tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62930215858205846682024-02-19T09:11:40.943-06:00There's no place like HomeAn online journal inspired by the antics of our four children and a passion for my zone 6 Kansas garden.
This blog is a lot like a box of chocolates. . .You never know what you're gonna get (modified from Forrest Gump)Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.comBlogger571125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-17457284836743023892022-04-01T21:59:00.004-05:002022-04-01T21:59:41.312-05:00El Salvador--Day 6<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's hard to believe today, at how fast the week has gone! I feel a second wind! I haven't talked to my family in a couple of days now...have had no connection with the outside world that I know...but I am ready to finish up serving here as I am needed to serve, and ready to relax later today and to celebrate a fruitful week!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiua6mRWuj56YGc_PzNnqdApb5tFtVjjcQLQn3NDbWvqrwQt7K_baE5UoVe8PzBlNAoehifTs6PD8DkmOWxsH2-orHemaNaNu83sWPH9ZSLlvIutBiv9Ol5hlfnswp1VnBH-fJkbblg8-htS9ggEhREn-QuBdmlJlQiu2lhdjiHN-bapMUewjYa2WMuvA/s2048/IMG_7081.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiua6mRWuj56YGc_PzNnqdApb5tFtVjjcQLQn3NDbWvqrwQt7K_baE5UoVe8PzBlNAoehifTs6PD8DkmOWxsH2-orHemaNaNu83sWPH9ZSLlvIutBiv9Ol5hlfnswp1VnBH-fJkbblg8-htS9ggEhREn-QuBdmlJlQiu2lhdjiHN-bapMUewjYa2WMuvA/s320/IMG_7081.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> We all loaded into the back of this truck, and headed for Oasis to load up the equipment and supplies so we could drive on a few more miles to La Hacienda village where we would be serving today.<p></p><p style="text-align: center;">As has been the case every day, the people know we are coming, and they are waiting around for us as we come in! We truly have seen patients across the entire lifespan. We have seen more women than men, and lots of children. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_UtgdRFupLQJKpYTn1mHL_Wj455fu4fGixx0LThubJX5Ks6HQpmXi1VDA87EkpMLBEIUmpt-8K6YXIbVcBgaCyR6LWslKpPgrvtgjaB8RGx-yD2tZrOyj0b0-XbDrCCk3qpiKr0Mfa_O69Go4oI52B5fM1iRp-WUcklUvZBhd_jZYhhr6CBdMHz9bRw/s512/4193.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="384" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_UtgdRFupLQJKpYTn1mHL_Wj455fu4fGixx0LThubJX5Ks6HQpmXi1VDA87EkpMLBEIUmpt-8K6YXIbVcBgaCyR6LWslKpPgrvtgjaB8RGx-yD2tZrOyj0b0-XbDrCCk3qpiKr0Mfa_O69Go4oI52B5fM1iRp-WUcklUvZBhd_jZYhhr6CBdMHz9bRw/s320/4193.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Today, we went inside the old run-down building that we were supposed to be serving out of. There was great dis-repair and absolutely no lighting inside. We decided it would be most comfortable for everyone to set up our clinic outside in the back of the building. The dentists set up their station on a small, covered patio area in the front of the building. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGT97bY0zFZHj-ievB2YsO3DHQ8UidqzZexH6kLOtlHCkk_t0tZpQKbNAfeil9hKBb2CqjljbD7iG9j43j75RAx9KsHzVIH-r72WfZWnMH3Zy9bnBVVBMWx708kIABOMD5s72BUWd57AYfJto6HNDIpAa7XfNBO0RMK5FdNneqsvquY_5h_OOJmWtzsQ/s960/mel2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGT97bY0zFZHj-ievB2YsO3DHQ8UidqzZexH6kLOtlHCkk_t0tZpQKbNAfeil9hKBb2CqjljbD7iG9j43j75RAx9KsHzVIH-r72WfZWnMH3Zy9bnBVVBMWx708kIABOMD5s72BUWd57AYfJto6HNDIpAa7XfNBO0RMK5FdNneqsvquY_5h_OOJmWtzsQ/s320/mel2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The weather was beautiful. We did set up under a mango tree for shade, with full knowledge that any of us could fall victim to the falling fruit! </div></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY6WubPhBnGEcB7tsi-MeIeLZ-1SU4fzu0_yf9jS4xlwxxFC2Dy8juLNtpauvPF2IRnngJrwN-zmdy4g5fEg-D3mCNe_8IrRPcceOszFuXYI-nOzdZMAthTunt1YeEoKvPWd7d8PWPp9ykxHBQlg89GQCCruhpHp89AwZXz0J2kK6TKwzVqNud0pAsmA/s960/mel1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY6WubPhBnGEcB7tsi-MeIeLZ-1SU4fzu0_yf9jS4xlwxxFC2Dy8juLNtpauvPF2IRnngJrwN-zmdy4g5fEg-D3mCNe_8IrRPcceOszFuXYI-nOzdZMAthTunt1YeEoKvPWd7d8PWPp9ykxHBQlg89GQCCruhpHp89AwZXz0J2kK6TKwzVqNud0pAsmA/s320/mel1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I felt like the people were a little more friendly here. Their smiles came faster and were more abundant. Some of the kids enjoyed hearing their heartbeat for the first time...as well as listening to mine. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidgLZOdamjXHaeN2NiT1qfpTAwysQQtG7rk8HhFp6hMmRAAynW5qnPnFT4MhDBf0_cqW7_Cu4BMDcWO2a9KQUNY98rto9-N5Mwr0arVfdXiEiDNgl1f6g6kucHwR8YpH190LMSOgdNFx2TxpvG-IXRzAXjGvwcBpADgDwIrbot-RwqBYJyTybI6-Kl2w/s512/4198.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="384" data-original-width="512" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidgLZOdamjXHaeN2NiT1qfpTAwysQQtG7rk8HhFp6hMmRAAynW5qnPnFT4MhDBf0_cqW7_Cu4BMDcWO2a9KQUNY98rto9-N5Mwr0arVfdXiEiDNgl1f6g6kucHwR8YpH190LMSOgdNFx2TxpvG-IXRzAXjGvwcBpADgDwIrbot-RwqBYJyTybI6-Kl2w/s320/4198.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Dr Miller brought 10 or so packages of earrings, hooked into their own piercing systemr. He did babies, little girls, and adults. I also got to pierce the ears of a few kids. It was a special treat for them, and a fun new skill for me!</div></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0CjO7oP9TagZEqj4XeR_6OnvQgtzXqIx_mZx_k_aGpAPOKgu5NPyS5Jcgpm_ujEyAYoGUyBPW65b05Fp8SG1v9iuGhOrhRgPB5gqmxE2rt8jzfIddtgRHSzrOQBTr0EXfTOQIYzU2yJIrcBwzJmbpyh-0NgEsH36DvqfCZMBrS1DecOvTIV8jO2ArBw/s320/4191.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0CjO7oP9TagZEqj4XeR_6OnvQgtzXqIx_mZx_k_aGpAPOKgu5NPyS5Jcgpm_ujEyAYoGUyBPW65b05Fp8SG1v9iuGhOrhRgPB5gqmxE2rt8jzfIddtgRHSzrOQBTr0EXfTOQIYzU2yJIrcBwzJmbpyh-0NgEsH36DvqfCZMBrS1DecOvTIV8jO2ArBw/s1600/4191.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We cleaned out the rest of the kids' sunglasses, stuffed animals, and punch balloons that came over from the states. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEindd0MBMBXcKX7pVwxHfkrG5GXG1gEnej1ILJz2h1iCJT7Y4JZhhOph_3jpT7yr1n_ICY2OmrtgZWel6nYli5-4jEkPk8K9WaN9js2f4iO-Um0-dYSVJZGehIEaRDftlKmSoL1Wx1AIrB5qvMGuN165VBQ2MrK51ZqSRg69_yJiAliNdrSe_WVMPaNWw/s512/4202.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="384" data-original-width="512" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEindd0MBMBXcKX7pVwxHfkrG5GXG1gEnej1ILJz2h1iCJT7Y4JZhhOph_3jpT7yr1n_ICY2OmrtgZWel6nYli5-4jEkPk8K9WaN9js2f4iO-Um0-dYSVJZGehIEaRDftlKmSoL1Wx1AIrB5qvMGuN165VBQ2MrK51ZqSRg69_yJiAliNdrSe_WVMPaNWw/s320/4202.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The balloons were a HUGE hit here. </div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqYI-JDjgH34J5wThNDjOg6jCul8J6HBU88rCTetKcyNKkLzbt9RBmi44MGl_KvNx9TPgKFuouOPcEZt8V2BS4U-6Dm8_y43zmiXL1girn3br1BrcEhuKhyEZXRLP8-L9WRWxhcDDVmsQc00YkHXN4hjV3xuUA_573ai2glPKmsCQauccZjj7or4pHzg/s512/4204.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="384" data-original-width="512" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqYI-JDjgH34J5wThNDjOg6jCul8J6HBU88rCTetKcyNKkLzbt9RBmi44MGl_KvNx9TPgKFuouOPcEZt8V2BS4U-6Dm8_y43zmiXL1girn3br1BrcEhuKhyEZXRLP8-L9WRWxhcDDVmsQc00YkHXN4hjV3xuUA_573ai2glPKmsCQauccZjj7or4pHzg/s320/4204.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And they ran miles chasing one another around with them. I'm not sure how many hours those balloons may have lasted, but definitely long enough to provide hundreds of giggles and smiles.</div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioZVYml7_r8fFmRWskTRycxfzFda745yoeUMTLtJ3qRh8MEQqYXaHokiTykWExkaQQRSoiJGe1eZvLz7bqnSP0zd7EcSJ-RPINHzA37-0ZiLxq1n_E2oRBS58eDjK6FgsWRw-ZjWWvkqTDOaMXoajxlisUewhZbrcABxvYOKcymB0eIkZvox-EZuQaDg/s512/4206.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="384" data-original-width="512" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioZVYml7_r8fFmRWskTRycxfzFda745yoeUMTLtJ3qRh8MEQqYXaHokiTykWExkaQQRSoiJGe1eZvLz7bqnSP0zd7EcSJ-RPINHzA37-0ZiLxq1n_E2oRBS58eDjK6FgsWRw-ZjWWvkqTDOaMXoajxlisUewhZbrcABxvYOKcymB0eIkZvox-EZuQaDg/s320/4206.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>One of the ladies that I saw had injured her hip. She has had a seizure disorder for decades. But because she has limited access, she has not been able to take her seizure medication. She had a seizure a couple weeks ago that she has been healing from. She had another seizure last week. Thankfully, Dr Morataya was going to be able to bring her the medicine she needs next Friday when he comes back to do a clinic. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It seems that lack of medication compliance due to lack of resources is universal. I have many patients in the US that don't take their medications correctly because they can't afford it financially. Medication prices in the US are out of control. Though the medication prices in El Salvador are much cheaper, the majority of the people on this island make less than $1 per day. So limited access to medications, and limited funds make double trouble for compliance. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As a side note, each of us got a packet of 6 pills before we left for the US. We were to take them when we got home to treat for any parasite that we may have picked up while we were gone. The six tablets of generic medications cost a few dollars at the most. When I looked it up in my medication resource at home, I found that, because it is in low demand in US, that it is considered "off label" and the cost for those 6 tablets was OVER THREE THOUSAND DOLLARS!! That discovery made me absolutely furious at our system of health care!! Problems like that...rooted in the fact that no one will make any money off of them otherwise...and at the expense of the people that need them...takes the joy out of my job!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One of the highlights of this trip for me was the simplicity of caring for people without all the beurocracy that we deal with here in the US. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One woman sat down in the chair across from me and when I asked her how she was, she replied "You have descended upon us like angels from heaven. We are so grateful for the care you are giving us." That attitude was a blessing to my heart as well!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVMOHERPMKP4LvMGtretAcSmX79g5JVoORqorH-p13J2W5QnBi_3Cv73AdEPTmPaQ9JXrLIVw9ns8rlJ_LA8YE0xJFzM6Z1ZwjUfBfP7ijeBNolJ6PhYjJe3uMod9j7PLVwqxndojKGRq7fpfNDMZbcqAGCdBcU1mnNc356JY6CkHfL9meSRDQAIAWGw/s2048/IMG_7077.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVMOHERPMKP4LvMGtretAcSmX79g5JVoORqorH-p13J2W5QnBi_3Cv73AdEPTmPaQ9JXrLIVw9ns8rlJ_LA8YE0xJFzM6Z1ZwjUfBfP7ijeBNolJ6PhYjJe3uMod9j7PLVwqxndojKGRq7fpfNDMZbcqAGCdBcU1mnNc356JY6CkHfL9meSRDQAIAWGw/s320/IMG_7077.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The week before I left, I turned around in my office to get something off of a shelf behind my desk. My little eye spied a English/Spanish translation book for medical words that I had scored years ago, but rarely have the chance to use. I held on to it for the week in case we needed to use it, but I promised Edwin that he could have it when I left so he could practice the words for interpreting. We did a small, official ceremony for the sake of a picture! ;-)</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzPK3Hc-GnVJ0aL6KAmLVnMu5uRvtlpMNFwyRgs_6PZ7D58v9mRWQluQ6pbJzzLmQqTC4Hf7H1bAXo1fwXXZMBWyWlA8105c0qz3yQHPLUfYXzVXvXcfZjN0esm7QMuyAWbJCIJpg6VJ6oJOpFENf4VMKOB278pZ-__HavQ9RSiUemx1tkta7dty7ww/s2048/IMG_7079.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzPK3Hc-GnVJ0aL6KAmLVnMu5uRvtlpMNFwyRgs_6PZ7D58v9mRWQluQ6pbJzzLmQqTC4Hf7H1bAXo1fwXXZMBWyWlA8105c0qz3yQHPLUfYXzVXvXcfZjN0esm7QMuyAWbJCIJpg6VJ6oJOpFENf4VMKOB278pZ-__HavQ9RSiUemx1tkta7dty7ww/s320/IMG_7079.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And then we staged a picture of Sylvita trying to steal it. HAHAHA!</div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9GR4B-9ycbAuB9kcCD3tT8iQBVNG3I5i9g5q_k-JU-1gN_GUuq7476jPtgxTZy24ucixyO3rxKhP8P157Wbar1ivRxY8n20aiznduVEUjDxWC-C6N5YF6xXV_iuYMnA6pCqGKPxApMV2aJPqKvagsiJDGsJwCml7tzX5irKcfQmtJoiPTa35VUE0urQ/s2048/IMG_7086.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9GR4B-9ycbAuB9kcCD3tT8iQBVNG3I5i9g5q_k-JU-1gN_GUuq7476jPtgxTZy24ucixyO3rxKhP8P157Wbar1ivRxY8n20aiznduVEUjDxWC-C6N5YF6xXV_iuYMnA6pCqGKPxApMV2aJPqKvagsiJDGsJwCml7tzX5irKcfQmtJoiPTa35VUE0urQ/s320/IMG_7086.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">They hired a horse and cart to take the three American providers back to Sister Magdalena's. While we were waiting for that to show up, this ox cart came by hauling green bean plants to the cattle since there isn't any grass right now. The cart had concrete wheels. It was an interesting sight. </div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigKNujHTKSyHR-vUpvkftHxA9P_C5bwPTLi8vAtnuviYzw89WFYaTh2yU9GQGADrt0z4qRKoWjyIuOVJy7E8p4rxJ1MayzmOxtRV99_-VS4Azj_bOpPR1V4AqgfDP7_VkC5E0nAE0I6QW9HjHlWwYPlqK5l6C42jkZFmLAYTCyuUtv638l72J-bUc9rA/s2048/IMG_7090.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigKNujHTKSyHR-vUpvkftHxA9P_C5bwPTLi8vAtnuviYzw89WFYaTh2yU9GQGADrt0z4qRKoWjyIuOVJy7E8p4rxJ1MayzmOxtRV99_-VS4Azj_bOpPR1V4AqgfDP7_VkC5E0nAE0I6QW9HjHlWwYPlqK5l6C42jkZFmLAYTCyuUtv638l72J-bUc9rA/s320/IMG_7090.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And on our way back on the horse cart, we passed a couple more carts in the road. It just struck me as funny, since it is so different than the life we know! <br />I don't think we are in Kansas anymore Toto!!</div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXuTKaMfsFJJyuRRn0b57DX4rpp1PjZzAWI-f1Nc7GCvzsu4aXby_50U9MMabJAcdhQ__sSFFbTE3hSSaISc0FS-KB3DakTUX5Cw_IHnm3eKaSDGk-18pp8vM8wS0fPDpCUVbyvzr1F125wx6cupZUboxT5xAEI8PAOzP7LYpaOyFjWNuYKCuewyDwhw/s320/4214.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXuTKaMfsFJJyuRRn0b57DX4rpp1PjZzAWI-f1Nc7GCvzsu4aXby_50U9MMabJAcdhQ__sSFFbTE3hSSaISc0FS-KB3DakTUX5Cw_IHnm3eKaSDGk-18pp8vM8wS0fPDpCUVbyvzr1F125wx6cupZUboxT5xAEI8PAOzP7LYpaOyFjWNuYKCuewyDwhw/s1600/4214.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the Island ambulance. A number of people actually have cell phones here, so if there is a medical emergency that can't be solved, one of Sister Magdalena's sons picks them up and takes them to the mainland in the boat.<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We ate lunch, packed our things back into the boat, and headed for the mainland where our great driver Malchi was waiting on us to whisk us to the little medical clinic for our COVID tests. </div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYo_ARG6tRjPATLPPD4ZRXIiD-FmX26wUelVtFkoWvsuPTqZo-QvtfITcVl7-VBTNDYwfjgF-Cj-MXlbEhcomiIUP9551F-jnerxAvOO7-vx-FCZ2agjsN8qjUk4dc3-gGPpabMcINPWSD2tLvXo1F0HUo1xvrsb8d1j7RarsFXrAmUnF3pNBlAw3eeA/s320/4211.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYo_ARG6tRjPATLPPD4ZRXIiD-FmX26wUelVtFkoWvsuPTqZo-QvtfITcVl7-VBTNDYwfjgF-Cj-MXlbEhcomiIUP9551F-jnerxAvOO7-vx-FCZ2agjsN8qjUk4dc3-gGPpabMcINPWSD2tLvXo1F0HUo1xvrsb8d1j7RarsFXrAmUnF3pNBlAw3eeA/s1600/4211.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The tide was much lower than it was when we came in, so we had to separate from the rest of the team and go back in smaller groups. Bittersweet moments of goodbye. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijK-84ePpaCicbhbEk-S6ja56TacXQQ_IU2iIZ-OCN8MfG8ZzS6gaONtSEgX2m6-97n-KLBBn4x33jKzB-iCiwiE7PXY-KfPij2q69EBV6rU41Bz89Dh0haDxs3SAb1EZL8FfZBjx6DuPZQgzXS6800JbKLP3uK8xkVMnsi4XbE88DCYN1ZQwTAOcVUQ/s512/4220.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="384" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijK-84ePpaCicbhbEk-S6ja56TacXQQ_IU2iIZ-OCN8MfG8ZzS6gaONtSEgX2m6-97n-KLBBn4x33jKzB-iCiwiE7PXY-KfPij2q69EBV6rU41Bz89Dh0haDxs3SAb1EZL8FfZBjx6DuPZQgzXS6800JbKLP3uK8xkVMnsi4XbE88DCYN1ZQwTAOcVUQ/s320/4220.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We were back in time to get settled in for the evening to our house that overlooked the beach. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzaLM3_uFWTFh9l7A9ASteZ1tuiw01trl9FkcWXBXH65-L9xCXAiPGeUnxsgigVn3KijrjxKMnXxRfJbvDoU5j2TyK-GPeMUIWUevl-imWX8B3umFO3j18KKwAIppLm0NspHM9wQNFez1C926SplVSTD73pg9LN70zwQy-NIWXlieIM5oYc_jHu2jhfw/s512/4226.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="384" data-original-width="512" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzaLM3_uFWTFh9l7A9ASteZ1tuiw01trl9FkcWXBXH65-L9xCXAiPGeUnxsgigVn3KijrjxKMnXxRfJbvDoU5j2TyK-GPeMUIWUevl-imWX8B3umFO3j18KKwAIppLm0NspHM9wQNFez1C926SplVSTD73pg9LN70zwQy-NIWXlieIM5oYc_jHu2jhfw/s320/4226.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And we enjoyed a quick dip in the really warm ocean, as well as some amazing pictures as the sun sank into the sea. </div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRSflVZ-8eyToEsbn3UIKrMP30GsAb2_wimXrV6mVztAVHw80sm5jxOq910AezBYl-l9zn69C1AujEdWqoQ6h6wMDK7ulZxYMmgYqJiqICKgLCix6ZJVAuBjqzmM70onchqtYFh7z7UTsXP8fBIHuif9P7VBAYs7iKraCM_LeJvJJscJoJPezIAFmfVg/s320/4244.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRSflVZ-8eyToEsbn3UIKrMP30GsAb2_wimXrV6mVztAVHw80sm5jxOq910AezBYl-l9zn69C1AujEdWqoQ6h6wMDK7ulZxYMmgYqJiqICKgLCix6ZJVAuBjqzmM70onchqtYFh7z7UTsXP8fBIHuif9P7VBAYs7iKraCM_LeJvJJscJoJPezIAFmfVg/s1600/4244.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was a picture of the pool at night from my bedroom door!!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Saturday morning we enjoyed a beautiful waterfront breakfast at La Pampa. Lydia left early in the morning, Steve left after lunch, and Rudy, Larry, Monica and I eventually ended up back at the mission house for the last night after we toured a huge cathedral and the historic National Palace in downtown San Salvador. The Palace was a place where they used to conduct the business of the country. It was absolutely huge, and we enjoyed the architecture and the green parakeets squabbling in the trees inside the courtyard! I saw ONE hummingbird the whole week. It was in that courtyard. I think it dove into the bush to roost for the night so the sighting was very brief!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So here we are...</div><div style="text-align: center;">At the end of a journey.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> It was a fast journey, with not much preparation. It was a busy journey, without much time to ponder what was going on. Because of the urgent way that God brought me into the journey, I allowed myself to believe that something huge was going to happen while I was gone. I believed that God was going to rock my world a little bit...or a lot....or that He might rock someone's world through my time there. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I didn't see that though. </div><div style="text-align: center;">In fact, I left wondering...and asking, "God, why me. Why then. What was so important that you led me right into that trip in a way that was completely YOU. What am I not seeing here?"</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> I prayed over it for days. That God would enlighten me about the purpose of this trip. I worked hard. I loved hard. I served hard. I loved all of it. I learned from it. I was humbled by it. I would do it again and again...in a heartbeat. It was an amazing experience for certain...but I just felt like I was missing something.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">It was beautiful to see the way God has used Larry and Monica to take ownership of this community in a way that is serving His purposes for the good of these communities. They are literally being the hands and feet of God in a tangible way--physically, emotionally, and spiritually. But my question to the Lord was this "where do I fit into all of this. What are the lessons that you had for ME Lord? How will this change my life? How does this affect You and I?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I went back to my old life Monday afternoon. Back to my family. Back to my job. Back to being the me that God placed in this community nearly 30 years ago. And Tuesday evening, in the quiet of my thoughts, the Spirit broke in. He reminded me of a song that I love. It's called "I'll go where you want me to go." <br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The lyrics read like this:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><ol style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><li class="first" style="list-style-type: none; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;">It may not be on the mountain’s height,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Or over the stormy sea;</div><div style="text-align: center;">It may not be at the battle’s front,</div><div style="text-align: center;">My Lord will have need of me;</div><div style="text-align: center;">But if by a still, small voice He calls,</div><div style="text-align: center;">To paths that I do not know,</div><div style="text-align: center;">I’ll answer, dear Lord, with my hand in Thine,</div><div style="text-align: center;">I’ll go where You want me to go.</div><ul style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><li class="refrain" style="list-style-type: none; margin-left: 20px; margin-top: 1em;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Refrain:</span></div><div style="text-align: center;">I’ll go where You want me to go, dear Lord,</div><div style="text-align: center;">O’er mountain, or plain, or sea;</div><div style="text-align: center;">I’ll say what You want me to say, dear Lord,</div><div style="text-align: center;">I’ll be what You want me to be.</div></li></ul></li><li style="list-style-type: none; margin-top: 1em;"><div style="text-align: center;">Perhaps today there are loving words</div><div style="text-align: center;">Which Jesus would have me speak;</div><div style="text-align: center;">There may be now in the paths of sin,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Some wand’rer whom I should seek;</div><div style="text-align: center;">O Savior, if Thou wilt be my guide,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Though dark and rugged the way,</div><div style="text-align: center;">My voice shall echo Thy message sweet,</div><div style="text-align: center;">I’ll say what You want me to say.