat, where we had our lunch.
FYI: Tortilla Flat is now a town with five residents.
It used to be on a stagecoach line.

(I don't want to be superstitious, but do these fellows look suspicious?)

Did they peek into the women's restroom??

After lunch we headed for a boat ride on Canyon Lake.

The circular shapes are actually petrified logs within the rock "walls."

Can you spot the big horn sheep?

Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix, AZ

2009-04-12T14:09:00.001-07:00

Nope!This isn't Who-ville,
and these aren't Whos.

This is Denny and Marty,
our friends who enabled us to have such a grand time!
This is the most amazing glass sculpture!

And here we are... SG and hubby!
It still looks as though we just stepped off that little speck of dust! ;-)

On Saturday, April 4, we visited the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix.
You need to click Right Here to visit the display of blown glass.
It's amazing, and for the most part, fit right into the landscapes.

I will not feature the rest of the glasswork here.
You'll see great photos through the link.
This post will give you an idea of some of the wonderful things we enjoyed.
None of the photos are identified...
Have fun!
:-)

(fruit)

I'm sorry I didn't take a clearer photo.

Do you get an idea of the size of this little cactus?

Blue flowers seem to be unusual.

One More Post about Friday, April 3.

2009-04-11T19:19:00.000-07:00

I have to show you a few things from our friends' yard:

When the Lord gives you lemons,
Make Lemonaid!!
(We drank a couple of gallons... it was delicious.)

Do you see the one remaining grapefruit?

This is a Bottle Brush.

How about the blossom? :-)

Not a bit of shade here! :-)

Day One - Hike One - Usery Mountains

2009-04-11T08:47:00.000-07:00

Just for the record, the fellows led the way.
Not because we females were necessarily slow hikers,
but I was the one with the camera!! ;-)

I think this is a cholla

Another cholla

Ocatillo

As close as I could get to the blossoms. :-)

One Ocatillo was readying to lose its leaves.

Lizard...

Teddy Bear Cholla

Another Cholla?

Barrel Cactus

I haven't yet finished identifying everything...

This is a mini-tour of our morning's hike. It was a beautiful sunny, balmy day! Not only were our friends were very generous with opening their home, but they were also very generous with their time! We are grateful for their guidance. :-) SG

Our August Geode Hunt

2009-03-06T07:01:00.000-08:00

In mid-August 2008, I was finally able to take part in a Geode Hunt!
Yea!

FYI: The following information about geodes was taken from wikipedia:

"Geodes are geological rock formations which occur in sedimentary (here in the Midwest) rocks. Geodes are essentially rock cavities or with internal crystal formations or concentric banding. The exterior of the most common geodes is generally limestone (the exterior is bumpy) or a related rock, while the interior may contain quart crystals.

Other geodes are completely filled with crystal, being solid all the way through. These types of geodes are called nodules .

The size and color of the crystals vary, making the finds that much more interesting."

We drove a few miles south of town, headed east,
parked the cars and started walking.

(A click on a photograph may result in a close-up.)

If you weren't paying attention, you might not think

about the fact that a descent at the beginning means
an ascent at the end of the foray (hopefully with a
loaded bucket or backpack)!

Geode hunters come in all ages!

This bucket load looks intriguing. :-)

Everyone needs to know how to split geodes...

... to see if there's anything interesting inside!

I have a young friend that presented me with a wonderful find of his own.
He even carried it all the way back to the car for me.

And this is what geodes have to do with my gardening...

This geode now resides in my flowerbed!
:-)

A Visit with Dad and Mom, January 2009

2009-01-31T07:39:00.000-08:00

First, a visit with my Aunt MEA (my gardening heroine). The photo on the left was taken last August. The photo on the right was taken January 16. Please click to enlarge them.

The next stop was my parents' home. Can you believe I didn't get a photo taken? This one was taken at my house during their Thanksgiving visit (for which we were thankful!).

Back to January 2009:
Check out my Mom's violets! :-)
Click on the top right photo to read about 'Clara.'

