A Corner Of Eden

Kayaking

2010-12-03T10:19:00.001-08:00

On our recent trip to visit family in SoCal, we got together a few times to go kayaking and paddle boarding at the local lagoon. With the temperatures in the high 60's, the ocean breezes at rest, and the week off from work and school responsibilities, the days allowed for plenty of family fun.

I actually did get much further from shore, though it looks like I stayed in ankle deep water!! The tide was exceptionally high this day giving us a rare opportunity to explore areas of the marshes that are usually inaccessible most of the time. Narrow fingers of water extended through acres of tall sea grasses that abounded with various kinds of shore birds. A very peaceful, delightful time of solitude on the water.

Calle thinks she should go along too!

This is as close to the water #6 wanted to get!

Gus enjoyed the time away from the office. His sidekick, my sister's dog, thought she would go along for a swim.

The Bug, as we like to call her, was our motivator for getting out there on the lagoon. She encouraged us to rent paddle boards the previous day. We had a great time trying that!!

Wes enjoying his journey

My sis who looks incredibly similar to me!! People still get us mixed up!

Beautiful November weather

A New Chapter

2010-08-31T09:40:00.000-07:00

Here is a guest blog from my niece about my mom's condition. It's very special to see how each and everyone of us has a unique contribution as we walk through this illness with her.

Here's Mom visiting her older sister for her sister's 90th birthday. The visit was a surprise for my Aunt which made the day that much more fun and happy!! We took time to take lots of photos.

Here Mom poses with her sis and her younger brother.

Me, Mom, Aunt, my Sis and Bro.

Last night she did great. Got up 3 times. I checked on her a few times.

She woke up around 6am then I woke up pretty much minutes after I asked her a couple questions She said " I can't hear you I can't find my hearing aid!" LOL

I said they are on your floor I saw them there last night. " She said I know I have one I can not find the other one"

I went and found it for her and she said " Yvonne hates touching them because they look like guinea pigs."

I thought that was kinda funny.

They do look like some sort of small animal just being birthed.

Then Yvonne came in around 7 and Whipped up a few protein smoothies for us and whooshed out.

I was actually in my morning daze quite impressed with the speed at which she not only made Grandma smoothies but then rinsed the blender out, wiped down the blender and headed out the door.

For a micro second I had this epiphany " oh that is how you keep your house clean"

Grandma had some nausea. Apparently after she lays down when she gets up her tummy is un easy. Or maybe its just a morning thing.

I got her some pepto. she ate some Ritz. ( felt a little guilty at this point: as we ate pretty much all of her crackers not knowing she needed them in the morning)

I told her I would go get more Ritz. Yvonne said OH and get the bendy straws!

Then a about 20 minutes later Aunt Muffy came in.

Said her good mornings to Grandma. Checked in

She got Grandma all of her Morning Meds.

By the time I returned from the store around 9:30 Aunt Muffy had all Grandmas appointments lined up.and had her bile catheter bag emptied.

I started putting a cupboard full of crackers away AND DAMNIT I forgot the bendy straws!

But so far where we are at is to my understanding is.

Grandma was unofficially informed that she had Pancreatic Cancer.

The instructions from the Hospital were to call Monday to set up an appointment. Muffy did.

Wed she has appointments to officially find out the news, to remove the stint, and to hopefully find out the results of her biopsy. The Cancer Center called and I put Muffy on the phone. She set up the appointment with them for the 8th.( I know that sounds like its really far away but it really was the soonest she had and Grandma is first on the list for any cancellations.)

On the 8th She sees an oncologist. This will be to lay out how to tackle the problem and how much time Grandma does have.

Aunt Muffy handled those calls perfectly. Aunt Ceil , Uncle Joe, and Aunt Yvonne were able to set Aunt Muffy up with enough info to confidently pull off those calls. I say this because I did not feel informed enough to pull them off my self. Also Aunt Muffy read the Hospital instructions which were just a little different than what everyone remembered.

So now that all that was tackled we just mothered Grandma all day.

The first part of the day was super quite.

She ate lunch around 12. She had a 3/4 of a grilled cheese sandwich.

Then around 2:30 when she fell asleep it was like one visitor after another.

Aunt Muffy was having to turn away lots of folks.

It was ironic that as soon as she fell asleep everyone started coming. I turned off her ringer let her sleep we asked everyone to let her rest. Everyone did and graciously too.

Around 4 she awoke to tons of company and Skype with Uncle Thom.

Everyone was in full force. Visiting, loving her and noticeably staying strong.

I found joy in that.

I also notice that poor Grandma is getting worn out.

Here is my advice to all of you. Coming from an outsider looking in.

We are a family of workers, doers. We get stuff done. We like to get stuff done. We show love by what we can accomplish.

I mean not exclusively but partly.

I have watched you all and you all have different approaches. And really you all compliment each other quite nicely to be honest.

You all have your rolls in this and its quite amazing to watch.

I am just hear to support and do what it is you need from me.

But sometimes the visits they are too much.

I think we all should be good about being over there just a couple at a time. At least during her recovery.If she wants to talk let her if she is quietly watching tv let her do that too.

She is taking pain meds and can not concentrate.

She nods off about every 3 hours fighting taking a nap or resting.

I think its hard for her to be present for a long period of time . So maybe just sitting with her and not talking too much would help with that too I guess.That way she does not have to focus on staying awake too much.

She really does fight the nap and falling asleep.

I think we get our stubbornness from her.

If any of you all want super special time. I would suggest humbly you sleep over at her house to help her.

There is this moment at 6 ish that she wakes up and its just you and her.

Its quite.

I just sat with her. I let her talk.

I let her share her stories and frustrations.

It was nice.

I was able to fulfill taking care of her, sitting with her, and watching her get excited over the tennis match.

As if this was just another visit and we were just catching up. I did not fuss over her too much just quietly got up asked hey While I am up you want_______?

She would say sure please get me my ________.

She shared how special everyone has been.

How everyone has been so great. She actually loves having everyone around. But she also expressed getting tired. Especially during the evening.

She has lower abdominal cramping that makes her feel guilty for needing pain pills. Luckily I had read the article I will link at the end of this and was able to share a sentiment I found.

It help her accept that its okay to need them.

She is most happy about everyone finally being together .

I admire how you have all handled family dynamics in her company.

really with each other too.

That disagreements have not proven to equal disrespect. That the love you all have for each other and for grandmas desires shines through more than anything.

Its heartwarming.

The best times to visit are:

Between 8:30 am and 12:30

1-3:30 she is pretty sleepy

4-7:30ish

because around 8 she gets pretty tired and by nine she is nodding off.

I love you all and this is just my perspective on things.

I figured while I am staying with her I will email reports.

You know, since I have to do something this can be my contribution.

Ask away at anything you want to know and I will fill you in if I have the information.

Love always,

Jennifer

p.s I do not have everyone's email so please forward to whom you like

And I am also sorry this is a bit rambly. Its hard to get all the important stuff to everyone.

I just really appreciated the texts coming up north.

So let me know if you want to also be taken out of this thread.

Stay tuned. Tuesdays report will be much shorter. Its a free day. ;) No calls to make no Doctors appointments. It should be restful for her.

Article I found helpful.

http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2010/08/02/100802fa_fact_gawande?currentPage=3

2010-06-09T08:14:00.000-07:00

Mike Downey in control of Humboldt County sheriff's race; early indications point to victory

Matt Drange/The Times-Standard

Posted: 06/09/2010 06:44:39 AM PDT

Click photo to enlarge

If early indications are correct, Mike Downey will be the next sheriff of Humboldt County.

Preliminary results have Downey with just under 67 percent of the vote, well ahead of opponent Mike Hislop, who checked in with 33 percent. The numbers were the latest available shortly before midnight, and came largely from absentee ballots with 40 of 132 precincts reporting.

Downey was celebrating the apparent victory with his campaign team at the Elks Lodge in Eureka.

”I'll say what I've said all along, and that's that we are gonna win this thing,” Downey said. “I believe that was always going to be the case.”

Downey, 54, has worked in the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office for 24 years, and has served as undersheriff since 2006. He lives in Fortuna with his wife and six children.

”I have a great committee that worked very hard spreading the word, and tonight the public is speaking,” Downey said. “I have the experience, and that's the difference.”

Downey's campaign manager Dave Walker said he couldn't ask for more at the time of preliminary results.

”We felt that we had this thing in control all along,” Walker said. “The last week we've pretty much just been on cruise control.”

At the Best Western Humboldt Bay Inn on the other side of Eureka, Hislop was optimistic at his campaign party, and said that it was still too early to tell. Hislop, 45, was with the Eureka

Police Department for 25 years and has spent the last three years as the chief investigator for the District Attorney's Office.

”I'm feeling good,” Hislop said. “We just have to wait and see -- we still have 100 precincts that need to come in.”

The budget of the Sheriff's Office became a key campaign issue when Hislop contended that it ran over by $1.4 million last year.

”These are tough economic times,” said Hislop, who added that fiscal responsibility is huge. “Right now we need to just weather the storm.”

Downey said that it was simply a misunderstanding of how the budget process works, and that the office actually came in just $279,000 over.

”We beat that horse dead,” Downey said. “The truth of the matter is that the deficit was the result of a decrease in revenues that we could not anticipate.”

Downey said that if he wins, he plans to expand services to Humboldt County residents by maintaining six resident deputies that will each patrol a different area of the county. Other points to work on include hiring more deputies and getting a core staff together, he said.

Incumbent Gary Philp decided not to run for re-election this year, and endorsed Downey for the position. Philp's term ends on Dec. 31, when the new sheriff will take over.

”The day that he (Gary Philp) walks out the door I want to have a natural, smooth transition,” Downey said.

Downey was confident as his campaign party drew to a close, and said that once other precincts such as Fortuna and McKinleyville came in, he felt his lead would either stay the same or increase.

_____________

At a Glance: Preliminary results with 30 percent of precincts reporting

Mike Downey: 67 percent

Mike Hislop: 33 percent

Campaign signs

2010-05-28T10:22:00.001-07:00

Throughout these long months of campaigning, part of the necessary duties involves recruiting friends, acquaintances and just about anyone who will accommodate us, to put up a campaign sign on their property. With this being a county wide election and Humboldt County being a huge county, well, you can just imagine what an undertaking this is!! Thankfully, we have a fantastic group of guys on our sign committee that have been working evenings, weekends and virtually every spare moment that they have, putting up Downey signs anywhere they have permission. This is a photo of one of the signs at our summer spot along the Avenue of the Giants in Miranda. Thanks to M & J for supporting our candidate!!
We have been working very diligently and steadily for the past 5 months, meeting people, listening to their concerns and seeking their support and now we are down to the final 10 days. We have been getting lots of positive support from the public and are anticipating a final outcome of Mike as our Sheriff - elect this June!
We are so humbled by the time and efforts that our friends and committee members have invested in this campaign and hope that, somehow, each and every one of you will know just how much we appreciate your hard work!!
Election Night will be here in a few short days with a victory close at hand!!

Down to the Final Few Weeks!!

2010-05-21T13:02:00.000-07:00

The election is wrapping up here in the next few weeks. So far the numbers look good! Some straw polls show the percentages at about 68/25 favoring Downey, with 7% undecided. We are receiving such wonderful support from the community, encouraging us about Downey's ability to serve as our next Sheriff. We are hoping for a landslide victory!!! Here is a local article highlighting Downey's abilities and experience to take on the task of running this vast department. I like the part where he says the difference between his own abilities and his opponent's is like the difference between abilities of driving a battleship and a motorboat, respectively!! The comments section of the article provides more kudos for our candidate that give an insight to just what the public is saying about this political race. There is another article in the same publication that covers the opponent's political platform. The comments on that article are quite telling!! It's good to know some insights into an individual's character before voting for him/her instead of relying on the campaign rhetoric that they spew out throughout the months and weeks preceding an election! Thanks for all the support and encouragement from all of you during this campaign endeavor!! We truly appreciate every bit of it!!

Forums

2010-05-11T21:16:00.001-07:00

One of the requirements of running for a public office is standing head to head with your opponent and defending your positions on various controversial issues. Gus has done such an excellent job of providing the voters of Humboldt County with a sound understanding of some of the critical issues in the Sheriff's Office that affect their lives on a daily basis. Here is a link to one such Forum that was televised on one of the local stations. Just to give you an insight into the type of situations he has to endure in order to fulfill his calling to finish out his long, committed career in law enforcement.
It lasts about an hour, so if you don't get through it all, I can certainly understand!!! Some of it is rather dry and difficult to sit and listen to, but I'm sure that these same types of issues are critical in your own communities as well.
Go Mike! I believe in you!! And I know that you will be the best man for the job of Sheriff of Humboldt County!!

PromNight

2010-04-26T07:57:00.000-07:00

Wesley and some of his friends got together to go to the Jr./Sr. Prom Saturday night. Wes prepared a fantastic dinner for them to enjoy. He prepared Chicken cordon bleu, pasta alfredo, salad, and for dessert, I made them a berry cobbler and Gus brought ice cream. I've told Wes many times over the years that he should consider going to Chef school. He is very comfortable and creative in the kitchen!!
With table set, candles lit, and a serenade from Jeff Buckley on the ipod, the rest of the family took off for a few hours and let them have some time without the parental units there watching!! The dinner looked great, the girls were beautiful, and the guys were dapper!

These are the other guys giving Wes a dude send off!!