</div></li><li style="list-style-type: none; margin-top: 1em;"><div style="text-align: center;">Refrain</div></li><li style="list-style-type: none; margin-top: 1em;"><div style="text-align: center;">There’s surely somewhere a lowly place,</div><div style="text-align: center;">In earth’s harvest fields so white,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Where I may labor through life’s short day,</div><div style="text-align: center;">For Jesus the Crucified;</div><div style="text-align: center;">So trusting my all to Thy tender care,</div><div style="text-align: center;">And knowing Thou lovest me,</div><div style="text-align: center;">I’ll do Thy will with a heart sincere,</div><div style="text-align: center;">I’ll be what You want me to be.</div></li><li style="list-style-type: none; margin-top: 1em;"><div style="text-align: center;">Refrain</div></li></ol></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Music has always ministered to my soul. After I heard this song a number of years ago, I printed it out and kept it my treadmill--periodically I would sing it as a prayer (I do a lot of prayer walking on my treadmill.). I have prayed this for years. Often I focus on the the second verse more than the others since I am always talking to people and counseling them--it's what God created me to do.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">But Tuesday night, the chorus kept running through my mind...and I felt like the Spirit was whispering to me, "Child. For years you have told Me that you would go where I want you to go...and be what I want you to be. I took the path of short notice, faith walking, no months worth of planning. It's uncomfortable for you. I asked you to go. And you went. You have always said you would go on YOUR terms. I wanted to see if you would go on MINE. I asked you to go. You were obedient to the call I placed in your heart. The things that I did through you while you were there aren't to be revealed to you now. Obedience is what I desired."</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Wow!! </div><div style="text-align: center;">This trip to El Salvador was a beautiful gift from my Father. He was giving me the desire of my heart--to travel to the "least of these" and serve Him by serving them. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And its true...in MY perfect world, I would have researched out all the organizations, all the possible locations, all the lengths of stay, the cultures, the food, the fun things. I would have picked the perfect dates...or put it off for years waiting on the perfect date and perfect set of circumstances before I would commit. I would have spent SIXTY dollars on a passport rather than $650 on one. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">He was right, I would have preferred it on MY terms...controlled by ME-giving credit to HIM. </div><div style="text-align: center;">BUT...in His perfect plan...He tested me. He gave me a gift that blessed my socks off. On HIS terms. His trip, His way, His timing.</div><div style="text-align: center;">And that was it. That was the lesson. That was the thing. </div><div style="text-align: center;">He wanted to know if I would obey His call.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifDfTrjSLzgMN-AlHUpVuf7-IFhNPS4pzrJbxBvuyRsjb-E-YkUmdeW1-B9ZHQC9DRRpLEDsykOR0eF-wW43JXdJgz4CmZgIdQvntRKI8vtOetOV8IntzQxMz5OFxUIaeMTUoTYO1Wj06GCL4Hjz1ukT7ofhTAiuDwet9v9epu5AD1F4GQCspWceT9GQ/s2304/IMG_7104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2304" data-original-width="1728" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifDfTrjSLzgMN-AlHUpVuf7-IFhNPS4pzrJbxBvuyRsjb-E-YkUmdeW1-B9ZHQC9DRRpLEDsykOR0eF-wW43JXdJgz4CmZgIdQvntRKI8vtOetOV8IntzQxMz5OFxUIaeMTUoTYO1Wj06GCL4Hjz1ukT7ofhTAiuDwet9v9epu5AD1F4GQCspWceT9GQ/s320/IMG_7104.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>I have no doubt that I impacted people in El Salvador as much as they impacted me. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I have no doubt that I met needs there that no one else on earth could have. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I have no doubt that God used me physically and verbally to touch lives. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I have no doubt that God is going to use my written story to encourage others to trust in the great big God that we read about in the bible, and that still small voice of the Spirit that says things that don't seem to make any sense. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I also have no doubt, that the Lord will continue to draw me into the next thing and the next thing, because of my obedience to this thing!!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Most of the time, the next thing is right out my back door. And I have no doubt that the next things will continue to be right in my own little sphere of the world--not across the seas!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The most profound moment, truly, of my whole trip, was going through customs in El Salvador. They asked what our business was in their country. Dr Larry looked at them and said, "We are missionaries." MISSIONARIES!!! </div><div style="text-align: center;">In my mind, those are people who leave everything they know and never come back again. </div><div style="text-align: center;">But in that moment, I realized he was right. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Missionaries are those who are sent on a mission, especially to do religious or charitable work in a territory or a foreign country. </div><div style="text-align: center;">And we were sent on a mission by God to the forgotten boys in prison...to the rural villages of El Salvador...and to the little forgotten Island of Calzada.<br />I. AM. A. MISSIONARY!! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjagV6gZFna98KZ_ktXVa9U7iQcJS8j5ocl4mTy3s2fvOGhVnJb3-3CxX5f7am_kXCHzq7GaWtvxsryf2BA2Ylpv-yQw03lfefP9UzQLJvyjx1A1sJSm2ANkt1hejnfsIUanBcDwSg7yXNHp7_6QFrhtANiBqiGGkXvCPYXwIA6HfXXpBo-HX9wX0-YcQ/s2304/IMG_7117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2304" data-original-width="1728" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjagV6gZFna98KZ_ktXVa9U7iQcJS8j5ocl4mTy3s2fvOGhVnJb3-3CxX5f7am_kXCHzq7GaWtvxsryf2BA2Ylpv-yQw03lfefP9UzQLJvyjx1A1sJSm2ANkt1hejnfsIUanBcDwSg7yXNHp7_6QFrhtANiBqiGGkXvCPYXwIA6HfXXpBo-HX9wX0-YcQ/s320/IMG_7117.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>But as I pondered that over the next 10 days or so, I realized that truly, I am a missionary in my own community. God gave me the mission to bring His news to teenagers in my area. He gives me the mission to bring hope and encouragement into the lives of the people I serve in my work every week. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And the fact is, anyone who has accepted Christ as their Savior and Master...Has. Been. SENT. already. They/we have been sent to take God's gospel of salvation through Jesus to the ends of the earth. In our homes. In our neighborhoods. In our counties and states and countries. My mission is different than your mission. And your mission is different than the person who sits next to you on Sunday. But we all have a mission, given to us by God Himself! </div><div style="text-align: center;">If you have received Christ by faith, you are also called to be a missionary. Are you taking that call seriously??</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And I'm here to tell you, this was a heck of a way to figure that out for myself. But I'm glad for God's lessons, and God's methods, in God's time!! </div><div style="text-align: center;">Thanks for reading through my story!! If you have a question, drop it in the comment box at the end and I'll be glad to answer!! Make sure that you don't leave without clicking the last song link...it applies to all of us!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3GZBITSyAsY" width="320" youtube-src-id="3GZBITSyAsY"></iframe></div> Won't Stop Now<p></p><br /><br />Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-66742083654307734732022-04-01T16:46:00.003-05:002022-04-01T16:46:55.011-05:00El Salvador--Day 5<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXokWFNiDLaJbc70N0z0_YMzTm-v6rO-CRf-y0cMtw0D9MdwwGqdZQgWesrSJGyVZCutDTJAYF-9dkJvBQ-cQ4tmVvhv3j7X8BNiGGXhfL_iTdT67i6u0Go8ukgOebwFkrU-x0AymvX4SzG1aqxd-mPLTrxIldY_o0PA7I1Uk0Xf_Pr45OqcijNFIDpw/s320/4151.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXokWFNiDLaJbc70N0z0_YMzTm-v6rO-CRf-y0cMtw0D9MdwwGqdZQgWesrSJGyVZCutDTJAYF-9dkJvBQ-cQ4tmVvhv3j7X8BNiGGXhfL_iTdT67i6u0Go8ukgOebwFkrU-x0AymvX4SzG1aqxd-mPLTrxIldY_o0PA7I1Uk0Xf_Pr45OqcijNFIDpw/s1600/4151.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dr Steve, Lydia, Me, and Monica</td></tr></tbody></table><p style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">This morning, we had eggs with vegetables, refried black beans, tamales, cafe and fresh fruit. We left for our next clinic at Oasis (Oh-ah-sees). They recently had a few young ladies paint new murals on the walls. The mural where we are standing says JESUS HEALS. It's next to the clinic exam room that they have there. </span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-a05f6a7d-7fff-7290-c11e-f19acae12db7"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Zpf6jwaEUsweDLQpZP6DF-gQYLvOzkORXugbypGR4eDiPGbzMWcODyvh9jtpAulT00Mt58OMB_QqiZNWSvt-nPr44Ynt4WiXBKlyCEBRJ3pEvvwLMP4khWHq9_VUji-Gn9jkdd1JzU3EyifqGBoU-hyPOzyRlGpbY8VcZa5naPD-o5S9YYhlVKvNFw/s2048/mel4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Zpf6jwaEUsweDLQpZP6DF-gQYLvOzkORXugbypGR4eDiPGbzMWcODyvh9jtpAulT00Mt58OMB_QqiZNWSvt-nPr44Ynt4WiXBKlyCEBRJ3pEvvwLMP4khWHq9_VUji-Gn9jkdd1JzU3EyifqGBoU-hyPOzyRlGpbY8VcZa5naPD-o5S9YYhlVKvNFw/s320/mel4.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>They had supplies for me to do some well woman exams. Several of the women hadn’t had one for many years. The table was a narrow gurney which had no brakes and no stirrups. They used a step stool to get on it, and there really wasn't access to good sanitation barriers-adequate to get the job done, but it wouldn't have passed the regulations in the US. The tools were archaic and took me a minute to figure out. I had a head lamp on to see (usually the lights are right in the tools we use to see). It was an experience to say the least, but the women were so grateful. One thanked me and gave me a big hug for taking care of her. I just hope that the pap slides that I made were useable later!</span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDn2zk60S5JoAW6r6GLwACtCpgcSZ2pmtFcSGgqRcfuATKTv1ghZik1XknwjSSQsVQ98vNalBFN-m43W4pnjgZGP9AdTqsGD_hcVxLUP8zH0twUDGwIgHfhhwOXYUMk8T1nJXkgmNBuM2gd0BIha4pU47MIDiBoIZlGgdc4xMCEGxOEI4eSeLK8_L3Wg/s2048/mel3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDn2zk60S5JoAW6r6GLwACtCpgcSZ2pmtFcSGgqRcfuATKTv1ghZik1XknwjSSQsVQ98vNalBFN-m43W4pnjgZGP9AdTqsGD_hcVxLUP8zH0twUDGwIgHfhhwOXYUMk8T1nJXkgmNBuM2gd0BIha4pU47MIDiBoIZlGgdc4xMCEGxOEI4eSeLK8_L3Wg/s320/mel3.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sylvita was the interpreter that helped me the most. She's a petite little thing!! She is in her late 20's or early 30's and super sweet. She works full time for Christ For the City International. She teaches English to the kids as well as some other things. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDWKDgBcOViK0fJT32CmQ6Zg9XsFO4LSMfPuxAxb32QMW0rsTbZSVsqTz35hlVIlHXmulGWUQe_ZpuI_Hskjxlp7elnUkhgQDXLa9ALEaofVuvYRJdY8ewtIlPRl-iDm8AJLhrecnwtKEasZQKxC3p8rMY65dUZs52K7z0gmbTFmtrjyTttxjB5nCTzw/s2048/IMG_7048.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDWKDgBcOViK0fJT32CmQ6Zg9XsFO4LSMfPuxAxb32QMW0rsTbZSVsqTz35hlVIlHXmulGWUQe_ZpuI_Hskjxlp7elnUkhgQDXLa9ALEaofVuvYRJdY8ewtIlPRl-iDm8AJLhrecnwtKEasZQKxC3p8rMY65dUZs52K7z0gmbTFmtrjyTttxjB5nCTzw/s320/IMG_7048.JPG" width="240" /></a></div></td></tr></tbody></table>We walked to the clinic today. It was only a few blocks. This lady lives next door to sister Magdalena. I happened to notice that she was drawing her water from a well. I didn't have the chance to ask anyone how routine that is, but I am going to guess pretty common!<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxcQM7Nn8GYUMHabtUGzEvK1NBix2r2GtXehxHa6ugnTcnBxVquFdC3vp7_zkJ2LCN3taWqNjEiM6SWmjkzR7zFsnkY3qq8kJEg0-OpwpgVbprVWDr_HRpZvb9xwDEJ30uP7hqqjPcm9BsFTYJLSFHngUY9wiqumsEIVmaOaMsaF40lkWA8zGzVAJXYg/s2048/IMG_7040.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxcQM7Nn8GYUMHabtUGzEvK1NBix2r2GtXehxHa6ugnTcnBxVquFdC3vp7_zkJ2LCN3taWqNjEiM6SWmjkzR7zFsnkY3qq8kJEg0-OpwpgVbprVWDr_HRpZvb9xwDEJ30uP7hqqjPcm9BsFTYJLSFHngUY9wiqumsEIVmaOaMsaF40lkWA8zGzVAJXYg/s320/IMG_7040.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">Here is the set up at Sister Magdalena's. The shallow rectangular sink is also the "washing machine." We used it for hand washing. The procedure was to fill up one of those small blue pans with water from the circular vessel. Use the soap in the right hand corner of the rectangle sink, and then use the fresh water in the pan to rinse off. To the left of the rectangle was the eating area, and about 30 steps to the right of the circle was the kitchen. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeer3HnIHlL7dyScs_6QCvtlqoWYqdSUkSvx5470SWu0_Teu_34Mv-EtAOSxVq5riEfSrdAYyw2OV70FLVgT2wNfygnFtDbwtNm8nrK4wuFW4XLBYow5hFHj2yBe2JCGbX7pBfRldjAqkA7VETs08_gql8REoevZNMeSb0YxED2eALrJXFt9kvgieTTA/s2048/IMG_7041.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeer3HnIHlL7dyScs_6QCvtlqoWYqdSUkSvx5470SWu0_Teu_34Mv-EtAOSxVq5riEfSrdAYyw2OV70FLVgT2wNfygnFtDbwtNm8nrK4wuFW4XLBYow5hFHj2yBe2JCGbX7pBfRldjAqkA7VETs08_gql8REoevZNMeSb0YxED2eALrJXFt9kvgieTTA/s320/IMG_7041.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here is a picture of the kitchen. There is a deep freezer in the back right hand side of the room, and a refrigerator to the left that isn't visible in the picture. She also has a large flat cook top (think Blackstone without the brand name) next to the red chair on the left. The dishwashing sink is in the back left hand corner. The picture looks bright, but that one light bulb up there doesn't light up much. It seemed really dark in there all the time. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilR6cSEeLFSafMtg6jf0-fXrGTIePdCtivXLnArXSEYSMMeVhNw43-biE1CWuAW6aYSikjThseNvxkUhAbK_D0X5_jqUYT_fezY1M1O0mDuYDIKQ7Pw_jPbyrf7jgOFdyNur-xPL_RCRlhheNJAQvZWYuyKVKvEYExPWD6BG9jp8aTstxdEjnKQiKQGA/s2048/IMG_7054.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilR6cSEeLFSafMtg6jf0-fXrGTIePdCtivXLnArXSEYSMMeVhNw43-biE1CWuAW6aYSikjThseNvxkUhAbK_D0X5_jqUYT_fezY1M1O0mDuYDIKQ7Pw_jPbyrf7jgOFdyNur-xPL_RCRlhheNJAQvZWYuyKVKvEYExPWD6BG9jp8aTstxdEjnKQiKQGA/s320/IMG_7054.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here is a picture at the shower room. You can see that the tin roof fits only "loosely" onto the building. The shower is on the left and the toilet is behind the green curtain at the right. The girls bedroom was connected to the bathroom-to the left of the shower. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUWVt0rhYm1l_LYXQqji8ZgsFYiC3a0AKl5IYYilSrfJ6GcdfQonnFTZ47TjNMrBvU-JXeEC1RH_ht7qf2aRTlAJOFUvBW9uE2HH4SSs0d6YrO6M3EeCtQboRVbCQI9fb2T6uPUcl13JVi2KOnxUOl2BE7_JFlXMz1TuIuI12rTiGaA7rSQVFpOjaL8w/s2048/IMG_7053.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUWVt0rhYm1l_LYXQqji8ZgsFYiC3a0AKl5IYYilSrfJ6GcdfQonnFTZ47TjNMrBvU-JXeEC1RH_ht7qf2aRTlAJOFUvBW9uE2HH4SSs0d6YrO6M3EeCtQboRVbCQI9fb2T6uPUcl13JVi2KOnxUOl2BE7_JFlXMz1TuIuI12rTiGaA7rSQVFpOjaL8w/s320/IMG_7053.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There was also a cement sink in the bathroom area. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5jPoPHWwVnRaJfQkgH8BsCFmLwuLinSdq84VbU0S9eqMi37YjRRwvnHf807u5Jcx2YpW7M0gptfisovrzFhjKw5N19MssZ72lRSsZT3w54GgvE9gnFp-NeqzRHV_YJ9Bsyl8FAlo-HjRFcP_MtoDiFy7fS9o7hVXBw_n80ftr14ecT_x6oB5-1qmd4g/s2048/IMG_7052.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5jPoPHWwVnRaJfQkgH8BsCFmLwuLinSdq84VbU0S9eqMi37YjRRwvnHf807u5Jcx2YpW7M0gptfisovrzFhjKw5N19MssZ72lRSsZT3w54GgvE9gnFp-NeqzRHV_YJ9Bsyl8FAlo-HjRFcP_MtoDiFy7fS9o7hVXBw_n80ftr14ecT_x6oB5-1qmd4g/s320/IMG_7052.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is the "lock" from inside the bathroom. The door was a wood framed piece of tin.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTQGTk0osEjbwmaRgJAnCUDFi2X0tt0AzNzwKD5rjO0U2_YHEcJINgs9GbcaRBUchb6VwWKk0kgTXzENd5mzPi5OPlrCJJVCeXjAhoRb0c1RA29QwkTrZgGy3-D_wa4lT9AOsaJ_bcJvSP8HimMhdvcs0fYxBhXewFxw1YZthd_wKGmxMcRVxIll1X_Q/s512/4136.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="384" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTQGTk0osEjbwmaRgJAnCUDFi2X0tt0AzNzwKD5rjO0U2_YHEcJINgs9GbcaRBUchb6VwWKk0kgTXzENd5mzPi5OPlrCJJVCeXjAhoRb0c1RA29QwkTrZgGy3-D_wa4lT9AOsaJ_bcJvSP8HimMhdvcs0fYxBhXewFxw1YZthd_wKGmxMcRVxIll1X_Q/s320/4136.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now, back to the clinic. Again, people were already waiting on us when we arrived. This was a beautiful little place with a new, improved kitchen that they use to serve the community. They actually use it to supply meals to some of the most food-insecure people in this little community.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwzcalKnOOjdzIhfbZIeEiSZwZCipL7lwtHzIH8yuPUUrTq_S_5T7GSRnS9KNEyeu16AxQ0F60or_aBUb9o5Ozxhx_OAEO5264vYiMtCD9tN7IK1Dc_-AqAmna7KQdoWIeO0GjTnwsc5uhm1U_wEpyBW_kHnOw3D8pSXz489IT7X7aLLkjGbqCE_O5tQ/s512/4134.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="384" data-original-width="512" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwzcalKnOOjdzIhfbZIeEiSZwZCipL7lwtHzIH8yuPUUrTq_S_5T7GSRnS9KNEyeu16AxQ0F60or_aBUb9o5Ozxhx_OAEO5264vYiMtCD9tN7IK1Dc_-AqAmna7KQdoWIeO0GjTnwsc5uhm1U_wEpyBW_kHnOw3D8pSXz489IT7X7aLLkjGbqCE_O5tQ/s320/4134.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In the clinic room is a small air conditioner. It felt good for the half of the day that I got to do well woman exams. The rest of the time, Dr Miller and Dr Steve did lesion removals and benign tumor removals, and Lydia stitched them up. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3n_VVFw9qOKXhf4hEEnNSsQ9tUNBNx9VpTat8xZ300onJHuxS0OMMfo8wNUP2hmIGc1Opm2jZDkd8zVWLU2hZ4RWktnuA_inIkO0Q5wR6bGz1jlMvisBgUcZ1u-j3N_Wp-iItexc1VXN6qxp6FBSuLYd8k7ohGXGQQ4M7MWvmJ4xcrC_W1XgaeB79-Q/s512/4135.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="384" data-original-width="512" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3n_VVFw9qOKXhf4hEEnNSsQ9tUNBNx9VpTat8xZ300onJHuxS0OMMfo8wNUP2hmIGc1Opm2jZDkd8zVWLU2hZ4RWktnuA_inIkO0Q5wR6bGz1jlMvisBgUcZ1u-j3N_Wp-iItexc1VXN6qxp6FBSuLYd8k7ohGXGQQ4M7MWvmJ4xcrC_W1XgaeB79-Q/s320/4135.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Dr Morataya and I saw clinic patients upstairs in the open air patio. There was another big tin roof over the top of it to keep the sun from us. It was BEAUTIFUL!! There was a slight breeze that felt SO good in the hot, humid climate.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7ho3xDfSBngHKpfDHofsoXNFBTVVqg5aS89VAdC7xekybV09EQMKOaNINn_R34iDPVQhZQwDF22X21_xnZ-IN5WE0O1f05SuGHvC-A7sRwEzY_fX3UobsCJ-c0fXgrDtN9pCZ2P4SGjalmsu5T62g0UzKvauITw5ix1v-NIAWpjHgkevsoqxqtU1zCw/s512/4148.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="384" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7ho3xDfSBngHKpfDHofsoXNFBTVVqg5aS89VAdC7xekybV09EQMKOaNINn_R34iDPVQhZQwDF22X21_xnZ-IN5WE0O1f05SuGHvC-A7sRwEzY_fX3UobsCJ-c0fXgrDtN9pCZ2P4SGjalmsu5T62g0UzKvauITw5ix1v-NIAWpjHgkevsoqxqtU1zCw/s320/4148.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In the extra suitcase I brought, between the plastic shoeboxes filled with eye glasses, I had stuffed snap bracelets, punch balloons, sunglasses, story books, and as many stuffed animals as I could shove in the crevices and dead space. The kids LOVED the snap bracelets. They had actually never seen anything like them. I could tell by the way their eyes lit up when I demonstrated it on my arm first. They were always willing to put their arms out to receive one for themselves. </div></div></div></div></div></div></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW_ZjJbD_75h3xeW1gDtCA1muRgWMk65jyJzLhnOeO1uEo1agaLhlc3j1N50bzaVDhXcR6_5BV9hok_V7Ij2PNM-AmvQl-I8P5qm0QuGK9VU7M5qle25qVayYAgqroq-iM8D95IM0DzS75GkH9rwEYDwzqlv8TbOKvmkN_511QD34WWUa4eQL82BeyzA/s2048/IMG_7056.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW_ZjJbD_75h3xeW1gDtCA1muRgWMk65jyJzLhnOeO1uEo1agaLhlc3j1N50bzaVDhXcR6_5BV9hok_V7Ij2PNM-AmvQl-I8P5qm0QuGK9VU7M5qle25qVayYAgqroq-iM8D95IM0DzS75GkH9rwEYDwzqlv8TbOKvmkN_511QD34WWUa4eQL82BeyzA/s320/IMG_7056.JPG" width="320" /></a></p><p style="text-align: center;">At the end of the day, Sylvita was looking through the suitcase of toys. She remarked at how cute the stuffed strawberry was. I told her she could have it if she wanted...She jumped at that right away. Edwin asked if he could also have a stuffed animal. He picked through them all and chose the little dog. He snuggled it up to his face in the sweetest way. When I asked if he had ever had a stuffed animal before he replied that he had never. My heart tugged at the thought of that. Most American kids have so many stuffed animals that they don't know what to do with them. And these young adults had never had the opportunity to love one! The little one on the right is Sister Magdalena's granddaughter. She also chose a little bear...and she carried it around for the next two days! If I ever go again, stuffed animals will for sure make the final cut for placement in the suitcases!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinQQjQSDRAps3p4qNJ5rJqfS0jkOY1Y8Chy8cEOu1KQHbxH0gtLum1FbEiyLXm0TdvJSdd-mWiKdQYul6WMxhlYIp3XBdADTacJYVui_mLZYSTpM9n-CFDRPclI96tgGpKgI-8iCibFTudFNryJ8zPgfG6DS5-PNTkF5FJDpT91-E7heWWoJFomuRYyg/s512/4142.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="384" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinQQjQSDRAps3p4qNJ5rJqfS0jkOY1Y8Chy8cEOu1KQHbxH0gtLum1FbEiyLXm0TdvJSdd-mWiKdQYul6WMxhlYIp3XBdADTacJYVui_mLZYSTpM9n-CFDRPclI96tgGpKgI-8iCibFTudFNryJ8zPgfG6DS5-PNTkF5FJDpT91-E7heWWoJFomuRYyg/s320/4142.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">From the balcony clinic area, I caught a glance of a couple young boys. I had seen them the day before riding bicycles with these really long sticks. The sticks had a little enclosure on one end, we thought maybe to catch something out of the water. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJpWOnKsEDalPwQMpgmxYBNrCy7zSLFOVzGCvjMzaHODBFVF_r_yEMux3hy568kEqmvRvxd0Crt-rAwA9GIo_VAAoN_uX99NeaDX7zseHFI5Je-Ru9itOtBVv7CKQo5RNUeGl-c9w1XgL03YvuVXFF9Kd2eqHhl5F7hFxxzu58Tkpib1ceS4lhYDv3-w/s320/4145.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJpWOnKsEDalPwQMpgmxYBNrCy7zSLFOVzGCvjMzaHODBFVF_r_yEMux3hy568kEqmvRvxd0Crt-rAwA9GIo_VAAoN_uX99NeaDX7zseHFI5Je-Ru9itOtBVv7CKQo5RNUeGl-c9w1XgL03YvuVXFF9Kd2eqHhl5F7hFxxzu58Tkpib1ceS4lhYDv3-w/s1600/4145.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It turns out, they gather mangos with them. They were grabbing mangos down out of the trees with ease and piling them in a bowl. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5-Y1IEuEh8lH_NqOmzLBYSgXZ4T6e9MJ29o9D6Q1p2ejqShzizAtWS0wCDqk0wrFLgB5Jz-e6kb9l41dPJFnvg0O-4o56pEel4cPsXmbid0jvs_h5O5dZAW5dNgAk6OHujMxMuSjgIEBWfuEUJDxo7QhAePpuK2_jZPnzINWh12F-b5tTLwWJqvIcpw/s320/4155.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5-Y1IEuEh8lH_NqOmzLBYSgXZ4T6e9MJ29o9D6Q1p2ejqShzizAtWS0wCDqk0wrFLgB5Jz-e6kb9l41dPJFnvg0O-4o56pEel4cPsXmbid0jvs_h5O5dZAW5dNgAk6OHujMxMuSjgIEBWfuEUJDxo7QhAePpuK2_jZPnzINWh12F-b5tTLwWJqvIcpw/s1600/4155.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here is our medical team--left to right</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Edwin (translator), Francisco (dental assistant), Dr Morataya (medical director and doctor at the mission house) Raquel (pharmacist), Dr Steve from New York, Lydia, nurse practitioner from San Antonio, Sylvita (translator), Vanessa (dentist), Me, Monica (dental assistant, leader, Dr Miller's wife), Dr Miller (leader)</div></div></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaMTbbXbVfwCWC88omrI5FZt6zY1SZxe07cqXghgpqvDDYdIehC8mlN7gO8yzgY4jxrvphjDD2ngFSBZFGOFR3yKUk0k7A_uHMgYlv8UrJ1bF2ja0t05iTGQ7j7iBYh4J6qMxl9n2cJ8vJTo8I85nhD_ZSU4z5l1pEV-fMG7eojj5FAbw5cJB_PCSOCQ/s2048/IMG_7046.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaMTbbXbVfwCWC88omrI5FZt6zY1SZxe07cqXghgpqvDDYdIehC8mlN7gO8yzgY4jxrvphjDD2ngFSBZFGOFR3yKUk0k7A_uHMgYlv8UrJ1bF2ja0t05iTGQ7j7iBYh4J6qMxl9n2cJ8vJTo8I85nhD_ZSU4z5l1pEV-fMG7eojj5FAbw5cJB_PCSOCQ/s320/IMG_7046.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We walked back down the dirty roads to Sister Magdalena's. People were going by most of the day on bicycles or motorcycles. Sometimes there would be an old truck. Chickens were everywhere, being followed by millions of chicks. Someone counted, and a chicken we saw at the clinic that day had 28 baby chicks following her everywhere she went!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkMpQdjyEvTEOj40iyZ5YVhlsIMihr4i4C_yAZvPB2snUorZrhylA_w6Of7SBkSlsZ2WnW1ExPCS6W0l3SXcZYv9SW4VxftXYgh6qQh_Xg66fTU-m9tLZdis2LsqajfkSkaFSx_yl4ryZB7ZGngR5iFq3zfko28Xk5KeAztKjONIDYZBCBeMMugif9gg/s320/4170.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkMpQdjyEvTEOj40iyZ5YVhlsIMihr4i4C_yAZvPB2snUorZrhylA_w6Of7SBkSlsZ2WnW1ExPCS6W0l3SXcZYv9SW4VxftXYgh6qQh_Xg66fTU-m9tLZdis2LsqajfkSkaFSx_yl4ryZB7ZGngR5iFq3zfko28Xk5KeAztKjONIDYZBCBeMMugif9gg/s1600/4170.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We met this beautiful woman on our way home. She was happy to meet us. Teresa was her name. She was 78. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgac96LwjoZApUQzOZq4OZarF9RzYSBLT78PIr6Am0u9B5YLNKo-8MGMCzZk7_MKREiaDPh9b4o9mkB2jS6w7oJlOQYBIKUWDgubwmT7qSJh6nLevnt_W1uhvTqPkoYH3dnlOEQCB6Zu7-HhIEdc0XKqbqoShnk5RtLqgknlu4BAuJ71JC8azD0ofVx_w/s512/4167.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="384" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgac96LwjoZApUQzOZq4OZarF9RzYSBLT78PIr6Am0u9B5YLNKo-8MGMCzZk7_MKREiaDPh9b4o9mkB2jS6w7oJlOQYBIKUWDgubwmT7qSJh6nLevnt_W1uhvTqPkoYH3dnlOEQCB6Zu7-HhIEdc0XKqbqoShnk5RtLqgknlu4BAuJ71JC8azD0ofVx_w/s320/4167.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A cashew tree!! It was the darndest thing I have ever seen!! The fruit (above the cashew shaped nut) turns a bright red. Apparently they don't taste that good though. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1toUBl4f3M00Y3XhqaE3G7nXo2UPpa7hkjc_Mv8FMq-4dgpnWUXn64tYxE1VgMcMb_753U-0kutOQ-MLFDkvHt3OX5RnBQgaCv20rF_bJDMgfk_XNV0EwQ5mqRomm7Yp0YAEzCJoQUxgbbPoLsxhX9f8AgxLFq50o-xh_axbT4SHpeBdvxTbaV85ljw/s512/4166.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="384" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1toUBl4f3M00Y3XhqaE3G7nXo2UPpa7hkjc_Mv8FMq-4dgpnWUXn64tYxE1VgMcMb_753U-0kutOQ-MLFDkvHt3OX5RnBQgaCv20rF_bJDMgfk_XNV0EwQ5mqRomm7Yp0YAEzCJoQUxgbbPoLsxhX9f8AgxLFq50o-xh_axbT4SHpeBdvxTbaV85ljw/s320/4166.jpg" width="240" /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1toUBl4f3M00Y3XhqaE3G7nXo2UPpa7hkjc_Mv8FMq-4dgpnWUXn64tYxE1VgMcMb_753U-0kutOQ-MLFDkvHt3OX5RnBQgaCv20rF_bJDMgfk_XNV0EwQ5mqRomm7Yp0YAEzCJoQUxgbbPoLsxhX9f8AgxLFq50o-xh_axbT4SHpeBdvxTbaV85ljw/s512/4166.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here is a cluster of cashews!!</div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQAaawtuxSDvhtXhxEbt7ju-X_xBU2fkITLgOsAqewfD038FQov8p0TxgGPWJR9T7Hn_Jjv7AmRYB6j7QzRIAzaAeYOyObAo0ywDgDEbqEc_U04GJTopH2o_i3iuCDOAddLBf_3B8ggEKKA6CFK1xPf5qobk-U46yBjnCXWu09NWAnraoi29EG6W3NVQ/s320/4161.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQAaawtuxSDvhtXhxEbt7ju-X_xBU2fkITLgOsAqewfD038FQov8p0TxgGPWJR9T7Hn_Jjv7AmRYB6j7QzRIAzaAeYOyObAo0ywDgDEbqEc_U04GJTopH2o_i3iuCDOAddLBf_3B8ggEKKA6CFK1xPf5qobk-U46yBjnCXWu09NWAnraoi29EG6W3NVQ/s1600/4161.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A picture of Edwin and I. He and I had a fun, teasing relationship. He was also good to translate things for all of us throughout the day--to patients or to one another on our team. <br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-e250cfb4-7fff-6183-2786-968bf19dd744"><p dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Spanish was harder today. I can speak some basic things, but advancing it from there has been frustrating. Using the right word in the right sentence seems more difficult, and by the end of the day, I couldn’t even speak the things I know how to say. I was hoping that this experience would help my Spanish to improve, but I think it really only made me more confused. I am finding myself more motivated to get my Rosetta Stone system out when I get home and begin practicing. I hope tomorrow will be better as far as the language goes.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The people are grateful for the care. Several of them are taking medications. This is evidence that the sponsored doctors coming weekly is helping people to take better care of themselves. That is encouraging! I have had several kids over the last few days that are having pain in their feet, ankles, and knees that I am certain is related to the bad shoes that they wear. Another point of frustration for me. It doesn't matter how much medicine we have or don't have. If we can't fix the root of the problem (like decent shoes to wear), how can we effectively treat their problems for the long term. A lot of teaching went on about body mechanics and ways to stretch out their bodies to minimize the chronic pain that many of them experience. This will be something that I will have to sort through over the weeks to come...and a reminder to me, that, while I came to serve these people, the tension over helping in a few ways and not having the means to help in other ways is a real, real problem!</span></span></p></span></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIBL_W6IURmR-YmBZgfDXpf4Ri8HBozGY2IW1UhPZtTyEgLQ3ZWYY9cXWk7pcmK-3kIJGZSiKt02FM8cQlXv9yWMOlgLUTR_QmnMb9OlUGaRQWztXT3c5p_JRykK-RKz5DZA0yH52dxzCv_Kw-01QvPwHiKTGu-R5IvQ_gxqshnqvCJ6nGMuR6P7rpbg/s320/4158.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIBL_W6IURmR-YmBZgfDXpf4Ri8HBozGY2IW1UhPZtTyEgLQ3ZWYY9cXWk7pcmK-3kIJGZSiKt02FM8cQlXv9yWMOlgLUTR_QmnMb9OlUGaRQWztXT3c5p_JRykK-RKz5DZA0yH52dxzCv_Kw-01QvPwHiKTGu-R5IvQ_gxqshnqvCJ6nGMuR6P7rpbg/s1600/4158.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Francisco and I took a better picture earlier in the day with our medical garb on...but I was afraid I might never get it from his phone (mine was downstairs)..so we took another one before we left for the day</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; text-align: center; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dinner tonight was a hard-boiled egg salad with chunks of avocado, onion and radish slices. I hate radishes. But, not willing to pick things out, I ate them. They were pretty darn tasty. We also had fresh fruit, refried beans, and thick tortillas. </span></span><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">We have one more clinic tomorrow morning. Tonight was spent trying to rearrange my suitcase to get packed back up. After lunch, we will be heading back to the mainland to get COVID tests done to get back into the US..and to head for the Air BNB that we will spend the night in on the beach. It's hard to believe that our week is nearly finished!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><p></p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bzHsadBaBcU" width="320" youtube-src-id="bzHsadBaBcU"></iframe></div> All the Poor and PowerlessMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-79132475338479685142022-04-01T15:26:00.003-05:002022-04-01T15:26:55.095-05:00El Salvador-Day 4<blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><p style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: courier;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;">This morning we bid farewell to San Salvador as we climbed aboard these little motor boats headed for the port of Ranchon on Island La Calzada--a little "forgotten" island. We drove approximately an hour or a little longer to get to the boat launch from the Mission House.</span></span></p></blockquote></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fe876202-7fff-8ff5-918a-0e3c25046615"><span style="font-family: courier;"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_etSuV3UvIAv_i6IApUjPLmOL5Ng0j9zkUlOxgWHz3oUV-j2VtPEnkZDjM0vIeqWLjMcHhWiv-o4jKkjTswKmiqVo6OpuZuIrklIucdNMoUfUoXz4UZcebqzOmWVhogC1cAf4PN1MlKOkf3lhxKl9nEYqiazpseWnThogz5mPQlp0cA06ZrfESraztw/s540/4106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="304" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_etSuV3UvIAv_i6IApUjPLmOL5Ng0j9zkUlOxgWHz3oUV-j2VtPEnkZDjM0vIeqWLjMcHhWiv-o4jKkjTswKmiqVo6OpuZuIrklIucdNMoUfUoXz4UZcebqzOmWVhogC1cAf4PN1MlKOkf3lhxKl9nEYqiazpseWnThogz5mPQlp0cA06ZrfESraztw/s320/4106.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fe876202-7fff-8ff5-918a-0e3c25046615">Once we climbed onto the boat, it was about a 30 minute ride through the mangrove forest. The waterways started large, and then as we twisted and turned though the forest, the ways got more narrow. There were lots of water birds to see.</span> </div></span></span></blockquote></blockquote><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier;">There were also other boats-mainly with fishermen in them. Most of them were hand carved wooden boats like the two in the picture below!</span></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fe876202-7fff-8ff5-918a-0e3c25046615"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3WRKTUdQJQgzW1VFoTS6pCOmBSMMz3wpH3Wl56eOZDv3Ezz-9b7nvX6OOfor04ekvaby6yR7Me8A3ysBe_QJuErdCn2N6FyLlwrVA5UjzudSx4w0V1in3TkQHtVSgk0V4LOyjO3xonZkyt1B_Whur6RX5Q3nQKFzaZxlfunedDg70pg2PHGdokNij8Q/s2304/IMG_7012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1728" data-original-width="2304" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3WRKTUdQJQgzW1VFoTS6pCOmBSMMz3wpH3Wl56eOZDv3Ezz-9b7nvX6OOfor04ekvaby6yR7Me8A3ysBe_QJuErdCn2N6FyLlwrVA5UjzudSx4w0V1in3TkQHtVSgk0V4LOyjO3xonZkyt1B_Whur6RX5Q3nQKFzaZxlfunedDg70pg2PHGdokNij8Q/s320/IMG_7012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZL_rnB_vr7iKBYUvr_Qb01WfbySWHauy2P1DqbNZHiSzDjGlm1lsfgoaLJ6QZ49ilTQVndIXrmYOSmLVb85waLFS8CHwSCqffP7_7wRuAP1GqIBObVQdhRyPu_OFBjRTClR_iC81tmfoMHY6Ks5xi8MulBWWJtwz1t_Mhs9-x4VpFe7rVvmibbstV_Q/s2304/IMG_7001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1728" data-original-width="2304" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZL_rnB_vr7iKBYUvr_Qb01WfbySWHauy2P1DqbNZHiSzDjGlm1lsfgoaLJ6QZ49ilTQVndIXrmYOSmLVb85waLFS8CHwSCqffP7_7wRuAP1GqIBObVQdhRyPu_OFBjRTClR_iC81tmfoMHY6Ks5xi8MulBWWJtwz1t_Mhs9-x4VpFe7rVvmibbstV_Q/s320/IMG_7001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div></span></div></span></blockquote></blockquote><p><span style="font-family: courier;"> </span></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fe876202-7fff-8ff5-918a-0e3c25046615"><span style="font-family: courier;"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV8zso6L3zAnedJ5g-8Za1BRVr8Cs284wzaNKZtPQzc9fWFQcsbhHA325R3B5GA6X9TkyFOoQwkVgrnGTps-phxVY6YPO2rIUiXMbLxRSLVnpLTGqpexocjjAmfInL-cT1REyeJ_hFgMCn8WlbmUbrd75a-GpjmyMH0CHW0ZpvB6IT5wkZzIUNbIFFTw/s2304/IMG_7003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1728" data-original-width="2304" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV8zso6L3zAnedJ5g-8Za1BRVr8Cs284wzaNKZtPQzc9fWFQcsbhHA325R3B5GA6X9TkyFOoQwkVgrnGTps-phxVY6YPO2rIUiXMbLxRSLVnpLTGqpexocjjAmfInL-cT1REyeJ_hFgMCn8WlbmUbrd75a-GpjmyMH0CHW0ZpvB6IT5wkZzIUNbIFFTw/w320-h240/IMG_7003.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They were loading boats when we got to the dock. Lots of fresh goodies!</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></span></span></blockquote></blockquote><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier;"> </span><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: 11pt; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;">When we got off the boat, Dr. Larry and Monica had a meeting to go to. They have been coming to these areas for 6 years now and they have made the decision to invest in this community as much as they can! They are currently trying to accrue a piece of land to build a permanent clinic on the island. They also have a donor willing to finance a water system on the Island. Right now, there is a sketchy 4 inch plastic pipe that transports water from the mainland to this little island!! We drove underneath it on our boat ride into the island. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: 11pt; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dr Steven and I were given permission to walk around a bit to check things out as we waited on the rest of our crew and our supplies and baggage. With my camera in tow and an eager spirit, we took off!<span style="font-family: courier;"></span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: 11pt; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1728" data-original-width="2304" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcH9d4nXSKItj5Yf9ONzz7aGKF6fgCWN4GpmXS1NzVhPEAw01TvYoOywc3sUcL_fxJFxankmJf1tJ7YyQPuTOQrpGoa7r174IvozjJE1GKHkJRbS0h2J287wRf1smIG4FfvIFbVuZTTXyqPR2rFJRqmaaoLUY2gCmZHGJZcUkX3Mid_NPoOMZvdGSYVg/w320-h240/IMG_7025.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Houses were stick and mud; brick and mud; stick only; and some had adobe covering<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table> We turned onto a different street and I said “I’m pretty geographically challenged, so I won’t be any help finding our way home,” to which Steve replied, “Oh, I think we will be OK.” So we continued to walk and chat and my eye was to the sky looking at the flowers and produce on the trees…as well as from side to side looking at all of the little properties in the neighborhood and the primitive simplicity of it all. <span style="font-family: courier;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2304" data-original-width="1728" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgovIQ1w1q6X2LDSxvvj1XdbSERcQkZthwLAojnpiPSkkFeVtDJZ4ZnTuFs8b-YU0OmObxQKzJYjjULtjge01jsQ6zIYbJoL6dk9TbEKDE_XWGt06faVRTzPwsp5U3F9CYeTsy3YNqbGDtELhRyjMMgNhVv-dc9Y5azcHak_5WyMYabbNw-xfnpD41mLg/s320/IMG_7020.JPG" width="240" /></span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: 11pt; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;">We decided to finish walking the last little stent so we could get a picture of their really skinny cows. So we did. Turned right around, and walked right back where we came from….except, that the turn that we made, was onto the wrong “street!” </span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfdww2zcfzhpWIBgKMFoSAKmHh3xUnGp45OoVxnhxf-dCVsCJ5IXbgUCCUfYmFg9QziehYixpQd602PC987iUOSXc2Oy94FV-uLZyKY_nOS5fGNrdCSWH3pF_dwWpnKwkau8hiDcQLTzJrPn5HUs1PV9t09di60mIY1JU7f7s5QrSpzTv3wP2NovCjuw/s320/4099.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfdww2zcfzhpWIBgKMFoSAKmHh3xUnGp45OoVxnhxf-dCVsCJ5IXbgUCCUfYmFg9QziehYixpQd602PC987iUOSXc2Oy94FV-uLZyKY_nOS5fGNrdCSWH3pF_dwWpnKwkau8hiDcQLTzJrPn5HUs1PV9t09di60mIY1JU7f7s5QrSpzTv3wP2NovCjuw/w240-h320/4099.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sugar cane crop</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="clear: right; float: right; font-family: courier; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" data-original-height="1728" data-original-width="2304" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl2radgVaAeHdDiK8h0bJ4vWsN8JyT-KOjWi7AhB-Hst83WDMeIilL4UXX0bcb-4y-t5hhRoAP3k-JkIiLoJF1zhs64ELFRlj3Qn4A-LI2B50zB7L3DkchXNGZYH7z7ELf8cFWEhJjlOAqMR8CH-4NCN14zuyFM-rLv-DOdbEQzItyf1TXDT5sdhVl7g/s320/IMG_7031.JPG" width="320" /></span><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: 11pt; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;">We walked and walked and in a bit became worried that we weren’t where we thought we were…SOOO… at this point. We have one phone with no service. Neither of us speak any relevant Spanish. It’s hot and we didn’t bring any water. We began to walk faster because we knew our team was going to need our help to unload…and I am becoming totally freaked out, because there are little roads going absolutely EVERYWHERE through this village. How in the WORLD are they EVER going to find us here. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: 11pt; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;">The island has around 1500 people on it, and 4 small communities. We began asking everyone we saw to help us get to the school…or to the boat dock. They would ask questions that we couldn’t understand or answer. They would give us some hand motion directions accompanied by a lot of words…and we would say Muchas Gracias…and keep going. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: 11pt; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;">We finally made it to A boat dock…and a woman that had a little more compassion. I begged her to go with us to show us where to turn...she had sleeping babies, that much we understood! So we took her directions the best we could understand them and kept going! Within about 10 more minutes, we had made it back to the clinic site… BEET red and so thirsty. JUST in time to fall into line to walk into the clinic that was ready to start.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="384" data-original-width="512" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmjW4-6Wp1JrPEozhI2e5DPsN2ihdrNmUCKsLj01erganrjxFKvFb_vh1cEx9_1RNovp0LUduosr-XnrZHZ_F04lFbL_AG38F0-n1rS3amor_zkd7UvSBH1ZkQsF3DW-yCpDkVvdhE-XtCYWHCtm4ohBaFV6-cd_IRA_1h0p97X_rlIJfqyBxugihZ_Q/s320/4118.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I thought I recognized this woman later in the afternoon. She confided in Monica that she had seen us when we were lost. SHE was the woman that I was begging to take us back to the school!</td></tr></tbody></table><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: 11pt; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: 11pt; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;">The funniest thing was, that several of the people that we had talked to that morning, we saw later in the clinics…and either they recognized us, or we recognized them. Because Monica knew where most of them lived, she would say, “oh, you were way over there?? And then for the next person we recognized that we had seen, she would say, OH, you were all the way over THERE? She confirmed that we indeed, had walked a LONG way. It was a scary experience for sure, but one that I can heartily laugh at now!</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: 11pt; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWa0tuPCBR6QasjukgHiD8X4v_uOwCIRsIPfydOMYw7y_SXlmSp91Qfwo2CjyeBHRcE6-xxfupRFHokpENoZKrlw3F_wPTpanUW1nogNF6WYLi2vhIU2tyPWVe-ooYVwpyOlC-F1Iw3kmi-D9foVgb5OkAaoBhjTeetiyFqRFfcshyQQDi3DqJyjFDfQ/s320/4100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWa0tuPCBR6QasjukgHiD8X4v_uOwCIRsIPfydOMYw7y_SXlmSp91Qfwo2CjyeBHRcE6-xxfupRFHokpENoZKrlw3F_wPTpanUW1nogNF6WYLi2vhIU2tyPWVe-ooYVwpyOlC-F1Iw3kmi-D9foVgb5OkAaoBhjTeetiyFqRFfcshyQQDi3DqJyjFDfQ/s1600/4100.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just another little homestead</td></tr></tbody></table></span></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fe876202-7fff-8ff5-918a-0e3c25046615"><span style="font-family: courier;"><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I enjoyed this clinic so much. We saw many people. We took our own blood pressures and did our own finger stick blood sugars and a LOT of teaching. It was medicine at its most primitive and the most beautiful. The only thing that would have made it better, was being able to speak and understand more of the language!! It was also a very good reminder as to how fortunate we are in the US in the medical field with so many resources available to us!