Several other plants not in bloom while I was there.
But these are beautiful, are they not?

Next,
***The oldest of my two talented brothers stopped with pizza for dinner. He and his youngest beautiful daughter were looking for some excitement, so they came to my parents' home and found me there. (I'm not sure that we provided the excitement part, but it was really good to see them!)

(I did try to post a short video, but it took way too long!)

The next stop was at the youngest (the other talented fellow) brother's home. My wonderful sister-in-law was there with her two exceptional daughters. The "fellows" were out hunting somewhere in SW Iowa. My first-born niece has a 3-year-old and twins (a boy and a girl) that are a year old. The two boys entertained us while the daughter was napping. (By the way, all three are Nearly perfect because, I'm sure you can tell, they are 1/2 Norwegian!) :-)

***I figured if I didn't give everyone a compliment, I'd hear about it! ha?

And now it's time for a cup of tea!

I know my mom and Aunt MEA would join me.
Will you?

Happy New Year 2009!

2009-01-01T11:12:00.000-08:00

Yum! What a Sweet Gift!

Thanks Laurie! :-)

Click Here for a New Year's Wish!
:-)

Would Your Children (or Grandchildren) Like This?

2008-12-29T19:23:00.000-08:00

Thought you might like to see a gift I made for each of our two families

(that of my son and that of my daughter).

Take some Wildly Striped fabric...

and some brightly polka-dotted fabric.

Cut a few pieces and iron them.
Sew a seam or two...

Pockets on the back (for the puppets)...

And you have a puppet theater
that will fit in nearly any doorway!

Next, take a variety of fleece (remnants if you have them).

Find a few patterns, ideas, and poems and fingerplays
and put them in a book...

And now there's something to have fun with!

The following collection will be presented to my daughter's family
this weekend, as we again celebrate Christmas.

Our son's family received Jan Brett's book "Town Mouse, Country Mouse"
with laminated faces from her website.
Our daughter's family will receive Jan Brett's "The Mitten" with
laminated faces from her website.
Paint stirring sticks are taped on the backside.
(I used these in my second grade classroom many times!)

My next assignment is to make puppets for the book "Marsupial Sue!" ;-)

Planets Align and Friends Combine!

2008-12-08T09:50:00.000-08:00

Last Tuesday, December 2 was a special night!

Four friends (including myself) piled into the car
of the couple that was driving.
Jim stopped at the end of the driveway.
Out came our 3x magnification digital cameras...
snap, snap, snap.
Wiggle, wiggle, wiggle went the moon and the planets...
This is the best I could do!!
What fun. What a rare opportunity!

I neglected to photograph Jim,
but here's a photo from last summer.
A great escort!

He drove us the hour or so to Keokuk, Iowa
to see Amahl and the Night Visitors
and other entertaining ballet sequences.
The troupe hailed from the Minneapolis, MN area.

As members of our local Concert Association,
we have reciprocity with
neighboring community associations.

I'm on the left, Karen is in the center, and Joan
is on the right. Jim took the photo.
Jim and Joan are the couple that ushered us to Keokuk.
:-)

We sat in the balcony!
Both these photos were taken as we looked up.
Isn't this quite the theater?
Before leaving town, Jim treated our entourage
to hot fudge sundays at McD's.
Yea!
Good Memories...

That's what this is all about. :-)

Move Over, Lily Tomlin!

2008-10-27T16:33:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, October 4, hubby and I drove to Cedar Rapids, IA to visit friends. He and friend Maury were due for a day-long fishing trip, while Lois and I drove to the Amanas. I had not been there for years, and we had a great time!!!

Our first stop was at a broom factory with a large gift shop. The gift shop was complete with many wooden items for sale, all created by area residents. I did a little bit of Christmas shopping here. I can't post photographs, of course... someone would know what they're getting! ;-)

Next we stopped at a furniture store.

*(This is my reference to the title of this post. )

Here I am, seated in this humongous rocking chair. I'm so glad there was a footstool available!

