Hi there!
After 3 days and 6 hours without electricity, I'm back with two very clean fridges and a whole lot of twigs and branches across the yard.
We got off very lightly. We only lost two and a half trees on our property (the half is a leaner we need to have cut down). One missed the shed by about ten feet and the other is parallel to the tree that was felled by Isabel in 2003, both missed the playsets in our backyard.
As for food, I'm very fortunate to have a good friend like Meryl. She never lost power and happily opened her fridge and kitchen to us. So the only things I tossed are the odd item that turns up when you empty out a fridge (that sour cream is how old?).
Add on top to this this, my mother flew in for a quick visit.
So needless to say I've been a wee bit busy and Artist of the Week has to wait until next week.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Sunday, August 28, 2011
And Murders Of Crows
I found this short to be simply beautiful. I like the style of animation. It brings to mind watercolor, pen & ink, and oddly enough sand painting.
Friday, August 26, 2011
MCP Project 52: Connections
Marching band camp is all about making connections. You need to connect with your band mates, the music, and of course the drill patterns.
I life has been pretty much dedicated to band camp this week. I volunteered to help with handing out lunches (during the second full week the band boosters offer a different lunch each day for the kids to purchase), sit outside and keep an eye out for heat exhaustion, and help fit kids in the uniforms. As a result I've barely been home.
But all the hard work and time spent is well worth it when I see my boy making all the right connections.
I life has been pretty much dedicated to band camp this week. I volunteered to help with handing out lunches (during the second full week the band boosters offer a different lunch each day for the kids to purchase), sit outside and keep an eye out for heat exhaustion, and help fit kids in the uniforms. As a result I've barely been home.
But all the hard work and time spent is well worth it when I see my boy making all the right connections.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Hoping For Blue Skies
But preparing for the worst.
Irene shouldn't be too bad, mostly just rain. However it has been a good excuse to police the yard and put away things into our vast crawl space. Crawl space is such a misnomer for the area beneath our house. There are large areas where you can be almost upright. Anyway this means our canoe and deck furniture have a safe place to be stored during big weather.
Hopefully most of the hysteria surrounding Irene will be unfounded and just the result of the little 5.8 excitement from earlier this week.
Irene shouldn't be too bad, mostly just rain. However it has been a good excuse to police the yard and put away things into our vast crawl space. Crawl space is such a misnomer for the area beneath our house. There are large areas where you can be almost upright. Anyway this means our canoe and deck furniture have a safe place to be stored during big weather.
Hopefully most of the hysteria surrounding Irene will be unfounded and just the result of the little 5.8 excitement from earlier this week.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Artist of the week: Swingin'
This week's artist is Nate.
The picture I have of him here is cropped from a larger picture that I took during vacation. It is part of the Bear Creek Lake State Park set and is one of my favorites. It was our first morning and the kids were eager to go fishing. Nate had brought his best friend along for our trip and the two of them were down by the lake's edge with their poles. I had tagged along with my camera in case anything caught my fancy and I was so glad that I did.
The morning light and the reflection of the blue sky on the lake's waters produced a stunning photograph. For me at least, the key to good photography is to have your camera in hand and to keep your eyes open.
Anyhoodle, enough about the picture.
Last week Nate was messing around with the Legos and designed a single rider swing. It worked fairly well, but it was not particularly elegant. After a bit of reworking he decided to make something more along the lines of a porch or bench swing.
This proved to be a far superior design.
As you can see in the picture it comfortably holds to Lego men. The bench swings freely ( that's Nate's hand in the picture) and is far less inclined to break down as opposed to the single seat model.
Once again my children have created something on their own from our large supply of Legos. I remember them as a good creative toy and it's nice to see they still are today.
The picture I have of him here is cropped from a larger picture that I took during vacation. It is part of the Bear Creek Lake State Park set and is one of my favorites. It was our first morning and the kids were eager to go fishing. Nate had brought his best friend along for our trip and the two of them were down by the lake's edge with their poles. I had tagged along with my camera in case anything caught my fancy and I was so glad that I did.
The morning light and the reflection of the blue sky on the lake's waters produced a stunning photograph. For me at least, the key to good photography is to have your camera in hand and to keep your eyes open.
Anyhoodle, enough about the picture.
Last week Nate was messing around with the Legos and designed a single rider swing. It worked fairly well, but it was not particularly elegant. After a bit of reworking he decided to make something more along the lines of a porch or bench swing.
This proved to be a far superior design.
As you can see in the picture it comfortably holds to Lego men. The bench swings freely ( that's Nate's hand in the picture) and is far less inclined to break down as opposed to the single seat model.
Once again my children have created something on their own from our large supply of Legos. I remember them as a good creative toy and it's nice to see they still are today.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Whole Lotta Shakin' Going On
As I think the whole world knows by now, Virginia had a bit of an earthquake today. It rang up and down the Atlantic seaboard and across the continent.
I was standing in an open garage digging out a late lunch from the outside fridge after just returning home from dishing out lunch to marching band and running errands (it was a busy mid-day). With the first rumble I glanced at the hot water heater then as it continued I started to wonder what on earth my children were up to.
Then I realized I was in the middle of a real live earthquake.
I strolled out of the garage, more amused than scared. It felt and sounded like I was on top of and out of balance washing machine. It was very odd seeing the ground vibrate. I shouted to the guys across the street working on my neighbor's house and they thought it was wild. It seemed to last well over a minute. Nate, meanwhile had ushered his siblings outside along with the dogs. The whole experience was very surreal. Rebecca was upset, but calmed down a bit when I pointed out the dogs were clearly unperturbed. Their only reaction was "Cool everybody is outside!"
The only bad part was I had a devil of a time getting a hold of Larry. Cell phones were swamped and the land line was a bit locked up. I was able to reassure various friends and parents that I and the children were fine. Half an hour or so Larry was let back into his building and was able to give me a call. I wasn't too worried about him, his office is in a solid building that also houses the Governor's offices, however it was a relief to hear his voice.
As for the aftershocks, I haven't felt a single one.
Oh and my dogs are not at all earthquake sensitive, once back inside they conked out and slept the rest of the day.
I was standing in an open garage digging out a late lunch from the outside fridge after just returning home from dishing out lunch to marching band and running errands (it was a busy mid-day). With the first rumble I glanced at the hot water heater then as it continued I started to wonder what on earth my children were up to.
Then I realized I was in the middle of a real live earthquake.
I strolled out of the garage, more amused than scared. It felt and sounded like I was on top of and out of balance washing machine. It was very odd seeing the ground vibrate. I shouted to the guys across the street working on my neighbor's house and they thought it was wild. It seemed to last well over a minute. Nate, meanwhile had ushered his siblings outside along with the dogs. The whole experience was very surreal. Rebecca was upset, but calmed down a bit when I pointed out the dogs were clearly unperturbed. Their only reaction was "Cool everybody is outside!"
The only bad part was I had a devil of a time getting a hold of Larry. Cell phones were swamped and the land line was a bit locked up. I was able to reassure various friends and parents that I and the children were fine. Half an hour or so Larry was let back into his building and was able to give me a call. I wasn't too worried about him, his office is in a solid building that also houses the Governor's offices, however it was a relief to hear his voice.