</span></p></span></span></blockquote></blockquote><p> </p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fe876202-7fff-8ff5-918a-0e3c25046615"><span style="font-family: courier;"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </p></span></span></blockquote></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fe876202-7fff-8ff5-918a-0e3c25046615"><span style="font-family: courier;"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you read yesterday's post, you will recognize this story again. But it was SOOO important as a sign of God's faithfulness that I want to recap it again! </span> </p></span></span></blockquote></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fe876202-7fff-8ff5-918a-0e3c25046615"><span style="font-family: courier;"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">One of the cool stories I have about God preparing me for this trip, was that my 8 year old stethoscope was wearing out and I was going to need to get a new one. I had heard from a peer about a new one that has noise cancellation and sound amplification. I looked at it literally for SIX weeks, unable to decide if I wanted to spend the money--it was double what a normal steth costs. I argued all the points, I rarely EVER work in the ER anymore or other noisy places where it would come in most handy. I could consider getting one in another 8 years when the next one wears out…It seemed extravagant and unnecessary. BUT…after 6 weeks of putting it off and putting it off, one day I just decided to get the amplification steth. I practiced with it for a few weeks and loved it…But on these clinic days where 5 providers and translators and dentists were all crowded into cinderblock rooms to see patients, I knew that the Lord had prompted me to get the stethoscope ahead of time so I had it for the trip. It made all the difference in the world as I examined these people!!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKkN_SXOn4J4F6psFEuJrRo93-yBaGkTjmci8G2Q6PSOf1dJ1lRhWmTc1_eJmJHqMQA9eMzTzOH3G9lQNyWsrprfjdKs4moXvFV2AHmZljp-_RctTtXKDsMaeRB8EVtZYT0ma16F6Ya2Sf4UlJvcnWxUgzdOz4GNnDzEN83yIUCHjH7wr5C2minkv6yg/s512/4112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="384" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKkN_SXOn4J4F6psFEuJrRo93-yBaGkTjmci8G2Q6PSOf1dJ1lRhWmTc1_eJmJHqMQA9eMzTzOH3G9lQNyWsrprfjdKs4moXvFV2AHmZljp-_RctTtXKDsMaeRB8EVtZYT0ma16F6Ya2Sf4UlJvcnWxUgzdOz4GNnDzEN83yIUCHjH7wr5C2minkv6yg/s320/4112.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This little tiny thing was our pharmacist!!</td></tr></tbody></table></span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We loaded all the equipment back onto the boats, and they took us further up the Isla to Sister Magdalena’s house. She and her husband pastor a local church. She has a humble little cinderblock house with a tin roof, and another little building that has one dorm room with 6 beds and the bathroom that E.V.E.R.Y.O.N.E uses. So trying to get all 18 or so of us through the shower and toilet was insane!! The shower was cold. No hot water here. I do have pictures to show of their home in the next post!</span> </p></span></span></blockquote></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fe876202-7fff-8ff5-918a-0e3c25046615"><span style="font-family: courier;"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There was electricity but only 2 outlets in our room and lights in the house. I know that I didn’t mention it earlier, but they are unable to deal with toilet paper in their septic systems, so every place has a little trash can next to the toilet. You wipe and throw it into the can. I only forgot once!! They also don't have any type of trash service. There is no place to deal with trash. Most people have a little place that they burn their trash regularly. Around San Salvador, it wasn't uncommon to see little lots turned into trash dumps, and there was a lot of trash in the ditches! I've never really considered what a problem it would be NOT to have something to do with your trash!!</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic6OmuqMJTBijJIMkaXpF_uGWwJFbY_cE5fieUAQygbVXz59q6V1fXjOAPL7Z214Zknzue-nhAqMeZL_pe41mkmABHU9lAZpXilatw5bPaf2I6iPX-vUq2y422HbwGSAysp74ipSAk0S7DIB8tXWwA4HIp0uKgirsfp4CBGjYEoa2UBt2KfjMe_75uDQ/s512/4113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="384" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic6OmuqMJTBijJIMkaXpF_uGWwJFbY_cE5fieUAQygbVXz59q6V1fXjOAPL7Z214Zknzue-nhAqMeZL_pe41mkmABHU9lAZpXilatw5bPaf2I6iPX-vUq2y422HbwGSAysp74ipSAk0S7DIB8tXWwA4HIp0uKgirsfp4CBGjYEoa2UBt2KfjMe_75uDQ/s320/4113.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dr Steve and Sylvita setting up for the clinic</td></tr></tbody></table>It is mango season here. I didn’t like mangos until today. They picked them right off the tree, washed them and we peeled them with our teeth and ate them like heathens-with mango fibers hanging out of every tooth we have and juice dripping off of our chins and down our elbows. Some mangos we ate with chili lime salt, and some just plain!! They were SO delicious!! BUT, those suckers fall off the tree at their own will, and land on anything underneath them without discretion. And when you are sitting in the dark, and one falls off from 30 feet onto the tin roof, it sounds like someone just got murdered outside your room. It took me several times of this before I stopped jumping!</span> </p></span></span></blockquote></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-fe876202-7fff-8ff5-918a-0e3c25046615"><span style="font-family: courier;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="384" data-original-width="512" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsSTKOf7UtVZBqa22RKsGssPAJ7qqujcpkVwsU9L3ZYJ6V1sB2pnHxR-9gqkyg8Sb6j-3P1moBMJ6305QbIaT94_-e3ZGEsUO0kWRV2qlD0DeLLikF-KEn3jGQsKj78tP0VgbflH04gC-WJEAiPDcSYzuU2Or656wKsuyGn_CjMhmtyQBCnz7SeubCMA/s320/4111.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vanessa and her brother Francisco. These two are HILARIOUS! You can tell, even without speaking much Spanish, that they have a love for life and fun. They worked tirelessly on all the patients with dental needs!</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span></div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">All the meals were outdoors under a tin roof. We enjoyed our first pupusas, the best food, allegedly in El Salvador. They are little tortillas, made like bierocks, stuffed with anything they want and then flattened around the filling and cooked on a hot surface. They were delicious. We enjoyed more fresh fruit, delicious avocados, the best refried beans, and fresh queso fresca cheese. We also had fried tamales, but unlike Mexico and US, these didn’t have meat in them, and they were more like a fried sweet corn bread. Very good!!</span></p><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Most things that get said, including prayers, are translated either from Spanish to English or vice versa, depending on who was talking. As we began to learn one another’s personalities, I could tell so much about what they were saying by how they said it. The dentist, Vanessa, and her brother Francisco and I, would make a joke in our own language, and then the other one would follow it up with a joke in their own language…and then we would laugh and laugh. I have no idea if our jokes or comments even related to what the other had said, but we didn’t care. It was just fun to laugh together!! You don’t have to speak the same language to connect to people!!</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzp4C4c_eaQP1xtx9VrySv9Rh_L3DrqclMoKJgj4xiDOJdTMJMetkqCISEE9C-RUgXWGVpvuu3ZKDFskYonbEkqONWlTuqnHq2Sk__vEgDTK7C1ldaeM44sGkz0qKcda4fIvwzY2wr58fjI4Wzdpr0HlD5LtXMiHCYf9gGIftCDnuSGuj1wehiDO7qoQ/s512/4108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="384" data-original-width="512" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzp4C4c_eaQP1xtx9VrySv9Rh_L3DrqclMoKJgj4xiDOJdTMJMetkqCISEE9C-RUgXWGVpvuu3ZKDFskYonbEkqONWlTuqnHq2Sk__vEgDTK7C1ldaeM44sGkz0qKcda4fIvwzY2wr58fjI4Wzdpr0HlD5LtXMiHCYf9gGIftCDnuSGuj1wehiDO7qoQ/s320/4108.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Health clinic held in the school</td></tr></tbody></table></span></p><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Before we dispersed to get in line tonight for the showers, we had a great lesson on the Good Samaritan and Romans 12. It was a beautiful reminder that our neighbors aren’t always neighbors logistically, but that anyone that we meet who needs help, is our neighbor. It’s been really rewarding to use my skills both to care for these people that have so little, and to support the medical staff and missionaries in this location-to help encourage them to continue serving and loving these people. Being Christian friends to those who won’t be going home on Saturday…but that will continue to pour out their hearts for the needy right here!! </span></div></span></span><p></p></blockquote></blockquote><p style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: courier; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Two more days to go!!</span><span style="font-family: courier;"> </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier;">I love the song below. I heard it for the first time the week before I left! It was on a playlist on my treadmill, and I scribbled down some of the lyrics on a pad so I could find the song when I finished my workout...I knew it was another sign from the Lord that I was doing His will!!</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/41xoFeAK2cA" width="320" youtube-src-id="41xoFeAK2cA"></iframe></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier;">keep changing the world</span></div><p></p>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-77730920098495527632022-03-31T21:06:00.001-05:002022-03-31T21:06:31.850-05:00El Salvador--Day 3<div class="separator"><div class="separator" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLUDZRDlvQbb5RjKXi2pU09-t7NylIdWJFGjpzaaAiOFxS34Du6CUEf3rhLRSLXLYGR4BgIjvqy9hAYR-yTWmKunmC-9oNrMLDg0a1DVybBOjsBnwW6QPVtRakwPeKurAqaYgXK-JobvS3uKatAPEiQf5AF1cRgrru8OTi1LiyxYOGucvIw67gyYwBWQ/s320/4048.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLUDZRDlvQbb5RjKXi2pU09-t7NylIdWJFGjpzaaAiOFxS34Du6CUEf3rhLRSLXLYGR4BgIjvqy9hAYR-yTWmKunmC-9oNrMLDg0a1DVybBOjsBnwW6QPVtRakwPeKurAqaYgXK-JobvS3uKatAPEiQf5AF1cRgrru8OTi1LiyxYOGucvIw67gyYwBWQ/s320/4048.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPmlJolgXUuqQpJ-iVZcgaHGShcfwcYpKEqDh0S3qPndC_1Up2Xjv22SnznhbS47il8mUnRUdS2xfh2sVBjWtxNrjOdk0-xYSo13Ct7VJS7R79JLp3GJA4eEBCkMLJXKYhoy8GmXABh2pZvhbHWFVX3RElhbcd5fIB7Q7W8Yv4bxNH7RIFaptYxRxfwA/s2304/IMG_6976.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1728" data-original-width="2304" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPmlJolgXUuqQpJ-iVZcgaHGShcfwcYpKEqDh0S3qPndC_1Up2Xjv22SnznhbS47il8mUnRUdS2xfh2sVBjWtxNrjOdk0-xYSo13Ct7VJS7R79JLp3GJA4eEBCkMLJXKYhoy8GmXABh2pZvhbHWFVX3RElhbcd5fIB7Q7W8Yv4bxNH7RIFaptYxRxfwA/w200-h150/IMG_6976.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLUDZRDlvQbb5RjKXi2pU09-t7NylIdWJFGjpzaaAiOFxS34Du6CUEf3rhLRSLXLYGR4BgIjvqy9hAYR-yTWmKunmC-9oNrMLDg0a1DVybBOjsBnwW6QPVtRakwPeKurAqaYgXK-JobvS3uKatAPEiQf5AF1cRgrru8OTi1LiyxYOGucvIw67gyYwBWQ/s320/4048.jpg" /></div></div><p style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Buenas Dias! </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Today, we got up and headed out to a remote village, Ichanquezo, </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">about an hour drive from the mission house. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">The traffic remains ridiculously busy. I am amazed at how early the traffic starts…around 5:00 or earlier. I've also been surprised at how early we get started. We have been heading out by 7:30 each day, and tomorrow will be 6:30!! The clinic today was held in a church, Tabernaculo de Santidad. We saw patients inside the church walls and it </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">was SO loud!! We had five providers doing patient visits for reasons such as upper respiratory infections, scabies, parasites, and headaches. We also had a dentist and two dental assistants working in that same space!! The walls are like stucco on 3 sides, and then the 4th side is all open!</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">In December, I started shopping for a new </span><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">stethoscope</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">. The tubing wears out after a number of years and you don't hear as well. I had heard about a newer type of steth that has amplification and noise cancelling features. It was MUCH more expensive than a regular one, and since I don't work ER anymore, I rarely have a need for the noise canceling. I looked at them for literally 6 weeks before one day in February I decided to pull the trigger and order one. I KNOW without a doubt that God put that desire in my heart, as well as the peace to spend the extra money to buy the upgraded one. It was the best investment ever for this trip!! I had no trouble hearing heart and lung sounds in these small, loud areas that we worked in! That is one of the cool stories of how God provided for me in preparation of this trip!</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">It seems depression and anxiety also lives in 3rd world countries. I saw 2 teenagers that wanted something for anxiety. Unfortunately, we have a one page paper formulary that includes about 15-20 meds total---for colds to worms to diabetes to high blood pressure. I was able to counsel a little bit about using the bible as a resource to help deal with the emotions...but in depression and anxiety, my experience has been, that people still want other things to help them combat their feelings!</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxNLbJT3akFmNodNohcTCoiS3vUDhLodo40TOw5Bb0k6opu0gLZz-QDcqtHElCUSKvD527Zzzk5QEXGo6ytFxRZMKgjU4rWBnxLPl4qW2INs_JpojFiCaw1gg06BVH8g1QvbZSSobjgOYvjrUjJZyiOtUsSfUlcwSIhxCcgIAoEMTgD92MoWkeZYWr6w/s320/4029.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxNLbJT3akFmNodNohcTCoiS3vUDhLodo40TOw5Bb0k6opu0gLZz-QDcqtHElCUSKvD527Zzzk5QEXGo6ytFxRZMKgjU4rWBnxLPl4qW2INs_JpojFiCaw1gg06BVH8g1QvbZSSobjgOYvjrUjJZyiOtUsSfUlcwSIhxCcgIAoEMTgD92MoWkeZYWr6w/s320/4029.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the people were already waiting for us under the makeshift tents when we arrived!</td></tr></tbody></table></span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-7a1d934f-7fff-114e-f2c7-3d0ea35a7bf3"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0OLRD3KSiKhRgTXahSVIxvaU1-DbVMDFSWxQE1N6oxs51xYZupAen9_0TLj22d8fZk0A7KIyPnNBzpCn3pWAl3jbMKkOu1VhI_jZHXTD8ah1YHca6EPJhK0GmsCqlvFhE66ZOMqSjgjCXl-tQffP8n-lxkIQXP9V_w7RvAdPArl9lpy3Hym_bpnPgxg/s2048/IMG_6956.JPG" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0OLRD3KSiKhRgTXahSVIxvaU1-DbVMDFSWxQE1N6oxs51xYZupAen9_0TLj22d8fZk0A7KIyPnNBzpCn3pWAl3jbMKkOu1VhI_jZHXTD8ah1YHca6EPJhK0GmsCqlvFhE66ZOMqSjgjCXl-tQffP8n-lxkIQXP9V_w7RvAdPArl9lpy3Hym_bpnPgxg/s320/IMG_6956.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This young lady got a medical exam, a new pair of glasses, and a sweet little bear that was made by the granddaughters of a friend of mine from church!!<br /></td></tr></tbody></table></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0OLRD3KSiKhRgTXahSVIxvaU1-DbVMDFSWxQE1N6oxs51xYZupAen9_0TLj22d8fZk0A7KIyPnNBzpCn3pWAl3jbMKkOu1VhI_jZHXTD8ah1YHca6EPJhK0GmsCqlvFhE66ZOMqSjgjCXl-tQffP8n-lxkIQXP9V_w7RvAdPArl9lpy3Hym_bpnPgxg/s2048/IMG_6956.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoMGGGKt_vjezo0rW8GkIGKiYTazNaL0XN4lyp1NDHbk0qwCmTd7QvTOw1pvMWfDzirsq1w0MkPX8C5Q9SWWdQ1UROzJ3v5t-_ANDQNIoclxtjJoiDY__zifc4E-EBae8gnlqQBEHXDDCPdKpmbU3DILT7k_0QK3JoNTDHFjF5k0SyUz7WS_-EThXN-g/s512/4031.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMWvEt88UoXf_fnliUZ8RgZN_k2SAIrEQxSpIa3eSSpSJx674mJjPr1ZzdTpW2FV2ms1LCOwZ8rFy0F9F5F4RNbaEUoCgRgVKDZVHaoP_8VYA7aIYApTqHV532NpGZwI39HqUuauouVfcbo4rF8PHae7dWPDjBbm_8fg79yWF0F4dARTXN1uPFl0y-Ag/s2048/IMG_6960.JPG" style="display: inline !important; padding: 1em 0px;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMWvEt88UoXf_fnliUZ8RgZN_k2SAIrEQxSpIa3eSSpSJx674mJjPr1ZzdTpW2FV2ms1LCOwZ8rFy0F9F5F4RNbaEUoCgRgVKDZVHaoP_8VYA7aIYApTqHV532NpGZwI39HqUuauouVfcbo4rF8PHae7dWPDjBbm_8fg79yWF0F4dARTXN1uPFl0y-Ag/s320/IMG_6960.JPG" width="320" /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMWvEt88UoXf_fnliUZ8RgZN_k2SAIrEQxSpIa3eSSpSJx674mJjPr1ZzdTpW2FV2ms1LCOwZ8rFy0F9F5F4RNbaEUoCgRgVKDZVHaoP_8VYA7aIYApTqHV532NpGZwI39HqUuauouVfcbo4rF8PHae7dWPDjBbm_8fg79yWF0F4dARTXN1uPFl0y-Ag/s2048/IMG_6960.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn2PCVD14wFEL8XJG6kQe1x3u1VW3U9ChjhB-VxnJ73cDgHtP29y_KD0EB79Gn2hmPDxEAtasVX7ROSzk1S6YsfZUzTvoVMTnypa93JQ2ahPMXFVdLzKbZ-Zw3U6WOZkUSK-G6VBYTDJs3alrTiEdn6m29Fhvm_cyvGDoK8Q3zv-0Vlu9m3FHSH5JqKQ/s512/4036.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="384" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn2PCVD14wFEL8XJG6kQe1x3u1VW3U9ChjhB-VxnJ73cDgHtP29y_KD0EB79Gn2hmPDxEAtasVX7ROSzk1S6YsfZUzTvoVMTnypa93JQ2ahPMXFVdLzKbZ-Zw3U6WOZkUSK-G6VBYTDJs3alrTiEdn6m29Fhvm_cyvGDoK8Q3zv-0Vlu9m3FHSH5JqKQ/s320/4036.jpg" /></a></div><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="384" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoMGGGKt_vjezo0rW8GkIGKiYTazNaL0XN4lyp1NDHbk0qwCmTd7QvTOw1pvMWfDzirsq1w0MkPX8C5Q9SWWdQ1UROzJ3v5t-_ANDQNIoclxtjJoiDY__zifc4E-EBae8gnlqQBEHXDDCPdKpmbU3DILT7k_0QK3JoNTDHFjF5k0SyUz7WS_-EThXN-g/s320/4031.jpg" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">she was SO excited by these new prescription sunglasses.....her smile says it all!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></a></div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The people were absolutely THRILLED with the glasses!! I might have mentioned in a previous post that I had accumulated nearly 200 pair of glasses--from mens/womens/childrens to prescription sunglasses, bifocals, and even reading glasses! A lot of the people were looking through the boxes and trying them out! Quite a few of them found glasses that worked for them! The prescription sunglasses and the reader glasses were the biggest hit!! </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">There is also a dentist and her brother, whom she has trained to help. They do deep cleanings, fillings, and teeth pulling. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIasP8c_RuqAcdns4yUNdrkpBKD_UyzdN2oIomFucY2EV6BZgTyWfPZYnqv5cBZ0lWBHFUGXpxiCab5SvPfLFknNH9V3ztS1iWBpsPB0ltNuZkcAgISx81xhOtefWu0HHzfZWYIENVQ1Zup9wlbAafsk6Y-hEXsjyyXsvOohNvPQxEb_L5yYyU4wekZg/s2048/IMG_6954.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIasP8c_RuqAcdns4yUNdrkpBKD_UyzdN2oIomFucY2EV6BZgTyWfPZYnqv5cBZ0lWBHFUGXpxiCab5SvPfLFknNH9V3ztS1iWBpsPB0ltNuZkcAgISx81xhOtefWu0HHzfZWYIENVQ1Zup9wlbAafsk6Y-hEXsjyyXsvOohNvPQxEb_L5yYyU4wekZg/s320/IMG_6954.JPG" /></a></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxYq18kyokjhkboZCkJIbXuBLSTOfqXAEGZbCfNu9W83sX-92158YvpguheewR0Ranr6EGwnDbyClTgEyF-RTCr6RkCjyNEzGn3YrRLylflr0CRZTRjdzmfdwCPugLOp5KZusQ6pNslUs6O4Z_l5yQoLmb7TmAWiAMRoPk31KhPYHUFlDnFezcojLuZA/s2048/IMG_6962.JPG" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; padding: 1em 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxYq18kyokjhkboZCkJIbXuBLSTOfqXAEGZbCfNu9W83sX-92158YvpguheewR0Ranr6EGwnDbyClTgEyF-RTCr6RkCjyNEzGn3YrRLylflr0CRZTRjdzmfdwCPugLOp5KZusQ6pNslUs6O4Z_l5yQoLmb7TmAWiAMRoPk31KhPYHUFlDnFezcojLuZA/s320/IMG_6962.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIasP8c_RuqAcdns4yUNdrkpBKD_UyzdN2oIomFucY2EV6BZgTyWfPZYnqv5cBZ0lWBHFUGXpxiCab5SvPfLFknNH9V3ztS1iWBpsPB0ltNuZkcAgISx81xhOtefWu0HHzfZWYIENVQ1Zup9wlbAafsk6Y-hEXsjyyXsvOohNvPQxEb_L5yYyU4wekZg/s2048/IMG_6954.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><br /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> In the church, we were unable to bring the dental chairs…so they sat in $5 plastic patio chairs and tipped their heads back over the back rest while they had their work done. It looked SO uncomfortable. But the people wait in line for hours, and they are so grateful for the painful dental problems to be fixed.</span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIasP8c_RuqAcdns4yUNdrkpBKD_UyzdN2oIomFucY2EV6BZgTyWfPZYnqv5cBZ0lWBHFUGXpxiCab5SvPfLFknNH9V3ztS1iWBpsPB0ltNuZkcAgISx81xhOtefWu0HHzfZWYIENVQ1Zup9wlbAafsk6Y-hEXsjyyXsvOohNvPQxEb_L5yYyU4wekZg/s2048/IMG_6954.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"></a></div></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">I literally watched a 10 year old girl have the biggest baby tooth pulled out that I have ever seen!! She took it like a champ.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My Spanish is definitely worse than I thought, and sometimes it is hard to converse even with our 2 translators. Edwin, is a young man who desires to work in the mission full time. He is working very hard and doing a great job, but there are just some English words…especially medical terms…that neither he nor Sylvita, our other translator, can translate. I have always been one to talk with my hands before…but I am getting really good with charades…even with our Spanish teammates who work in the dentistry and pharmacy. A good facial expression and tone of voice and translate a lot of things!! We laugh a lot. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIc2yqyuvTotvFn83ahqB7LgBURzORUNlk85fs-L-3ufYZpm5bygKOm6MPiKFKf5Jze0jGoDDL4kqq18kl7kWRlhffAt_YhvAydGp0QDnklpp-fM-unH0Y65-L93kUm3Vg4rfElKjVfauNP2parrVuwTX1rC8eAokCNlyobD27FyLd3bjuQ_ebKIwvew/s320/4030.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIc2yqyuvTotvFn83ahqB7LgBURzORUNlk85fs-L-3ufYZpm5bygKOm6MPiKFKf5Jze0jGoDDL4kqq18kl7kWRlhffAt_YhvAydGp0QDnklpp-fM-unH0Y65-L93kUm3Vg4rfElKjVfauNP2parrVuwTX1rC8eAokCNlyobD27FyLd3bjuQ_ebKIwvew/s320/4030.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">an outdoor kitchen where the church ladies cooked all day to feed our team, including snacks at the end!</td></tr></tbody></table></span></p><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">By the time we left the clinic and headed back for the hour drive, we got there and literally had 15 minutes to “freshen up,” whatever that looked like. We got BACK in the van and drove ANOTHER hour to get to a very beautiful restaurant on the side of a volcano. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmZtPQeJ0VUnwl0LuuItKYlaQcPuF6FezrXnBux7-sjGP_1Y5DtE-h_M7GV-EoKPE3LTqXCV5QSXr589ZtkwqNh4kZSVNs16lZffnI_aJL5LZlTxXCXF27fHLxiizDtuchzjmhLBeGlb1U6J4vBgEoLdcCd71KmV6K0KaGawA8c2CXHQyojO775PnRcw/s2304/IMG_6970.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1728" data-original-width="2304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmZtPQeJ0VUnwl0LuuItKYlaQcPuF6FezrXnBux7-sjGP_1Y5DtE-h_M7GV-EoKPE3LTqXCV5QSXr589ZtkwqNh4kZSVNs16lZffnI_aJL5LZlTxXCXF27fHLxiizDtuchzjmhLBeGlb1U6J4vBgEoLdcCd71KmV6K0KaGawA8c2CXHQyojO775PnRcw/s320/IMG_6970.