I do think that Lily, Lois and I could all sit comfortably in this chair! :-)

Does Lois give you an idea of scale?

This is the windmill on the property. It was a fairly windy day.
At the base of the windmill was a "woodcutter."

Check out the video below.

A Day for Memories

2008-10-16T06:18:00.000-07:00

Memory
by Ted Kooser*

Spinning up dust and cornshucks
as it crossed the chalky, exhausted fields,
it sucked up into its heart
hot work, cold work, lunch buckets,
good horses, bad horses, their names
and the names of mules that were
better or worse than the horses,
then rattled the dented tin sides
of the threshing machine, shook
the manure spreader, cranked
the tractor's crank that broke
the uncle's arm, then swpt on
through the windbreak, taking
the treehouse and dirty magazines,
turning its fury on the barn
where cows kicked over buckets
and the gray cat sat for a squirt
of thick milk in its whiskers, crossed
the chicken pen, undid the hook,
plucked a warm brown egg
from the meanest hen, then turned
toward the house, where threshers
were having dinner, peeled back
the roof and the kitchen ceiling,
reached down and snatched up
uncles and cousins, grandma, grandpa,
parents and children one by one,
held them like dolls, looked
long and longingly into their faces,
then set them back in their chairs
with blue and white platters of chicken
and ham and mashed potatoes
still steaming before them, with
boats of gravy and bowls of peas
and three kinds of pie, and suddenly,
with a sound like a sigh, drew up
its crowded, roaring, dusty funnel,
and there at its tip was the nib of a pen.

*Ted Kooser, Poet Laureate of the United States, received the Pulitzer Prize for Delights & Shadows, the book from which this poem was taken.

Kaitlyn's memory-making visit to the farm this past July. :-)

This day, October 16, is a day of remembering and reminiscing. Our lives, after all, span a very short period of time - and yet are filled with so very much. May we each leave a little behind us, written and/or unwritten, that makes a difference. In honor and remembrance of my sister, Barb. With Love.

Just Playing Around!

2008-09-13T10:58:00.000-07:00

You might think all we did at Dad and Mom's was "play around!" Think again!!

We did some serious work!
(Does this look somewhat familiar? ha!)
Yep! Another birdbath.
It wasn't revealed until after I left, so I'm waiting for a photograph.
When it arrives, I'll post it here!

We celebrated Dad's birthday along with an aunt's birthday at a tea house in a neighboring town.
It was a great lunch, complete with piano accompaniment by a 94 year old grandmother of the owner. It was wonderful! :-)

Then, I went shopping at the Farm Store. ha. Actually, I found something I'd been looking for all summer, so we had to try it out!

Works beautifully, don't you think? :-)

And one last foray into their wonderful garden center/nursery!
This bug was pointed out...
if you don't know its name,
Bugguide will!
(It's a species of Cranefly.)
(and if you want to get "up close and personal," click on the photo)Of course, I couldn't limit my stop at the nursery to a peek at an insect!
Here's what's happily residing in my flower bed!

Rogersia "Chocolate Wings"
(out in the south 'woodland walk')

And this is Eupatorium Joe Pye Weed "Little Joe"
He's only supposed to be 3 - 4 feet tall.
He's flanked by "Starfighter" Asiatic Lily on your left,
"Pink Chablis" sedum on your right,
and Catmint in the background.

Have a great day! --- Shady G

Visiting Aunt MEA

2008-09-13T09:20:00.000-07:00

On the way to stay with Dad and Mom for a few days at the end of August, I stopped off at Aunt MEA's house!
This is really her front door (at left). We're on the east side of the house, facing north towards the driveway. You can see a flower bed that hides my car. And my car hides another flower bed. :-) The photo at right is one of a collection of lilies on the south side of this stairway.
Now, I'll only orient you as to where you are in her yard. :-)
We're on the north side of the yard; the bed we could see from the front door.