Rhododendron Parade: Downey for Sheriff and Maher Mountain Shires

2010-04-24T15:18:00.000-07:00

We have some very dear friends of ours that have a team of beautiful Shires and a red shiny wagon!! When they asked us if we'd like to join them in the Rhododendron Parade, we jumped at the chance. We gathered up a "team" of our own and walked the parade route, passing out candy and "cop cards" and flyers!! We had a great time. We woke up to drizzling skies, but the wind blew off the cloud cover and the sun came out just enough to keep us warm and the horses cool.

Some of our wonderful campaign crew!! Thanks all!

I thought we looked amazing!! These horses are such professionals! The only thing that startled them was the clowns that we walked past!! I know just how they feel.....

Yeeeee Hawww!

We even had beautiful little girls and babies with plump rosey cheeks to kiss!

Another Wedding!!

2010-04-08T14:51:00.000-07:00

Second wedding of the year has come and gone. Previous posts have mentioned the craziness of marrying off two daughters in the course of 6 weeks!!! Here are a few photos of our oldest daughter and her new husband!!

Blessings and Congratulations to them as they begin their new life together!

Campaign Update

2010-03-11T10:40:00.001-08:00

So just to keep everyone up to date on the campaign happenings, I have this wonderful article to share. Also, last night, Gus did an interview with KMUD radio which you can listen to here. Just scroll down to the "Jazz and Jams" event Wednesday, March 10 and click the play button. There is a few minutes of Jazz music and some announcements and then the interview with the Sheriff Candidate begins. So far life on the campaign trail is going absolutely fantastic! It's really nice to hear so many positive things spoken about my husband. He has gotten endorsements from many high level county officials and local names. We are anticipating a big win June 8th!!!!

Just a glimpse of Humboldt

2010-03-06T10:56:00.000-08:00

Here's a fantastic video of some of my favorite places and favorite people in Humboldt County. The beautiful girl on the horse is my daughter! This is a promotional movie for Humboldt that includes all kinds of wines, cheeses, grass fed beef, etc. I was asked to be in it too, but I had a trip to Hawaii planned at the same time they were going to be doing the filming! Bummer. My only chance at fame!! I was to be the mom in the scene of the family barbecue where the gal combs the little girl's hair!! Hope you enjoy seeing the beauty of the Northcoast of California as much as I enjoy living here! These images are filmed at one of my most favorite spots in the county. Absolutely beautiful in the spring time!

The Famous Imagio!!

Eric & Jo's Wedding Day

2010-02-22T09:40:00.000-08:00

Miss Jo Jo

Mom and Jo

Dad & Jo

The setting at the Benbow Inn was gorgeous; such a magical place! The sun came out just long enough for us to take some stunning pictures.

All of our children. We are all 6 ft or taller except for the wedding couple!

To all of our family and friends, we wish that you all could've been here to celebrate with us. The couple wanted a very small, intimate affair with just immediate family and then have a big reception later this summer, around July. We will send out announcements soon with a save the date.

Days of Craze

2010-02-18T10:08:00.000-08:00

The days are full and moving fast. A handful of events, a couple of weddings, a dash of statistics, mixed with kids, chores, and laundry, all tossed with a political campaign are the ingredients of my daily recipe. Needless to say, it feels like I need a bigger kitchen!!
Even as the days stream by at breakneck speed, I am filled with joy and peace. The blessings bestowed on me by a loving God are immeasurable. Over the years I have nurtured and loved the ones God has entrusted to me and now they are individually taking flight, leaving the nest and spreading their wings out into the world.
My girls are getting married in a few short days and months. The youngest will be married this coming Sunday, the oldest in a few weeks. I have found that as I reflect upon my life with these two young ladies, my heart moves from a deep ache to pure joy at any given moment. My girls have been my constant companions for the past 20+ years, encouraging me, supporting me, loving me and now they are both moving on in the same season of my life. Can I cling just a little longer to that tender connection that binds our hearts together? I find it hard to let go if I allow myself to ponder that question for very long, but I know I must. There is this clenching deep down in my heart, squeezing tight as if it were a sponge, spilling over tears from my eyes with out a moments notice. Driving down the road, in the middle of a conversation, at the glimpse of an old photograph on the wall, any of these will bring the emotional wave to the surface as the salty tears begin to flow. How I will miss them!
But the joy comes in knowing that they are both marrying fine young men who love them and cherish them and will stand by them and care for them just as I have for the past 2 decades. The joy comes in knowing that Gus and I have raised them to love and cherish their new husbands and to be strong and faithful wives. The joy comes in seeing their hearts light up with love when they look into the face of the man they have chosen to become their husband. This is what I reflect upon when the tears try to overwhelm my heart. Knowing that God has provided each of them with a companion that will faithfully walk along side of them through life's challenges is enough to set my heart back on track.
Now for the next two!! These are the final two of the clan to be wed. Hopefully it will be a while yet!!

Downey for Sheriff ~ Humboldt County

2010-02-01T05:32:00.000-08:00

The new Downey for Sheriff web site is up and running!! Click on the link to check it out!!
Downeyforsheriif

One never knows how a story will go...

2010-01-31T09:40:00.000-08:00

A few years ago, a posted a story about a little dog named Hero. Just for a little refresher, you can link over to this post and this or this for the details. Upon hearing how handsome "Hero's" new owner was, daughter Reebs decided to follow up on the adoption, just to be sure the dog went to a good home and to say her goodbyes. She emailed the young man who gladly agreed to meet with her. She called me later to tell me that they spent 3 full hours together talking about more than just the dog! One meeting led to another and now the two shall become one..... Reebs and Cam have become engaged and will soon be married.

They are so happy and so are we. Cam is a great guy and will be a wonderful husband for my beautiful darling girl.
So here is Rex's (aka Hero) "new" family. He and Tilly get to romp and play together frequently which makes Tilly very happy!!

Here's Rex hanging out with us while we play board games. He's a cool little dude and I for one am glad that he jumped into our truck looking for a new home that day.

Downey for Sheriff!

2010-01-30T17:20:00.000-08:00

Last night was the campaign kick off for Gus' bid at running for Sheriff of Humboldt County. Our wonderful campaign committee put together a fantastic night of free food, drinks and campaign speeches. Many well known Humboldt political dignitaries were in attendance as well as many friends and supporters from all areas of the county. We had a great turn out!

Name it and Claim it!!

Dressed for Success!

Undersheriff Mike Downey and current Sheriff Gary Philp

Undersheriff Downey and Eureka Mayor and 4th District Supervisor candidate Virginia Bass

Undersheriff Downey and Board of Supervisor Jimmy Smith

Former Board of Supervisor and upcoming candidate for County Assessor Johanna Rodoni

Undersheriff Mike Downey and all around good guy Rex Bohn

All of our children were able to attend to see their dad make a pitch for a vote, though one DIL didn't make it because she was sick and one future son in law who came after this photo was snapped!

Of course, every campaign MUST have a pitch for money, too!

Miss T is all for voting for G'pa for Sheriff!! Cute kids and kissing babies goes a long way in a campaign!!!

2010-01-29T08:43:00.000-08:00

For my Grandfather
by Reebs Downey

When I feel a cool breeze graze my skin, and play gently with my hair I think.
When I look at the blue sky, with birds flying high, I know.
These are the things we share.
Your eyes have seen these things and your skin felt this same breeze.
I am standing free.
You were in chains, with the weight of hatred scarring your body.
I am standing free.
You ate the food of nightmares, and still carry the effects.
I am standing free.
You felt the blow of hatred, and fascism.
I am standing free.
You watched as your friends fell, the victims of terrible horrors.
I am standing free.
You spent weeks in black misery with only your heartbeat to remind you that you were alive.
I am standing free.
Your eyes are forever scarred, the image of murder imprinted on the inside of your eyelids.
I am standing free.
It is these things we share, the blue of the sky, the same color over Germany.
A cool breeze, so free and unconfined, the same in a prison camp.
I am standing free.
Thank you.

Downey campaign kick-off planned

2010-01-26T14:56:00.000-08:00

Mike Downey

Undersheriff Mike Downey’s bid to become the next Humboldt County Sheriff will host a campaign fundraiser at the Wharfinger on January 29 from 5-8pm.

Downey will face DA investigator Mike Hislop at the polls.

Downey has the endorsement of outgoing Sheriff Gary Philp, who will retire after his current term expires. Humboldt County Supervisor Jimmy Smith has also endorsed Downey.

From the press release:

The event is free to the public. This casual evening provides an opportunity for members of the community to come out, meet Mike Downey and hear about his vision for the Sheriff’s Office.

Mike Downey is the Undersheriff for Humboldt County. He is the second in command with executive administrative authority over six divisions of the Sheriff’s Office. Downey has worked in the Sheriff’s Department for 24 years, serving in nearly every division of the office and in every geographical area of the county.

For more information on Mike Downey and his campaign for Sheriff visit “Elect Mike Downey Humboldt County Sheriff” on Facebook.

Sayulita 2010

2010-01-11T16:12:00.001-08:00

While friends and family are back home in Humboldt picking up the pieces of a 6.5 earthquake, we are here in Mexico enjoying the sun and surf.

The town

Heading down to the local beach

Playa Patzquarto

We are glad to hear that everyone is fine back home, but sorry to hear of all of the clean up involved in an earthquake of this magnitude. For those of you struggling through the rubble, know that what we now experience is not all that is. For our present struggles are not to be compared with the glory that is before us.

The Ranch on Salmon Creek

2010-01-02T10:16:00.000-08:00

I figure instead of posting a whole new blog about what the family and I did yesterday, I could just link on over to my pals, TJ and Mark's blog to share the fun we all had New Year's Day. I know it's just flat out lazy and possibly even plagiarizing, but none less, here it is! I have added a few of my own photos here to fill in and add my own touch to the post! After all of that cow wranglin' we headed inside for mismosas and a rousing game of Tripoly!

http://theranchonsalmoncreek.blogspot.com/2010/01/images-of-new-years-day.html

A country boy at heart!!

My young 'uns!
the tres amigos

Thanks, friends, for offering such a warm welcome to a new year!!

Surveying the herds

Blue moon over SoHum

A New Decade

2010-01-01T08:43:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful celebration New Year's Eve with friends. With so much to anticipate this coming year, it was nice to be able to have fun and set
aside the demands for a while.

New year, new hair style!

Blessings to all this coming year. We have much to be grateful for because of the riches of God's blessings upon us, our families, and our country. Romans 5:5 says ... because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. I pray each and every one of us walks in that truth today and throughout the new year.

Bring on the New Year!

2009-12-27T13:29:00.000-08:00

OK. I know it's been forever since I have posted a blog, but I am going to try and do a better job of it this coming new year. My life isn't really that exciting sometimes, so I don't always have a lot to say. I will do my best to keep it interesting, though at times it may not always be the most newsworthy. One thing I have found over the years, is that I tend not to write when my life is in a state of stress. Often I think that no one wants to hear about the emotional rollercoaster that sometimes defines my existence, so the pages remain blank. In my private journal I can record the deepest lessons of my life, but on the web, I usually only post the banal, the sublime, the stuff that is easily digested by most people.
The deepest life lesson that I have learned this year is Acceptance. I have learned to accept things this year that I never thought I could. At times it feels like compromise, but I continually realize that it is Love that gives me the ability to accept. Accept the things I cannot change. My mom often recites the Serenity prayer to me. She is a woman of great wisdom and love.

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
The courage to change the things I can,
And the wisdom to know the difference.

That has been my motto this year that will carry me on wings of peace into the next.

Happy New Year!

The King's garden

2009-04-13T17:24:00.000-07:00

Thoughts from Spurgeon.............

See yonder the King's garden which he waters with his own bloody sweat. Gethsemane-whose bitter herbs are far sweeter to renewed souls than even Eden's luscious fruits. There in Gethsemane the mischief of the serpent in the first garden was undone. There the curse was lifted from earth. This is the garden of gardens indeed wherein the soul may see the guilt of sin and the power of love, two sights which surpass all others.

Giving Away the Store

2009-04-08T22:00:00.000-07:00

THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE HAS BEEN REPEALED

By Dick Morris

04.6.2009

On April 2, 2009, the work of July 4, 1776 was nullified at the meeting of the G-20 in London. The joint communiqué essentially announces a global economic union with uniform regulations and bylaws for all nations, including the United States. Henceforth, our SEC, Commodities Trading Commission, Federal Reserve Board and other regulators will have to march to the beat of drums pounded by the Financial Stability Board (FSB), a body of central bankers from each of the G-20 states and the European Union.

This “coordination of national agencies” and the “setting” of “standards” is an explicit statement of the mandate the FSB will have over our national regulatory agencies.

Obama, perhaps feeling guilty for the US role in triggering the international crisis, has, indeed, given away the store. Now we may no longer look to presidential appointees, confirmed by the Senate, to make policy for our economy. These decisions will be made internationally.

And Europe will dominate them. The FSF and, presumably, the FSB, is now composed of the central bankers of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Singapore, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States plus representatives of the World Bank, the European Union, the IMF, and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Europe, in other words, has six of the twelve national members. The G-20 will enlarge the FSB to include all its member nations, but the pro-European bias will be clear. The United States, with a GDP three times that of the next largest G-20 member (Japan), will have one vote. So will Italy.

The Europeans have been trying to get their hands on our financial system for decades. It is essential to them that they rein in American free enterprise so that their socialist heaven will not be polluted by vices such as the profit motive. Now, with President Obama’s approval, they have done it.