As for the aftershocks, I haven't felt a single one.
Oh and my dogs are not at all earthquake sensitive, once back inside they conked out and slept the rest of the day.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Deliciously Honored
Max got to pick were we went out tonight in honor of his stellar report card of straight As for the last quarter. He selected Weezie's Kitchen, a big favorite with the family.
We scored a parking spot right out front and as we we went inside Max and Nate trooped right to the table we usually get seated at. The young woman showing us to the table was amused and said they wee spot on, since that was the biggest table and it was where she was planning to seat us.
As always it was a delicious meal with huge portions. I opted for the scallop appetizer as my entry and for once the portion was just right. I'm going to have to remember that trick.
Now all we have left is Nate and Rebecca to celebrate for their academic achievements. I'm not quite sure if we are going to do what Rebecca wants. She's angling for something not quite dinner, instead she wants a trip to "For the Love of Chocolate."
We scored a parking spot right out front and as we we went inside Max and Nate trooped right to the table we usually get seated at. The young woman showing us to the table was amused and said they wee spot on, since that was the biggest table and it was where she was planning to seat us.
As always it was a delicious meal with huge portions. I opted for the scallop appetizer as my entry and for once the portion was just right. I'm going to have to remember that trick.
Now all we have left is Nate and Rebecca to celebrate for their academic achievements. I'm not quite sure if we are going to do what Rebecca wants. She's angling for something not quite dinner, instead she wants a trip to "For the Love of Chocolate."
Friday, August 19, 2011
MCP Project 52: Slow Down, Look Back
This week's theme was "Slow Down, Look Back" and decide to get all literal on it.
I immediately envisioned Max walking along, dragging a stick, and looking over his shoulder. He would be the perfect subject since his normal speed is a rather maddening slow amble. And the stick, to me the image of a child walking along and dragging a stick makes me think of slow summer days.
I ended up following Max down the driveway and up the road a piece. He was very patient with me as I trailed behind him taking pictures. This shot was the second frame and I am very pleased with it. The lighting was just right, Max hasn't yet disappeared into the shadows and the driveway is glistening from a recent rain.
All in all it was a fun theme to work with.
I immediately envisioned Max walking along, dragging a stick, and looking over his shoulder. He would be the perfect subject since his normal speed is a rather maddening slow amble. And the stick, to me the image of a child walking along and dragging a stick makes me think of slow summer days.
I ended up following Max down the driveway and up the road a piece. He was very patient with me as I trailed behind him taking pictures. This shot was the second frame and I am very pleased with it. The lighting was just right, Max hasn't yet disappeared into the shadows and the driveway is glistening from a recent rain.
All in all it was a fun theme to work with.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Beauty in the Simple Things.
It's easy not to see beauty in the ordinary. You might see it, but never recognize what it is.
Like this explosion of macaroni.
Nate loves Easy Mac and I have seen countless bowls fresh from the microwave. A part of me would see the mounded form the noodles had taken while being cooked, but that would be it.
Finally last week I gave into the small bit of wonder the pasta inspired and took a picture. It is not the most amazing picture nor is it the most exciting of subjects, but... I just enjoy the simple beauty it does have.
Like this explosion of macaroni.
Nate loves Easy Mac and I have seen countless bowls fresh from the microwave. A part of me would see the mounded form the noodles had taken while being cooked, but that would be it.
Finally last week I gave into the small bit of wonder the pasta inspired and took a picture. It is not the most amazing picture nor is it the most exciting of subjects, but... I just enjoy the simple beauty it does have.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Artist of the week: Ninja!
This week it's my turn to be the Artist of the week.
I was asked the other day if I was an arts and crafts sort of person. I wasn't quite sure how to answer. I do like to build and create things. I have created and updated two club logos, designed Jake's Bar Mitzvah invites from scratch, I love to bake and decorate cakes, and I take endless pictures.
But actual crafts are not really my cuppa. So artsy yes, but crafty is a big no.
That said, I will do a craft if the mood strikes and there seems to be a need.
Which brings me to the Ninja part.
Jake has marching band camp going on this week and the next. To foster band spirit a theme is announce for each day. On Monday one of the drum majors announced that Tuesday was Ninja day. The only restriction was that the students could not wear black, the kids spends hours outside under the hot sun practicing in the parking lot. Being dressed head to toe in black would be a very bad idea.
So what to do?
Jake and I agreed a headband featuring the rising sun would be a good idea. I could whip one up on my sewing machine with some heavy white cotton fabric I had left over from a previous project. While googling away for design ideas I found a restaurant supplier's site that featured chef headbands that purportedly had "ninja" written on them in Kanji symbols. I found a Kanji website and verified the veracity of the symbols and decided to give it a try.
I think the headband turned out rather well. I wish I had some better markers for the job, but I wasn't willing to go out and buy yet another set. For an ad hock creation that took maybe 1/2 hour to put together, I'm very pleased (as was Jake) with the final result.
I was asked the other day if I was an arts and crafts sort of person. I wasn't quite sure how to answer. I do like to build and create things. I have created and updated two club logos, designed Jake's Bar Mitzvah invites from scratch, I love to bake and decorate cakes, and I take endless pictures.
But actual crafts are not really my cuppa. So artsy yes, but crafty is a big no.
That said, I will do a craft if the mood strikes and there seems to be a need.
Which brings me to the Ninja part.
Jake has marching band camp going on this week and the next. To foster band spirit a theme is announce for each day. On Monday one of the drum majors announced that Tuesday was Ninja day. The only restriction was that the students could not wear black, the kids spends hours outside under the hot sun practicing in the parking lot. Being dressed head to toe in black would be a very bad idea.
So what to do?
Jake and I agreed a headband featuring the rising sun would be a good idea. I could whip one up on my sewing machine with some heavy white cotton fabric I had left over from a previous project. While googling away for design ideas I found a restaurant supplier's site that featured chef headbands that purportedly had "ninja" written on them in Kanji symbols. I found a Kanji website and verified the veracity of the symbols and decided to give it a try.
I think the headband turned out rather well. I wish I had some better markers for the job, but I wasn't willing to go out and buy yet another set. For an ad hock creation that took maybe 1/2 hour to put together, I'm very pleased (as was Jake) with the final result.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Where I Was Last Week
Normally we do just one big trip in the summer and that had happened last month.
But this year we decided to mix it up a bit.
Since our trip up north was on the short side due to various commitments and we had such a good time this past spring at Shenandoah River State Park we thought we would give another state park a try. We looked up various parks in the state and settled on Bear Creek Lake. We could swim, fish and canoe! And as an added bonus, the park is about an hour out of Richmond.
Which turned out to be a very good thing since on T
hursday I had to drive Jake back for an evening marching band rehearsal.
The cabin was pretty much the same as the one we stayed in last spring, right on down to the wilderness themed upholstery on the furniture. Larry had the brilliant idea that since there was no dishwasher, everyone should wash their own plates, glasses, and silverware. That certainly made my life easier!
As for the park, the lake was a bit smaller than we envisioned. However, that didn't stop us from using the canoe on a daily basis. Nate brought his best friend along and the older boys would frequently take the canoe out and try to do a bit of fishing. They lost quite a few lures, but after switching to live bait Nate was able to snag a crappie.