There is a flowerbed the entire length of the yard on the west side. There used to be a humongous vegetable garden just on "this side" of this flower bed. This (photo on left) is only a small cluster of plants on the north end of this bed. The second photo shows the shady south side of this bed... a wonderful collection of hostas.

We are now on the north side of the house. This is Bloodroot (left) and ginger (right).

Here we are, at the north door (peeking easterly). This is the door that we always use to enter the house. From the steps, you walk north to the garage and driveway.

You might remember the
garden craft
I worked at so hard this summer!

Now Aunt MEA has one, too!
:-)

Here's a photo from an area newspaper. Aunt MEA was featured as an area gardener... and this is what the article said:

92-year-old most enjoys her daylilies

MEA takes two urns filled with her flowers to church every Sunday.

The 92-year-old has been raising flowers for many years and maintains flower beds all around her home.

"I started raising flowers in my late 20s," she said.

Inspired as a young woman by a neighbor man's wonderful flower gardens, she is a 51-year charter member of her local Federated Garden Club.

MEA most enjoys daylilies --- "they're pretty prolific," she said, but she loves all her flowers.

"I have lots of daffodils." Other favorites include her tulips, zinnias, phlox, 80 to 100 hostas and azaleas.

"I like to be outside," she said. "I spend a lot of time out there."

My mom is on the left and another aunt is in the center of the above photograph.

Way to go, Aunt MEA! :-)

Mississippi Katrina Relief Trip - May 31 - June 8, 2008

2008-06-09T10:54:00.000-07:00

Saturday, May 31, 2008

Bright shiny faces and ready grins in anticipation of days ahead.

Here we are: A great group of ten.

This day was special for another reason: Jim and Joan celebrated their 38th wedding anniversary! Denny and Marty smuggled decorated cupcakes for the occasion, which we devoured at our lunch stop. :-)

Saturday night was spent in the Days Inn at Hernando, MS - just outside Memphis, TN. We had a great meal at the Guadalahara Restaurant right across the street!

As we left the restaurant, some bright-eyed person spotted a Magnolia tree, Mississippi's State Tree, in bloom. Denny took the prize-winning photo below. The Magnolia blossom is also Mississippi's state flower.

Sunday, June 1, 2008

The next morning found us having too much noisy fun in the parking lot!

We arrived at Camp Hope in Vancleave, MS around 3:00 p.m. Sunday. First, we toured the church.
Then we took a walk, made our beds and arranged our suitcases for the week. Here are photographs of a couple more flowers we ladies discovered on our short walk.

We don't know what this first one is... any ideas?

We were told this is a gardenia.

My Hometown Bunkmates:
Janet and Marty

Kris and Joyce

(me) and Joan

Sunday night's meal was enjoyed at a locally recommended barbecue spot called The Shed. This is one view of the outside the restaurant. Check out their website by clicking their name above.

Here we are indoors (of course you know the photographer rarely gets in the picture!)

The food was wonderful!

Group Photos:

These photos were actually taken Saturday morning before we all left for home, but I wanted you to see everyone who came to work!
Our group of ten is in the first photo.

The first photo is of the group from Tennessee. Next, we're all together!

This is Sally and Kurt. They have husband/wife
managed Camp Hope for the past two years. They will be moving in July to pursue.... whatever's next. :-)

Mississippi Relief Trip

2008-06-09T09:00:00.000-07:00

Monday

June 9, 2008

Getting ready to head out for our first day's work!

Team B's house:
Denny needs a new apron! Marty and Joan paint en plein air and

Jim's en plein air plane saw! Ta da! A little "Vanna-tude"

Team A's house
Things are looking up from the very beginning! ;-)

How else would you get sheetrock up there? Larry, Don and Homeowner John

Joyce drills Janet scrapes "cottage cheese"

Larry and Don replace windows Kathy hugs a tree

About 3:30, one's mind turned towards the Big Question:
"What do you think we'll have for dinner?"
Check out Monday's meal! Yum!