Apr 6 2009

First and perhaps not the last

2009-04-07T14:36:00.000-07:00

JoJo in her "work" uniform!

This past weekend, I accompanied Jo to work at the Coroner's office to experience my first autopsy. I was apprehensive to attend, but since I am very intrigued by the creation of our wonderful bodies, I forced myself to go. Though it was not one of my favorite ways to spend a sunny weekend morning, I am completely glad that I went.
Admittedly, the intrusion upon the human physique during the procedure is rude at best, the valuable experience gained from it far out weighs its lack of polite behavior. The entire procedure was absolutely fascinating. What a marvelous, infinitely fantastic mechanism our bodies are!! Seeing all of it up close and personal was amazing!
I was able to make it through the entire 3 hour procedure with out having to leave at anytime because of queasiness. Beforehand, I was wondering if I would be able to "stomach" the entire ordeal, not knowing what to expect. But, overall it was do-able. I made it through. I even assisted a little bit! At one point, Jo was busy doing something else and the Dr. asked me if I could assist him while he removed the right kidney!
Accepting the concrete, absolute-ness of death helps to accept the fact that this is just tissue. The spirit is gone, the soul is gone. Only the outer shell of carbon and organic matter remains. Thus, the body can be a tool of usefulness for others to learn from. Period. That's all it is after the spirit is gone.
What a unique opportunity it was for me. I treasure these days of exploring, learning, and experiencing new and fascinating things. I am thankful for each and every one of them.

Tracking Trails

2009-04-06T09:10:00.000-07:00

Arbiter and I went on a fun adventure with our Mammology class last week. We spent a portion of the morning reviewing Habitats of local ground squirrels and chipmunks, then went out to look for some after lunch break. Here we have found some evidence of a California ground squirrel burrowing in the thatch searching for food.

Arbiter found this pine cone club that he carried around with him. I told him if we found any squirrels, he absolutely could not use it to subdue them!

These are a few of the many nests that we saw in the trees. Without closer observation, we couldn't really determine who the residents were. We suspected that they were squirrel nests.

This one could be a rat, but probably a squirrel
Who says you have to graduate High school before you can go to college?? Oh, and by the way, he (we) got a 94 on his quiz!

Some tracks of some sort in the soft sand. They may be fox tracks.

We are required to keep a field journal that contains narrative, photos, drawings and specimens all of our experiences and our findings. We have learned how to identify skulls and pelts of all different types of NorthCoast Mammals. Knowing all this information makes taking a walk in the forest a whole new experience. I go a lot slower than I used to!

For Want of Sleep

2009-04-03T16:58:00.000-07:00

Sleeping upright in a recliner just won't produce the quality of sleep that one needs in order to get through the day. Especially a faux leather recliner with wheels on a laminate floor. I spent most of a long, sleepless night fidgeting and flopping around trying to snuggle into some sort of acceptable position that could garner some sleep. That was of course in between the beeps and drips of the machines that were hooked up to my dear DIL as she battled a high fever and a raging bladder infection. I did, however, find a gentle comfort in listening to the sound of the constant rhythm of the heartbeat of my yet to be born grandchild as "she" was recorded by the various monitors that were hooked up to her mother. Thankfully, though Mom's fever was high and the contractions were coming, baby was fine. After a few hours of I. V. fluids and tylenol, the fever was down and the contractions dissipated.
After a long week of trying to keep pace with 3 college classes and a day of tracking small mammals through the forest, I am ready to find a nice quiet place to rest my weary head!
Thank goodness for a wide open weekend of family time and "chill-axing" ! I find that to be "sweet-acular"!

Days in the making

2009-04-01T16:48:00.000-07:00

Few days ago:
Boy Scout Dinner- Oh, do we need to make deserts?
Practical Exam in Anatomy- 7 chapters of material to master. Lots of studying.
Daughter and son both not feeling well with ear and sinus issues; she with wisdom teeth coming in.
Yesterday:
What am I? The Black Widow of computers?? I killed another one. I don't know what happened... it just happened. One minute it worked, the next minute it didn't. Hmm. Well I was trying to upload some Windows updates, then I decided not to and cancelled it in the middle of it. That was it. Then I couldn't get anything. Since I bought it at Costco I am going to take it back. I have had numerous "mini dumps" already, so I think I will just take it back and get another one. Nice that Costco gives the customer 90 days to return electronics.
Today:
Daughter checks her grades online in Anatomy to find out that she got a low score on her exam. She gushes tears, I offer hugs and encouragement. No coffee yet. Get a call from son #1 second thing this morning. Can you watch the kids today? Wife is 8 1/2 months pregnant, throwing up and has a possible kidney infection. How can I say no? Gotta get some coffee. Finally, brown fluid flows from my Irish Attitude cup (the one that says that since I am Irish, my attitude needs no adjusting).At least I can think a little better now. Kids arrive, hungry and excited to be at Grandma's house! Lots of playing, fort building with the big boys, eating yummy snacks, scurrying around the back yard with little Tykes, then very long naps! :) I finally get a chance to sit down to work on my Algebra assignment when I remember that I am Dog-sitting for Reebs and Cam.
They arrive just as I grit my teeth in mathematics frustration with the Calculator. Rex is staying for the week. Tilly, my large black lab, is overjoyed as they run and run and run. More Algebra, more frustration, sometimes tears. Guess I will be spending extra time in the Math Lab tomorrow.
Dear Gus just walked in the door, so perhaps we can steal away for a much needed brisk walk. We have actually become masters at escaping the family nuthouse. Over the years this behavior has become a necessity in order to keep our sanity and our love alive! Sometimes we get away for a few hours, on other glorious occasions, we get days!!
The way the day is progressing.... I will take minutes if that's all I can get!!
Until then.....
Keep smiling !!!

Accomplishments

2009-03-26T21:19:00.000-07:00

This day has been a long one. It began with an exam in Anatomy and ended with 3 hours of Algebra with a little nap on the Redwood Transit in between.
I am continuing what may be the longest, crookedest college career in history. I won't even shame myself in admitting just when this whimsical journey began. Let's just say it began in the beginning and it has yet to be completed.
When I signed up for a secondary Algebra class this semester I had to ask the counselor to vouch for me that I had already taken the primary class.... albeit many long years ago. It took him an entire day of phone calls and emails to another college I had attended in order to substantiate my transcripts.
To apply for another program recently, I needed my High school transcript. When I approached the woman at the counter to ask her for it, she wanted to know if it was for one of my children.
No, I said, for me.
She paused, then stated she was going to have to go down to the basement. When she returned, she said she had to blow the dust off of it and brush the cob webs out of her hair.
Very funny...
If my college experiences were a recipe, I would not only be cooking for an entire army, but I would have a most unique ingredient list. It began with a goal, a desire to prepare for a career and enrollment at the local community college. To which I soon added some dating, some romance and eventually a marriage. I stirred in a couple of kids and promptly threw in a couple more classes. Before long I had added several more children, a couple of surgeries, a fixer upper house, and a large variety of animals and of course, more classes. I beat all of this on high for several more years which quickly became decades. So now, after all of this preparation, I am ready to put it all into the oven. With time, the mix of my academic life has begun to take shape. It looks like I might actually have something worthwhile here.
Last week, I applied for a petition to graduate with an AA degree in....
what else!...
General Studies!
Somehow, somewhere along the way, my endless hours of lectures and note taking, staying up late studying after everyone else had gone to bed, and many hard earned dollars forked out for text books has earned me the right to receive a college degree. This last Math class was the only thing standing between me and that cap and gown. So it looks like a go.
Although I won't embarrass myself (or them) by putting on that cap and gown and walking across the stage with all of those 2o yr. olds, I am still feeling very gratified that I have finally, after all these years, graduated from college. But that doesn't mean that I'm done. There will be a sequel.
Never say never.

A Simple Gift

2009-03-20T14:23:00.000-07:00

Staying indoors for long stretches of days actually has some quirky benefits. I have found that I putter around more when I can't go outside. Putt, putt..... I grab my camera to try to capture what my exploring eyes come upon. These African violets sit atop my microwave absorbing that desire-some northern light that they crave; along with whatever weird waves my microwave is perhaps emitting. The nutmeg grater awaits my morning ritual of sprinkling it's aromatic spice into my first cup of coffee. Hand-crocheted doilies that I myself don't make, find their place gracefully throughout my home.

I have always loved to collect Hurricane kerosene lamps like these. I lost most of my collection in a series of earthquakes many years ago. So, I just started collecting all over again!

These are my delicate dishes that I bought many years ago from an older gal who was downsizing her collection of belongings. The apple bowl in the background was hand painted by my mother's mother about a hundred years ago. One of the very few family treasures that I own.
My MIL gave me these years ago. I remember seeing them inside of her china cabinet; now they are just sitting inside of mine! I have no idea about them. I think they are Hansel & Gretel.

My spaces seem to get smaller as the years go by; less land to manage, fewer kids at home to look after, fewer animals to care for. I think I like it though! I find it manageable. Not too stressful.

So, there it is. The simplicity of my recent days. Don't get me wrong, the surges of stress and busyness come regularly, but I am learning to appreciate the quiet days more and more!!

Duck livers??!!

2009-03-10T15:01:00.000-07:00

In the past few years I have taken a homeopathic remedy called Oscillococcinum whenever I feel flu like symptoms coming on. I read in a health magazine that this little vial of homeopathic wonder would either shorten or lessen the effects of the influenza virus. It wouldn't prevent me from getting the flu, but it would make the whole flu induced experience less dehabilitating. So I ordered some at a wholesale price through our Bulk Co-op group. I figured if there was a way that I could survive the flu bug without getting knocked all the way down in bed, it would be worth a try. I have used it with noticeable results. Not dramatic, but noticeable.
For the last few weeks, many people around me have been getting sick. Some have had sniffles, coughs and sore throats, others have been heaving for days on end. (from both ends!) By the grace of God, I have skirted around most of these inopportune times of getting the bug. Well, just a couple of days ago, I felt my immune system kick into high gear and my energy level plummet to granny gear. My body was at war with an unseen enemy. I went on like that for a day or so until I remembered that I had this super duper unpronounceable combatant that would give me a fighting chance of overcoming the immuno-compromise that I was battling.
So last night, I took some. My aching body wasn't looking forward to another night of fitful sleep. I needed some relief. I have to say, I slept better and I feel pretty good today. I have a cough and still some tiredness, but overall, I feel better. Some say that this stuff is just placebo, but I'm not so sure.
I looked it up on Wikipedia and it says this:

The ingredients of a one gram tube of Oscillococcinum are listed as:

Active ingredient: Anas Barbariae Hepatis et Cordis Extractum
(extract of Muscovy Duck liver and heart) 200CK HPUS 1x10^-400g^[8]
Inactive ingredient: 0.85 g sucrose, 0.15 g lactose (100 percent sugar.^[9])

Duck livers?? Does this mean that I am no longer a vegetarian if I am taking meds made of duck hearts and livers? Eewww. I think that this needs more research before I can make a judgement!
That's the one thing I have noticed about these "Homeopathic" remedies..... Most of the time, the names of the stuff are impossible to pronounce! Or they are in some foreign language!
Maybe I'd be better off not knowing! Is ignorance truly "bliss?"

First of Many

2009-02-28T06:05:00.000-08:00

Baby girl had her first trip out to the beach yesterday. In between storms this week, the sun yesterday morning appeared like the debut of a contestant on American Idol. How could we ignore it's brilliance? We had to get outside to experience this winter performance. The best place to do this is by going to one of my favorite places in Humboldt County; Table Bluff Beach.

Although Miss T. looks vaguely uninterested, I had to assume she was having a wonderful time. Considering she slept the entire time would confirm that assumption. She was completely captivated by the warm gentle breezes that brushed her cheeks as she dreamed.

The dog kept bringing us sticks to throw but E. and I were too busy taking photos of our pretty in pink package.

When we got her back to the car, E. took off her blanket to reveal Miss T's sentiments on our excursion. I love you too, baby girl!

Birthday Reflections

2009-02-23T23:24:00.000-08:00

As February comes to a close, I thought I would just post some old photos that are in my family archives. Just for smiles :)
The month brought lots of reminders of our love for one another. Between flowers, chocolates and kisses, the winter days are warmed by the tenderness that flows between us as we each express our grateful appreciation of our love.

Nick had his 27th birthday.

Happy Birthday, Nick!

The Anchor Coffee house; circa 2003

His sister tried putting corn rows in his hair once. It looked even funnier when she took them out

Baked potatoes with all the trimmings for dinner.

Mmm. This looks yummy. I'm not sure just who invited these two, but they seem to think dinner looks pretty good, too.

Tracks and Scat

2009-02-22T09:33:00.000-08:00

In addition to my degree courses, son #6, ( Arbiter as you know he likes to be called), and I are taking a course in North Coast Mammal Identification. We had our first field trip this past Friday, where we went out to the local sand dunes to track small mammals and make casts of their little paw prints. Our instructor brought along all the necessary items for making the impressions of the prints. Just like we used to do in grade school - plaster of paris, water, beakers for mixing, etc. We were encouraged to hike down the beach away from most dog tracks in order to find evidences of small mammals like raccoons, opossum, rabbits and the like. The weather was so incredibly nice. On the front edge of a warm rain storm, the tepid wind blew gently from the east as the clouds floated softly by, allowing the sun to peek through enough to give us a enjoyable 65 degree temperature. It felt sooo good to be outdoors. I had been wanting to get to the beach for days!
The first thing we noticed was just how busy these little critters are. We saw tracks everywhere. Before today we would just walk right on by these prints, walking over them without even noticing them. But now that our mission was to find some worthy of casting, we carefully and gently moved about, being precise in our steps. We saw lots of rabbit droppings and poo of other sorts.