Max and Rebecca didn't do much in the way of fishing. Instead they had fun at the small swimming area/ beach on the other side of the lake. Rebecca even joined me in swimming across the lake. Actually it was more kick-boarding since she is not a strong swimmer. That little adventure was a great deal of fun even though we got admonished by a park employee for 1.) swimming outside of the swimming area and 2.) swimming when the lifeguard was no longer present. We survived and were allowed to return to our side of the lake.
We all had a great time and look forward to our next state park adventure. If you click on the picture of Rebecca silhouetted by the morning light it will lead you to my Flickr account where there is a whole slew of picture in the Bear Creek Lake photo set.
But this year we decided to mix it up a bit.
Since our trip up north was on the short side due to various commitments and we had such a good time this past spring at Shenandoah River State Park we thought we would give another state park a try. We looked up various parks in the state and settled on Bear Creek Lake. We could swim, fish and canoe! And as an added bonus, the park is about an hour out of Richmond.
Which turned out to be a very good thing since on T
hursday I had to drive Jake back for an evening marching band rehearsal.
The cabin was pretty much the same as the one we stayed in last spring, right on down to the wilderness themed upholstery on the furniture. Larry had the brilliant idea that since there was no dishwasher, everyone should wash their own plates, glasses, and silverware. That certainly made my life easier!
As for the park, the lake was a bit smaller than we envisioned. However, that didn't stop us from using the canoe on a daily basis. Nate brought his best friend along and the older boys would frequently take the canoe out and try to do a bit of fishing. They lost quite a few lures, but after switching to live bait Nate was able to snag a crappie.
Max and Rebecca didn't do much in the way of fishing. Instead they had fun at the small swimming area/ beach on the other side of the lake. Rebecca even joined me in swimming across the lake. Actually it was more kick-boarding since she is not a strong swimmer. That little adventure was a great deal of fun even though we got admonished by a park employee for 1.) swimming outside of the swimming area and 2.) swimming when the lifeguard was no longer present. We survived and were allowed to return to our side of the lake.
We all had a great time and look forward to our next state park adventure. If you click on the picture of Rebecca silhouetted by the morning light it will lead you to my Flickr account where there is a whole slew of picture in the Bear Creek Lake photo set.
Monday, August 15, 2011
Call of the Wild Museum
Woot! has a new, at least to me, feature called 'Travels With Woot.' It's a little travelogue that, in this case, focuses on the road side attraction Call Of The Wild museum of North American wildlife. It is delightfully kitschy little place located in Gaylord, Michigan. The narration is great with just enough snark to be fun.
If we were still in the Midwest I think we would make a point to visit.
If we were still in the Midwest I think we would make a point to visit.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
MCP Project 52: Favorite Time of Day
Hey! I'm back with a slightly tardy picture of the week.
Last week I had to work fairly quickly if I was going to submit my weekly photo on time. We left on Sunday so I really only had a day to figure out the theme and take a picture.
I decided that my favorite time of day is when I can steal away and read a book. I was pretty happy with how my picture in the hammock came out. A little cropping and a bit of boost to the colors and I was done. I took the picture and posted it right before we left last Sunday morning. I had almost no internet connectivity while we were gone, just a quick stop at a library on Tuesday and a bit longer at home on Thursday when Jake had a band thing going on that night.
So I was quite surprised and very pleased to see my picture made the top ten!
I guess working fast is the way to go.
Last week I had to work fairly quickly if I was going to submit my weekly photo on time. We left on Sunday so I really only had a day to figure out the theme and take a picture.
I decided that my favorite time of day is when I can steal away and read a book. I was pretty happy with how my picture in the hammock came out. A little cropping and a bit of boost to the colors and I was done. I took the picture and posted it right before we left last Sunday morning. I had almost no internet connectivity while we were gone, just a quick stop at a library on Tuesday and a bit longer at home on Thursday when Jake had a band thing going on that night.
So I was quite surprised and very pleased to see my picture made the top ten!
I guess working fast is the way to go.
Friday, August 05, 2011
MCP Project 52: Sky
This week's theme was a big one, as big as the whole sky.
So of course we had boring weather and I was stuck shuttling people around to their respective sports camps (soccer for Jacob, lacrosse for Nate).
I really wanted to photograph our subdivision's pond with the sky reflected in the water, but either the sky was unexciting or the water wasn't still enough. However I did have the good sense to keep my camera in the car. I would keep peering at the sky hoping for something to click.
I ended up taking a fair amount of pictures of sunsets. Jacob's soccer camp ended at 8:30 pm, prime time for pretty skies. There were a few shots that I could have digitally manipulated to be a bit more vivid, but that always feels like cheating. I generally only tweak enough to get the image true to the original. And that is why I chose this picture.
It is not the most technicolor of sunsets, if fact it's a bit blah. The picture is saved by the cloud, or rather the sky dragon. At the time I hadn't even noticed the shape of the cloud. Not until I had downloaded my pictures that the shape caught my attention. It is a lovely dragon making its way across the sky, the head picked out by the rays of the setting sun and the body trails behind. I don't know how I missed it at the time. It almost makes up for the missed heat lighting from earlier in the week.
So of course we had boring weather and I was stuck shuttling people around to their respective sports camps (soccer for Jacob, lacrosse for Nate).
I really wanted to photograph our subdivision's pond with the sky reflected in the water, but either the sky was unexciting or the water wasn't still enough. However I did have the good sense to keep my camera in the car. I would keep peering at the sky hoping for something to click.
I ended up taking a fair amount of pictures of sunsets. Jacob's soccer camp ended at 8:30 pm, prime time for pretty skies. There were a few shots that I could have digitally manipulated to be a bit more vivid, but that always feels like cheating. I generally only tweak enough to get the image true to the original. And that is why I chose this picture.
It is not the most technicolor of sunsets, if fact it's a bit blah. The picture is saved by the cloud, or rather the sky dragon. At the time I hadn't even noticed the shape of the cloud. Not until I had downloaded my pictures that the shape caught my attention. It is a lovely dragon making its way across the sky, the head picked out by the rays of the setting sun and the body trails behind. I don't know how I missed it at the time. It almost makes up for the missed heat lighting from earlier in the week.
Thursday, August 04, 2011
My Drummer Boy
We had a really neat opportunity today at our local library. A member of Tampa Taiko was in our area and would be at our local library. I signed up both Max and me and we skedaddled on over after lunch.
It was a fun program sponsored by the Friends of the Library. We learned a bit about taiko, Japanese drums, from how the drums are made, what they are called,and the notes you play on them. The best part was at the end when groups of seven were brought up and invited to play the drums. Max had a good time and even the big kids (grownups like me) got to join in the fun. Everybody was encouraged to give it a try and even dance.
It was wonderful, I hope they get invited to come again and I'll bring the rest of my crew.
It was a fun program sponsored by the Friends of the Library. We learned a bit about taiko, Japanese drums, from how the drums are made, what they are called,and the notes you play on them. The best part was at the end when groups of seven were brought up and invited to play the drums. Max had a good time and even the big kids (grownups like me) got to join in the fun. Everybody was encouraged to give it a try and even dance.
It was wonderful, I hope they get invited to come again and I'll bring the rest of my crew.