After dinner, devotions and sharing how we witnessed God in action, everyone made their way to the "lunch kitchen" to prepare a sack lunch for the next day.

Photos and Comments on Tues - Friday (morning)

2008-06-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, June 3, 2008

Impressive Breakfast Smorgasbord!

Team B's Family,

their Patio Door project,and Joan and Marty - their expert window demolition team!

Team A's outdoor "Curb Appeal" project - scraping the brick planter, adding dirt and flowers. Kelsey picked out the white begonias. Don't they look nice?? :-)

Time for our morning break!

Kris and Janet scrape the kitchen ceiling, and Joyce sweeps!

We must break for lunch and another round of water!

Wednesday, June 4, 2008

Team B rips out more windows.
And works on their patio door.

Check out Team A's Living Room ceiling! :-)

Ready to take care of the few pieces of sheetrock needing to be put in place in the dining area.Ta-dah!

Larry and Janet tackled the
french doors right away. Preparing,
insulating and creating custom-
built moulding and trim. :-)

The hallway ceiling is finished! Yea!

The "mad drillers and fillers!"

What's for dinner?
That was always the question
about 3:30 or 4:00 in the
afternoon! This long
buffet was worth looking
forward to.

Kathy's birthday was Wednesday.

When did anyone find time to do THIS? Check out the streamers!Yipes! Man in the dorm!
Actually, we decided that if a fellow comes bearing gifts (such as wonderful
homemade bread pudding left from dinner), he's allowed to enter! :-)
Somehow Denny managed to abscond with a whole pan!

Thursday, June 5, 2008

A little kitchen clean-up after breakfast!

Team B is all over their floor! ;-)
Looking good, Jim and Denny!
Meanwhile, back at Team A's house...

Carley helped with a little sanding before leaving for day-care. :-)

The sheetrock gets finished down the hallway.Don and homeowner John face the door opening,

and put the metal edging in place.

Janet scrapes a bedroom ceiling.

Kelsey primes her soon-to-be bedroom door.

Thursday night was our turn to provide devotions following the meal and discussion.
We "wowed" 'em with our skit... the parable of the sower and the four soils.
Marty was our able narrator, and the rest of us just did what we were told! ;-)

Friday Morning - June 6, 2008

Team B - Talk about a little morning excitement!
I thought knights wore armor and rode white horses!

Now, THAT's a view!

Oh, of course. The girls provide the ballast! ;-)

Actually, team B is brandishing the trim they painted last night... so they can finish the bedroom this morning! (See below!)

Team A's master bedroom ceiling looks great (we scraped off the plaster finish).

Don and John replaced a piece of sheetrock on the wall.

Friday afternoon to Sunday afternoon

2008-06-09T06:51:00.000-07:00

Friday afternoon, June 6, 2008

We left our work sites around noon Friday, returning to Camp Hope. Saying "goodbye" to our new friends/family was a little difficult. We had very much enjoyed meeting them and helping to experience a little progress in their homes. We are also hopeful another group or two will soon continue the jobs needing to be done.

Crossing the new bridge into Biloxi.

Signs of building, rebuilding, and plans "on hold."
We enjoyed a beautiful afternoon's drive easterly, along I-90, from Ocean Springs to Biloxi to Gulfport to Long Beach and back to Camp Hope at Vancleave.

It seemed as though all the cities and scenery blended into one quick drive. Here, we've arrived in Long Beach, home of the college Janet attended for a year after high school graduation. This is the "Friendship Tree" (a Live Oak) that used too have steps to a platform for people to stand on.

This is the informational sign about the tree.This sign has been posted since Hurricane Katrina.More views of the same tree.