Before too long we stirred up a Black tailed jack rabbit that dashed off before I could get a photo! We tried to follow it to find some cool prints, but he was moving so fast that his tracks were nothing more than a dip in the soft, dry sand.

We were able to make some casts of a few prints.

I think most of them were coon prints.

Just as we finished up and got in the car, it started to rain!

The next morning, Gus and I took the dog out for a run and we decided to go back out to the same beach to do some exploring. I was thinking that after a light rain, the sand would be a little moist and the prints would be easily recognized.

These are oppossum tracks in a shallow mud puddle. I discoverd that oppossums have an opposable thumb on the hind foot as you can clearly see here. I brought along my casting kit and made a quick cast of this, but in my excitement in lifting it out, I set it down and then promptly stepped on it while retrieving my backpack! But the photo turned out great, so I can put this in my tracking journal.
This is a drift wood teepee that we came upon. We often find evidences of human mammals out on these dunes as well!

The skies were filled with a symphony of cackling Aleutian geese as they migrated to their annual nesting grounds here in the Eel River bottom lands.

If you look carefully, you can see them in these photos.

Gus was kind enough to come along on the adventure and even carry my pack. He tried to be as interested as possible, but truth be known, I think he was a little bored! Another adventurous day squeezed between winter rain storms.

February Musings

2009-02-17T12:38:00.000-08:00

During this month of February, the view outside my window has vacillated between thrashing hail storms and pummeling rain to sunshine bursting through billowing white, puffy clouds. Each and every moment seems to reveal an exciting display of creativity in the heavens. Indeed, the atmosphere outdoors has been dramatic. Much like my own moods here of late, actually.

It seems that just as the storm rages outside and inside the house remains a haven, my emotions have had these same similarities. Although I have also experienced the storm raging on the inside as well! Ugh. Sometimes I feel like such a jerk. A lot of my emotional swings I know are from being locked in the house more than usual, but another cause is from my weakness to adapt to being locked inside said facility with individuals that I should be able to get along with. You know, people that I love and care for. Why is it then, that I notice the messes they make when I am inside more? Why does their slothful early morning routines of rising and waking and eating and flopping seem to be more noticeable when I am confined to the house? Do I not notice them when I am running around trying to get my day off the ground? Or is it just because there isn't a lot to do all day long inside the house so I begin to notice things.... And then I begin to pick... pick, pick pick. Chiseling away at the very fabric of our relationships. This, I confess, I do. I begin to point out this shortcoming or that display of laziness or that lack of self control. So when I begin to get this way, I know I need to get out. Get outside into the fresh air in order to get a fresh perspective of my situation. Sounds simple, I know, but recognizing it while I'm in the midst of it sometimes remains cloaked in a veil of pride. I seem to think that this would be a good time to fix these broken character flaws; you know, while we are all inside with not much else to do. But then a lack of co-operation begins to unfold amongst my comrades. "What do you mean I'm being to harsh?" aghast I cry. It seems like a perfectly good time to deal with all of this!
So, to make a short out of the long of it...... I get outside even when it's damp and cold and rainy and drippy. My family thanks me for it, I'm sure!!

Yesterday Gus and I went for an adventure into some old logging areas just north of our city park. We had never been onto these particular roads so we really didn't know just where we were going! We climbed over berry vines when the road narrowed, forged raging creeks to get to the other side, just for fun. We even dragged logs out of the brush to make small crossings when we couldn't jump our way across. I felt like a kid again traipsing through the brush in the rain getting all muddy. So after an hour or so of this, my kinks were all worked out and it was easier for me to navigate around all the nuances of my interior existence. I don't particularly like winter, but I am learning how to appreciate its challenges.

Gross? Or just ......necessary!

2009-02-15T01:42:00.000-08:00

It's not that Anatomy is gross, though sometimes it is..... It is a class that I am attending. I need to take this class to further my pursuits in nursing. Jo and I are taking it together which is an entirely separate blog altogether! Jo seems to have some weird attraction to the human body after it's original occupant has departed. As a matter of fact, she just took on a job as a pathologist's asst. at the county coroner's office here in town. She is disturbingly giddy about it! Anyway, I guess someone has to do it, though not just anyone can. I guess you could say that it would have to be a special calling to actually be able to perform such a job.
As you can see from the photos, she actually would think of bringing the camera to class to record our prodding and probing of these specimens that have been generously donated by their previous owners who no longer will need them. I never realized just how generous it is to donate one's body for the use of scientific research. Apparently UCSF has a program that you can sign up to that would allow you to give your self when then inevitable time comes that you go on to meet your Maker. (For those of you that happen to be interested , FYI).
So, this being just another way to wile away the winter days...... That and intermediate Algebra. My kids tease me that I am experiencing a "mid-life crisis" but I like to think of it as a mid-life surge. I'm not ready for the rocking chair and the crocheting just yet!

First Visit to G'ma's

2009-02-14T01:35:00.000-08:00

This was her first trip to G'ma & G'pa's house. After going in for a check up with the pediatrician, the little family stopped by for a visit and to pick up a gift that came in the mail. Thank you, Julie!

Long Hours Indoors

2009-02-13T10:53:00.000-08:00

With the weather turning to from a sunny, warm January to a cold, damp February, we have had to stay indoors more than I would like to. Outside the thunder pounds and the rain pours as the ground is saturated in a heavy winter storm.
So, I visit my little grandbabies. I can't think of a better way to spend my indoor hours than to snuggle up in the rocking chair with a little bundle of baby on my lap!

Jo and I enjoyed Little Miss Tally while momma took a much needed nap.
Back at home, ACJ helped me with the dishes.

Love the little tip toes!

Little mister decided that he wanted to get in on the "fun" as well. When does dishwashing change from being fun water play to a dutiful chore? Perhaps it is the nuance of it all that keeps the grandkids so entertained!

After chores comes tea time with Dad and G'pa. Hard to tell just who is having the most fun here!

When the tea is done we play some more. ACJ has fun with Jo's ipod at Friday Nights in Ferndale.

Surfing

2009-01-24T21:41:00.000-08:00

Did I mention that I surfed while I was in Sayulita? Here's the exciting footage! I told Nick to tell his new baby daughter that Grandma may miss her birth because she was on a surfing trip in Mexico!!! Funny, Funny!

We each took a turn at riding the inviting Sayulita waves.

TJ putting her best foot forward.... even though it is goofy-foot!

Mark displayed more of the gladiator-type style.

Overall, we had a pretty good time even if the waves weren't really all that big! When you're on the other side of those waves it can feel is if you are dropping into nothing-ness while struggling to keep from being swallowed up by it! I would do it again in a minute! Good times!

Gus just thought we were all pretty crazy and said we should lighten up on the margaritas. After a few, he decided he should give it a try too!

Our trip to Sayulita

2009-01-21T22:09:00.000-08:00

What better way to endure the cold, wet winters of the Pacific Northwest than to spend a few weeks in Mexico.

Sayulita is a small surfing, fishing village about an hour north of Puerto Vallarta in the state of Nayarit. I had visited San Blas, Nayarit many years ago when I was in college, so returning again was a long time wish of mine.
This is a warm, affordable area of Mexico that is becoming more and more popular each year, but for now, it is a paradise!

We snorkeled along these pristine shores, capturing a glimpse of life aquatic near the Bay of Banderas.
The town square in the village of Bucerias.

The moon was full while we were there providing some very dramatic low tides and extraordinary moonsets over the ocean.

These are a few shots of the casa that we rented. Casa Zorro was situated at the top of a significant hill giving us not only an incredible view, but plenty of exercise walking back home after a day of indulging in cervezas and fish tacos from one of the many restaurants in town.

We had two master B&B's along with a completely stocked kitchen(not food, but everything else).
We went with another couple who proved to be just as adventurous as we are!
We surfed...

We hiked alot..... we explored as much of the area as we could, all on foot! One day we booked a catamaran out to Las Marietas Islands to do some whale watching, snorkeling and kayaking.

But most of the time we just went North, South East or West in search of new territory to explore.

This is one of many beaches that we discovered as we hiked along the ocean shores. We hiked 4 miles this day to San Pancho, the next town to the north of Sayulita.

This is just a small snapshot of the enormous rock outcropping that we scaled to complete our journey around the point south of Playa de Los Muertos. It was really scary, but we did it! This was a day full of adventure. It seemed as though each and every bend of the rocky shoreline unveiled a spectacularly beautiful little beach. We even came across one beach that had a little beach bar. We were stoked that we could take a break from traversing all those rocks to sit down and have an ice cold Pacifico! We put in about 5 miles this day and ended it by snorkeling at sunset.

Some days the beach was busy, but most of the time it was relaxing and easy. This is the main Sayulita beach on a Thursday afternoon. Plenty of activities for everyone from taking a fishing trip out on one of the little motorboats to relaxing under an umbrella with a margarita or perhaps trying your skills at surfing on the gentle rolling waves that make Sayulita popular for the beginning surfer.

Mexico is rich in colorful and inspiring architecture.
The ever happy feet!

How can such infinite beauty not bring out the romantic in us!!???

This is truly the place of endless summer.
I love Mexico!

Grandbaby Girl is here!

2009-01-18T09:23:00.000-08:00

Our little grandbaby has arrived. Just about one hour after our plane touched down on the tarmac, she made her grand entrance into the world. I had many talks with her before she was born, speaking through her mommy's tummy, asking her to wait until I got home from my trip to be born. She must have heard me, because she timed it just perfect. Dad greeted me in front of the hospital to show me the way to the room. As we walked down the corridor I could hear her first cries as she was getting her first shampoo. She is such a beautiful girl. She was 7 lbs. 5 oz. and 21 " long. E had about 6 hours of labor at the hospital along with several more earlier at home. She did great according to N.

The new little family is doing fine. They left the hospital 24 hrs. after her arrival. A great beginning for all of them.

Winter Days with the Family

2009-01-16T13:36:00.000-08:00

J&T came to visit us for New Years. Last year we went down to their place for a week, this year they came to us. We had some sunny days and some rainy days, but cold every day! They went home to Santa Ana weather!

The surf looks a lot more rough on the NorthCoast than it does in the South.

There was lots of drift wood on the beaches because of all of the winter storms we have had.

J&T were pretty tired after the long drive.

I don't think this cat moved more than a few inches the whole time the relatives were here! Nestled by the warm fire on a cold wintery day... sounds good to me!

Pregos

2009-01-12T13:25:00.000-08:00

My darling DIL's are both bursting with child! We have 2 more grandbabies on the way.

Their prego figures produce these beautiful babies!!

What a joy!
Thanks girls.

Axis & Allies

2009-01-09T12:59:00.000-08:00

So for a gift this year my boys only wanted one thing. A Board game. Hey, now. I'm good with that. Little did I know that it would cost me $80! Apparently this is the super-duper collectors edition of the game called Axis and Allies. It is a WW2 strategy game. The board for this game takes up nearly the entire surface of my dining room table! It has something like 1000 pieces. The boys have 2 other versions of the game that involve the Pacific and European theaters of WW2. They play these games all the time. In addition to having and hosting Halo parties, they host A & A parties at our house. They will typically invite 3 or 4 guys over and then spend the entire afternoon eating junk food and drinking energy drinks.

C'Bean is multi-tasking here. Or should I say multi-"texting"

Sometimes it takes them as long to set the game up as it does to play!

Lots of strategy involved.

Feline Frolics

2009-01-06T14:47:00.000-08:00

This is just a silly little video of my kitties playing around. This is what we do when the rain continues to fall and the hours go by while we stay in the house. Hey, didn't somebody named Seuss write a book about something like that?

Mexico!

2009-01-04T08:28:00.000-08:00

Soon a few friends and I will be traveling to the sunny shores of Mexico. I am leaving in a few days..... can't wait!!

I will be leaving this.....

And enjoying this...

For the next two weeks.

Wish you were here.....

A Lump of Dough

2009-01-02T08:00:00.000-08:00

Every year as a Holiday treat, I make a delicious Orange-Cinnamon Swirl Bread for Christmas morning. I usually make enough to bless all of my wonderful neighbors with a loaf as well. It is a recipe that family and friends have enjoyed for many years. It is a basic cinnamon roll recipe with a twist of orange. This year I used tangerine instead and it pushed the taste an extra level. Mmmm. I grind the wheat berries into flour just before mixing giving the bread an added measure of good nutrition. Once wheat has been ground into flour it begins to lose its B vitamin content very quickly, so grinding it as you need it, the vitamin content remains quite high. This is one way I can get my family to eat more fiber and whole wheat. I have posted more about bread baking segment HERE.

The dough is simply rolled out, cinnamon & sugar sprinkled over it, then rolled into a log. Next year I am going to try to make rolls instead of loaves.

This looked more like a banana slug or a grub than a loaf of bread!

This is two batches of the recipe. The recipe makes two loaves and I double it. I do this twice which makes 8 loaves. This may sound like a lot of bread but it gets gobbled up very quickly in my household! I glaze it with an orange-powdered sugar icing and it's good to go.