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The dusk and sunset views were like none-other. It was really ethereal because we were higher than the clouds, and the way the sunset reflected off of them was truly crazy beautiful! A good reminder that God was the first Artist...and the best One!</span><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"></p><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">While I was SO tired after not being able to sleep more than 3 hours each night, I couldn’t go to bed early because I wanted to stay up and talk with my new friend from Nova Scotia. She is one of the most beautiful souls I have ever met, and we shared a kindred spirit!! It was so incredible to just be in the same presence together..sometimes talking, sometimes quiet, but always content!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgToIRnapn0Owc2qeqxtbmWzbuZ6O7DlkcmlOhaxlcIQ4ESXRSeau2oKYUnVMUGZlWImer34wEInhbnEx7fQRc9OB2tM7UEDAAbN7WWLANihfSJZG3vKJ9qegCoSvh-FL4mZ2RjBhhbxIhiyDDc2OWxeaSoYBT-axJI8vauOt1g_EjhVY-lApeR8ELmiw/s512/4049.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="384" data-original-width="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgToIRnapn0Owc2qeqxtbmWzbuZ6O7DlkcmlOhaxlcIQ4ESXRSeau2oKYUnVMUGZlWImer34wEInhbnEx7fQRc9OB2tM7UEDAAbN7WWLANihfSJZG3vKJ9qegCoSvh-FL4mZ2RjBhhbxIhiyDDc2OWxeaSoYBT-axJI8vauOt1g_EjhVY-lApeR8ELmiw/s320/4049.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Selfie with Monica (one of our team leaders, and also a precious soul) and Susannah</td></tr></tbody></table></span><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">We shared our experiences of the past, the things we had seen God doing in the present, and our hopes for the future. It was an encouraging time. Often I have found that there are only a few people in our lives who can help to refuel our tanks and encourage our walk with Jesus that is life-giving. Susannah was one of those people! We say good bye to her tomorrow, as she is heading back to Nova Scotia after 7 weeks of mission work around El Salvador!</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Enjoy a few more pictures from today and their captions below! Don't forget to click on the last image and listen to the great mission oriented worship song!!</span></span></span></div><p></p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIY5q7hWkSvUnKRDUrs8TcRdKuXkxdS8_CQ-MqrNMl15xGVvLfsBI5AkvxJkNXQP896WF_V5Yqd4gROncuhOY7jPWeau4BUIjg2C9_OtkB-QBcLz1VOIQE76yBN2hp3UwPMP0BvApLfesNJ_9xB7eNp4jEJh7G4ZptyJPsjObKZd7-9ah47ENvwrYZXw/s320/4026.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIY5q7hWkSvUnKRDUrs8TcRdKuXkxdS8_CQ-MqrNMl15xGVvLfsBI5AkvxJkNXQP896WF_V5Yqd4gROncuhOY7jPWeau4BUIjg2C9_OtkB-QBcLz1VOIQE76yBN2hp3UwPMP0BvApLfesNJ_9xB7eNp4jEJh7G4ZptyJPsjObKZd7-9ah47ENvwrYZXw/s320/4026.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monica and Maribel (the mission house care-taker) with the biggest fresh pineapple I've ever seen!!</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTCzcOvnzcorL3wImfz1qJg1MpgdWy4Ipjdwr7R7YtssxW90yw0rsDVoJXQnl3AdSSEf2I3_RNDUNhG50VPeaY3iQS0EMkRzZlFcsM9ggN8nnHSUCKRpGPYHGUTQWs1qhm2jlq5L2nRowuf-pqjEfSTk-EQTzobJk6mlA91VTjx2GqXEqgpgT9sTwMBA/s768/4027.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="768" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTCzcOvnzcorL3wImfz1qJg1MpgdWy4Ipjdwr7R7YtssxW90yw0rsDVoJXQnl3AdSSEf2I3_RNDUNhG50VPeaY3iQS0EMkRzZlFcsM9ggN8nnHSUCKRpGPYHGUTQWs1qhm2jlq5L2nRowuf-pqjEfSTk-EQTzobJk6mlA91VTjx2GqXEqgpgT9sTwMBA/s320/4027.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thanks to WIFI, we learned how to communicate via Facebook video options. We were pretty bad at figuring out the ins-and-outs of it all, but we managed!</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcJ21Wr7zpSueUgfS-Em2BerTxJDidchG_-2tbi4gulaV6bcMJ0NcKjMJAKBGb_UH0JRaTnMAz7RhAnJKlazEr0jCrhzHw3wR14mp1WEkEffiw0nKxosBAadV6CAGxVrXpPdsh4dvxEfD4zIw67ouPhnRtEv4PKx9gqYSX0i1GcgDjxaEmeFC6hl5Drw/s512/4028.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="384" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcJ21Wr7zpSueUgfS-Em2BerTxJDidchG_-2tbi4gulaV6bcMJ0NcKjMJAKBGb_UH0JRaTnMAz7RhAnJKlazEr0jCrhzHw3wR14mp1WEkEffiw0nKxosBAadV6CAGxVrXpPdsh4dvxEfD4zIw67ouPhnRtEv4PKx9gqYSX0i1GcgDjxaEmeFC6hl5Drw/s320/4028.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aqua Fresca--cantaloupe style!</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR0beAQxn4_S_nc-1LYK-SBgNapAV0FjDihSBqIfkLHflrVGPmapMDhsiVDfHsS0DLWrTqp8fIbzSL1FzCq8KssSXmT5atuzHEHmlz87f3jQMe9JPrRfrG2lLOk3DO7faRaBbY6Sc1Unu7MI7PzfCQD20tICXiIbPEh_564rI18YZLOLXKW-Mj02TwrQ/s2048/IMG_6964.JPG" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR0beAQxn4_S_nc-1LYK-SBgNapAV0FjDihSBqIfkLHflrVGPmapMDhsiVDfHsS0DLWrTqp8fIbzSL1FzCq8KssSXmT5atuzHEHmlz87f3jQMe9JPrRfrG2lLOk3DO7faRaBbY6Sc1Unu7MI7PzfCQD20tICXiIbPEh_564rI18YZLOLXKW-Mj02TwrQ/s320/IMG_6964.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">eating some fried pastries (Pasteles) that the church ladies prepared for us as a little snack before we left! They were little fried dumpling like foods with a hot piece of potato on the inside. They also had a fermented cabbage slaw that you kind of lump on it and eat all together/</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsKDE-ZRBBVw83kSkOedkni0Nj1ym6tkZP8i9wO4kG-ga3XkaKLZ4Of7ohlIKAA9eg_U5xkY7czpXzsPPgXdXsiV6qXvJKrh2fLrtlEKqoPP1IccYFJog4KOtUtfLCy07voyZaRUASqzOHsQ8qmI5rFpNwMcdZw9wZG2s6CqrNqr-QYy4Urazqqt4PEw/s2048/IMG_6965.JPG" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsKDE-ZRBBVw83kSkOedkni0Nj1ym6tkZP8i9wO4kG-ga3XkaKLZ4Of7ohlIKAA9eg_U5xkY7czpXzsPPgXdXsiV6qXvJKrh2fLrtlEKqoPP1IccYFJog4KOtUtfLCy07voyZaRUASqzOHsQ8qmI5rFpNwMcdZw9wZG2s6CqrNqr-QYy4Urazqqt4PEw/s320/IMG_6965.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">brotherly love in all languages</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp_j9r5uQO49ISqVadqWPMTH8YpaFKiTCM1NWrZOoVNadZvKRH_YWelNWWmYnpenlZdq53nIin1WutM-__CvrJMGBVQKsPHFMnXkcVermItlRHl5tAscv8o4Sr3snytZgxO1oAnk-fz4bMEaLGe1-nMJwSM3KguklCTmYrBNHlhgrgPWZVz3QRHdsNyQ/s2304/IMG_6994.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1728" data-original-width="2304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp_j9r5uQO49ISqVadqWPMTH8YpaFKiTCM1NWrZOoVNadZvKRH_YWelNWWmYnpenlZdq53nIin1WutM-__CvrJMGBVQKsPHFMnXkcVermItlRHl5tAscv8o4Sr3snytZgxO1oAnk-fz4bMEaLGe1-nMJwSM3KguklCTmYrBNHlhgrgPWZVz3QRHdsNyQ/s320/IMG_6994.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibcspQcH77xmd_zhpymlt6PSfNGXhjCy6M5hciM3VcAYFvCy5WiQH5UNM_B98VBHIfnTYsw8O974g9gBuat1nwVhP8DKl8VwBp-0fbeRm3YjkJLM6nqkGMxhKxoOhrjzOncDBoW8ojbSfAGBZDofF9QTpyk4CN1MbNVYvGoywI1ggG8htw8ROXz9Bk4A/s2304/IMG_6997.JPG" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1728" data-original-width="2304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibcspQcH77xmd_zhpymlt6PSfNGXhjCy6M5hciM3VcAYFvCy5WiQH5UNM_B98VBHIfnTYsw8O974g9gBuat1nwVhP8DKl8VwBp-0fbeRm3YjkJLM6nqkGMxhKxoOhrjzOncDBoW8ojbSfAGBZDofF9QTpyk4CN1MbNVYvGoywI1ggG8htw8ROXz9Bk4A/s320/IMG_6997.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sunset over San Salvador. We were above the clouds!</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaJ2M6UBdqMjuZjAQUKSQ8pumw1VQPBYkWuLATVD72ljNtR0iINVu_fJZ0OB0RwzDIg7QW7LZAH_wQkEmAqkuzJgIHqSQa7Ax4pw8x5n_iEMorqztGiw1Jn-x85VRuEulw-S7mlyUerXjBYJQadQoAb1DJmEkMiTBCclzRIgfsp2624f8WXO8XZp6XXg/s2304/IMG_6998.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1728" data-original-width="2304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaJ2M6UBdqMjuZjAQUKSQ8pumw1VQPBYkWuLATVD72ljNtR0iINVu_fJZ0OB0RwzDIg7QW7LZAH_wQkEmAqkuzJgIHqSQa7Ax4pw8x5n_iEMorqztGiw1Jn-x85VRuEulw-S7mlyUerXjBYJQadQoAb1DJmEkMiTBCclzRIgfsp2624f8WXO8XZp6XXg/s320/IMG_6998.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaJ2M6UBdqMjuZjAQUKSQ8pumw1VQPBYkWuLATVD72ljNtR0iINVu_fJZ0OB0RwzDIg7QW7LZAH_wQkEmAqkuzJgIHqSQa7Ax4pw8x5n_iEMorqztGiw1Jn-x85VRuEulw-S7mlyUerXjBYJQadQoAb1DJmEkMiTBCclzRIgfsp2624f8WXO8XZp6XXg/s2304/IMG_6998.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><br /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaJ2M6UBdqMjuZjAQUKSQ8pumw1VQPBYkWuLATVD72ljNtR0iINVu_fJZ0OB0RwzDIg7QW7LZAH_wQkEmAqkuzJgIHqSQa7Ax4pw8x5n_iEMorqztGiw1Jn-x85VRuEulw-S7mlyUerXjBYJQadQoAb1DJmEkMiTBCclzRIgfsp2624f8WXO8XZp6XXg/s2304/IMG_6998.JPG" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaJ2M6UBdqMjuZjAQUKSQ8pumw1VQPBYkWuLATVD72ljNtR0iINVu_fJZ0OB0RwzDIg7QW7LZAH_wQkEmAqkuzJgIHqSQa7Ax4pw8x5n_iEMorqztGiw1Jn-x85VRuEulw-S7mlyUerXjBYJQadQoAb1DJmEkMiTBCclzRIgfsp2624f8WXO8XZp6XXg/s2304/IMG_6998.JPG" style="display: inline !important; padding: 1em 0px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline !important;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/L8ZGQPW7OXg" width="320" youtube-src-id="L8ZGQPW7OXg"></iframe></div></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-6807710385592199222022-03-21T23:24:00.002-05:002022-03-21T23:24:33.080-05:00El Salvador--Day 2<p style="text-align: center;">Day 2!!</p><p style="text-align: center;"> Our first work day. I sit to type in the open air under a Salvadorian sky with my new friends Susanna from Halifax Nova Scotia, and Edwin, a native Salvadorian who taught me what a "moto-taxi" was (they are seen driving all over the place here) And I taught him that it is really called a "golf cart." We sit in the silence of our reflections but in community of One Spirit. It is sweet.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Today was my 49th birthday. And though I deeply missed my birthday partner (my hubby who also turned 49 today), it was a special day that will go down in the history books for me. </p><p style="text-align: center;">I actually have no pictures, because we went to a boys prison. We couldn't wear our watches in, let alone take in a phone. In fact, in the morning meeting, we were told that if one of us got caught TRYING (or FORGETTING) to take a phone in our pocket, that we could all get in trouble and it might carry a 3-5 year sentence. I promise you, I checked my pockets about 6 times. They also made us bring our passports in. And they kept them. Until we were ready to leave. A bit unnerving for sure!</p><p style="text-align: center;">We started with more team members today. There are 5 of us from the US. Susanna has been here for 7 weeks doing a long term mission and is leaving Wednesday night. She isn't technically part of this team, but she feels like one of the team and was very helpful to us today!! We had the medical director/MD, 2 dentists, a pharmacist, and 2 interpreters. So about 12 of us, including our very skilled van driver. He is amazing!!</p><p style="text-align: center;">We drove 2 hours to get to the department (or we would say state) Tonacatepeque. We were actually within about 15-20 minutes from Guatemala! The views were great all the way and we went through a number of SO CUTE little villages. The cows are bony and sad looking, chickens roam all the streets, and I rubber necked more than once just making sure I had really seen a goat grazing the median between the road lanes while leashed. </p><p style="text-align: center;">The prison has been locked down from health care professionals for two years now since the pandemic started. So this was the first visit for many to assess their health. We were encouraged to ask the young men questions about their life goals and career choices, and of course the door was opened to talk about God with them. I had packed 2 books that I found at the Christian book store before I left. One was a daily devotional by Max Lucado called One God, One Plan, One Life, and another called the Revolution, geared at teaching men to become God fearing husbands and fathers and to be biblical men. I also had some story book bibles, which I found out yesterday are bilingual, and will be a great tool to help the kids learn English!</p><p style="text-align: center;">I was allowed to keep the books and give them to the men that I thought would benefit them. I was nervous about that, because, how exactly would I decide which one of the 75 kids would get one?? It turns out, that God orchestrated all of the conversations in a detailed manner, that allowed me to know who was to get each book!!</p><p style="text-align: center;">Last night at about 10:30, our facilitator told us that they would be bringing the young men out in groups of about 10, and that they would be having a short devotional time....and that each of us would have the chance to lead one. I knew EXACTLY what I was going to share, because God put it on my heart last week as our study group finished 2 Chronicles, chapter 33 specifically. I had told my study group what the Lord had taught me about the story of King Mannesah, and that it made me think about what I thought the prison ministry might hold for us this week. </p><p style="text-align: center;">I reviewed the story this morning...The gist of it was this...Mannessah became the King when he was 12. He was wicked...and did all of the wicked things that HE HAD BEEN TAUGHT. He continued to lead his people in the wicked ways that he wanted to go. The Lord tried to counsel Mannessah, but he refused to listen, leading his people further and further away from God...God finally was provoked to anger...and He allowed the enemy to put a ring in his nose, and bind his ankles and led him away. And finally, when Mannessah had been squeezed long enough by God, he FINALLY cried out to God in his distress. AND GOD HAD COMPASSION. He listened. He loved Mannessah. And He forgave him. He allowed him to reign for 55 years total. That was more time as the King than Solomon or David. What I saw last week was that this young man was taught wickedness...it's what he saw, and what he learned. And then, he was unable to get out of his wickedness because of his own rebellion. But finally, when he was really in a hard spot, his heart became soft to the Lord...and the Lord had compassion. And he gave Mannessah new life...while allowing him to continue to reap some of the consequences of his previous attitude and sin problems. It really resonated to me that many of these prison kids could be much like a Manessah...and that there really wasn't any amount of sin that God wouldn't forgive when they earnestly and humbly sought Him for forgiveness and a new way!</p><p style="text-align: center;">We had 2 pastors there today...so I didn't get to present that story. Well, not to a group anyway. But God is kind...and one of the first young men that I got to talk with told me that he was getting out in a few months. He was really hoping that he would be able to stay on the right track. He told me that he studies his bible mucho...and so I gave him the 2 Chronicles:33 chapter to read to encourage him. I was able to talk to him briefly about the example of Manessah! Then I was able to give him the book about how to be a godly man..which he was excited to get...and he wrote down a book that had changed his life..which I fully intend to read about a prison testimony!! </p><p style="text-align: center;">The second book was given to a young boy who didn't really know about God's story. He had "heard some stuff" from other pastors that had come, but he was interested in hearing about God's gift of salvation. My translator presented the gospel to him, yet he wasn't sure that he was ready to take that next step. He did want to take the story book bible, so my prayer for him is, that he will read it from cover to cover, and accept Christ in the near future. The local pastor will be following up with him now that they are allowed to visit again.</p><p style="text-align: center;">The third book, another story book bible, went to a young man who had a stand-offish attitude, but I could tell he was definitely listening to me and was willing to engage. He wants to teach math one day, and he wants to learn English. The story book bible will both deepen his faith and teach him how to read and speak some English. He wants to learn to be able to teach others. The book was a perfect fit for him based on our conversation!</p><p style="text-align: center;">The last young man that I saw for the day was so interesting. I thought that I would be taking the last book home for another day....until we got to the very end of our encounter. He asked that I pray for his parents. I pressed him to know whether they were ill, or in conflict, or something specific. He asked that I would pray that they would continue to want to know God. Interesting, and very specific request I thought. I told him that I would definitely pray for that, but that I was most interested in where HE stood with knowing God and wanting to know Him better. He shrugged and smiled. Yeah, maybe sometimes he would like to do that, but sometimes not. He took the last book that had daily devotionals by Max Lucado...I am certain that God sent it just for him and his walk with the Lord!!</p><p style="text-align: center;">El Salvador doesn't import any fruits or veggies, and so that totally makes up for their lack of good meat!! Tonight, I ate my first fresh, ripe papaya. I wasn't sure about the first bite, but ended up eating 3 big chunks. My stomach probably isn't going to appreciate that! We have had grapes that were triple the size of normal grape. I have decided to love Aqua Fresca...which they serve everywhere. Today it was made out of CANTELOUPE!! They blend the fruit and thin it with water and a little sugar as needed. Think really thin smoothie...like pulpy juice. I would have NEVER tried cantaloupe juice. But no one knew what it was until we put our palates together and decided that was what it was!! It is so interesting to see so many stands in the ditch of the roads selling fresh produce. I hope to get some photos of that!</p><p style="text-align: center;">Tomorrow, we will drive about an hour to a very impoverished village to partner with a church to provide medical care for the people. I understand that between our 5 providers we will see 200 patients or so. It will be busy and tiring. But I don't doubt it will be amazing in many ways!!</p><p style="text-align: center;">I'm hoping to be able to journal it tomorrow night because then I will be out of WIFI until sometime Friday evening.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Please continue to pray for the hearts that will feel God's eyes on them this week while we laugh, love, and serve these people. We are getting closer to getting the eyeglasses given away, and so I also pray that needs will be met through those! One of the saddest things about today's ministry was that they won't allow the kids to have eyeglasses in the prison. Two of the boys I saw couldn't read the poster on the wall...My heart broke for them, because I know how terrible it feels to take my contacts out and not be able to see clearly. WOW. </p><p style="text-align: center;">God is teaching me a lot through this trip already. And He is graciously allowing me to minister, not only to the people of El Salvador, but to the new friends I am making that also have servant hearts! </p><p style="text-align: center;">Thanks for your prayers!!</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4ajIFfSaEzE" width="320" youtube-src-id="4ajIFfSaEzE"></iframe></div><br /><p></p>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-12338559679278817192022-03-20T23:25:00.000-05:002022-03-20T23:25:26.135-05:00El Salvador...day 1<p style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgaRj7m6_n-IwQglXFqmwGcA3dSqeoLEwnrM-49JzTMWw-5RCbQdSm68OE-bj_hv48nVphy-4-h7hKC3CPoz1FRef8xpJbUggn6uOv1wRtNrUH-KKjKLhHUiGXVTdHWuknUCBQi3uuw82vyIPOeDRQnjpqwR25xoqybB0D74zBPVcZkmpAUEe7WKZvkDg=s2048" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgaRj7m6_n-IwQglXFqmwGcA3dSqeoLEwnrM-49JzTMWw-5RCbQdSm68OE-bj_hv48nVphy-4-h7hKC3CPoz1FRef8xpJbUggn6uOv1wRtNrUH-KKjKLhHUiGXVTdHWuknUCBQi3uuw82vyIPOeDRQnjpqwR25xoqybB0D74zBPVcZkmpAUEe7WKZvkDg=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The worship team used slides with all the words for the songs. I can read Spanish, so once I got the tune down, I enjoyed singing too!<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table> Hallelujah!! Hallelujah!!</p><p style="text-align: center;">HALLELUJAH!</p><p style="text-align: center;">I made it to El Salvador! </p><p style="text-align: center;">I will admit, I was a nervous, hot mess on Friday night and Saturday morning. I was soooo anxious about so many things, but primarily about the bags getting into the plane!! I worked hard to get as much packed in both the checked bags. I was praying for favor from the attendants weighing in the bags. The first bag with my clothes and extra love offerings (toothpaste, toothbrushes and some more glasses) weighed 50.0 pounds. (the limit was 50 pounds or less) The sweet man looked up at me and said "I am going to have you buy me a lotto ticket!! The second bag went up and went down, and stopped on 50.5 pounds. I looked at him with my best puppy eyes. He looked me and looked back at the scale and said "It ok!" The weight of the world came off my shoulders at that point!</p><p style="text-align: center;">We are staying at Christ for the City International headquarters in Soyapongo, El Salvador. The streets are at all kinds of crazy angles with tons of cars, trucks, pickups, and motorcycles moving at all speeds. We parked right inside the mission gate in an open air courtyard underneath the kitchen...and the bedrooms open right into the garage area. They just installed a large hot water system last week--there were no hot showers or hot water prior to that upgrade. This morning I was really thankful for a hot shower!</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhW_GszOIMBI8wTq5xz93DBUNwlRwmzVsqvQfsB-BLJNijB6k_daEuDYF5JgiQH5tKaeukhpk7k_N1tEcmeAcYPHBNrcdd0sQ8w1vMTarRVlsedHlZIn_Tyern1xud8sqsvBPHJ0JhrpCQ7v8nhnRzI-_whjElmjn4H5ZD0pwjcS6gw_PsUVhzmUQoBtg=s2048" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhW_GszOIMBI8wTq5xz93DBUNwlRwmzVsqvQfsB-BLJNijB6k_daEuDYF5JgiQH5tKaeukhpk7k_N1tEcmeAcYPHBNrcdd0sQ8w1vMTarRVlsedHlZIn_Tyern1xud8sqsvBPHJ0JhrpCQ7v8nhnRzI-_whjElmjn4H5ZD0pwjcS6gw_PsUVhzmUQoBtg=s320" width="320" /></a></p><p style="text-align: center;">We traveled to the church plant of our Coordinator's family. They planted a church 20 years ago in a little neighborhood, and it was fun to hear about all of the things that have changed in those 20 years!! The joyous singing was unbeatable, and I enjoyed reading the lyrics of the songs and figuring out what they meant! Many of the words were easy to figure out when you know what the Bible says about who God is and what He does!! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiJclfhVF7bcu3-17y3uO2q8vKVpryeJo7Wd07uOT25ACAgYdJvSgVdJJsQnK7waDTzJpg6UzTNyFkenxSrvZQw2FliUZPqo6buWCzQlkWYoXd8Rn0t0VPh-u11aT36dy240xo1z0ykYAQvWh91FGEhCHj9b7NH8O0Ne5ijw5KQa0yEQc3xQMqQj6_hSg=s2048" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiJclfhVF7bcu3-17y3uO2q8vKVpryeJo7Wd07uOT25ACAgYdJvSgVdJJsQnK7waDTzJpg6UzTNyFkenxSrvZQw2FliUZPqo6buWCzQlkWYoXd8Rn0t0VPh-u11aT36dy240xo1z0ykYAQvWh91FGEhCHj9b7NH8O0Ne5ijw5KQa0yEQc3xQMqQj6_hSg=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">No temer! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">That was the phrase today in the service.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh2-0gxK_y8GRNdHX4pCV9vswL16bHok-HclgmawYZodGoN1OyWMlOG5biUw61Go3lEVOYsSTwBx7_ACesGetGk3qNrj-wabE_lS3vcBoPoyRbJ-TRfnr-pDOkXIPaGZ2S8b2lD13YecVukjMwiLLAB2ZgTulm8yjDs2UHK4KKJZpNPdWeklvbKeyhp5Q=s2048" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh2-0gxK_y8GRNdHX4pCV9vswL16bHok-HclgmawYZodGoN1OyWMlOG5biUw61Go3lEVOYsSTwBx7_ACesGetGk3qNrj-wabE_lS3vcBoPoyRbJ-TRfnr-pDOkXIPaGZ2S8b2lD13YecVukjMwiLLAB2ZgTulm8yjDs2UHK4KKJZpNPdWeklvbKeyhp5Q=s320" width="320" /></a></div>NO FEAR is the translation.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> We are nothing without Christ, and when we have Him as our life guide and salvation, there is NOTHING to fear!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">NO TEMER!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiSRxJr7mjacPjikYqYE7tPLC1MVJ16qdxtYh-6bC7DpmahdV76dKgcX9ZS2VfeiHSCh3CqyihosXGmhCu3aXvkBVMZ_zoPfKXJAPmZjDefQ_yLINtPEQY6p_VH9-HqmP5NiDiBLr3sd0ClULnbFDHkV7mMrr80z4W9wMkIIp22pxZ9OdySmUndcJwdEQ=s2048" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiSRxJr7mjacPjikYqYE7tPLC1MVJ16qdxtYh-6bC7DpmahdV76dKgcX9ZS2VfeiHSCh3CqyihosXGmhCu3aXvkBVMZ_zoPfKXJAPmZjDefQ_yLINtPEQY6p_VH9-HqmP5NiDiBLr3sd0ClULnbFDHkV7mMrr80z4W9wMkIIp22pxZ9OdySmUndcJwdEQ=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We enjoyed getting to know Pastor Rudy over lunch! His son, also known as Rudy, is our coordinator for the week. He is doing amazing things for the kids in these small villages and the people. I can't wait to continue hearing about his ministry!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiBeZ96kg5LxvMHAGcAVyEq3ZpSGF4agLJbgKLrnSJIRekAVh-IwPg3PgkBnU4tUT4yQ0aS4Yi3Z7YWXYi30QAYJI5-HUPznhitOz4hGSqB1Rwx4iSb4Yo2bftnUkcpzBFPwI6HmGnAQhKt_OwS65p7619deaDAp7j42A9Obmnes8bi6tIYi9Tdf6-Gvw=s2048" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiBeZ96kg5LxvMHAGcAVyEq3ZpSGF4agLJbgKLrnSJIRekAVh-IwPg3PgkBnU4tUT4yQ0aS4Yi3Z7YWXYi30QAYJI5-HUPznhitOz4hGSqB1Rwx4iSb4Yo2bftnUkcpzBFPwI6HmGnAQhKt_OwS65p7619deaDAp7j42A9Obmnes8bi6tIYi9Tdf6-Gvw=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Speaking of lunch, we drove for what felt like forever, hot, hungry, and a little nauseated from the back seat of a van on the twisty, turny roads, we finally made it to the top of a very cool mountain that overlooked the valley that included the town of San Marcas, the place where the Rudy's live. It was outdoor dining with many people enjoying a lengthy lunch and laughter. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg3_lYJpSXkcReYIv2sV_LYvv5q4C6J5ZGQWO7DUuduSde4CB-FNs1IK6DmlYtdJ2aKtAJxBk7BsoIIxYJvnzj8_PsZeSHLtLrhFuA3rJ3d0dqyALl65Whn64PspfS1RQqkj4QjOkAegGEEGPhG_1sabDL9bnRrYt3q9kuYstSYSzE6vuqwSvyXd3uSEg=s2048" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg3_lYJpSXkcReYIv2sV_LYvv5q4C6J5ZGQWO7DUuduSde4CB-FNs1IK6DmlYtdJ2aKtAJxBk7BsoIIxYJvnzj8_PsZeSHLtLrhFuA3rJ3d0dqyALl65Whn64PspfS1RQqkj4QjOkAegGEEGPhG_1sabDL9bnRrYt3q9kuYstSYSzE6vuqwSvyXd3uSEg=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I don't remember what it was called in Spanish, but I enjoyed chunks of chorizo, chicken, and steak bites-along with fresh, thick tortillas, THE best refried black beans ever, and Queso Fresco. We also enjoyed Aqua Fresca. I opted for strawberry. It was refreshing!</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjZ9IXn1fBo46gfrp2Gpq97BAsLsPRLdIcXO9vVCo0xDpBnaIId6rL0xAwGdn3tYgkOc4kdRHr_YwT1tKyvJ15Dro7mZIqMHh1RuaZpOcqrkXDIg54OcMxWu7rkcI8_JlAWizSuYwjk50TVf_gzTc_bG7FG-RnF8r6Yrd1GgQDMElNXbrOsxL7c4PpqCw=s2048" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjZ9IXn1fBo46gfrp2Gpq97BAsLsPRLdIcXO9vVCo0xDpBnaIId6rL0xAwGdn3tYgkOc4kdRHr_YwT1tKyvJ15Dro7mZIqMHh1RuaZpOcqrkXDIg54OcMxWu7rkcI8_JlAWizSuYwjk50TVf_gzTc_bG7FG-RnF8r6Yrd1GgQDMElNXbrOsxL7c4PpqCw=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We hiked down past a strawberry farm to get another breathtaking view of the valley!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh8D4RyvRWMYATtXL_YfXl4-VHaQ7NxroD6mdz0FhpgCWryiFqwpknLEh4E60tWhKuC-O2-LwtU95jmuh_LxII0mTnG3fmwR247PFnzdVNAPc9wHy-H7VmIS-J37GhwnXnlcZuPRb8cqRH84qLI7os2JfIYjlE5k28-vhtBLArR95J56uBLxqDcg5AH0w=s2048" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh8D4RyvRWMYATtXL_YfXl4-VHaQ7NxroD6mdz0FhpgCWryiFqwpknLEh4E60tWhKuC-O2-LwtU95jmuh_LxII0mTnG3fmwR247PFnzdVNAPc9wHy-H7VmIS-J37GhwnXnlcZuPRb8cqRH84qLI7os2JfIYjlE5k28-vhtBLArR95J56uBLxqDcg5AH0w=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This was a BEAUTIFUL agave plant, the largest I have ever seen in real life!! Actually, the trees are amazingly beautiful. So many different colored flowers that bedazzle them! Purples, yellows, whites, lavenders, magenta, and rosy red! Simply stunning!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjyfVVtNb2ij39X8shfthSHYIc6H1Sjby-FLRh0KXyWw6WRbm6zSdCIaZgZ4wKtMWl-FxIVDeQS7nxJv00qOCaySCEQ1XFWx3rebHATJJ4olbfasF-l2vkbLjixQnsud95aIp0dnTh2OywbGlV12_7P-xw3GFuyhuiMU4CdV68GyEeD3ecgR7JH3Rql3Q=s2048" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjyfVVtNb2ij39X8shfthSHYIc6H1Sjby-FLRh0KXyWw6WRbm6zSdCIaZgZ4wKtMWl-FxIVDeQS7nxJv00qOCaySCEQ1XFWx3rebHATJJ4olbfasF-l2vkbLjixQnsud95aIp0dnTh2OywbGlV12_7P-xw3GFuyhuiMU4CdV68GyEeD3ecgR7JH3Rql3Q=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We spent about 3 hours just eating, resting, chatting, and hiking. Very refreshing!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjNwn-j0EkYs1G2D0MzwNM7hBWHTg7Xi8uYOOvWlSYovr6khMPV36js_DM1ZUt6nro3-_h6R3pXabF-pWU_6chSe6zgDUuf65sSLlDtyoasRpPeHk-pKQz0iA8g0mllO9LORknzmHQlh7d3hcA_0bhnXcOWNbDrpy2GOkPVLQPz51osYH3WJklYPyt8nQ=s2048" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjNwn-j0EkYs1G2D0MzwNM7hBWHTg7Xi8uYOOvWlSYovr6khMPV36js_DM1ZUt6nro3-_h6R3pXabF-pWU_6chSe6zgDUuf65sSLlDtyoasRpPeHk-pKQz0iA8g0mllO9LORknzmHQlh7d3hcA_0bhnXcOWNbDrpy2GOkPVLQPz51osYH3WJklYPyt8nQ=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Strawberry plants grown in towers along the hillside and covered with white sun shade over top to prevent the berries from burning.</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgn8IrLIlfEn6tUmbA9_BV33CLw5kySZNKCfkEaCZCk3-_RPOTgRPXrUpMVzuxNkwJbQOPncstwiEaCzfuq81AAiVtcj96j1vpspO8KfzUF6lf33ytnX2aiwHzSUycGYoY6yDc6x-PC3Ms2CPqaZuHHwqxexcwx6SWm8rFATzWzdhaxjag2CrhGv7IIFA=s2048" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgn8IrLIlfEn6tUmbA9_BV33CLw5kySZNKCfkEaCZCk3-_RPOTgRPXrUpMVzuxNkwJbQOPncstwiEaCzfuq81AAiVtcj96j1vpspO8KfzUF6lf33ytnX2aiwHzSUycGYoY6yDc6x-PC3Ms2CPqaZuHHwqxexcwx6SWm8rFATzWzdhaxjag2CrhGv7IIFA=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view of the tiny houses covered in rusting tin roofs<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">After lunch and goodbyes, we drove back by a souvenir market where we stopped and picked up a few things. I can't WAIT to get home to try the handmade hot chocolate powder that I bought!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg0JGjb1hKsvP6sLE3I8T1J2oO28Y7zcuwQZ_bheWYPzFalbTwFGsRTzYj_4LaoM_rWU5EkJ3PGdAGPLkz0_GvI-lHpx712vwlmyGX_yN25BxIrsObg4xi4SMcwx5_pwiqFsRGvZrQMDe4T4yebzgUzSFkJ3myb2lggH1icUM6y5oMmcJj_SgNsHypWLw=s2048" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg0JGjb1hKsvP6sLE3I8T1J2oO28Y7zcuwQZ_bheWYPzFalbTwFGsRTzYj_4LaoM_rWU5EkJ3PGdAGPLkz0_GvI-lHpx712vwlmyGX_yN25BxIrsObg4xi4SMcwx5_pwiqFsRGvZrQMDe4T4yebzgUzSFkJ3myb2lggH1icUM6y5oMmcJj_SgNsHypWLw=s320" width="320" /></a></div>For some very strange and random reason, eating Mexican street corn in Mexico is on my bucket list...but apparently they also have this in El Salvador. My new friend Monica assures me that she can make it better than the street vendors...so we will be enjoying this one evening this week! I can NOT wait!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I am ready to get to work. It has definitely been fun to bond with people on our team!! We were planning on going to a youth prison ministry tomorrow, but due to a plan change, we are now going into a men's prison. Most men, as I understand, are in there for a minimum sentence of 30 years, and the majority of crime is for murder or possession of illegal weapons. It sounds like it will be an amazing opportunity!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/b_RjndG0IX8" width="320" youtube-src-id="b_RjndG0IX8"></iframe></div><br /><p></p>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-23204520812500006942022-03-18T20:20:00.002-05:002022-03-18T20:20:16.138-05:00The Mission<p style="text-align: center;"></p> Well....now this blog has been used for a lot of things since blogs were the thing back in the early 2000's...<p></p><p style="text-align: center;">In 2009 when I started it, things were a lot different in our lives!!! It's been used to keep my far away family updated on the fun details of our growing lives...been used to document all the plants that I have grown and probably killed by now...used for short stints of bible study sessions...used to show some of our best memories ever...used to allow me to exercise the story telling aspect of the personality God gave me. I have many fond memories here...</p><p style="text-align: center;">BUT...as the kids grew long and tall, the minutes grew shorter and shorter...and things pressed in on our time. The blog was the first to go. Since my last post in 2017, we have graduated our last son...we have our little sweet girl left at home. We have two daughters-in-love and 3 precious grand babies with one more on the way!! </p><p style="text-align: center;">I lived my life to be a wife and mom. It's what I dreamed of as a little girl. I had my house decorated from the JC Penney catalog (the one that my short grandma stacked 2 high on her car seat so she could see out the window)..I had their names picked out and my life planned!! SO, as the kids grew and left, grew and left, grew and left...I began that inner tension that many moms feel.....God, WHAT am I gonna do when these blessings you entrusted to me leave. And every once in a while, He would show me a glimpse. </p><p style="text-align: center;">The first glimpse I had was when our babies were quite small...I knew that I wanted to take some of my medical skills, and go on a mission trip to love others in a different way than they were used to. Some day. Some day. As I grew in maturity, and in faith...I worried that SOME DAY, would never get here. And in the meantime, I was blessed to take our local youth group kids on some week long mission trips to inner city streets and Indian reservations...I loved those moments. I loved how God spoke to each of them..and to me. I loved seeing how He works things together, and uses the smallest details to do it. I loved talking and touching and hugging and loving the forgotten (even when they were forgotten as consequences of their actions.) I've always had a tender spot for the underdog. And for those whom God made in HIS own image---just like me--who are victims of circumstances beyond their control. </p><p style="text-align: center;">About 6 months ago, the Lord brought my dream of a medical mission trip back to my heart...whispering, "Soon!" We had just moved Devin to college...Cami is going to be in high school next year. Maybe, I thought. Maybe I could start looking at mission opportunities. Things would come through my mail box...I held on to a Samaritan's purse letter for months..vowing that I would check into that opportunity to work with them. I scoped the internet for an hour once last fall, just to see what else is out there. It was overwhelming. There was a lot. I wasn't ready. Not enough time. Not enough courage. I dropped it and put that desire back into its little box in my heart. Not now.... </p><p style="text-align: center;">This past fall, I found myself really wishy-washy about taking our high school youth group on a spring break mission trip. Those trips have resulted in some really amazing Kingdom work over the years, but it is also a big investment of time, energy, and money. The day after Christmas, there was a tragic car accident that claimed the life of young woman who encountered God in a really amazing way on one of those trips to inner city Dallas, Texas. I felt the Lord nudging me to move forward with one. </p><p style="text-align: center;">The kids were excited! And honestly, so was I! We had a very short turn around time to get the arrangements made and the money sent. I sent the deposit in, but the week that the final payment was made, a series of events occurred that led to a necessitated cancellation of the trip. I was devastated. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Fast forward through mid January into late February, February 23 to be exact, I slumped into the couch that Wednesday night after youth group to rest and read the mail. There was a letter from the organization that we use for our Urban Plunge mission trips. It was a receipt for our mission trip down payment. The trip that had already been cancelled! But before I figured that out, the top of the letter was talking about what their organization had been doing in early 2022. There were 2 sentences about a medical mission trip in March. I realized at this point, that the receipt had been lost in the mail for nearly 4 weeks. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Now, I had never pursued getting a passport, because it just wasn't a realistic thing to do. Jeremy encouraged me to at least call about the possibility of still being able to go with this team, provided I could get a passport. But because of COVID, it looked like passports were out 7-11 weeks, or 3-5 if you paid to expediate it. I had 3 1/2 weeks. </p><p style="text-align: center;">After a phone call with CFCI to let me know that I could definitely go with the team, and a phone call with the doctor who leads the team who assured me that I would be an asset to them, he and I began looking at third party companies that could attain a passport in time for me to go.</p><p style="text-align: center;">I called a few places on Monday--which was February 28. The prices that they wanted to get a passport were more than I was willing to pay; which left the final option of buying airplane tickets in faith, and waiting until March 7 to call the center in Dallas (the nearest place to us-7 hours away) and pray for an appointment that had to fall within FIVE days of the trip. Even though I knew that this was becoming crazier by the second, I had an inner peace that God had allowed the misplaced letter so that He could show up and show off the way HIS timing works. After one more call to Dr Miller, he found out that because of COVID and the opening of travel, lots of people needed to get their passports updated for spring break travel. He offered one more place to call, and told me that he and his wife would pay the cost of the third party people to get my passport in 3-5 days. </p><p style="text-align: center;">It was the encouragement that I needed to act in faith. When I got home that night, I got on the computer. I ordered roundtrip tickets to El Salvador and went through the paper process for the Passport Agency. The next morning, I was able to go to our courthouse, and my friend took us through all the steps of getting the paperwork specially sealed so I could overnight it to Houston Texas. That was March 1. It was a huge act of faith on all of our parts!</p><p style="text-align: center;">On Tuesday March 8th when I got back from lunch, I had an email that reported that the passport had been issued....and that it was being shipped. March 9 that passport reached me and I knew that it was GAME ON!!</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjwDky6XvitrDA33M0OdgejTM2DL1RHQIRxiIBvcqRGTZcTSdFZfCcRi4ay91kn610wCXxJn5FrCmKgkp-EvY1RbtfN8lKE4SCzJlssaUKiRiwv3YCterGYcOqpL2J3cec4kYkpl5Na1h71ef3WJCMM_MFXUSrs5PPAMkxGiEOh-F6Zq0Xm8WDIpOTQzA=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjwDky6XvitrDA33M0OdgejTM2DL1RHQIRxiIBvcqRGTZcTSdFZfCcRi4ay91kn610wCXxJn5FrCmKgkp-EvY1RbtfN8lKE4SCzJlssaUKiRiwv3YCterGYcOqpL2J3cec4kYkpl5Na1h71ef3WJCMM_MFXUSrs5PPAMkxGiEOh-F6Zq0Xm8WDIpOTQzA=s320" width="240" /></a></p><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">On Thursday, I ordered some things from Amazon after talking with Dr Miller about bringing some things as a love offering. My friend donated a huge suitcase to load up and leave in El Salvador. The Lord laid glasses on my heart, but I knew that I would need something really light to fill up the suitcase and still weigh less than 50 pounds. That night I put out an ISO on FB for eyeglasses and stuffed animals! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhL2HBfyPuuLMoJ8zVJvuc4bQ0GiDmVc8W9RsXf8NZqT7yd_rqlMzEWw6l6WThpnVMYtn5uoIeY4Hsf_nRxKE5P4d31bUC-dDlyLo18u1P4VmyvXLqPcyRHe94k8Z8-7fGmTFXBaTMLN6b-LoMn6E7bk6Uu2wpiIO2NUegys8Aq9DPlXuRRIAT3c1DEaQ=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhL2HBfyPuuLMoJ8zVJvuc4bQ0GiDmVc8W9RsXf8NZqT7yd_rqlMzEWw6l6WThpnVMYtn5uoIeY4Hsf_nRxKE5P4d31bUC-dDlyLo18u1P4VmyvXLqPcyRHe94k8Z8-7fGmTFXBaTMLN6b-LoMn6E7bk6Uu2wpiIO2NUegys8Aq9DPlXuRRIAT3c1DEaQ=s320" width="240" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">Only God could have accumulated the things that got packed into that suitcase...and ultimately spilled over into MY suitcase to get it all there!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">189 pair of glasses</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">200 toothbrushes</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">144 small tubes of toothpaste</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">30 punch balloons</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">120 snap bracelets</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">a package of clothespins (I have no idea why)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">30 or more stuffed animals</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">7 story book bibles in Spanish (they weighed over a pound each so they didn't all make it-I absolutely could NOT get them all in...so there are 3 left for the next trip)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">2 Spanish inspirational book for the prison ministry</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi85aC_ITwmrsPZ9hvaUdU4kYY1n_a11TicFeka6YHQfsQ7VwzTmqPMyn65F7zKfKNy9klmHb8pzmX3678ipzfX0wva2tcOXy6t51xLdo_6cCUa9u2OQm5sZxNIAmUKEpKGs0YdUO1B1PHCmbEmrxvpuU1PQYGTK4QzqS_1fqh3MT-8_2KSqC_gGl_ysA=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi85aC_ITwmrsPZ9hvaUdU4kYY1n_a11TicFeka6YHQfsQ7VwzTmqPMyn65F7zKfKNy9klmHb8pzmX3678ipzfX0wva2tcOXy6t51xLdo_6cCUa9u2OQm5sZxNIAmUKEpKGs0YdUO1B1PHCmbEmrxvpuU1PQYGTK4QzqS_1fqh3MT-8_2KSqC_gGl_ysA=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I opened and closed those two large suitcases a hundred times...Moving things from one to the other, stuffing a few more things in and pulling a few more things out to get those two bags to weigh less than 50 pounds each. Jeremy has a great little scale he uses in the shop that I could put the bags on and weigh them!! I definitely got a workout doing it!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As I sit in a hotel room tonight, putting my story into words, I continue to pray for favor tomorrow at the airport...Favor that those 2 big bags would STILL weigh less than 50 pounds on the airport scale...that my huge carry on backpack, loaned to me by a friend, would be acceptable (it is at the limit of carry on sizing) and that my old lady body will be able to handle the luggage, a 30 pound pack, and a 10 pound purse stuffed to the absolute max. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I haven't been nervous....but I do feel like I have just made the long ascent to the very top of the first loop on the roller coaster, and I am holding my breath--knowing that it is a matter of moments until the steep drop starts and it leaves you breathless in a world of emotion--fear, laughter, and heart-pounding exhilaration!! I am confident that the Lord brought this trip together...and equally confident that He will be by my side each moment! I can't WAIT to see what He is up to!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiUGQaMYSGBq6IDYzx1yu3ZthIVMR5oUMYbNQzOoZXFdeaFAnK3QqvRH3bPkm6Zjrl-b3IXlfZj1z7zUu-tLSbveRSln1vW39IQ-yhji7uuGBJTT2Wo4_8JK6myY3McyqyhcymmYHsAyz2-2dP74XqL0WAZ6RrkJBIAgR96EwoHwk9SnZmgV6cSGuor7w=s4608" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiUGQaMYSGBq6IDYzx1yu3ZthIVMR5oUMYbNQzOoZXFdeaFAnK3QqvRH3bPkm6Zjrl-b3IXlfZj1z7zUu-tLSbveRSln1vW39IQ-yhji7uuGBJTT2Wo4_8JK6myY3McyqyhcymmYHsAyz2-2dP74XqL0WAZ6RrkJBIAgR96EwoHwk9SnZmgV6cSGuor7w=s320" width="240" /></a></div>These past 10 days, while using Rock-my-run on the ifit app on my treadmill, I heard a couple of songs that had me captivated in the first stanza!! It was more reassurance from my Father, that I am in His will for this journey!! I keep a notebook and pen in the tray on my treadmill for writing down things I need to remember when I am working out. I was able to jot down lyrics and locate the songs...I was provoked to start a Spotify playlist called MISSION WORSHIP. I want to share some of those songs with my posts.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I will have no phone service at all for a week while I am in El Salvador, but I will have access to WIFI for several days. Journaling God's providential goodness in the still of the night each day, is so helpful to ME to process where He has worked, and what I have seen and learned. I am hoping for enough WIFI to post the daily story on the blog...but if I don't...I will be posting them when I get home. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I do NOT want to forget the details of this trip...and I PROMISED that I would vocalize God's work through this endeavor!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nGtkGTy0SsU" width="320" youtube-src-id="nGtkGTy0SsU"></iframe></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Enjoy this song... I had never heard it before last week. I. LOVE. IT! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's about more than being sent out on mission to another country...When we belong to Jesus, it's about being sent to wherever He needs us...and most of the time it isn't an exotic place...it's right in our own neighborhood. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Don't read my story this week...without wondering what God is asking YOU to do...If you have trusted Him to be in charge of your life, He has big plans for you--He just desires a willing and obedient heart to trust in His sometimes small voice...crazy as it may seem or sound! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Be strong and courageous...For the Lord YOUR God is with you wherever you go! Joshua 1:9</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-82353141673177938862017-06-28T07:00:00.000-05:002017-06-28T07:00:08.247-05:00Hosta Hangouts. .<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So I mentioned last week that we had been in the middle of wheat harvest. .</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We don't help with harvest. .but Jeremy's people grow and harvest wheat for a living. .as well as my family. .and all my boys have grown up working and loving harvest! This year Devin got to shine on the combine. .it's his 3rd year to drive it-but the 1st that was completely on his own. Because it is also his first year to be able to drive anywhere by himself. .I have been provoked to wait up on him each night until he gets home. </div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The other night I chose to look around on Pinterest for a bit after my studying was done. .I saw this amazing hosta plant. HOSTA's I have always been able to grow without problems. .and this year, several are finally mature and are making my flower bed look GREAT! They really make a great addition to my north flower bed.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMVxoqfybKXIOkEx2qam2WHOUB9v5yz_YTcErt3DX5mJpRx0QRf7bhARjzY1CmUNFYoGhoB0iXcxzSekRFyTsbMW95h2iF4HAWiYG3fg95c05zBlrGbJ-7Le4bifVivWd5ydtS6WOZDt0/s1600/IMG_7762.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMVxoqfybKXIOkEx2qam2WHOUB9v5yz_YTcErt3DX5mJpRx0QRf7bhARjzY1CmUNFYoGhoB0iXcxzSekRFyTsbMW95h2iF4HAWiYG3fg95c05zBlrGbJ-7Le4bifVivWd5ydtS6WOZDt0/s320/IMG_7762.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">north garden. .the end that needs more plants! <br />