Wednesday, August 03, 2011
Artist of the week: LEGO Fighter
Max, the melonater, is this week's featured artist.
He looks so very serious while eating his watermelon slice. Which is understandable since it was a seriously good watermelon. It was also the same melon that resulted in some far less serious pictures of Max. And yes that means this was taken half a month ago, so sue me. It's been quiet around here and I'm getting my mileage out of the times I do shoot pictures.
Anyhoodle I like the picture and the all its bright colors. There is just something appealing about the green grass, blue tiedyed shirt with the bright pinkish red slice of the watermelon. It all looks cool and inviting even though the actual temperature was about 90.
But enough about the watermelon, this is supposed to be about our old friend LEGO.
Max and his siblings have been building all sorts of fantastical machines. Most of the instructions detailing how to build the various kits have been mangled beyond repair or just plain missing. Fortunately after the initial build (while the instructions were still legible and on hand) the kids have been more than happy to create their own vehicles.
If I remember correctly this was some kind of boat. Max was very proud of what he made and requested I take pictures. He has learned that no LEGO vehicle in our active household lasts for any length of time. If you like it, you need to take pictures.
I think he did a great job. It is a solid little vehicle with plenty of firepower to take on whatever Max's imagination throws at it.
He looks so very serious while eating his watermelon slice. Which is understandable since it was a seriously good watermelon. It was also the same melon that resulted in some far less serious pictures of Max. And yes that means this was taken half a month ago, so sue me. It's been quiet around here and I'm getting my mileage out of the times I do shoot pictures.
Anyhoodle I like the picture and the all its bright colors. There is just something appealing about the green grass, blue tiedyed shirt with the bright pinkish red slice of the watermelon. It all looks cool and inviting even though the actual temperature was about 90.
But enough about the watermelon, this is supposed to be about our old friend LEGO.
Max and his siblings have been building all sorts of fantastical machines. Most of the instructions detailing how to build the various kits have been mangled beyond repair or just plain missing. Fortunately after the initial build (while the instructions were still legible and on hand) the kids have been more than happy to create their own vehicles.
If I remember correctly this was some kind of boat. Max was very proud of what he made and requested I take pictures. He has learned that no LEGO vehicle in our active household lasts for any length of time. If you like it, you need to take pictures.
I think he did a great job. It is a solid little vehicle with plenty of firepower to take on whatever Max's imagination throws at it.
Tuesday, August 02, 2011
Beetling Along
Not much is going on right now. It's summer and I'm enjoying not waking up before the crack of dawn and the pared down schedule.
That being said I'm still busy. Nate and Jake have sports camps this week, soccer for Jake and lacrosse for Nate. Max and Rebecca have finished their swimming lessons and are much more confident in the water. And looming over all is the start of the school year next month.
So I'm just beetling along like this little guy I found in our backyard.
That being said I'm still busy. Nate and Jake have sports camps this week, soccer for Jake and lacrosse for Nate. Max and Rebecca have finished their swimming lessons and are much more confident in the water. And looming over all is the start of the school year next month.
So I'm just beetling along like this little guy I found in our backyard.
Monday, August 01, 2011
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Basil
I love basil. It smells wonderful, adds so much flavor, is dead easy to grow, and has the prettiest little white flowers.
For the past couple of years I've let my plants go to seed in the fall and have enjoyed them coming back the following spring. This year, however, I decided I needed to buy new plants. My big pot was horribly overdue to have its soil replenished and I seriously doubted that the seeds would be able to sprout and find daylight after a massive reworking of the soil.
And I was right. At least at first.
Spring came and there were no seedlings. I waited for well after the last frost before putting in my new plants. They have thrived this summer despite the high temperatures and erratic watering.
And then lo and behold two little seedlings appeared a few weeks ago. I'm glad I got the new plants, but I'm tickled that the offspring of the old plants are present as well.
For the past couple of years I've let my plants go to seed in the fall and have enjoyed them coming back the following spring. This year, however, I decided I needed to buy new plants. My big pot was horribly overdue to have its soil replenished and I seriously doubted that the seeds would be able to sprout and find daylight after a massive reworking of the soil.
And I was right. At least at first.
Spring came and there were no seedlings. I waited for well after the last frost before putting in my new plants. They have thrived this summer despite the high temperatures and erratic watering.
And then lo and behold two little seedlings appeared a few weeks ago. I'm glad I got the new plants, but I'm tickled that the offspring of the old plants are present as well.
Friday, July 29, 2011
MCP Project 52: A Letter of the Alphabet
This weeks theme was "A Letter of the Alphabet."
I t had me stumped for quite some time. I considered taking pictures of signs around the area and cobbling together a collage of a particular letter (C came to mind). However the idea never really grabbed me. So I thought some more when I suddenly got a thunderbolt. I could do something with a report card.
It would be unique since school had ended weeks and weeks ago, I had three to chose from that had straight As, and I could make a nice still life with the excess school supplies floating around the house.
I'm pretty happy with the final result. I picked the best looking report card of the bunch to maximize the amount of As featured. And hey it's a nice way to brag on my children.
I t had me stumped for quite some time. I considered taking pictures of signs around the area and cobbling together a collage of a particular letter (C came to mind). However the idea never really grabbed me. So I thought some more when I suddenly got a thunderbolt. I could do something with a report card.
It would be unique since school had ended weeks and weeks ago, I had three to chose from that had straight As, and I could make a nice still life with the excess school supplies floating around the house.
I'm pretty happy with the final result. I picked the best looking report card of the bunch to maximize the amount of As featured. And hey it's a nice way to brag on my children.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Monkey on His Back
Nate has a green monkey that lately we have been throwing at each other. I don't remember how he acquired it, but it has been left downstairs for the past week. So far the dogs haven't touched it, that said the monkey's days are probably numbered.
Anyhoo we were discussing how it was cruel to dress up animals in absurd offits. Nate pointed out that I was always putting on hats on John and replied that John didn't seem to mind and I never forced the issue. Once he pawed it off it was over. Nate was then seized with the idea of putting the monkey on John's back.
He patiently sat there while Nate straddled the monkey on his back and stuffed it's front legs in his collar. He sat for a while and even posed for the camera. Then John wandered off with the monkey on his back, not particularly concerned about his passenger.
Poor John, he is such a good sport. I think Dell would lasted maybe five seconds.
Anyhoo we were discussing how it was cruel to dress up animals in absurd offits. Nate pointed out that I was always putting on hats on John and replied that John didn't seem to mind and I never forced the issue. Once he pawed it off it was over. Nate was then seized with the idea of putting the monkey on John's back.
He patiently sat there while Nate straddled the monkey on his back and stuffed it's front legs in his collar. He sat for a while and even posed for the camera. Then John wandered off with the monkey on his back, not particularly concerned about his passenger.
Poor John, he is such a good sport. I think Dell would lasted maybe five seconds.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Artist of the Week: Little Signs of Love
Rebecca is this week's artist.
We had some delicious watermelon a while back and Rebecca was very happy to nosh on some out on our deck. The kids prefer slices, but that means they pretty much have to eat outdoors or over the sink. *Maybe* I'll let them sit at the table with a plate. I love the stuff, but a really good watermelon is such a sticky and messy treat. So that's why Rebecca has such a big smile, so got her slice and was able to snag a seat on the deck.