How's that for a nice morning treat??? Have a cup of coffee and enjoy!!

2009 !! Can You Believe It??

2009-01-01T07:58:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!!!!!!!!

Memories Made

2008-12-26T21:47:00.000-08:00

Each Christmas season we make sure we stay focused on the reason for our celebration. Beginning the first Sunday after Thanksgiving, we set up the Advent Wreath in our tradition to retell the Christmas story. There are 5 candles on the Advent Wreath, each one representing a certain aspect of the Christ story. The Prophecy candle which tells of His coming in the Old Testament; the Shepherd Candle telling the story of the proclamation of Christ's birth, the Bethlehem Candle foretelling the place of the birth, the Angel's candle describing the angelic visit to Mary and Joseph. Each Sunday a new candle is lit in addition to the previous one(s) until all are lit. The final candle is the Christ Candle and it is lit on Christmas Eve, culminating the long awaited anticipation of Christmas Day. During the week, we try to have evening devotions with any of the children that are home, keeping the focus of Christmas on Jesus. We have carried on this tradition for many years and the kids have always enjoyed it. I have found various advent wreath candle holders at yard sales and thrift stores that I give to my kids to use with their families. We have treasured our family times around the advent candles.

This is the first fake tree I have ever had. I actually liked it. No mess and I didn't have to cut down a tree just to decorate my living room for a few weeks.

We had a full on dinner with the all of the family and some extra guests. The girls each brought home a boyfriend this year, that was different!

Darling DIL made this cute little gingerbread house for us to devour. Notice how absolutely perfect the "snow" is!! We hated to break it apart to eat it! Although the boys thought it was great fun to "bomb" it and make holes in it.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-24T19:51:00.000-08:00

When the days grow shorter and the nights grow longer, winter arrives like a long lost friend. Just on the heels of a comfortable, gentle Fall, the rainy season has come. Various rooftops in the neighborhood sing their song of rain pattering against their shingles, each unique in their tune.
The wood shed is full, the delicate plants are put away, and the dog gets to sleep inside by the fire. The floors are continually stenciled with muddy footprints, unbeknownst to my valiant efforts to wipe them away.
'Tis the time to nestle. Time to settle into winter mode, dragging out the projects that didn't get finished last year. The knitting needles are clinking away as I try to finish up last minute gifts for my family. As you race through the day of gift giving and dining, take a few long moments to reflect on just how blessed you are and how wonderful our Heavenly Father is. Before you jump out of bed to spy the contents of your Christmas stocking, pause and give praise to the One who has given us the greatest gift of all, salvation through His Son, Jesus Christ. Because if it weren't for the free gift that God has given us, we would be lost in a sea of condemnation instead of sailing on an ocean of grace. Merry Christmas to all of you. Peace, good health and love are the gifts I wish for each one of you this season.

Family Frolic

2008-12-02T08:39:00.000-08:00

They got a hold of my camera again. Quite often I am surprised when I go to use my camera and find various snapshots of my young adult children. They really like taking photos of themselves!

I have a very expressive family!

For Baby

2008-12-01T20:27:00.000-08:00

Ev's friends gave her a baby shower last weekend. She got some really cute stuff. We sat outside on the front patio in the beautiful 70 degree weather. Hard to believe it was the end of November. Little Tallulah is to arrive in just 6 weeks. We can hardly wait.

Here are the girls sampling different baby foods for a game we played.

The November sky gave us a fond farewell as we welcomed December. The fall weather has been nearly the best I have ever experienced here on the Northcoast. Warm days with just enough rainfall to freshen up the landscape.

2008-11-29T08:22:00.000-08:00

While reading one of my favorite blogs, I came across this story. I thought it was cute!

THE GOOD NAPKINS...ahhhhh...the joys of having girls...

My mother taught me to read when I was four years old (her first mistake)....

One day, I was in the bathroom and noticed one of the cabinet doors was ajar. I read the box in the cabinet. I then asked my mother why she was keeping 'napkins' in the bathroom. Didn't they belong in the kitchen?

Not wanting to burden me with unnecessary facts, she told me that those were for "special occasions" (her second mistake)...

Now, fast forward a few months....It's Thanksgiving Day, and my folks are leaving to pick up my uncle and his wife for dinner. Mom had assignments for all of us while they were gone. Mine was to set the table.

When they returned, my uncle came in first and immediately burst into laughter.

Next, in came his wife who gasped, then began giggling.

Next, in came my father, who roared with laughter.

Then in came Mom, who almost died of embarrassment when she saw each place setting on the table with a "special occasion" napkin at each plate, with the fork carefully arranged on top. I had even tucked the little tail in so they didn't hang off the edge!!

My mother asked me why I used these and, of course, my response sent the other adults into further fits of laughter.

"But, Mom, you SAID they were for special occasions!!!" Isn't it easier to just tell the truth and be careful who you ask to set the table for you!

New Thanksgiving Tradition

2008-11-28T10:01:00.000-08:00

I had heard that if you want to burn off your Thanksgiving meal, you would have to go out and run a marathon. Well, who wants to do that! So instead of going outside running, one of the kids put on the music and began to dance. Next thing we know, we are having a dance party! With a house full of teens and young adults, I suppose this would almost be inevitable! We spent a good hour selecting our favorite dance songs off the internet, old and new! Play the video below to check out the fun times!

The rest of the day was the wonderful traditional family get together time! We are truly thankful for such treasured memories!

Ev was the first one at the table! She was ready to eat since she is eating for two! Baby will be here in 6 weeks!!

Turkeys

2008-11-26T19:25:00.000-08:00

For just about 8 months now I have been vegetarian. I began this as an experiment to see how my health and my weight would be affected. So far I haven't really noticed much change. I have been concentrating on making sure that I take in enough protein and iron, so basically I feel the same. I didn't test my blood composition before I started, so maybe that has changed; less cholesterol, etc. So, I 'm not sure how long this experiment will last.
This marks my first Thanksgiving without eating turkey. I know it will be hard not to eat just a little, but I will give it a try! I am cooking one for the family, so they won't go without!

When I see photos of these turkeys, it reminds me that turkeys are created to be eaten. Though I understand some of you might not agree with me, I speak from a voice of experience. For 20 years we raised turkeys from day old hatchlings to Thanksgiving Day dinner. This was quite an endeavor. We would order 15 - 20 downy soft little chicks and raise them up for our food. The turkeys were not the smartest bird on the farm, let me tell you! The stories that you have heard about turkeys drowning in the rain are all true! I never really had one drown, but they do tilt their heads up towards the sky allowing the water to pour down their throats when the rain starts. It is the weirdest thing! After spending umpteen dollars on feed, they were ready to butcher. Some years I fed them better than others and they would get too big too fast. They would be ready to butcher in October! We would still have to feed them for another month. Our recorded largerst butchered out, cleaned, ready for the oven turkey was 36 lbs! No lie!! We had to cut it in half length-wise to put it in our little oven. Many times we would let several of them stay "on the hoof" so to speak, keeping them alive until Christmas dinner or New Year's. Once or twice we got lazy and didn't get around to butchering them in a timely fashion and by March or April they would be having leg and feet problems. We had one go blind once. It was hard to butcher her, but we didn't want to let the meat go to waste when she got to be 10 months old or so. We had one that we called "tweak beak" because it had a deformed upper beak that went sideways instead of straight forward over the lower beak. He had a hard time eating, so he didn't hang around until November; we ate him early!
Ok, that's enough turkey stories. I have more, but you get the idea! I encourage all of you to have a wonderful Thanksgiving Day, turkey or none!
Give thanks with a grateful heart!!!

Thankfulness

2008-11-23T22:28:00.000-08:00

A few things that make my heart glad.

A big family to love

My mom

My dad

Daughters to spend time with in the kitchen

Sons who love

Grandbabies to kiss

Fun in the ocean

And this............

Love that lasts

Autumn Sun

2008-11-22T22:13:00.000-08:00

Slowly, slowly the autumn sun fades as the days become shorter and the nights become cooler.

The evening sun sinks rapidly into the depths of a misty fog as the dampness hangs thick in the air.

Winter is near, eager to step into its rightful place on the heels of fall.

I'm not ready.

November in Humboldt County

2008-11-17T08:40:00.000-08:00

Unbelievable. Sunshine and temperatures in the 70's. I don't know that I have ever seen such fantastic weather in the middle of November here in the Pacific Northwest.
We spent the entire day down at the beach with a picnic lunch and the horses in tow.

Rex and Tilly were able to romp and play together. They both love the ocean, too!

Wesmonger really likes the camera.

Here is my heart. These are the ones that I love and care for.

The day was so exquisite.

The water was even tolerable for Arbiter to go in for a quick dip!

These are definitely days to remember and treasure.

More than a 1/2 Century

2008-11-16T16:21:00.000-08:00

This marks yet another milestone for me. I have finished an entire 1/2 century on this planet with hopefully another 1/2 to complete. I am blessed to share this special occasion with two very special ladies. Both of my beautiful DIL's share in the same birthday month as do I. Our honeys treated us to a wonderful celebration of our b-days this past weekend. We shared in blowing out the candles on the cake. Shortly after we indulged ourselves in this towering mass of chocolate cake, we had an earthquake. When we came back into the room the cake had slid off onto its side and fallen over. The quake wasn't that big, but we thought it was rather amusing!

The guys were so kind to honor us and make us feel extra special. N even gave us a solo on the toy trumpet!

Since the theme of our celebration was "Viva Mexico!" our friends M & TJ brought over this strange looking fruit. Most of us had no idea what it was as we cut it open and examined the contents. Yes, we should have realized that it was a papaya.

TJ does her best to look like she knows what she is doing with the exotic fruit. We had all kinds of candles, guacamole, chips, fajitas, and even some Mariachi music playing on the CD player. We had lots of fun. Thank you friends and family for making us feel so special.

Veteran's Day

2008-11-13T15:07:00.000-08:00

This post may be a little late, but I cannot let the week go by without mentioning my gratefulness to all of those who have served in our military in order to make our great nation the best place in the world to live. Without these military heroes our country would not have freedoms like voting in a presidential election like we did last week or the freedom to pick and choose which media publication we would like to read to get our news. So many things that we take for granted. I would just like to say thank you, vets. Your sacrifice has not been in vain.

While touring the USS Midway last week, we came upon this lonely table in a corner 0f the mess hall. It seems that every ship had a special POW table set up in their dining room to remind them of the soldiers who remain imprisoned or missing in action. The sight gave each of us great pause in considering the price that some paid for our freedom.

Land of the free,
land that I love.
We are not perfect, but we are strong,
We are not sovereign, but we are united.
We are one, we are many,
We are Americans
And for this I am grateful,
I will never be ashamed.

Who are you?

2008-11-13T14:41:00.000-08:00

Can you guess who they are?

Contestant #1

Contestant #2

Contestant#3

Contestant #4

Contestant #5

The winner will receive nothing but self-bragging rights!

Fun in San Diego

2008-11-11T14:06:00.000-08:00

Seth took his first plane ride! We flew into SLC, Utah and then on down to San Diego.

This is our posh hotel room. We felt really special staying at such a nice place.

Up on the second floor there was a sandy beach area and these beautiful cabanas where you could relax and read. I absolutely love purple, so I especially enjoyed the decor.

This lovely sight was awaiting us as we entered the room. (for a mere $58!) We decided to leave it there!

We spent one afternoon touring the USS Midway Museum that is dry docked permanently in the San Diego Harbor. We wore ear phones attached to a receiver that explained all the history and details of the ship as we walked around. Seth even got to go up into the bridge area and be captain.

Time for a Rest

2008-11-06T15:59:00.000-08:00

With all the events that have consumed my attention in the last few weeks, I was ready for some rest. I am in San Diego at this moment, sitting in a posh hotel while Gus attends a conference. While this is more work related for him, it is very rest related for me. I am so worn out this week! The decor feels more like an Ikea than a hotel! This hotel is completely geared towards the age group that we are studying this week in my lifespan class. There are mirrors everywhere, colorful fabrics, pillows, and textures adorning the windows and furniture, neon lighting, glass block, a sandy beach on the second floor and a bar in nearly every community space! The night we checked in they were having the Madonna after-concert party in the lobby! So I am getting submerged in the hedonistic, energetic type of behavior that seems to permeate this age group. So far we have visited SeaPort Village, Horton Plaza, Macy's (twice), and the Harbor. I haven't really gotten any rest! Tonight we go on a dinner cruise on a boat on the bay. Now that will be nice. I will post some photos when I can. It is fun, but a little odd. I laugh to think that in another decade or so these same young-uns will want all of those mirrors gone! No need to be reminded of those things that would change our self image! At lunch today, Gus said one of his conference-mates fell into the pool at lunch time, clothes and all. They have a very tiny pool area on the 2nd floor. The patio measures about 30 X 40 with a little pool in the middle. Well, it seems that one of the guys was carrying his plate over to his table and just spaced out the fact that there was a pool in the middle of the patio! I'm sure he was embarrassed, but I bet it was funny! Poor guy! So, all in all, we are enjoying everything. God is good to give times of rest when we need it the most.