Here we are... the whole group!
A college building that is yet unrestored.
Can we resist this beach?
Not at all!
"Making Lemonaid out of Lemons"

A chainsaw artist commissioned by Mayor A.J. Holloway has transformed four standing dead trees in the center median of U.S. 90 in Biloxi into a sculpture garden, teeming with pelicans, egrets, seagulls, a blue marlin and a shark. Artist Dayton Scoggins is scheduled to complete his four days of sculpting at the end of the day Thursday, March 8, 2007. Holloway, meantime, may approach the City Council to hire Scoggins to create more works of art from other standing dead trees in the center median. Click on the title link to see a complete gallery of photographs.

My poor photographs below were taken from the car as we traveled.

Someone has sculpted animals... in this case, dolphins above and birds, below from the trees, in the roadway median, that were destroyed during Katrina.

Returning over the new bridge from Biloxi to Ocean Springs,
and wondering,"Is that what's left of the old bridge?"We ate dinner in Ocean Springs, just beyond the bridge.
Good food. Good company. Good Times.

Saturday, June 7, 2008
Our Special Breakfast

Lots of butter in those grits!Saturday night was spent in Sikeston, MO. Dinner was served at Lambert's Cafe, "The Only Home of Throwed Rolls."
An experience you should share!
Check out the video below. :-)

Question to Larry:
How was it, working with Don, your wife, and 3 other women?

The Family Trip Around SE Iowa

2008-05-24T16:16:00.001-07:00

Last night, the rest of the family arrived,

and we enjoyed a nice visit!

After breakfast this morning, we headed out for a little tour.

First we visited the new museum at Eldon, Iowa.
Eldon is where Grant Wood was inspired by
a small home with a Gothic window.
The rest is "history!" :-)

Are you sure these aren't the original models?

Or perhaps this is more realistic?

:-)

Okay... so where are the apron, overalls and pitch fork?

The official plaque.
A great family photograph!
Next, we visited Lengacher's Greenhouse near Lebanon.
The hanging basket took all the extra room in the trunk,
so some of us held our plants on our laps! :-)The last stop before returning to our house was to the Dutchman's Store
in Cantril, Iowa. This is a Mennonite grocery/quilt/variety store.
I'm sure if you can't find what you want there,
it hasn't been created!

We ended up at our own homes this afternoon...
I planted my flowers, already!

Another nice day.
:-)

A Trip to Marion - May 21 & 22, 2008

2008-05-22T17:17:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, I drove to Marion to visit family! These first photos are of my niece's backyard garden. She's definitely inherited the family "green thumb!" :-)

I noticed several bags of mulch... we can see the path is being
rejuvenated this Spring.M started these columbine from her mom's seeds!

Dicentra spectabilis - Gold Heart Bleeding Heart
I would Love to have one of these!
K at gymnastics class

Before bedtime, Wednesday night:

Thursday morning:
K got to ride her bike to school today, accompanied by mom.

B on their swingset.

After breakfast, B and I left for a bit of shopping in Iowa City.
We also visited a friend of mine in U of I hospitals.
Then we headed for Fairfield!

More about this family trip tomorrow. :-)

One More Walk at Susie's Farm

2008-05-02T20:02:00.000-07:00

Mr. McGregor's Daughter just provided an ID for this plant.

It's the "dreaded Garlic Mustard."
(I still love this close-up view.)

And we'll have to attack it before it spreads!
It's highly invasive and is quite a threat.
(I like this photo, too.)

Some photos for your enjoyment... At left, a Buttercup. Below, a Spring Beauty.

Woodland phlox and a four-leafed trillium!

Not sure what this first one is... nor this second one!

Have to look this one up, too. Check out the egg. It was lying on the path!

Great fungus. Now, here's the aftermath of the Winter ice jam/flood!

We're all the way up on the bank. I know it's hard to see, but the water flowed over both sides of the bank and left debris all over where we were walking. You can see some on the grass in front of us.We saw the cutest little bird. Of course my 3x zoom doesn't bring anything into focus that's very far away. But, I must look it up. It had a bright yellow spot on its back, above its tail. Two of them were flying around the water. No swooping, gliding for this little bird. Its flutter was rather awkward in comparison to swallows.

Another great walk! You can tell things are "greening up!"
:-)