Anyhoodle, Rebecca loves food and loves to cook. She is my own personal sous chef. She'll chop vegetables, stir pots, and add ingredients. She'll even dig out spices from my very messy spice cabinet.
Rebecca also appreciates the artistic side of cooking and understands the value of making a dish look as good as it tastes.
So when I found this lovely little tableau on the counter I didn't need the note to tell me who made it.
The sungold tomatoes with the cheesy smile and the shot glass of flowers made my day. My little girl knows me all too well. I love the taste combination and the the bit of whimsy that was added by making the face.
Her brothers can and do such silly things with food, but not with the high style that is added with the flowers. Rebecca was very pleased that I noticed her effort and took pictures. She has discovered the joy of doing little things that show the people you love how much you care.
Thank you sweetheart!
We had some delicious watermelon a while back and Rebecca was very happy to nosh on some out on our deck. The kids prefer slices, but that means they pretty much have to eat outdoors or over the sink. *Maybe* I'll let them sit at the table with a plate. I love the stuff, but a really good watermelon is such a sticky and messy treat. So that's why Rebecca has such a big smile, so got her slice and was able to snag a seat on the deck.
Anyhoodle, Rebecca loves food and loves to cook. She is my own personal sous chef. She'll chop vegetables, stir pots, and add ingredients. She'll even dig out spices from my very messy spice cabinet.
Rebecca also appreciates the artistic side of cooking and understands the value of making a dish look as good as it tastes.
So when I found this lovely little tableau on the counter I didn't need the note to tell me who made it.
The sungold tomatoes with the cheesy smile and the shot glass of flowers made my day. My little girl knows me all too well. I love the taste combination and the the bit of whimsy that was added by making the face.
Her brothers can and do such silly things with food, but not with the high style that is added with the flowers. Rebecca was very pleased that I noticed her effort and took pictures. She has discovered the joy of doing little things that show the people you love how much you care.
Thank you sweetheart!
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Beef Festival!
This past weekend was the 32nd annual Amelia Beef Festival. We don't go every year, it is rather pricey, but when we do we always have a good time.
I realized accidentally that last Saturday was the day when I was watching a local morning show last week. I don't normally watch, but our friends The Velvet Marias were the featured musical guest. As I waited for their segment to come up I impatiently watched various local bits that did not interest me, until the organizers to The Amelia Beef Fest appeared to promote their event. I thought it was come and gone and was delighted to see I was wrong.
Larry was out of town with Jake and I was trying to come up with a fun activity for the rest us and this filled the bill. One quick phone call to Meryl to see if she was in and we were all set, all I had to do was get the tickets before Saturday. The event is advance sales only and I did not want to miss out. I was really looking forward to the all you can eat ribs, BBQ, steamship round, and roasted corn.
Friday afternoon I got the tickets with only a slight bit of drama. After I left the bank (yes, really I got the tickets at a bank) I decided to double check how many tickets I got. As I sat in my car I discovered I had 6, not 5 tickets. After a few more errands I swung by the bank to drop off the extra ticket. They thanked me for my honesty and I thought nothing of it.
That is until the next day when I got a call from the bank to confirm that I had the right number of tickets. I did and even counted them again when I was on the phone.
As for the festival, we had a great time.
It rained, which it always seems to do, but we came prepared. I have a sun tent that keeps off most of the rain (it gets drippy underneath during downpours) and Rebecca looks very pleased that we brought our shelter. Nate got a bit bored until he started playing football with some passing boys. And Max, well he loved the roasted corn. We set up near the corn shed and I don't know how many times the boy ducked over for another ear. I enjoyed all of the beef and I too ate a boatload of the sweet, sweet roasted corn.
I realized accidentally that last Saturday was the day when I was watching a local morning show last week. I don't normally watch, but our friends The Velvet Marias were the featured musical guest. As I waited for their segment to come up I impatiently watched various local bits that did not interest me, until the organizers to The Amelia Beef Fest appeared to promote their event. I thought it was come and gone and was delighted to see I was wrong.
Larry was out of town with Jake and I was trying to come up with a fun activity for the rest us and this filled the bill. One quick phone call to Meryl to see if she was in and we were all set, all I had to do was get the tickets before Saturday. The event is advance sales only and I did not want to miss out. I was really looking forward to the all you can eat ribs, BBQ, steamship round, and roasted corn.
Friday afternoon I got the tickets with only a slight bit of drama. After I left the bank (yes, really I got the tickets at a bank) I decided to double check how many tickets I got. As I sat in my car I discovered I had 6, not 5 tickets. After a few more errands I swung by the bank to drop off the extra ticket. They thanked me for my honesty and I thought nothing of it.
That is until the next day when I got a call from the bank to confirm that I had the right number of tickets. I did and even counted them again when I was on the phone.
As for the festival, we had a great time.
It rained, which it always seems to do, but we came prepared. I have a sun tent that keeps off most of the rain (it gets drippy underneath during downpours) and Rebecca looks very pleased that we brought our shelter. Nate got a bit bored until he started playing football with some passing boys. And Max, well he loved the roasted corn. We set up near the corn shed and I don't know how many times the boy ducked over for another ear. I enjoyed all of the beef and I too ate a boatload of the sweet, sweet roasted corn.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Boogie Boogie Hedgehog - Parry Gripp
I first saw this in the sidebar over at Fetch My Flying Monkeys (warning- lots of foul language, but very funny) a few days ago and I still think it's hilarious. Even the kids think it is wonderful. In fact if I start singing "boogie, boogie hedgehog" they will join in.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Green Globe
This is in reality an outstanding illusion.
Created by French artist François Abélanet, it is installed in front of Paris's city hall. I love the title "Qui Croire?", or in English "Who to Believe?"
An article with far more information and an outstanding gallery of the installation can be found over at Inhabitat- Green Design Will Save the World.
I think it is amazing and it completely blew my son, Nate, away. He had a very hard time wrapping his mind around the whole illusion.
Created by French artist François Abélanet, it is installed in front of Paris's city hall. I love the title "Qui Croire?", or in English "Who to Believe?"
An article with far more information and an outstanding gallery of the installation can be found over at Inhabitat- Green Design Will Save the World.
I think it is amazing and it completely blew my son, Nate, away. He had a very hard time wrapping his mind around the whole illusion.
Friday, July 22, 2011
MCP Project 52: Get In Close
This week's theme is "get in close" and I am more than happy to oblige. The hard part was staggering outside and experiencing extreme summer weather up close as well.
It turned out that the weather worked in my favor. The high humidity gave the tiny white flowers I found in our lawn a luminescent quality when viewed through the camera. There is no Photoshop trickery involved, all I did was boost the contrast a smidgen to green up the grass.
At the time I was hunting for bugs, I knew there would be plenty of flower/plant shots. However, these petite little blooms won out. We'll see if anyone else over the the photo group likes these as much as me.
It turned out that the weather worked in my favor. The high humidity gave the tiny white flowers I found in our lawn a luminescent quality when viewed through the camera. There is no Photoshop trickery involved, all I did was boost the contrast a smidgen to green up the grass.
At the time I was hunting for bugs, I knew there would be plenty of flower/plant shots. However, these petite little blooms won out. We'll see if anyone else over the the photo group likes these as much as me.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Sofia Sleeps
Just one more of my little niece fast asleep on the couch.