Today and Forever

2008-11-03T23:06:00.001-08:00

Sad news. Josh has been declared brain dead. Oh how much this pains my heart just to write these words. For with these words the weight of many hearts bends in grief, tears running endlessly in rivers of sorrow. Father God.
The teens gathered around in my living room today as they cried and shared and laughed. As my friend Tammie put it so well today, there is a fine line between sorrow and laughter. Each had their own grief to share. It was good. It was good to see them feel. To see them share. To see them support one another through a tough day. One brought pizza. Another brought flowers. One brought coffees. All brought their hearts.
Josh suffered from a very fast moving infection in his ear and sinuses. This quickly moved into his brain stem where it literally devoured the delicate fibers and tissues. He would not recover. Less than 24 hours after entering the ER, he was gone.
We will miss this gentle boy. I think so many of us feel so much grief and sorrow because Josh was such an open, loving social young man. He was always willing to share himself with others, never afraid to hold back. He will be terribly missed by many many young friends.
Please continue to pray for Bill, Kelly and their beautiful children. Pray for little Jordan. She is so heartbroken. She and Josh were very close and this will be a most difficult time for her.
Today I hugged my children.... alot. I heard Jo tell her brother Wes as she went to bed that she loved him. Tenderness and care so freely given.

Great is thy faithfulness
Oh God my father
there is no shadow of turning from thee
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow
Great is thy faithfulness
Lord unto me.

Pray

2008-11-02T20:30:00.000-08:00

Today has been difficult. Our dear friends have an 18 yr. old son who tonight is fighting for his life in a hospital in San Francisco. It seems he has had an ear and sinus infection for over a week and it crept up into his brain stem. He lost his ability to breathe on his own, had to be put on a ventilator and was put into a medically induced coma. We shared some special prayer time around his bedside at the hospital with his family and a few other friends from church. Josh comes from a huge family of 9 brothers and sisters. It was heart wrenching to watch each of them as they snuggled up and pressed against the side of the bed to whisper their love into his ear, their tears spilling onto the sheets. It felt so helpless to just stand there. But at the same time it felt good to be able to wrap my arms around the kids when they needed a place to bury their falling tears. What does one say in such times? Prayers. Hugs. Just a crying out to God for a miracle. Prayers to the Holy God who created the heavens and the earth. Healing Lord, please........ healing. Mercy. Please. Certainly You can do it. You can heal this boy. For it is to you, oh Lord that we look for the supernatural, for the unexpected.
Please pray for this family. Josh is such an incredible young man who loves Jesus. He loves to lead worship, share his faith, and encourage his brothers and sisters to do the same.
Please pray for Josh's special friend, Jordan, too. She is hurting for him as well.

As I wait for you......
I'm fallin' on my knees
Lord, hear my cry.

Happy Reformation Day!

2008-10-31T21:53:00.000-07:00

On October 31, 1517 Martin Luther
	nailed his 95 theses to the doors of the Wittenberg church in Germany. A day that began the reformation of the Christian church!!!
	Watch a short video clip HERE
Luther in 1529 by Lucas Cranach
Born	November 10, 1483(1483-11-10)
Died	February 18, 1546 (aged 62)
Occupation	Theologian, priest
Religious beliefs	Lutheran
Spouse(s)	Katharina von Bora
Children	Hans, Elizabeth, Magdalena, Martin, Paul, Margarethe
Parents
Signature

Fall, Family & Felines

2008-10-30T15:01:00.000-07:00

This is the last of the apples that I have to deal with.... I hope. I actually have a tree in the back yard that is still drooping with fruit. It is a late bearing apple of some sort. Usually I don't deal with those until Thanksgiving when I make some homemade apple pies.
I just thought I might upload some random photos of my family as we've enjoyed the beautiful fall that we have experienced here on the NorthCoast of California.
We are expecting our first significant rain storm of the season over the weekend. Looks like winter is creeping in whether we want it to or not!

A ride at the beach is one of the girls favorite ways to spend a fall day.

The horses just love rolling in the sand after a good run and a good sweat! Notice the little terrier in the photo who I thought I had gotten a new home for? He's back. Click on the link to hear more about that story!!

It's always a sad sight to see the trailer get packed up and put back into storage.

And this is my little buddy, Poo Poo Head, as I call him. He is a little hyperthyroidic and controling, but he's a good guy.

What is this?!

2008-10-29T12:38:00.000-07:00

Are you kidding me? What is this? I found it on my dining room table this morning.
Is that my name etched in the card? And did you notice that it says these are my permanent cards? What exactly does that mean?
I wasn't aware when my membership in this club actually started. I thought I had a few years. What's the deal? Do they want us to feel older?
C'mon.... I'm just getting used to the fact that I have gone over the hill. I don't need these people signing me up for the old people's club.
Notice that at the bottom it says that if I remove the perforated portion and send it off, I will become a member in good standing....
Who tore it off and sent it in????
I certainly didn't have a hand in it.
I would have shredded the envelope without even opening it.
Gosh... I feel old just looking at it!!!!
Does it sound like I am in crisis mode??? I'm really not. I just get worked up about random things. I love the fact that I am now 50 yrs old and I feel as good as I do! I am grateful for the fact that I can still hop on my ten speed and take a long bike ride (yes, a ten speed - I still have it from the 70's and it still works great! ). I am thankful that I have a wonderful husband that has loved me through the various seasons of our lives together, despite my mood swings :)
So, no... actually I am not in crisis mode. Getting this card in the mail offers for me a visual reminder of the years that have gone by and the ones yet to come. I guess I, too, have come to a milestone in my life just like some of my other family members in previous days.

Going Too Far........

2008-10-28T21:32:00.000-07:00

This is when you know the blogging habit is going too far.
Today while doing school work with our youngest son, Arbiter, as he likes to be called, he mentioned that he had a little bump near his eye that was bothering him. I paid little mind to his complaint until I looked up and noticed that he did indeed have a bump on the side of his nose near his eye. Upon further investigation, I realized that he had reached a milestone in his young life, just like his brothers have in the past few weeks.
I realized that this little bump on the side of his nose was not just a red bump, but it also had a little white head on it.
Wow! I cried! You've got your first zit!
My first what???? he blushed.
Let me get my camera! I cried. I want to put it on my blog!

The other kids gathered around as we made a really big deal that he had gotten his first zit. He laughingly pushed away from us, telling us that we were a bunch of weirdos! Everyone seemed to have their own remedy for a quick recovery from the little blip.
Don't pop it! Don't even touch it!
Put toothpaste on it and it will go away faster!
Use honey on it. The enzymes in the honey will eat it up.

So, there we have it. Another child reaching the heights of adulthood.
And to think ..... it all starts with a zit.

2nd Generation

2008-10-27T08:43:00.001-07:00

So I had to get out my sewing machine a few weeks ago to sew some patches on work shirts. This is something I have done many, many times over the years. Only this time, it wasn't for Gus.
S-2 gave me a call to see if I could sew some patches on his work shirt.
Teary eyed, with great pleasure I said I would.

Another amazing sight. N. becoming a Correctional Officer. Whoa.

As I post these images I am reflecting on the incredible blessings of a big family. It seems like everyday they are reaching new and exciting phases in their lives.
Over the years their dad & I have committed ourselves to instilling Biblical principles and Godly riches into their hearts. Now that they are growing as unique individuals, we are witnessing the unveiling of those lessons that we taught.

Ps. 27.... You will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.

I am a blessed woman.

Wes-Monger

2008-10-26T20:24:00.000-07:00

This is Wes-Monger behind the wheel of an automobile.........

And this is me on drugs.......... any questions?

Yes, He's driving! Yes, that's his Dad's new pick-up. and No, I don't like it !!!!!
This absolutely cannot be possible.
Once again, I am emotionally amazed that another adult milestone has been reached by one of my kids.
Amazed and gratified all at the same time.
This , of course, means that Wes will be graduating from college before too long, bringing home a young lady to meet the family, getting married.......... whoa, I'm getting way ahead of myself!

I am so proud of you, Wes. You are completing your second year of Community College at the age of 16, you are within reach of your Eagle Scout rank in Boy Scouts and you are a leader with your peers. My prayer is that you continue to grow in the riches that Christ has given all of us and that you anchor those treasures deep with in your heart. For with His grace and blessing, you will have eternal success.

Eternal Summer

2008-10-24T08:14:00.000-07:00

Never too late in the season for a beach party! We have had such a beautiful fall here on the Northcoast. The sunsets have been stunning, the temperatures in the upper 70's while the night time temps have been comfortably 50- ish.

N & E, (notice the little blue belly?) & Jo

The Boys in the Band

Not sure just what E is supervising here... maybe an agreement to do this again next summer!

Mmmm, s'mores!

Of course, happy feet.

Close the Window!

2008-10-14T22:36:00.000-07:00

This is the treat that my cat brought to me this evening. She was so proud of herself. Thank God it was very dead when she brought it in the house! I am forever going to keep my window closed! I don't care how much freedom she wants to sleep on my bed and go in and out the window all night. Can you imagine what would happen if she had brought this in alive!!! I don't even want to think about it! Last spring, in the very wee hours of the morning, she brought a live mouse into my bedroom. I woke up to her scurrying around the room playing with the poor thing! I made Gus get out of bed to try to catch the darn thing. We spent the next 45 minutes trying to capture it to throw it outside. Finally after completely tearing our room apart, we were able to catch it and get rid of it. EEEWWW! I feel nauseous just thinking about this thing. I am so glad he found it before I did. I certainly wouldn't want to step on that in the middle of the night!
I think I need a vacation....... Maybe to the pacific shores of Mexico....hmmmm.
I think I shall.
Maybe even get a couple of friends to go, too.....

Apple Harvest

2008-10-05T08:08:00.000-07:00

This is the season for harvesting all those lovely apples adorning the trees in our yard. With a little help from the young-uns, we can get this job done in no time!!!! Here's little mister helping me with the food mill.

When we were done with the processing, we got together for a group photo. We had a lot of fun. Even though it's work, when we do it together it just doesn't seem to be that difficult. (under the banner of Jesus. )

Little mister has recently gotten a haircut. This is what he used to look like a couple of weeks ago.

And here he is sporting his new look! He loves the camera!

Adios to the Summer weather!

2008-10-03T22:16:00.000-07:00

The rain has come, summer has gone. So sad.... Last Sunday Gus and I went out to the harbor entrance and had a nice summer walk. You see here in Humboldt County, we get our summer weather in the fall just before the rain comes. It is short in duration, perhaps only a few weeks, so we have to get out and enjoy it while it's here. This was an exceptionally warm, calm day out on the beach. Quiet, blue skies awaited us as we made our way down the jetty. We drank down the summer sun as if it were our last. We were determined not to waste a single minute of it. Savoring each moment like it were a delicate glass of choice wine, sipping it in & swirling into our memories. I love the ocean.

I love the gulls resting so picturesque on their lofty perches. I love the little shore birds that run along the sand with their knees bent backwards, screeching loudly as they swoop near the breaking waves.

I love to watch the ocean tide as it laps the rocks along the jetty, the water shimmering like sapphires against a brilliant sky. Mmm. And I love a Creator who so lovingly gifted mankind with such a great treasure to be enjoyed and experienced just to give us a glimpse of how incredible He is!

It was a very good day.

Ms. Tilly loves the ocean about as much as I do.

I also love the man who on any given day will drop whatever he's doing to spontaneously run off on an adventure with his honey. Just because he loves me. Just because he likes to be with me. Just because he is that kind of guy.
Wow, I am incredibly blessed.

Safe Haven

2008-09-25T19:39:00.000-07:00

I have to admit. I've had days like this. But then again................

While reading the news, I see this story of a guy who drops off all 9 of his children at the local hospital under the protection of the "Safe Haven Act." This is a law enacted to allow mothers (or fathers for that matter!) to drop off their unwanted children at a local hospital instead of abandoning their newborns in a trash can or in a bathroom somewhere. In Nebraska, where this particular story took place, they have expanded this law to include older children as well. Apparently, this dad had had enough of his kids and decided to just drop them off.

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,428022,00.html

His name has been kept anonymous because he is protected under the law. I hope they aren't homeschoolers.

Can you just imagine this???

I can just see the dad telling the kids, "That's it! I've had it!"
And then off they went.

I've had difficult days and all, but this just seems so extreme! I love my kids far too much to ever do something that extreme. (and they love me!)

What will happen to those kids? Will he wake up tomorrow feeling horrible that he ever did such a thing? Or will he buy a plane ticket for he and his wife to spend some time in Cancun?

And what about his wife? Does he even have one? He must! Did she have any say in all of this?

Wow. Something like this sure makes you wonder...

Here's a nice nostalgic photo for you. This was taken probably 5 or 6 yrs ago! Down by the Eel River.
Did I mention how much I love my kids? They're the best!

Humboldt Harvest of Another Kind

2008-09-24T07:59:00.000-07:00

As the days hover between summer & autumn with warm, breezy days and cool, misty nights, harvest is in the air. By harvest I don't mean the skanky illegal kind, but the productive, homestead kind. The kind of harvest that provides for me a cupboard full of canned pears and preserved jellies and a wood shed filled with neatly stacked dry firewood for the wood stove.
Last weekend we visited M& TJ up at the Ranch.
We gathered fruit that was ripening on the trees while the guys went out to fill the pickups with wood. The best part about a trip to the ranch is the time of visiting and sharing our stories while relaxing in M&TJ's living room.

The grandkids discovered TJ's Matryoshka dolls and spent an inordinate amount of time examining them! You know, those little wooden nesting dolls that stack into one another. We were amazed that ACJ new the real name for them and asked TJ if she could play with her Matryoshka dolls. My what??? TJ learned the real name for them from a very young teacher!