I love how toddlers will just nod off anywhere once you get them to stop moving. She looks so peaceful laying there, yet I know she had been very busy just a few minutes earlier.
I loved the colors surrounding her and the quality of light. The moment was just begging to be photographed and I was happy to oblige.
I love how toddlers will just nod off anywhere once you get them to stop moving. She looks so peaceful laying there, yet I know she had been very busy just a few minutes earlier.
I loved the colors surrounding her and the quality of light. The moment was just begging to be photographed and I was happy to oblige.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Artist of the Week: Small Town Parade
The artist of the week is my mom's town for its teeny, tiny small town parade.
Our trip up north to my mother's house just happened to coincide with the town fair. We didn't even know about the fair until we got up to her house. As we drove down Main street we could see the signs announcing the upcoming festivities. I got very excited because I had a chance to share a part of my childhood with our children. They have been to county fairs, but never a true blue small town fair.
To show you what a low key/ budget affair it is you have to see the signage associated with the parade. Yes, it's a simple hand written sign, liberally festooned with duct tape, and propped on a piece of wood jammed in a traffic cone. That's Vermont practicality for you.
I gathered up those interested in attending (Jacob, Max, and Rebecca) at about 10:30 so we could walk on down, check out the staging area, and find our spot along the parade route. As we walked along one of the parade organizers gave Max and Rebecca balloons. This immediately put us all in good spirits.
So of course 10 minutes later Max lost his balloon.
He was crestfallen, but there was nothing I could do. I had offered to tie the balloon to his wrist, but he had refused. As he stood there dejected a very kind older lady offered him her balloon. Max's face lit up and he profusely thanked her. This time when I offered to tie the balloon he shot his arm out and agreed. At this point my sister in law turned up with little Sofia and the parade was about to start.
First up was the local Scottish club, led by a bagpiper whom we had been hearing warm up as we waited for the parade. He was quite good and both Jacob and I enjoyed his performance. Rebecca liked the costumes for the wee bairns that brought up the rear of their group.
And for those that can't make out the small print on the banner, S.C.O.T.T.S. stands for Scottish Club Of the Twin States. Vermont and New Hampshire are locally referred to as the Twin States.
Anyhoodle that was the marching band portion of the parade (told you it was a small parade).
Next up were a couple of go carts carrying the number 250. It turns out it is the 250th anniversary of the founding of Norwich. The boys driving were having a good time driving their carts down Main street, something they won't legally be able to do (outside of a parade) for a few more years.
Max thought this part looked like a whole lot of fun.
Sadly there were no horses this year. I remember when I used to live around there, 20 plus years ago (eek!) the local riding club would send a few riders. I don't know when they stopped coming, hopefully they'll come back.
However other traditions did continue.
After the go carts was the entirely random float commemorating the recent royal wedding over in England. Larry thought it was strange that a town celebrating its 250 anniversary would have a float in honor of our former oppressors. I thought it was cute and was basically an excuse for some girls to dress up and toss candy.
And the candy tossing was the tradition that had continued.
I had told the kids that there *might* be some candy tossed from the floats and I was happy that the parade did not disappoint. Having Sofia with us was a huge bonus.
Cute little kids get lots of candy tossed in their direction.
As we scrambled about picking up candy I almost missed the next participant in the parade. It was a lovely antique car, a real beauty that purred down the street. I have no idea what kind of car it is, but it was a nice addition to the parade. I know if I had an antique car this would be a must do on my list, much better than a car show. Here you get to drive, not just park on a hot parking lot.
Too bad they weren't tossing candy, the kid in the rumble seat could have had a field day with a bucket of candy.
The next float more than made up for the car's lack of candy. The gentlemen on the birthday cake float had a huge bucket of candy. It was all the good stuff, tootsie rolls, jaw breakers, taffy, and caramels. We got handfuls of the stuff tossed our way.
The float itself was charming with the simple "birthday cake" and a bunch of folding chairs. I particularly enjoyed the over sized dump truck pulling the trailer along. The bright yellow paint and ridiculousness of the huge truck dwarfing its payload made me smile.
Then bringing up the rear were the town's firetrucks.
No parade is complete without a firetruck and small as the parade was it had two firetrucks.
We got the town's pumper and the ladder trucks. Years ago kids would get to ride on top, but those days are over. Instead a lucky few got to ride in the trucks and wave to the crowds.
Either way it is the quintessential element to a small town parade. Everybody loves to see a firetruck an I know the fire department loves to show them off.
Even little Sofia got a good look at the trucks as they crawled on by.
And that was it, the parade in its entirety.
I don't think a parade could be much smaller. It took all of 20 minutes from start to finish. Then the road opened back up and it was business as usual. But the spirit was there and we all had a good time.
Our trip up north to my mother's house just happened to coincide with the town fair. We didn't even know about the fair until we got up to her house. As we drove down Main street we could see the signs announcing the upcoming festivities. I got very excited because I had a chance to share a part of my childhood with our children. They have been to county fairs, but never a true blue small town fair.
To show you what a low key/ budget affair it is you have to see the signage associated with the parade. Yes, it's a simple hand written sign, liberally festooned with duct tape, and propped on a piece of wood jammed in a traffic cone. That's Vermont practicality for you.
I gathered up those interested in attending (Jacob, Max, and Rebecca) at about 10:30 so we could walk on down, check out the staging area, and find our spot along the parade route. As we walked along one of the parade organizers gave Max and Rebecca balloons. This immediately put us all in good spirits.
So of course 10 minutes later Max lost his balloon.
He was crestfallen, but there was nothing I could do. I had offered to tie the balloon to his wrist, but he had refused. As he stood there dejected a very kind older lady offered him her balloon. Max's face lit up and he profusely thanked her. This time when I offered to tie the balloon he shot his arm out and agreed. At this point my sister in law turned up with little Sofia and the parade was about to start.
First up was the local Scottish club, led by a bagpiper whom we had been hearing warm up as we waited for the parade. He was quite good and both Jacob and I enjoyed his performance. Rebecca liked the costumes for the wee bairns that brought up the rear of their group.
And for those that can't make out the small print on the banner, S.C.O.T.T.S. stands for Scottish Club Of the Twin States. Vermont and New Hampshire are locally referred to as the Twin States.
Anyhoodle that was the marching band portion of the parade (told you it was a small parade).
Next up were a couple of go carts carrying the number 250. It turns out it is the 250th anniversary of the founding of Norwich. The boys driving were having a good time driving their carts down Main street, something they won't legally be able to do (outside of a parade) for a few more years.
Max thought this part looked like a whole lot of fun.
Sadly there were no horses this year. I remember when I used to live around there, 20 plus years ago (eek!) the local riding club would send a few riders. I don't know when they stopped coming, hopefully they'll come back.
However other traditions did continue.
After the go carts was the entirely random float commemorating the recent royal wedding over in England. Larry thought it was strange that a town celebrating its 250 anniversary would have a float in honor of our former oppressors. I thought it was cute and was basically an excuse for some girls to dress up and toss candy.
And the candy tossing was the tradition that had continued.
I had told the kids that there *might* be some candy tossed from the floats and I was happy that the parade did not disappoint. Having Sofia with us was a huge bonus.
Cute little kids get lots of candy tossed in their direction.
As we scrambled about picking up candy I almost missed the next participant in the parade. It was a lovely antique car, a real beauty that purred down the street. I have no idea what kind of car it is, but it was a nice addition to the parade. I know if I had an antique car this would be a must do on my list, much better than a car show. Here you get to drive, not just park on a hot parking lot.
Too bad they weren't tossing candy, the kid in the rumble seat could have had a field day with a bucket of candy.
The next float more than made up for the car's lack of candy. The gentlemen on the birthday cake float had a huge bucket of candy. It was all the good stuff, tootsie rolls, jaw breakers, taffy, and caramels. We got handfuls of the stuff tossed our way.
The float itself was charming with the simple "birthday cake" and a bunch of folding chairs. I particularly enjoyed the over sized dump truck pulling the trailer along. The bright yellow paint and ridiculousness of the huge truck dwarfing its payload made me smile.
Then bringing up the rear were the town's firetrucks.
No parade is complete without a firetruck and small as the parade was it had two firetrucks.
We got the town's pumper and the ladder trucks. Years ago kids would get to ride on top, but those days are over. Instead a lucky few got to ride in the trucks and wave to the crowds.
Either way it is the quintessential element to a small town parade. Everybody loves to see a firetruck an I know the fire department loves to show them off.
Even little Sofia got a good look at the trucks as they crawled on by.
And that was it, the parade in its entirety.
I don't think a parade could be much smaller. It took all of 20 minutes from start to finish. Then the road opened back up and it was business as usual. But the spirit was there and we all had a good time.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Grandmother and Granddaughter
Of all the photos I took on vacation I think this one, by a large margin, was the most important.
I didn't even think of taking a picture of my mother with her latest grandchild until I saw the two of them together. I had my camera on hand and quickly took a couple before Sofia wiggled out of her grandmother's lap and was off doing important toddler things.
It's a wonderful portrait of the two of them together. They both look relaxed and happy to be with each other. Sofia has the cutest little smile that her hand can't obscure and my mother has Sofia nestled in the crook of her arm.
I'm so glad we were able to visit at the same time as my brother's family (I wonder when I'll get used to saying my brother's family!) at our mother's home. It was a delightful visit and I wished we could have all stayed longer.
I didn't even think of taking a picture of my mother with her latest grandchild until I saw the two of them together. I had my camera on hand and quickly took a couple before Sofia wiggled out of her grandmother's lap and was off doing important toddler things.
It's a wonderful portrait of the two of them together. They both look relaxed and happy to be with each other. Sofia has the cutest little smile that her hand can't obscure and my mother has Sofia nestled in the crook of her arm.
I'm so glad we were able to visit at the same time as my brother's family (I wonder when I'll get used to saying my brother's family!) at our mother's home. It was a delightful visit and I wished we could have all stayed longer.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Caravan Palace - Suzy
This is not the first time I've featured Caravan Palace, and probably not the last.
I love the song and the video. It is just plain fun.
I love the song and the video. It is just plain fun.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
MCP Project 52: Nature's Finest
I didn't let a silly little thing like vacation stop me from participating in the MCP Project 52. Taking the picture was no problem, the tricky bit was uploading. It was easier to use my cell phone and link up via Bluetooth than mucking around with the camera and various computers. However, I was slack with here so I'm posting the previous week's picture now.
I'm pretty pleased with how the picture came out with my simple cell phone. It doesn't take the greatest pictures, but I can do a decent job when I keep its limitations in mind.
As for the subject, I love day lilies. They are among my favorite flowers and are to me the flower of summer. They naturalize in a heartbeat and as a result they are all over the place. I spot this one while walking along the sidewalk from my mother's house to the town library. When I saw them I knew I had my picture for the week.
I'm pretty pleased with how the picture came out with my simple cell phone. It doesn't take the greatest pictures, but I can do a decent job when I keep its limitations in mind.
As for the subject, I love day lilies. They are among my favorite flowers and are to me the flower of summer. They naturalize in a heartbeat and as a result they are all over the place. I spot this one while walking along the sidewalk from my mother's house to the town library. When I saw them I knew I had my picture for the week.
Friday, July 15, 2011
Well This Was Unexpected
So I have this lovely watermelon that I cut up today. It's juicy, sweet, and oh so delicious. The perfect treat for a summer's day, hence the whole "Sweet Relief" in the previous post.
About a quarter of it got sliced up to be eaten on the spot, the rest I cut up into small bite sized chunks to be eaten later. AS I was cleaning up afterwards Max noticed the remaining bit of rind on the counter, left over from when I cut up the chunks. He declared the rind to be a perfect hat and wanted to try it on. He then added that if it was too small we could mail it to a friend in Germany who is a bit younger than Max.
What?!
Aside from the impossibility of shipping watermelon rinds to Germany ( a very generous idea that would never fly with the post office), the hat thing knocked me for a loop.
This is Max, my little Adrian Monk in training who takes forever to wash his hands, and he wants to wear a melon rind on his head.
So I did what any mother would do. Rinsed it off, put some plastic wrap on the inside (because eww, melon juice on the hair), and plopped it on his head.
And darn it, he made it look good.
The stripes on the rind worked well with his tied dyed t-shirt. He happily modeled his new hat and was amiable to the ensuing picture taking.
And what does one do when wearing a watermelon rind hat?
Why play video games of course!
He spent about a half an hour with it perched on his head. After a while it got a bit heavy and the novelty wore off. His only complaint was that he wished it was half a rind instead of a quarter. According to Max that would make a better hat.
About a quarter of it got sliced up to be eaten on the spot, the rest I cut up into small bite sized chunks to be eaten later. AS I was cleaning up afterwards Max noticed the remaining bit of rind on the counter, left over from when I cut up the chunks. He declared the rind to be a perfect hat and wanted to try it on. He then added that if it was too small we could mail it to a friend in Germany who is a bit younger than Max.
What?!
Aside from the impossibility of shipping watermelon rinds to Germany ( a very generous idea that would never fly with the post office), the hat thing knocked me for a loop.
This is Max, my little Adrian Monk in training who takes forever to wash his hands, and he wants to wear a melon rind on his head.
So I did what any mother would do. Rinsed it off, put some plastic wrap on the inside (because eww, melon juice on the hair), and plopped it on his head.
And darn it, he made it look good.
The stripes on the rind worked well with his tied dyed t-shirt. He happily modeled his new hat and was amiable to the ensuing picture taking.
And what does one do when wearing a watermelon rind hat?
Why play video games of course!
He spent about a half an hour with it perched on his head. After a while it got a bit heavy and the novelty wore off. His only complaint was that he wished it was half a rind instead of a quarter. According to Max that would make a better hat.
MCP Project 52: Sweet Relief
This week's theme was "Sweet Relief" and I think nothing better demonstrates this than a nice juicy slice of watermelon on a hot summer's day.
I took a few pictures of sliced watermelon, all red and lovely- glistening in the sunlight. Then I took a few more pictures, this time of Max and Rebecca clomping away on slices of watermelon with the red juice streaming down their chins. But the one that did it for me was when I tossed Dell a rind and snapped a few pictures as he gobbled it up.