On our way out we got a quick glimpse of those movable boulders that are seen on the ranch from time to time. These things look like prehistoric creatures that dwell among the rocks, camouflaged by the grasses and contours of the countryside. Notice the tiny little legs poking out from under that huge mass of wool!

They are almost the size of a Volkswagen beetle!

The sunset was a stunning farewell to a productive day.

Civil War Re-enactment

2008-09-22T08:28:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, the boys got to participate in a re-enactment of the Civil War with a group that comes to town every so often to portray battles that took place during the war. This year our boys went with the Boy Scout troop to help out with parking. When they arrived, the older boys were invited to grab a Confederate uniform and a gun and get in line! Probably similar to the way it was during the actual Civil War. Many boys were lying about their age just to be able to go into battle. Some drummer boys were under 14 yrs old. Many 15 & 16 yr old boys ran off to fight in the war when fighting erupted near their home towns.

Wesmonger is 2nd from the left. Notice the 2 biffys in the background... Kind of spoils the authentication!

Reporting for duty, Sir!

Off they go for their first engagement

The entire area was set up the way it might have been back in 1865. For a small entry fee, folks could come and browse through the camps asking re-enactors questions about the Civil War.

The boys had a great time. Though I don't know that boys had braces on their teeth or "Vans" on their feet back then!
Seth got to participate the next day (by lying about his age, just as he might have back then!)
I didn't get any photos of him, though. I was home sick with a cold :(
My neighbor who is a photographer took some of him, so I hope to get those soon!

Tea Party with the Grandbabies

2008-09-21T07:45:00.000-07:00

Oh my, are we excited about a tea party with Grandma! We even have real tea and cream.

Is this how we pour it, Gran?

Hmm... looks like little bro is up to something....

Surely there is mischief in the making here!

Going for a grab at something... anything!

Oh... now I get it... we can share it!

Making Pectin from Quince

2008-09-19T00:03:00.000-07:00

I get a large, sturdy knife to cut these things; seeds, cores and all. All I do is rinse off the downey soft fuzz that covers them. They are a hard as stone so slicing them takes some muscle! When they are ripe they are a little easier to cut up, but not much!

This is all of the fruit cut up into random chunks with enough water poured over it to cover them. They smell alot like apples when they are cooking.

Now I let the fruit cook into the water for about 2 hours or until it is good and soft. I love the way it turns a beautiful pink color.

Here I have 3 sieves going at once, draining the juice into the bowls. I just bought 2 of these sieves at a yard sale last weekend. I guess that was pretty good timing! I saw a recipe on the internet that uses the pulp for some kind of desert dish. I forget what it was called. It looked like a good recipe, but unfortunately I had already discarded my pulp into the compost bin. Next year I will have to try this other dish.

I just let the fruit sit in the sieve until all the juices run out. I don't squeeze it or press it or anything. I just let it set.

Once I get the juice extracted from the pulp, I boil it down for about 45 min.

Then I cold pack it into jars. After all that hard work, I only got two pint jars. I am going to try mixing it with grapes to make grape jelly tomorrow. Supposedly, I can use it in place of pectin, so this will be an experiment. I hope that it works!

Tests

2008-09-18T19:03:00.000-07:00

I am pushing myself out of my comfort zone. As you can see from this photo, I feel pretty comfortable in the kitchen, doing what I do best in the kitchen; cooking, canning, that kind of thing. Over the years I have spent many long hours over the stove preparing wonderfully nutritious meals for my family. (No, I'm not gloating, I really have!). In recent months I have ventured out of the kitchen, so-to-speak, and into cyberspace. I am taking online college classes.
Along with taking online college classes goes taking online college tests. I have a class that has a test, sometimes two, every week. At first blush, this doesn't seem too difficult. But then, as they say, the devil is in the details. The test must be taken in a ten minute time frame. 10 questions, 10 minutes. In all fairness to my professor, I also get three attempts at taking this test in order to get a decent grade. Seems easy enough, except that each attempt at the test presents different questions! Sometimes a previous question will appear, but mostly, each time I take the test, there are new questions. So, the first few times I submitted my quiz, I did pretty lousy. I even emailed the teacher to tell him that his tests were too hard. (They really were!) Now that I have taken 6 quizzes, I am finally getting the hang of it. The last 2 quizzes I got a 10 out of 10 on the first try! I was so proud of myself, I just had to tell someone! So I decided to tell the entire blogsphere of my accomplishment!

I have also discovered the benefits of sharing my kitchen with the other women in my family. I figure if I make sure they all know how to cook I won't have to! Pictured above: Jo, me, Dallas & Evelyn making egg rolls, chow mien and crab cheese puffs.

Yes, that is a little belly on E! Little Tulula is growing quickly in her belly!!!!!! We now know that N & E are having a girl!

News flash!!!! Dallas and Nate are having another baby! Just found out last night! Our family is growing rather quickly these days!

In Honor of Uncle Jim

2008-09-17T10:27:00.000-07:00

I had an uncle who recently passed away. My Uncle Jim was a WW2 veteran who served in the military, was held captive by the Swiss then came home to share his story. He lived a long life with many years of service in various civic organizations. Several weeks after his memorial, my father organized a 21 gun salute with his veteran's group to honor the life of a man who gave his youth to serve in our country's fighting forces. We were invited to join in on this special event, to witness the respect and honor given to a passing friend and loved one. I was especially moved by the sincerity these men expressed as they spoke of the life of a man they knew not, but one with whom they shared a common bond. Just as my uncle had volunteered himself to defend our country's liberties, these gentlemen also have given years of their lives to do the same.
My dad is the one at the far end holding the POW flag. He too shared his youthfulness with countless other young men in defending the US during WW2.

Here are the men firing off the 1st round of 7 guns. I apologize that this photo is blurry but I jumped a bit as the guns went off. They were louder than I had anticipated!
Thank You again, gentlemen for honoring my family in this special way.

Humboldt Harvest

2008-09-15T07:35:00.001-07:00

So among many other things, I have been "putting up" preserves. This is a chore that I have grown to love. A labor of love, I guess you could call it. Since I don't have a lot of my own fruit trees any more, I have to hunt. Yes, just like the guys trek through the forest looking for the perfect buck, I too must trek (or ride my bike or drive) through town looking for neighboring yards with lonely trees laden with fruit. When I find one that meets my needs, looks neglected with fruit dropping needlessly on the ground, I do what I call a cold contact. I knock on the door and ask if the owners would mind if I pick their fruit tree. Most of the time people say "Sure! Go ahead." So I do. Of course, I don't need to do this too often, as most of the time I can get what I need just from friends who have an abundance of fruit, like these little beauties from TJ & Mark.

While out with girlfriends the other day, I spotted a tree that I had been searching for. I hollered, "A quince tree. Stop!" Quince is a very oddly unique fruit that most people are not familiar with. Back in the day, a homestead would always include a quince tree. Why? Well, the fruit of the quince, while being very unpalatable raw, provides an essential ingredient for canning and preserving.

This strange looking little fruit makes a great source of pectin. And as any Canning cook can tell you, pectin is the one ingredient that makes or breaks a great jelly.
So, I went back to the house, drove up the long driveway to the house that we call the "Castle."
My kids said, "You went up to the castle?" The castle is a weird monstrosity of a house that is made of stone and comes complete with large turrets on every corner. The trees are largely overgrown and unkempt which gives it a very spooky kind of feel. I shyly drove up the driveway with my daughter, who opted to stay in the car. When I stood in the driveway, I felt strangley vulnerable, but determined to accomplish my mission. The owner came out cautiously to investigate this intruder in his domain.
As he gingerly poked his out from over one of the turrets, it turns out I know the guy from years ago and we actually had a really nice conversation! He was more than happy to let me have whatever fruit I wanted from his tree! When I can these things I will post some photos so you can actually see the process. It's quite involved.

A Little Spice

2008-09-14T08:45:00.000-07:00

According to friends, I haven't been contributing to the "mix." I haven't added my "old cabbage?" to the web stew. Ok, I know I have been remiss on my postings. I have left those of you who read this silly thing with hunger pains in the depths of your curious minds. I will have to post more later as I must get to church, cook dinner for my entire extended family, and clean up the house. All this before the day is done. In other words, I don't have the time to be sitting here in bed on a leisurely, quiet Sunday morning, (the boys are all out camping) drinking coffee, writing on my blog! I must get going!!!!!!!!! Daughter is bringing home Beau to meet the family, so I am excited! He is wonderful! More on that later........

Update

2008-08-30T08:45:00.000-07:00

Whoa. It's been almost two weeks since I've written anything. Sometimes I just don't have anything that I think is worth saying. The Fall semester has begun and I am again returning to school. I am taking 10 units. I am hoping to work towards a degree in nursing. It feels a little weird to be on campus taking physiology during the day with all those young people, so I just try to keep my head low and act like I belong there. Two of my classes are online which is nice. I am only on campus two afternoons a week. I call it my mid-life-return-to-college stage of my life. We'll see where it leads.
I just found out that grandbaby #3 is on the way. N and E are going to have a baby! Apparently the little darling is a pre-nuptual conception and will be due sometime in January. An exciting event no matter what the circumstances! I am so happy for N & E. Next week they will have an ultrasound to find out the gender. Can't wait.
Reebs is in love, Jo is growing up too fast, Monger is a full fledged teenager, and Arbiter thinks he should be done with his education at the ripe age of 12.(He chose this internet name for himself).
These names of course are not their real names, I just think it's best to leave some details of their lives uncovered. You never know, they may want to run for president someday and we wouldn't want anyone to be able to dig up any loose dirt from their past! Can you just imagine that? The media uncovering events like how they treated their mother when they were 14 or who they were dating and where they worked in H. S.??? It would be insane. So just in case they want to become public figures, their names will forever remain anonymous. (even though some of you know what they are!).

Fogust

2008-08-18T13:07:00.000-07:00

I don't mean to be whiny or ungrateful, and I suppose I am, but seriously..... this has got to be the crummiest summer weather I have ever experienced in Humboldt County. I wonder what my winter outlook will be like if I am this gloomy during the summer. You know the feeling. When the sky is dank and gray all day long.... it sort of drapes over your spirit as well. Today after I dropped S3 off at his summer job, S4 and I rode our bikes out to the college. We actually got dripping wet! Not with sweat, but with drizzle. Or maybe I should call it fizzle, being it was more of a super heavy fog than an actual rain. Funny, funny. Here it is Aug. 18 and I am still waiting for summer! And school starts in a week! EEeekk! Ok, I'm done whining. Enough. Reebs does a good job of demonstrating my sentiments!

Yesterday I spent a good part of the day browsing the internet searching for vacations. I know, it must have something to do with this weather..... I looked at Cancun, Hawaii, Zihuatanejo (Mexico), Cabo. I am dreaming of sunny weather! I have a credit with the airlines that I need to use before November, so I am looking for a way to spend it. The flight prices have gone up dramatically in the last year. Whoa. Mexico is still looking like my best bet. So if I don't post for a while that might just signify that I have flown southward, toward the equator, in order that I may get some summer weather somewhere!

The Costco Experience

2008-08-11T22:50:00.000-07:00

Most of us have seen it. That person who returns the rusted out b-b-que that is probably 5 years old to Costco for a refund. Or how about the ones who bring back the nova-foam mattress cover after they've slept on it for a few weeks only to decide that they don't actually like it? With disgust we carefully maneuver our carts past the refund counter while we mumble something under our breath that sounds like a cat hissing when its tail gets stepped on.
"Oh, come on. That person's not really expecting Costco to give them their money back, are they?" Hissssssssssssss.
"Can you believe it? Abusing the system that way...Tsk, tsk....
Well, today that refund abuser was me. I can hardly believe it myself. Somehow I wound up offering to ride along with my son while he returned the demolished RV cover back to Costco. It sounded like a nice time to bond and chat, which it was, but it was also horribly embarrassing! For one thing, it took us two carts to get the thing back into the store. A flat one for the poles and then a regular cart to cram the plastic cover into. How he would've done it on his own, I know not. As a wayward pole slid off the side of the flat cart making a loud clanging sound, I almost took out a woman caring a child in her arms. That brought a few looks. I just kept telling Nate to keep his head down and don't look up! Just then I thought I heard him scream one of his little man-type screams that he does, because a snail crawled out from under the canvas and started to crawl up his hand. He mentioned that the canvas cover had been outside on the ground for a few days. That would explain all the snails. Eventually we made it inside to the refund counter amid the long hard stares of those loyal Costco customers marching past us with their carts loaded with recent purchases. Did they have to look so long? Did we really look that ridiculous? We really did look that ridiculous.
Just then, no.... That's not who I think it is heading this way, is it?
No.... please, I don't want to see anyone that actually knows me....
"Well Hello, How are you doin'? "
"Just great " I lie.
"Is that all your stuff there?"
"Mine?...This stuff?... Oh no, it must be this guy behind me...it's his stuff."
"Hmmm, well, Hey, great to see you."
"Yeah, You too!"
I think I have successfully pulled it off.
Just when I hear my son ask me,
"Do you hear a rooster crowing in here........You disowned me over a canvas RV cover!"
I couldn't help but laugh and apologize, but c'mon...I had to save face.
We laughed about it in the car on the way home!
And the refund? Yes, Costco did give us our money back even though I bought the thing a few years ago. (without the snails, of course).
That's got to be the best customer service any store has to offer. Since they have such a great return policy, I look there first to buy what I need. Then if I can't find it there I will get it elsewhere.

Here's a typical Costco run for our family. Wesmonger went with me last time I shopped and he victoriously exclaimed that this should last us a month or so...
How about a week, Wes.
Really? was his reply.
Really.

A Getaway

2008-08-10T19:53:00.000-07:00

This is how I like to spend summer weekends..........in the sun, in my bathing suit & flip flops, hangin' out with the girls in the redwoods, cruisin' with my dog.
It sure beats this!

I canned a bunch of strawberries the other day. Mmmm. I made some whole wheat rolls to go with it!

Summer Time in Salmon Creek

2008-08-06T08:34:00.000-07:00

Happy feet. This is what feet should be doing on a hot summer day in August. Although here on the coast we have had the coolest summer I can ever remember, the inland valleys regularly have daytime temperatures in the 80's which lures us to the rivers and creeks for fun in the sun.

And of course, sleeping is required. All I could accomplish after all the activities I have been writing about was a nice afternoon nap. Even though it looks like I collapsed upon a pile of hard rocks, I actually found a small portion of warm sand in which I carefully nestled myself.

All that napping makes one hungry, so of course we then spent the rest of the afternoon doing that among other things.

Important things like sitting under Mark & TJ's veranda which are loaded with grapes

and watching the cows and donkeys graze on hay and grass.

Did I mention how much I love summer?

Family

2008-08-05T09:12:00.000-07:00

They grow up so, so fast. One day they're babies and the next thing you know, they're getting jobs, going to college, getting married and having children of their own. Enjoy the journey.

BooBoo butt

Sethy

Primitive Blogging

2008-08-04T20:37:00.000-07:00

Back in the day, as my grandparents used to say, before this technological era of electronics where we use blackberrys, palm pilots and laptops to manage our days, there was the family chalk board. On this board we would post the days or the weeks appointments, the daily chores or a bible verse for daily inspiration. With the advent of every type of personal management device known to man, the simplicity of the blackboard brings the busyness of the daily routine to a pace that somehow just seems a bit more manageable.
During the family visit, the inspirations were eagerly jotted down on our family chalkboard. Each day there were new "posts" written by whomever paused and wrote as they passed through my kitchen. Many times the inspirations are drawings; other times it may be a famous quote or verse of poetry or song lyrics. Sometimes the board isn't quite big enough to display all the creativity and sadly we have to erase it to allow for more chalk blogging.
Cruising through my kitchen each morning on my way to the coffee pot I enjoyed all the little sayings that my family posted on the board. I felt this was another opportunity to become more familiar with each one of my nieces and nephews as each one of them has become more eager to share their insights as they enter early adulthood.

Arriving at our friend's ranch, we were greeted with their family inspiration of the day which happened to be JoJo's birthday greeting!

Happy Birthday, darlin'!

More Wedding Pix

2008-08-02T08:09:00.000-07:00

My mom & Nate

Awaiting his beautiful bride

"I do"

S4 reading Colossians 3:12-17

Mr. & Mrs. Nick & Evelyn Downey

Boo & Beau

Mom & Son

The Babies

The photo shoot

Off they go.

Lamphere Dune Walk

2008-07-31T21:08:00.001-07:00

I have to say, this day was one of thee most incredible days I have ever experienced on the beaches in Humboldt. This is the view looking north towards Trinidad. I felt like I was in San Diego!

My brother trying to imitate Ariel from the Little Mermaid.

Beachcombing

For these guys who live in So. Cal, this is just an ordinary day. But for those of us who live here in Humboldt, we know that these types of days are few and far between.

S4 stretching his stride

My sis heading down the backside of the dune. Wow. Look at those strong calves!

Beach Party for Boo

2008-07-30T20:38:00.000-07:00

A further photo blog of our outings with the relatives. We went fast and furious for about four days just so we could do all the things we wanted to do while the family was here. I think we downloaded over 700 photos one night, but don't worry, I won't post all of them!
Boo turned 21 this week, so we had a bonfire down at the beach with family and friends.

Ceal & I

The biggest hotdog ever!

Thanks to Eric & Tate, we had plenty of firewood for our cooking fire! Wesmonger tries not to burn his hands.

I'm not sure about this photo. Some people are doing yoga, others are fishing and still others are just taking it all in. The guys actually hooked a pretty good size perch which we insisted they throw back in, only to have Miss Tilly retrieve it from the surf and bring it back!

Cousins

My DIL and Tate doing what we do best on the beaches in Humboldt County; eatin' a hotdog and having a beer!

Nate & Little Mister had a fun time in the sand.

And of course the setting sun stole the entire evening!

Relatives in Humboldt County

2008-07-28T20:15:00.000-07:00

After the wedding this past Saturday, some of the relatives hung around for a few days to take in some of our amazing Humboldt County natural wonders. We took them on a guided walk through Headwaters Reserve the first day which left them in awe of the towering trees and the strange creatures that dwell in this forest.

We were a little worried about Wesmonger here. We weren't sure if he was going to get eaten by this stump or what?!

We all had a great time as you can see by all the beautiful smiles!

Cutting the Apron strings

2008-07-28T00:10:00.001-07:00

Now came the time to commemorate leaving his family and cleaving to his wife. At the rehearsal dinner I brought along one of my favorite aprons, one that I had worn many times while raising Son#2 from boyhood to manhood. Stained and tattered, I removed it from my waist and asked him to grab hold of the other end of the ties. I ceremoniously removed a pair of scissors from my pocket and snipped off the tie that he was holding and let the apron fall suddenly from his grasp. I told him that the apron strings were now cut and that I was no longer responsible for his care. I handed the apron to his soon to be wife and told her that now she could take over as my work is finished!

E looks like she's not too sure what to do with it but I'm confident that in time, she will develop all the skills she needs to make her man happy!
Later that evening, S2 came up to me to show me that he had put the apron string back together by tying it in a nice little knot! Very funny, I laughed, but that didn't change a thing! Although he and I will always be tied together like that apron string, the new Mrs. D will be the one wearing the apron now.

The Uninvited Wedding Guest

2008-07-27T23:09:00.000-07:00

Sometimes no matter how carefully the guest list is developed, there can be that one uninvited guest that boldly comes to the festivities with out an invitation. And that's exactly what happened, though not in the way that we expected. Yes, as you can see by the photo below, our uninvited guest was not your typically obnoxious long lost uncle, or a heartbreak from the past. Oh no, our uninvited guest was uglier and scarier than that! Our party crasher was a young California Brown bear. The four legged, furry kind. With big hairy paws and long sharp claws. Dudes, we were scared. I was ready to climb into the nearest car and lock the doors. Most of the young people ran over to get a closer look while their parents hollered at them to stand back. They were much braver than I.

The excitement all started at the Rehearsal Dinner. We were outside, in a very rural setting at a very rural country ranch out in the middle of a small meadow. We had been informed by our Ranch hosts that Mr Bear has been visiting regularly in the evenings about 7 p.m. About halfway through our meal, I heard the first shouts of excitement. Someone had seen a bear! What!?! we all cried! We flew out of our chairs to get a closer look (because to most of us, seeing is believing) as we were completely dismayed and awed at this wild creature. He roamed for about 40 minutes cruising around back and forth near us, then our hosts ran him off after he stole a loaf of bread off of their back screened in porch. I was glad to see him go.

This photo had to have been taken before Mr. Bear showed up, because they wouldn't look so relaxed and happy after seeing that hairy beast prowling around looking for an opportunity to steal our food.

Here we are with the newest Downeys. The big wedding day is over, the presents are opened and the happy couple has gone off on their honeymoon. Now we can settle back into life. No more intensity! Wow. this stuff really wears you out. I am truly amazed at all the little details that need attention when preparing for a wedding. From putting out ice and drinks to hanging lacy curtains to decorating tables, moving chairs; the list can be almost endless. So much fun and excitement, but also a lot of work! We could have hired a wedding planner, but they can be very expensive so my other DIL volunteered to oversee the implementation of all of E's ideas and desires for her big day. Everything went super great. We awoke to the most excellent weather we could have wanted. No fog, warm breeze and blue skies. Just what we prayed for.
After all the festivities were over, we were more than ready to finish up and get some much needed rest. Just when the last of the guests departed and we were busily cleaning up the grounds, who do yo think made another grand appearance? Yep, Mr. Bear came back. He just wanted another look around to see what kind of left overs we were going to leave for him. This time he came a little closer and sneered a little bit more. Our host says that he will have to get serious about finding somewhere else for this guy to live, because he is getting just a tad bit too bold.
Off go the happy honeymooners!

Pre-Wedding Day Crunch

2008-07-24T00:09:00.000-07:00

Only two days left until the big event. So far everything is going great. E has done a great job putting everything together. Everyone has their jobs to do and it all seems to be getting done little by little. We have been altering dresses, hemming suit pants, scoping out areas for picking wildflowers for the vases, getting haircuts, cleaning, cleaning and cleaning the house! DIL has been hand crafting and sewing pink ties for all the groomsmen. Today I painted the arch under which the couple will say their vows. Tomorrow we are going down to the ranch to clean up the grounds and deliver tables. Friday we have the rehearsal and then the dinner afterwards which I am cooking. We are having a big mexican food extravaganza! We have family and friends coming into town to visit so I may not be posting for a few days. We have lots of activities planned for the relatives while they are here. We are going for a hike in Headwaters Forest, have a bonfire on the beach, go swimming at Three Falls, explore the Lamphere dunes, and of course, sit around and drink coffee and catch up on all the news. Can't wait to see everyone!

Hero's Homecoming

2008-07-23T22:58:00.000-07:00

He's baaacckk! Even if it was just for a short visit, Hero's coming over to our house was fun! Most of my friends remember Hero, our little fox terrier who needed a new home.
After the guy from Arcata adopted Hero I tried to warn him. I told him that if a tall, beautiful brunette gal came running across the Plaza screaming the dog's name that it would most likely be my daughter. Well, as fate would have it, the ever-courageous, outgoing, socialite Reebs, decided she would like to follow up on this handsome dude who adopted our little Hero. No, she didn't see him in town or on campus, so she decided to just take matters into her own hands. In her charming, sweet way she sent a friendly email to this certain single, tall, handsome new owner of Hero asking if it were possible for her to visit the dog and he very promptly replied to her inquiry with a resounding yes. Since both of them are single, tall and very outgoing, they began spending more time together...... with the dog, of course. Before too long they were hanging out fairly regularly. A few weeks have gone by now and I had been anxious to know if I was going to get to visit with the little bugger. Admittedly, I really have missed him. When Reebs & Cam came over to go horseback riding, they brought "Rex" with them to see us. I really am stoked that I got to see him again. And he looks so good. Cam keeps him in really great shape. They spend alot of time outdoors doing all sorts of activities. Rex was excited too! He wriggled and squirmed and licked and jumped and tore around the yard with Tilly.

As you can see from the video, even Tilly was happy to see him. They wrestled together on the floor, then later on that afternoon they ran along side the horses on the beach for hours. I kept thinking about the story of Black Beauty when he and Ginger are separated but then they get to see each other again. Kind of the same sort of feeling... sort of. Anyway, I think it's a cool story. Hero and Cam were definitely two faces that I never expected to see again! Would I have ever thought this kind of thing would happen when I adopted Hero out? I don't think so. It's definitely been an unexpected pleasure. I still get to love on him and see him and that's pretty special to me. It makes the adoption a little easier to cope with. Truly this is an even better ending to an already great story.

Three Falls, Ooops!

2008-07-21T16:09:00.000-07:00

No greater way to spend a sunny summer Sunday sabbath than swimmin' at the Chapman Falls. (Wow, that's a mouthful of S's.) We had our annual church picnic at the ranch yesterday and from what I could tell, everybody had a wonderful time. For any of you who have been to this mostly obscure Humboldt jewel-of-a-place, you know just how amazing it is. Nestled deep within the Chapman Ranch lies this refreshingly beautiful waterfall and swimming hole, accessible only to guests and friends of the Chapman family. Let me just take the time to say that I am most grateful for the opportunity to be invited to enjoy such an incredible natural wonder. TJ & Mark are two of the most caring, sharing people I have ever met. Each and every time I hang out with them, I am encouraged & inspired to grow deeper in the grace and love of Christ. You guys are exceptional people, I mean it!

This is one gigantic inflatable inner tube! Lots of kids and dads spent most of the day climbing and jumping on this thing!

Then there were others who just wanted to soak up some of that warm, SoHum sun.

The only way to get down to the falls is to hike down a really long, steep hill, (which some of us did. That made us more than ready to jump into that cold water!) or take a ride in one of the ATV type vehicles. So Mark shuttled people up and down in his cruisin' convertible. Once you arrive at this spot you still have to hike another 1/4 mile down a rugged, steep foot path to reach the falls.

Even Velma made it down the trail. What a gal! There was no way we could persuade her to stay back with the lawn chair crowd. She said that she was plenty sturdy to make it down there and that she only needed to hold Mark's hand to make it down. Graciously, he complied and helped her up and down the trail.
Later that evening we headed back to the coast that evidently had once again had remained socked in with fog for a majority of the day. We went from 85* temperatures to 55* in about 30 minutes! Many people are commenting that this is one of the coolest summers we have had in a very long time. Night time temperatures are still hovering around 50* still. But for those of us that have lived here for a while, that's Humboldt for ya'!