Even dogs appreciate the sweet relief of watermelon on a hot day.
I took a few pictures of sliced watermelon, all red and lovely- glistening in the sunlight. Then I took a few more pictures, this time of Max and Rebecca clomping away on slices of watermelon with the red juice streaming down their chins. But the one that did it for me was when I tossed Dell a rind and snapped a few pictures as he gobbled it up.
Even dogs appreciate the sweet relief of watermelon on a hot day.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Nana's Wading Pool
A few years ago we bought this rather silly Spongebob themed wading pool. It's at my mother's house and every summer we drag it out. It has held up fairly, though it seems to have a bit of a leak now and doesn't hold water for very long. However, it still provides hours of entertainment.
Even Sofia thought the pool was fun and loved standing next to it, occasionally reaching down to splash her hand in the water. None of the kids spent much time in the pool (it was only low 80s), instead the pool was viewed as a great place to refill water guns. You can see Nate in the picture with a big smile plastered across his face as he cradles his water blaster.
That rather silly pool turned out to be a good investment.
Even Sofia thought the pool was fun and loved standing next to it, occasionally reaching down to splash her hand in the water. None of the kids spent much time in the pool (it was only low 80s), instead the pool was viewed as a great place to refill water guns. You can see Nate in the picture with a big smile plastered across his face as he cradles his water blaster.
That rather silly pool turned out to be a good investment.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Artist of the Week: Spring 2011 Recital
This week's artist is rather belatedly awarded to Rebecca.
Way back in the beginning of June Rebecca had her spring piano recital. She played Painted Rocking Horse as a duet with her piano teacher, it's a pretty little tune that Rebecca enjoys playing. For weeks she had been practicing diligently and it showed, Rebecca did a lovely job and was pretty darn cute to boot.
At the end of the recital the students were awarded certificates for performing in the recital and trophies for the individual judging conducted earlier were handed out as well. This year Rebecca decided to go for the large trophy. There are three types: small, medium, and large and they are awarded according to how many pieces are memorized and played for the judge. As I said, Rebecca decided to go for the large trophy which translated into 10 pieces of music. As you can she in the picture she was successful and very proud of her achievement (And yes, the judge can fail you all or in part. You can get down graded in trophy size or wash out entirely. It doesn't happen very often, just enough to to remind the students to practice.)
And here it is, Rebecca's performance during the recital.
Way back in the beginning of June Rebecca had her spring piano recital. She played Painted Rocking Horse as a duet with her piano teacher, it's a pretty little tune that Rebecca enjoys playing. For weeks she had been practicing diligently and it showed, Rebecca did a lovely job and was pretty darn cute to boot.
At the end of the recital the students were awarded certificates for performing in the recital and trophies for the individual judging conducted earlier were handed out as well. This year Rebecca decided to go for the large trophy. There are three types: small, medium, and large and they are awarded according to how many pieces are memorized and played for the judge. As I said, Rebecca decided to go for the large trophy which translated into 10 pieces of music. As you can she in the picture she was successful and very proud of her achievement (And yes, the judge can fail you all or in part. You can get down graded in trophy size or wash out entirely. It doesn't happen very often, just enough to to remind the students to practice.)
And here it is, Rebecca's performance during the recital.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Sofia!
Why hello there!
I'm back after a week and a half long jaunt up North to met this little person, Miss Sofia.
Well we did a bit more than just met my little niece, but her visit out East with her parents did determine when we went up North. My brother and his wife had been invited to a wedding in VT and planned on staying with my, or rather our mother at her home that was just an hour's drive from the wedding venue. Which was very exciting for us since my brother and his little family live waaaay far away in Alaska.
Visiting them is no easy car ride.
So we much planning and phone calling back and forth between Vermont, Virginia, and Alaska we coordinated our vacation schedules to overlap.
And what a vacation it was.
Sofia is a delightful little girl, all of fifteen months. It would have been nice to have met her when she was still a babe in arms, but she is far more fun as a full fledged toddler. She is all peaches and cream with big smiles. Sofia delighted in her big cousins and they too were smitten with her. She loved running around the backyard with them, kicking a ball, and splashing in the wading pool.
We even got to babysit her when her parents went out for the rehearsal dinner. Sofia didn't mind one bit to be left with us. All I had to do was take her out to the porch while my brother and sister-in-law left out the side door. The only time Sofia cried was for a brief moment when I put her to bed. Then she quickly dropped off to sleep. The next day it was off to the wedding and the the house seemed too quiet, they were spending the night and wouldn't be back until midday. Then it was out turn to leave and go back home.
Our visit was all too short.
I can't wait to see the newest addition to the the family again.
I'm back after a week and a half long jaunt up North to met this little person, Miss Sofia.
Well we did a bit more than just met my little niece, but her visit out East with her parents did determine when we went up North. My brother and his wife had been invited to a wedding in VT and planned on staying with my, or rather our mother at her home that was just an hour's drive from the wedding venue. Which was very exciting for us since my brother and his little family live waaaay far away in Alaska.
Visiting them is no easy car ride.
So we much planning and phone calling back and forth between Vermont, Virginia, and Alaska we coordinated our vacation schedules to overlap.
And what a vacation it was.
Sofia is a delightful little girl, all of fifteen months. It would have been nice to have met her when she was still a babe in arms, but she is far more fun as a full fledged toddler. She is all peaches and cream with big smiles. Sofia delighted in her big cousins and they too were smitten with her. She loved running around the backyard with them, kicking a ball, and splashing in the wading pool.
We even got to babysit her when her parents went out for the rehearsal dinner. Sofia didn't mind one bit to be left with us. All I had to do was take her out to the porch while my brother and sister-in-law left out the side door. The only time Sofia cried was for a brief moment when I put her to bed. Then she quickly dropped off to sleep. The next day it was off to the wedding and the the house seemed too quiet, they were spending the night and wouldn't be back until midday. Then it was out turn to leave and go back home.
Our visit was all too short.
I can't wait to see the newest addition to the the family again.
Friday, July 01, 2011
MCP Project 52: Hidden Object
This week's theme was hidden object and guess what I found a hidden object last weekend. Which I guess means it really wasn't a hidden object. However two dachshunds cruised by it at least twice and didn't even twitch a whisker.
I on the other hand did see the toad and fortuitously had my camera in hand.
He was a very cooperative subject and didn't move a muscle while I swooped around him taking pictures. It was probably a defensive move, along the lines of if I don't move nobody will see me.
I like the pebbly texture of the toad's skin works with the rough surface of the brick steps and mortar. The leaves spilling over from the bushes along side add a nice splash of color. The bottom of the handrail adds a nice bit of framing for the shot.
I am very pleased with this picture. Thank you Mr. Toad for being such a good subject.
I on the other hand did see the toad and fortuitously had my camera in hand.
He was a very cooperative subject and didn't move a muscle while I swooped around him taking pictures. It was probably a defensive move, along the lines of if I don't move nobody will see me.
I like the pebbly texture of the toad's skin works with the rough surface of the brick steps and mortar. The leaves spilling over from the bushes along side add a nice splash of color. The bottom of the handrail adds a nice bit of framing for the shot.
I am very pleased with this picture. Thank you Mr. Toad for being such a good subject.
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