Wish I had thought to take a photo of the end that has great hosta activity and flowers!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So I found myself looking this hosta up. .and ended up browsing through <a href="http://hostasdirect.com/">hostasdirect.com</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They had so many different varieties. .at great prices.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Which, led me to some late night shopping!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(They also had plants other than hostas. .but hostas were what I was in the market for.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmxJfVszQQE73zF8NYhaVfb8PeMDvfAfwSkc3o1ooLD0zbz1lzvk9jPXjWUwydkdqZjmxFo4BTsjzCEN_IQ__z844TWRao64PaAQl6CS-VcqQoeHo-bB8j9TEMfNNLQJXPIfeFrc58iFrz/s1600/IMG_7761.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmxJfVszQQE73zF8NYhaVfb8PeMDvfAfwSkc3o1ooLD0zbz1lzvk9jPXjWUwydkdqZjmxFo4BTsjzCEN_IQ__z844TWRao64PaAQl6CS-VcqQoeHo-bB8j9TEMfNNLQJXPIfeFrc58iFrz/s320/IMG_7761.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I ordered 4 new ones. .and received them a few days after I ordered. The root systems were great. .and they have transplanted well, despite the fact that it is June in Kansas!! I wanted to document for myself, which variety is where. .so that is the reason for my post today!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is the section of the garden near my bedroom window. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqxYFpMhAfgWHZvNwwP-VbxhV4p8aTwJXLVjfX0Is09U7x1XllI55pbbz-Kaveu_3q7ynNS81h8sC36kWiWWWxJnBTkyhNp6FwF_iL-FVW0-G20-I4W1AjL36oAZWXEz-in381sDisb6Qr/s1600/IMG_7763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqxYFpMhAfgWHZvNwwP-VbxhV4p8aTwJXLVjfX0Is09U7x1XllI55pbbz-Kaveu_3q7ynNS81h8sC36kWiWWWxJnBTkyhNp6FwF_iL-FVW0-G20-I4W1AjL36oAZWXEz-in381sDisb6Qr/s320/IMG_7763.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Prairie Moon is the lime green hosta to the east or left hand side of this photo. I have mostly dark green or bluish hostas. .so I am excited about this pop of color.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy7qfXHH-wQu7un5vezAVMLFj5FQp8cGDJ4IsPGcw9qux9kfTAlaA_DoPVJ70UR1fIfv9i_3xj0c0jD6llhAb44-lsQtTnnnDxMczzwvafqDTHr4rS8rOJ6spypzE7Y0vCmsbqFNCaaTVr/s1600/IMG_7764.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy7qfXHH-wQu7un5vezAVMLFj5FQp8cGDJ4IsPGcw9qux9kfTAlaA_DoPVJ70UR1fIfv9i_3xj0c0jD6llhAb44-lsQtTnnnDxMczzwvafqDTHr4rS8rOJ6spypzE7Y0vCmsbqFNCaaTVr/s320/IMG_7764.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Apparently, the starts they send are what they sell to wholesalers who then pot them up and grow them for a bit before selling! I thought they were really nice starts! They already have new little leaves appearing. It will be 16 inches tall by 31 inches wide at maturity.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjguSw-GnPvYPrCFyUKEG1tmS1CRWIcj70T2Nx2JpmYQdrMdyYnH7yFAjPUi2ywKW7tQo0D0mg42kVDNWEHw4UNdn1-0vqbcZFDfZdBam0eJG-BmzWIyzbb26ZVhsBD45oH2RUtC_de6irh/s1600/IMG_7766.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjguSw-GnPvYPrCFyUKEG1tmS1CRWIcj70T2Nx2JpmYQdrMdyYnH7yFAjPUi2ywKW7tQo0D0mg42kVDNWEHw4UNdn1-0vqbcZFDfZdBam0eJG-BmzWIyzbb26ZVhsBD45oH2RUtC_de6irh/s320/IMG_7766.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
THIS is the hosta that had caught my eye in the photo depicting it's mature form.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi16i6V0JLbs9k8SsoZD716pADz1XA0Fpbnr3l8UuB1vOl30PvP9B6zXYZydL7WXJCgA91mM_Hm0W5iiXjDCZWAxkCH_idYhQi7S7LdADnVzDGkWiiiFBT1QFnWks-uXY8r-lt1URF1B6sj/s1600/IMG_7765.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi16i6V0JLbs9k8SsoZD716pADz1XA0Fpbnr3l8UuB1vOl30PvP9B6zXYZydL7WXJCgA91mM_Hm0W5iiXjDCZWAxkCH_idYhQi7S7LdADnVzDGkWiiiFBT1QFnWks-uXY8r-lt1URF1B6sj/s320/IMG_7765.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's called Bridal Falls. .and it has a great wavy leaf with green on green colors. I bought a bigger starter plant vs the small starters that I ordered the others in. .and I can't wait to see how it matures!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It will be 28 inches tall by 48 inches wide at maturity. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD-e2aXz_SuNWdQ-2jcmjpUvco37mY66nBVPTjcgUgzyjl4fGcfIFzsVDr-F8lbB4oFkOqy_appAG9s5dmxFfEVBETfzoHzE3G7Tz9x7KzokKN3b7j5EuXcVdmfP04FOHs9H6CVE7WaUxP/s1600/IMG_7768.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD-e2aXz_SuNWdQ-2jcmjpUvco37mY66nBVPTjcgUgzyjl4fGcfIFzsVDr-F8lbB4oFkOqy_appAG9s5dmxFfEVBETfzoHzE3G7Tz9x7KzokKN3b7j5EuXcVdmfP04FOHs9H6CVE7WaUxP/s320/IMG_7768.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have always wanted to do little or mini hostas--since they have become their own "thing" in the world of gardening. But I have always been afraid that they would get dwarfed and wouldn't look right or thrive. I bit the bullet anyway and ordered one to see. I have always loved this variety-called "Praying hands." It has such a unique shape of leaf. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was the 2011 "hosta of the year" and will get about 18 inches tall and 16 inches wide.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh1ymo-pv44W7AUOAulyD3ri8YdZcDQtnngmox_VS-LURYxiipEkK7a5Gl4r-WPajS17IOi4cCplAWPDvvsO6qqy9dw69K_3dyiBwIoynriQu01_PBJsuHwZzxUEenKiWAjji3eqQEk268/s1600/IMG_7769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh1ymo-pv44W7AUOAulyD3ri8YdZcDQtnngmox_VS-LURYxiipEkK7a5Gl4r-WPajS17IOi4cCplAWPDvvsO6qqy9dw69K_3dyiBwIoynriQu01_PBJsuHwZzxUEenKiWAjji3eqQEk268/s320/IMG_7769.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I also chose another hosta variety called Victory. .I like the green leaf with yellow. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was the hosta of the year in 2015 and will get to be 33 inches tall by 48 inches wide. .Classified as a giant variety.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I thought and thought about a container I could stick them in for the summer, while deciding whether to put them in the ground. .(some people overwinter hostas in pots. .I haven't tried it yet. .but I am considering it!)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr_M_tZkiSM457WRo3hqKeJpioe1Fizjkqe2tcGs65cPo9MnAv2hUwXEMpb5vjhyphenhyphenek0EbqZY8dxvE1BcZPMh-ATRr2uBvJ058clEMI211CgSv8dutIdjqdNup4PIFKV14LnuolkNh_wjlH/s1600/IMG_7767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr_M_tZkiSM457WRo3hqKeJpioe1Fizjkqe2tcGs65cPo9MnAv2hUwXEMpb5vjhyphenhyphenek0EbqZY8dxvE1BcZPMh-ATRr2uBvJ058clEMI211CgSv8dutIdjqdNup4PIFKV14LnuolkNh_wjlH/s320/IMG_7767.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I came up with this self watering planter that Cami planted with a leftover-repotted Foxtail fern and a couple of petunias. You see that they fit absolutely perfectly in there. .and they just happen to be fairly well shaded on this covered deck. </div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Victory will likely outgrow my pot by the end of the summer. .but you can see, the leaves were pretty tiny yet. .so I will take the chance.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBuRKjcvl7DpPXzEMfETeJ-6sAcrxNiihtuY0qEubN70ZTmvUZ1_DCXANUp7Jdd0iQM_GGRGW_Q7_SADa6WR_EUCuuf4D3nTzFKBdlfqp6admYVW4dRun4NGp0Bxn99QwwseN7BLcVjJFA/s1600/IMG_7770.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBuRKjcvl7DpPXzEMfETeJ-6sAcrxNiihtuY0qEubN70ZTmvUZ1_DCXANUp7Jdd0iQM_GGRGW_Q7_SADa6WR_EUCuuf4D3nTzFKBdlfqp6admYVW4dRun4NGp0Bxn99QwwseN7BLcVjJFA/s320/IMG_7770.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That planter is stationed behind this picnic table. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But I couldn't resist adding this photo of the cool succulents that I found a few weeks ago. .These will overwinter in the greenhouse or my north sunny sitting room. .I hope to do some cuttings this winter. Due to the intense hot Kansas sun on the west side of my house-even under the covered deck. .not many plants do well without twice a day water. .something I am not able or willing to do!! But THESE. .make fabulous planters full of interesting texture and color. .for only a couple waterings per week!! I'm so glad that succulents have been the recent craze! It means a lot of interesting choices!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That's it for today!! I hope to be back soon with more happenings and the current goings-on around the yard!! We also have an incredible experience coming soon that will involve our whole family. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Stay tuned!!</div>
Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-65445569329903935582017-06-24T07:30:00.000-05:002017-06-24T07:30:34.286-05:00Another update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've been busy with some pictures and posting lately!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I won't promise that it will continue. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But I sure wanted to share the photos that I had taken at the end of our school year.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZwvJV2IZjSfmkBlZxNzAbvDAfCkV01ypnXoAetCk6IsQ685cj_ImnEYVtPp-kKqJthT_ugqEBsvIXbO6cP2M74OCmnGdVAUudSrcFK9ZUVJzv2U4PERHHdMl2t4na-NwM_m2q71DQZkgZ/s1600/IMG_7385.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZwvJV2IZjSfmkBlZxNzAbvDAfCkV01ypnXoAetCk6IsQ685cj_ImnEYVtPp-kKqJthT_ugqEBsvIXbO6cP2M74OCmnGdVAUudSrcFK9ZUVJzv2U4PERHHdMl2t4na-NwM_m2q71DQZkgZ/s320/IMG_7385.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Cami participated in the football throw. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG3INXVN0yZd6tYRa1uh46CozaZGJiQWc-BgNccjtu4HLb8tEq7y0DPtTcJcAvSimCZHFuaJStzI3_NqIPBjn0z2POoYHVtatxOkWFKxSNXHRNqIVv6UIEGo9-YZNKxQDWlQjOJmHHeXBR/s1600/IMG_7391.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG3INXVN0yZd6tYRa1uh46CozaZGJiQWc-BgNccjtu4HLb8tEq7y0DPtTcJcAvSimCZHFuaJStzI3_NqIPBjn0z2POoYHVtatxOkWFKxSNXHRNqIVv6UIEGo9-YZNKxQDWlQjOJmHHeXBR/s320/IMG_7391.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
High jump, a dash and a relay at her "field day" for school. She is enjoying summer. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And at this writing. .has stayed busy so far--</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSnvPQD6G9UonHjjLarsd2tsIsi-JZGdbCno2CBEF8oyLwGYhQ3XlZlQpcxxqmBA4jyCetGPhSheGsvebsy97kq9ELUN1sEKIS4u4xhHwcj0AqOili7GX6hn59nMJy0oTghSOkW03jSMLf/s1600/IMG_7572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSnvPQD6G9UonHjjLarsd2tsIsi-JZGdbCno2CBEF8oyLwGYhQ3XlZlQpcxxqmBA4jyCetGPhSheGsvebsy97kq9ELUN1sEKIS4u4xhHwcj0AqOili7GX6hn59nMJy0oTghSOkW03jSMLf/s320/IMG_7572.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She has been to 4-H camp. .vacation bible school. .swimming. .and a basketball camp.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcwBZvqDhjm33QudQJg1bPoLeRxJQ2d0JiC4XEXKBXukdhLoqLdN3AgpX_9R0fd_XwC5oaAYdPXaGY700I4vsEtvhGNFBeQNsTNaKwmXWAuBYnWoHb9VJ4SrOKglUolDFvydBubQ_qq5Aq/s1600/IMG_7593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcwBZvqDhjm33QudQJg1bPoLeRxJQ2d0JiC4XEXKBXukdhLoqLdN3AgpX_9R0fd_XwC5oaAYdPXaGY700I4vsEtvhGNFBeQNsTNaKwmXWAuBYnWoHb9VJ4SrOKglUolDFvydBubQ_qq5Aq/s320/IMG_7593.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For the first time. .in her 4-H camping history. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She was able to sleep in her own cabin (albeit in the same twin bunk bed with her tiny counselor friend, Britney). .and the second night of camp. .she slept in her OWN bed. .in her OWN cabin. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
All. Night. LONG!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
WOOP WOOP! Now the possibilities will be endless for her!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqvRoZRvnJu2GBJ0Kj81-sUFAJE3SV9R0excaVlZj7x0XtcBg6ai0i2OwH8TqhvRoIbBqkYXLUOMP4lHCNMne8rewqbzVNKCO6BW2IpjRbcZWgCKwwpePieKtoi9POP7uzuw0QyQriIWR-/s1600/IMG_7457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqvRoZRvnJu2GBJ0Kj81-sUFAJE3SV9R0excaVlZj7x0XtcBg6ai0i2OwH8TqhvRoIbBqkYXLUOMP4lHCNMne8rewqbzVNKCO6BW2IpjRbcZWgCKwwpePieKtoi9POP7uzuw0QyQriIWR-/s320/IMG_7457.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's her last day of school picture. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Is that a happy face or what!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixGxRKwaHocX7ZsyhCJexeCD6KG3a2SryRTju0-_-olzVRnZO75ANhFKIHnL5V2Syon11PVW0dR64HkqEQYHV1GwGZfUF9OKjpN1w-HkRPPGGU3cF5FWTXriXiFD6qIBefEwxYl0wF1rQZ/s1600/IMG_7411.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixGxRKwaHocX7ZsyhCJexeCD6KG3a2SryRTju0-_-olzVRnZO75ANhFKIHnL5V2Syon11PVW0dR64HkqEQYHV1GwGZfUF9OKjpN1w-HkRPPGGU3cF5FWTXriXiFD6qIBefEwxYl0wF1rQZ/s320/IMG_7411.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Devin got a signed diploma from the 8th grade!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibOAymOG6XZ2b9X83eblXSPU6PTprbLNmmBBk3ipAysg-srKMGRMgdBBeC3RAgCH1t-3qZWR09l3i_xF_rz5LnqhGt6cN8jOvEC8l_oR4oZMrY0dgJRiX9-NDxWkY9xR3v3S4K0UWvyE0S/s320/IMG_7437.JPG" width="240" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He has been busy working for his dad. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And recently for his grandpa-harvesting wheat!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaThP0wNZkP43cE7dB4MNSMpLVHNhVUEC0yGBHfYFI76KjLqzmmQe5YaGqVSRJroSqejIAaGBcSLTiHkSAzUrAR_eYUaeGO_NYrC4JlDSIlw14K3Fn-7NQnNDs8KRYVmlkhhhsH1ACAIb0/s1600/IMG_7567.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaThP0wNZkP43cE7dB4MNSMpLVHNhVUEC0yGBHfYFI76KjLqzmmQe5YaGqVSRJroSqejIAaGBcSLTiHkSAzUrAR_eYUaeGO_NYrC4JlDSIlw14K3Fn-7NQnNDs8KRYVmlkhhhsH1ACAIb0/s320/IMG_7567.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He got to go to the high school state trap shooting contest earlier this month. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL9dRD2aDbM-CRSsfriwE9gB_gFIlhcVGsqD36UAYKODeP8z5mSKSsEEfpR-YE88QMuREUtrqb1TqwfIvvT5gZ_51wYIvnmvOnj-nh7rQhPd7nksZ5fwOG6TNBbqJjv8fwWe8MtbiV2N8O/s1600/IMG_7557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL9dRD2aDbM-CRSsfriwE9gB_gFIlhcVGsqD36UAYKODeP8z5mSKSsEEfpR-YE88QMuREUtrqb1TqwfIvvT5gZ_51wYIvnmvOnj-nh7rQhPd7nksZ5fwOG6TNBbqJjv8fwWe8MtbiV2N8O/s320/IMG_7557.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
His team placed 4th! He shot fairly-not as good as he can. .but not as poorly as he has! He enjoyed the experience anyway!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsdgc4CteBx6ZFaBHuLUi0KvkYSS_4ici5NH_6RAT62IhpHUFFivFzTnKrE9kYBm2T-FEneNf4m5sZWb1oSFIdjxGYpsiF6NLdnPNgMKIwJkqz4_o-k8shIEaDxv_-qngLcYnYmmZ2b2ue/s1600/IMG_7580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsdgc4CteBx6ZFaBHuLUi0KvkYSS_4ici5NH_6RAT62IhpHUFFivFzTnKrE9kYBm2T-FEneNf4m5sZWb1oSFIdjxGYpsiF6NLdnPNgMKIwJkqz4_o-k8shIEaDxv_-qngLcYnYmmZ2b2ue/s320/IMG_7580.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He was also a camp counselor for 4-H camp this year. .which doesn't even seem possible. .but the kids loved him. .and he did a pretty good job keeping track of everyone and keeping them on task!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjntJut-waR3FeRzhZgWzp1eWk8mGqd1WStrzlywKEG1lUtFOYXn71lf_LBhlhyBT6c13qk1i6gq0BW0A1RrN0AOd2mFZ5jzMDGZjxC229jyH4h5wPyjETlzgOQf5nzaTIXQEzxlqyHKCVU/s1600/IMG_7528.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjntJut-waR3FeRzhZgWzp1eWk8mGqd1WStrzlywKEG1lUtFOYXn71lf_LBhlhyBT6c13qk1i6gq0BW0A1RrN0AOd2mFZ5jzMDGZjxC229jyH4h5wPyjETlzgOQf5nzaTIXQEzxlqyHKCVU/s320/IMG_7528.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We've had a few fishing trips to our little fishin' hole! You can see on Cami's line that we have had good luck catching. .but they aren't always big enough to keep!! (is that the cutest little ole boat you've seen. .I'd LOVE to plant me some stuff in that!!) The boys went striper fishing at Lake Texoma in Oklahoma. .they caught their limits. .and we have enjoyed their catch!! The older boys were sure glad to take some of their fish supply home to their house to figure out how to cook it on their own!! I wished them the best!</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7bz39QMr8yHSPGNbT-Av6Bvi84YTmdZxOTqhCKWqr3C8Gzvri_1yjljZvWcifhWELLtGNVs0sx1ZND5op4x-cfzDHpX45lkxox_9ISBCN3F1AdfGgUvnsYfrrf1J0F4Ih_Pvj8pn0f4wh/s1600/IMG_7401.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7bz39QMr8yHSPGNbT-Av6Bvi84YTmdZxOTqhCKWqr3C8Gzvri_1yjljZvWcifhWELLtGNVs0sx1ZND5op4x-cfzDHpX45lkxox_9ISBCN3F1AdfGgUvnsYfrrf1J0F4Ih_Pvj8pn0f4wh/s320/IMG_7401.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">8th grade boys (most of them) with their mamas!! Fun picture.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center">
The big boys are now settling into their own new routines.</div>
<div align="center">
Tristan is learning a ton and loving all the new stuff he is getting to do</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjmz4TB_ki9raqeFK-3V-Wmay4EvQqnfET56MZA0vs7QHqo2Mv84IRwtNxnQtG719gkVyGACgjjrprOIaHEczTJRiJxgnf7yc-nh0LxXuvZxSIsacoGe5Oe30fzfl7kygUUa1g8oJDCIiF/s1600/IMG_7405.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjmz4TB_ki9raqeFK-3V-Wmay4EvQqnfET56MZA0vs7QHqo2Mv84IRwtNxnQtG719gkVyGACgjjrprOIaHEczTJRiJxgnf7yc-nh0LxXuvZxSIsacoGe5Oe30fzfl7kygUUa1g8oJDCIiF/s320/IMG_7405.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Devin and some of his best buddies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grant is 3 weeks into his job at Kenworth and is working long hours. .but absolutely loving the work and all the learning he is doing as well. We look forward to seeing them over the weekend before the 4th.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhArl5JM3fZjfRlzuzQHQ-IDDQlh77RvhnrwQxMshrgK6-5yh0Ad42czjuWmMhyzo8UPTstXKI0NxHVQ-x-kFHWQqXGOOW2QO-RMTGtUAl7RGm7B_Zbv_dUqZAtOmMLNi9hYgyPpexB4c2d/s1600/IMG_7459.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhArl5JM3fZjfRlzuzQHQ-IDDQlh77RvhnrwQxMshrgK6-5yh0Ad42czjuWmMhyzo8UPTstXKI0NxHVQ-x-kFHWQqXGOOW2QO-RMTGtUAl7RGm7B_Zbv_dUqZAtOmMLNi9hYgyPpexB4c2d/s320/IMG_7459.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
We miss the older two tremendously. .</div>
<div align="center">
But we are settling into a routine with these two. .</div>
<div align="center">
And are thankful (nearly always) that they will keep us young for a while yet to come!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU39lMu2rg0vqfogZiGdZCm4f-thbKkpBQTXhwosRkPYlGsUXwxxY4lVGlLBP1NXd-KPhq7TJKiITJRhta887zFH8WaCT7towubWl9XnL7XyPcmcjD6cnFfWyU8GRJQ4KJuTv-A6mvwqo3/s1600/IMG_7590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU39lMu2rg0vqfogZiGdZCm4f-thbKkpBQTXhwosRkPYlGsUXwxxY4lVGlLBP1NXd-KPhq7TJKiITJRhta887zFH8WaCT7towubWl9XnL7XyPcmcjD6cnFfWyU8GRJQ4KJuTv-A6mvwqo3/s320/IMG_7590.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Until next time. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thanks for stopping by!</div>
Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-64925894325124773582017-06-20T11:50:00.000-05:002017-06-20T11:50:17.262-05:00Projects and Flowers. .<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Happy Tuesday!!</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We have survived graduations. .and 4-H camp. .and almost wheat harvest. .it will be over in a few days. .though it hasn't affected me as much as Devin!</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The summer has been rocking right along!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx94uW11b9AbvX5Tp6S_B2gvZDsBOxdaTy4jNPewrsJoQnkIQs2j2xmer77Z8wW18zEKQ39vwaIkKLR-47MON4rl4DttIiyERWGr7hCIhfNcMNtuvUb0vManMaq1Fxi8PoKlGZuTifVebq/s1600/IMG_7539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx94uW11b9AbvX5Tp6S_B2gvZDsBOxdaTy4jNPewrsJoQnkIQs2j2xmer77Z8wW18zEKQ39vwaIkKLR-47MON4rl4DttIiyERWGr7hCIhfNcMNtuvUb0vManMaq1Fxi8PoKlGZuTifVebq/s320/IMG_7539.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We have been blessed with a TON of rain and beautiful weather this spring. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And the gardens are spectacular!! Thought I would give a quick tour.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This rose is one that we dug from Jeremy's granddad's house a while after he moved to the nursing home. He LOVED roses. .and had a ton of rose bushes in his backyard. It only has a light fragrance when it is in a vase. .and the flowers haven't impressed me on the bush until this year!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And so, after 3 years of the bush looking crappy in MY yard. .it finally looked good enough to make me cocky about growing more!! I recently ordered some on sale from Brecks that will smell up my yard I hope!! They have settled in. .and the new bareroot twigs are covered in foliage and two of the 3 new plants have buds!! I will keep you. .and my "records" here posted!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz7zS5DPAKtlY84un3QsRD6SuUSjLBCb4wfcn0dGPaPGk-3UCvKFBJnWSLEc7zPR5hJTwswJqY0mbIRt83Kf2VnHp8tydt5ENYD39Ap8GOLNNPoXIudGWyHerrs0LQW50DFHRj67a1460-/s1600/IMG_7537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz7zS5DPAKtlY84un3QsRD6SuUSjLBCb4wfcn0dGPaPGk-3UCvKFBJnWSLEc7zPR5hJTwswJqY0mbIRt83Kf2VnHp8tydt5ENYD39Ap8GOLNNPoXIudGWyHerrs0LQW50DFHRj67a1460-/s320/IMG_7537.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is the memory garden. .the blue atlas cedar is still too sad to take a good close up of. .but, surprisingly, it seems to be making a comeback from the bad winter burn it sustained. .There is yellow Echinacea paradoxa in the back, several types of grasses, Jupitars beard (the pink in the front) and Cardonna purple salvia on the left, with a tiny peek of the Nepeta catnip in the very bottom left. This place is LIT UP with winged creatures all the time!! It's one of my favorite places!! The new daylilies also have buds coming on. .so I will be excited for those to start showing off!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl4SS1JpDBuw86YhmgKUJaTR_j0at-TbYl-zqtHeRs0ySpbygZS6-TFmx8kFgU99sJF-7E2qi017HgpjKdKQacLzi1HYUji91JHzA8vxjtcoY_suQGhWi6j90nt-de1BwDPzop2rfH7Kgd/s1600/IMG_7541.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl4SS1JpDBuw86YhmgKUJaTR_j0at-TbYl-zqtHeRs0ySpbygZS6-TFmx8kFgU99sJF-7E2qi017HgpjKdKQacLzi1HYUji91JHzA8vxjtcoY_suQGhWi6j90nt-de1BwDPzop2rfH7Kgd/s320/IMG_7541.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's a look from the other side. .in the far back is where the raised bed veggie planters are at! And it is all visible from my favorite rocking chair!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg8giPiT8puhQLgNFazFxjeR6HlWV_xy9JIxfqEUEwzDLe7d3BxaFSdqeRojNImiEzF5W1SF90q6_Dur6zPynya4Hrrqw23HrvgYHNW6dvOjkIAgLAUL3cvez9vYhdex6AtpINilmuieoN/s1600/IMG_7542.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg8giPiT8puhQLgNFazFxjeR6HlWV_xy9JIxfqEUEwzDLe7d3BxaFSdqeRojNImiEzF5W1SF90q6_Dur6zPynya4Hrrqw23HrvgYHNW6dvOjkIAgLAUL3cvez9vYhdex6AtpINilmuieoN/s320/IMG_7542.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Gallardia are on fire near the pond!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdxvE2pT0FoNHbDMeXkPupDuSYVRMJKSj7o1Nb4RfkDJIEkPeEdxuHt_a6JAd_qKXqPz0x9jiI-RZ7ndKggsJqyStO47sItIs6278qCPikeLI32n7RapDe5bjdVhAB2dlD1bP3qvLQzbLN/s1600/IMG_7540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdxvE2pT0FoNHbDMeXkPupDuSYVRMJKSj7o1Nb4RfkDJIEkPeEdxuHt_a6JAd_qKXqPz0x9jiI-RZ7ndKggsJqyStO47sItIs6278qCPikeLI32n7RapDe5bjdVhAB2dlD1bP3qvLQzbLN/s320/IMG_7540.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I don't know for sure what this is. .but my Aunt Jane sent seeds from Oregon that I sprinkled out last fall. It is a poppy. .but not like one that I saw in her yard when we were there. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEfExDoVIq0P0m-WgzIzIiNpwQszDRNrmXZD8PqWFkWgG4HXHS8xKQF5vzCzPmv3DDgLA76Eg49-9RIXvkXm3jO1q2_l30hYtkwde7ejE9P959-ezNIYRhKh3qA1u3kCC1G0KglwQfmUN2/s1600/IMG_7546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEfExDoVIq0P0m-WgzIzIiNpwQszDRNrmXZD8PqWFkWgG4HXHS8xKQF5vzCzPmv3DDgLA76Eg49-9RIXvkXm3jO1q2_l30hYtkwde7ejE9P959-ezNIYRhKh3qA1u3kCC1G0KglwQfmUN2/s320/IMG_7546.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I neglected to get a picture when this one was in full bloom. .but it was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!! It looked just like the light pink. .except it was flaming magenta!! They are really fragile. .so one day-two tops on the blooms. .the wind just takes their breath away!! I am really hopeful that they will reseed where they are!! I initially thought that she had accidentally sent me lettuce seed. .as it looked just like a fancy head of leaf lettuce!! So the gorgeous flowers were a great surprise!!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiclX_Ti5vVF5ACMOCKRpteCjd9H9vZM6mvG1d2t-SULNrdT9YMHWoXLpmm8UassWkxgEyT5EVzjmgtGoz99qwSZJLNgwYdyW1D-E86ql0Mx-FgKMPFgHtd9t63IF3jDrlQx6ja-x1z6MM/s320/IMG_3022.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Memorial weekend 2010</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love Memorial weekend. .it's always a good time for us to get some projects done. .I remembered one of my favorite projects from 2010 when we moved this slipper slide over. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqlMpuWSVQke6qfxFpfTyf9aajOc_X2diCWyuFlrXVVUxdSJE30g9uT5apM9z9W9bvpSNpKvtNHuoNYm_zvkmlv9304fQH4-bPdkpY0z7Zfa8OH4-cgFwLDnkleKOhPCNtsBqIkk5fH_E0/s1600/IMG_7545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqlMpuWSVQke6qfxFpfTyf9aajOc_X2diCWyuFlrXVVUxdSJE30g9uT5apM9z9W9bvpSNpKvtNHuoNYm_zvkmlv9304fQH4-bPdkpY0z7Zfa8OH4-cgFwLDnkleKOhPCNtsBqIkk5fH_E0/s320/IMG_7545.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here it is 7 years later. .This thing smells so wonderful!! I love the thick scent in the air when I walk early in the morning! I can often smell it 1/2 way down the long driveway!! It is so cool to be able to see the progress of the garden in pictures. .As I was looking for this photo, I enjoyed looking at some of my other blog photos shared all those years back. .just like baby pictures. .it was fun to see how things developed and changed!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid3JvcFoC2IaMl6oi62-knpV0N3M9vRlnSCWhejKcAKomGWajLBVd0AoZe_r2x1BBreyQ8w10GfBSQZ3J0WWRsAUDoVBlDY-t-zfSHuIzIwYs82KfcN6c9lQE5pchZDcWojT-OL_9U1d83/s1600/IMG_7462.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid3JvcFoC2IaMl6oi62-knpV0N3M9vRlnSCWhejKcAKomGWajLBVd0AoZe_r2x1BBreyQ8w10GfBSQZ3J0WWRsAUDoVBlDY-t-zfSHuIzIwYs82KfcN6c9lQE5pchZDcWojT-OL_9U1d83/s320/IMG_7462.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Speaking of projects. .This year, I put Devin to work on a dream feature that I had seen on Pinterest. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijYJeq8jH0l3FGxK8f-Cl8RJfKQHFAwtpkUYAUflxC7q-yqX4zaoHwSR3HIudmOUCZdb2Ay-JECmAryzcI67xDcCUeB5QkPL_UtTQdwe8-QdO1rYue8mcJES-xsdWWmz1OY51rpKnPanJS/s1600/IMG_7465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijYJeq8jH0l3FGxK8f-Cl8RJfKQHFAwtpkUYAUflxC7q-yqX4zaoHwSR3HIudmOUCZdb2Ay-JECmAryzcI67xDcCUeB5QkPL_UtTQdwe8-QdO1rYue8mcJES-xsdWWmz1OY51rpKnPanJS/s320/IMG_7465.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love the bottle tree that Jeremy made for me several years ago. .<br />(The larkspur was stunning as usual too!)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1829D634HuiJip6B2LVUiRWu26re8UYB-bhLzRjJqfBHWQQ7sgRQCd-wjq0QgggI22J184zE1siBUc0OxfAW9_lx5MJ4YYHkXV1rRUflPUsBBzq5yENFN1ny0MxLhyphenhyphenyICeydRRlZ5kgDh/s1600/IMG_7466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1829D634HuiJip6B2LVUiRWu26re8UYB-bhLzRjJqfBHWQQ7sgRQCd-wjq0QgggI22J184zE1siBUc0OxfAW9_lx5MJ4YYHkXV1rRUflPUsBBzq5yENFN1ny0MxLhyphenhyphenyICeydRRlZ5kgDh/s320/IMG_7466.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The tiny one in the front was our first attempt. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And then I found a photo of one similar to the bigger tree. .which he sweetly crafted for me!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXjAdc-o5Fg2bL9ynvk4hdcG8jwlW3HewUajJu9i7tYQzIY0VNMDkJOOv00rVOGbaUUIeHMuOI4NPgXpgu00ryB4jv7wagadO-mQP2aseXYIMvpfuQnqVzJXkq_bqBSQCSP4T0Q3kpkb8W/s1600/IMG_7544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXjAdc-o5Fg2bL9ynvk4hdcG8jwlW3HewUajJu9i7tYQzIY0VNMDkJOOv00rVOGbaUUIeHMuOI4NPgXpgu00ryB4jv7wagadO-mQP2aseXYIMvpfuQnqVzJXkq_bqBSQCSP4T0Q3kpkb8W/s320/IMG_7544.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And since then. .I came across an arc full of bottles that I just loved!! I like Moscato. .and have been saving up my cool blue bottles for ever!! Since I took this photo. .I have been dumpster diving at the recycle center and found a few more to add on!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Jeremy figured out that he has a little grinder in his shop that takes the labels right off without scratching the glass. .and then a little dab of break cleaner gets rid of the tacky glue. .and </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
VOILA!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Happy, happy, happy!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I thank you for stopping by. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have a few more pictures uploaded for later. .so maybe it won't be long until you hear from me again! Enjoy your summer!</div>
Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-30662200350763896142017-05-23T10:20:00.001-05:002017-06-16T14:25:22.378-05:00Family Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Welcome back!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Nothing like a little "cluster-blogging"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3rOPuuKPDpqQy31h8i6-jj9i9DkPLduLaUiSqCfd7dVNGBbEXJ4bHX86eUQQVD3iuO-ZwBnY2sbn6lVD-79fl0ChOp73zUDPte3NdJ3fs8ZlVMWO1qYXRaFRA4HcgA5FRoz3x7a7ImhN3/s1600/IMG_7175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3rOPuuKPDpqQy31h8i6-jj9i9DkPLduLaUiSqCfd7dVNGBbEXJ4bHX86eUQQVD3iuO-ZwBnY2sbn6lVD-79fl0ChOp73zUDPte3NdJ3fs8ZlVMWO1qYXRaFRA4HcgA5FRoz3x7a7ImhN3/s320/IMG_7175.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thought it might be good to do an update. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Especially since I had so many fun pictures to share!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijN6KsfeZIqoccNvSyhkp6S2PUzsDZ80u3tlhhC669z2r4TC40KRPTJO2YPSa_i4L7Hoaff-t3KkKF7ARRI-_OnyldFGdmyecNdVKQ8vwOpK7x_o8Eg8EdpC5FUfZDkLM4UZ6Opw6XE_oi/s1600/IMG_7200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijN6KsfeZIqoccNvSyhkp6S2PUzsDZ80u3tlhhC669z2r4TC40KRPTJO2YPSa_i4L7Hoaff-t3KkKF7ARRI-_OnyldFGdmyecNdVKQ8vwOpK7x_o8Eg8EdpC5FUfZDkLM4UZ6Opw6XE_oi/s320/IMG_7200.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This girl has gotten about 3 years older all at once. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She is growing in manners and politeness. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And is getting to be fine help!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She got to participate in a gymnastics class and a dance class this year.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She loved them both!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic-fJVwy1djlSgCL8HMjVxYgMTND5DgNihCAEANjAcVVqfGCJgXVoahdnLdp-GFuuYthGgF8M3uyvQaRCSLNjmftO_C_hPcTkz3njyUzyoifFvee_h338WNQAcTKmhtPHNdGT3ulqsSiI3/s1600/IMG_7242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic-fJVwy1djlSgCL8HMjVxYgMTND5DgNihCAEANjAcVVqfGCJgXVoahdnLdp-GFuuYthGgF8M3uyvQaRCSLNjmftO_C_hPcTkz3njyUzyoifFvee_h338WNQAcTKmhtPHNdGT3ulqsSiI3/s320/IMG_7242.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She has gotten pretty tricky at front handsprings on the trampoline. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And loves practicing!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4kUYvSyNlPcqBffKQP-a-qVbJ38kPvZyrLbYDAZCN4D7q9yiugmJF_d-fWjTnb9A6OFYN4YP1PHPWJdZfGGydPh5GWQbH8Qb-BPGSulxwH-z9zt6KYM_K2r0u0_fbJzQmkM1KQhbMZStk/s1600/IMG_7248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4kUYvSyNlPcqBffKQP-a-qVbJ38kPvZyrLbYDAZCN4D7q9yiugmJF_d-fWjTnb9A6OFYN4YP1PHPWJdZfGGydPh5GWQbH8Qb-BPGSulxwH-z9zt6KYM_K2r0u0_fbJzQmkM1KQhbMZStk/s320/IMG_7248.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She had her first recital right before Easter. She was excited and nervous all rolled into one!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She got flowers for the first time in her WHOLE life (Her words). .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And can't wait for it to start all over again next year. </div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She gets to/has to stay home this summer. Her dad works right at the house in his shop. .But she isn't highly motivated on her own. .so she is despairing the whole idea. .more because she knows that she will have to do some "work". .and that she will get into trouble if she isn't careful!</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am hoping that she will take care of some watering and learn how to get dinner started.</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think it will be a good step for her!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbc58wBcnZyL3F95ZJGTruafDM0V9oTfDWJHfeTciblqAUt4CE5WDbngRX1CRuKW4q18IvxForT_DcxTrIzfr8gIHvxo-4pC1tJNmKlnVeOGh2wOuKTYEYgNwVNqHXvybc02Q_VmYpDCrK/s1600/IMG_7265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbc58wBcnZyL3F95ZJGTruafDM0V9oTfDWJHfeTciblqAUt4CE5WDbngRX1CRuKW4q18IvxForT_DcxTrIzfr8gIHvxo-4pC1tJNmKlnVeOGh2wOuKTYEYgNwVNqHXvybc02Q_VmYpDCrK/s320/IMG_7265.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This guy <strike>will be graduating</strike> GRADUATED. .from 8th grade<strike> next week</strike> LAST NIGHT (by the time I actually got back to finishing this post :-). He is super excited! He will finally get his very own cell phone! He has been doing a lot of driving with his instructional permit. .and has the mandatory 50 hours of driving done so he can get his farm permit, which will allow him to drive to and from school alone, and to get parts or errands run for his job--working for his dad.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0gd9zBYFRhH9w6XwyaNSpYkqNre6lWfVjt1_20qq9ObDpvmSR8dc-h7dXJTuPqgFApNvQYfxefF7DrDAjMt8fKxXND_sloe2WeV-Lu0fVTIT9b6so6Lpp7A2GRVI_sPZfjzRsi6QDR14h/s1600/IMG_7261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0gd9zBYFRhH9w6XwyaNSpYkqNre6lWfVjt1_20qq9ObDpvmSR8dc-h7dXJTuPqgFApNvQYfxefF7DrDAjMt8fKxXND_sloe2WeV-Lu0fVTIT9b6so6Lpp7A2GRVI_sPZfjzRsi6QDR14h/s320/IMG_7261.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He is glad to be done with track, which he never really liked. .And will look forward to going out for basketball and golf next year as a freshman. He did join a neighboring school to participate in a high school trap shooting team. .and will get to shoot on their varsity team in a few weeks at the state competition. He and his dad are both really excited about that!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKjwELIAyb9u_xC8oH1Z58ZFQ8qKlbc6mJWsKHS26cfgYJlVvayvZi5VRzsfwP4aI-loB0vf_eUYoECVIRV1GBag8sdWepx0cgffhe1WxWlG3ZR5HVaaQCgCw1NQFmYFiwBXf1MzjOtxKG/s1600/IMG_7340.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKjwELIAyb9u_xC8oH1Z58ZFQ8qKlbc6mJWsKHS26cfgYJlVvayvZi5VRzsfwP4aI-loB0vf_eUYoECVIRV1GBag8sdWepx0cgffhe1WxWlG3ZR5HVaaQCgCw1NQFmYFiwBXf1MzjOtxKG/s320/IMG_7340.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grant and Tristan both graduated last Thursday from tech school in Topeka. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnDPLoZQrffgAU2vge4HvvfzcNZP2sXLz1uV1NTMhS4_o60bMDaXNweq0aLvdE0r-pPvqvH1gstyv-oVcWV8-5dQcRVrGVv4A3PZ3xHbi8bBrYSLBYop2U5GsqM9CehPl1WeM0k47aVU_0/s1600/IMG_7349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnDPLoZQrffgAU2vge4HvvfzcNZP2sXLz1uV1NTMhS4_o60bMDaXNweq0aLvdE0r-pPvqvH1gstyv-oVcWV8-5dQcRVrGVv4A3PZ3xHbi8bBrYSLBYop2U5GsqM9CehPl1WeM0k47aVU_0/s320/IMG_7349.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Look at the excitement!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Tristan started a job last week for a commercial carpentry crew. .and got to work on one of the buildings on the campus at the University of Kansas. .He loved every minute of it! He gets to be an 'intern' for 3 months before deciding whether this will be the job for him. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think he has already decided that it is!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQr5ohKLuF2gfJBN7sCwwY2zJz2ujK0qffB6yxehTtpfrKgKLNepv4OJsT99rvUJ2T4QqC3t2WcROzlgxyHX_5sAqbmDGyEs3Ouuuw9vGtSVBIQi8jEZn90EGxHw9qg7RpAdqzNyaDU-ln/s1600/IMG_7345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQr5ohKLuF2gfJBN7sCwwY2zJz2ujK0qffB6yxehTtpfrKgKLNepv4OJsT99rvUJ2T4QqC3t2WcROzlgxyHX_5sAqbmDGyEs3Ouuuw9vGtSVBIQi8jEZn90EGxHw9qg7RpAdqzNyaDU-ln/s320/IMG_7345.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grant will continue to work for the feed store that employed him part time through the school year. He will do that until after he and his dad and brothers take their guided fishing trip in a few weeks. After that, he will start working at Kenworth-fixing the big semi rigs that he has loved since he was a tot! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7JcXoc100CkhGkjZ4rczXUCoDEJiQ9CAWQD95lx7c2KfyMX8jd2q-Ozn_XezVczuRrjadLCzk7H1vjJUB6MPYGDoTODydb_oPY7iacuGmhTJlRCXbuNL8eHFNewodEr3NzQGOyahI6I9B/s1600/IMG_7346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7JcXoc100CkhGkjZ4rczXUCoDEJiQ9CAWQD95lx7c2KfyMX8jd2q-Ozn_XezVczuRrjadLCzk7H1vjJUB6MPYGDoTODydb_oPY7iacuGmhTJlRCXbuNL8eHFNewodEr3NzQGOyahI6I9B/s320/IMG_7346.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Both of them got their dream jobs. .and we couldn't be happier for them. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Or prouder! It was a fun weekend to hang out together. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjETP-HrcA1-Plvg3a8xxfhqHI-iwqOC2IxbDddHktqkp6RiENnfpySiKPsYAnvJWBdqcdB-hFOjZ7Wrv9i0r9ZZY83wL34nvvXZomuuaScJ7pjeyU9EPBuXFUJUkeFC-odjloDyLm1uoSA/s1600/IMG_7366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjETP-HrcA1-Plvg3a8xxfhqHI-iwqOC2IxbDddHktqkp6RiENnfpySiKPsYAnvJWBdqcdB-hFOjZ7Wrv9i0r9ZZY83wL34nvvXZomuuaScJ7pjeyU9EPBuXFUJUkeFC-odjloDyLm1uoSA/s320/IMG_7366.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And, after 50 pictures. .I decided that they aren't any easier to photograph now. .than they were when they were little. Someone was always doing something dumb. .or looking the wrong way. .or making silly faces. .or kissing/licking the person standing next to them. UG!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUcuTeFWNsvCSMPgDnC6Ge8qxHRTdhWRDFgakWl3YmaQQynoIN8jDtBV0RY0dIHW3hT1VUnVow4rI8CM9FET0pTH5ZGHxa2MmCH12Xty0V8tCTeroseFcoxOSk09JGc66DyuVvI7bpRJNw/s1600/IMG_7362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUcuTeFWNsvCSMPgDnC6Ge8qxHRTdhWRDFgakWl3YmaQQynoIN8jDtBV0RY0dIHW3hT1VUnVow4rI8CM9FET0pTH5ZGHxa2MmCH12Xty0V8tCTeroseFcoxOSk09JGc66DyuVvI7bpRJNw/s320/IMG_7362.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In the last week. .since I started this post the first time. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV7ebr6rBJIMxFvssPpJeUUh3-Vdu5iTZ4yoPwO8u8iwIqwKj9LxR_fsS4uiO-h3Vl8SxOdT-lG7vW10YKYsWVlSwDymQjfA0JKnWKmSjSabE1IF94EphSi_B-1tJIQCfzNrQszw6oNlje/s1600/IMG_7372.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV7ebr6rBJIMxFvssPpJeUUh3-Vdu5iTZ4yoPwO8u8iwIqwKj9LxR_fsS4uiO-h3Vl8SxOdT-lG7vW10YKYsWVlSwDymQjfA0JKnWKmSjSabE1IF94EphSi_B-1tJIQCfzNrQszw6oNlje/s320/IMG_7372.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We have finished up a lot of the "end of school" things.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We have been through Cami's play day at school. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It is essentially a mini-track meet for K-5th.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She did a great job. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And unfortunately, in about 2 more weeks-it will seem-she will be wearing her own cap and gown!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge2oujnR5CJseeNaDbGSJQ1Dq9FkoIBuKD0EkcH5BwgVD5MRADd3cIc0mpBCQ0ZvUu4M4hMYmdt3sm6rKBqTohfRQFTo5eHols3svSEqj2Uag_21U3FZH8wCZOci2Sdh97CIfRnkzI1EGk/s1600/IMG_7374.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge2oujnR5CJseeNaDbGSJQ1Dq9FkoIBuKD0EkcH5BwgVD5MRADd3cIc0mpBCQ0ZvUu4M4hMYmdt3sm6rKBqTohfRQFTo5eHols3svSEqj2Uag_21U3FZH8wCZOci2Sdh97CIfRnkzI1EGk/s320/IMG_7374.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These guys were also back all weekend for Devin's graduation. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our church celebrated a 100 year anniversary on Sunday. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So we were busy with that as well as a graduation BBQ in honor of Devin. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Not to mention all the graduation celebrations for the kids of our friends!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was lots of cooking and hangin.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Devin is heading to get his farmer's permit today. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And he will be raking in the "dough" at the shop soon!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz7b7acpZYh-nfzucA-i7ePnH_gBfZJPsWNSBYpREq5NDsxyOitMCwwAON8wzxETNR9gFHNlw1hH8Ej7ki08S_Mm6uBQYxkzZYWVy9BOVoLssL-_TvqbJ36JWO8931SZNZf4WOd2fu_goP/s1600/IMG_7371.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz7b7acpZYh-nfzucA-i7ePnH_gBfZJPsWNSBYpREq5NDsxyOitMCwwAON8wzxETNR9gFHNlw1hH8Ej7ki08S_Mm6uBQYxkzZYWVy9BOVoLssL-_TvqbJ36JWO8931SZNZf4WOd2fu_goP/s320/IMG_7371.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Tristan had to head back late last night to return to work. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grant is heading there today. .as well as my mom returning home. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So when I get home tonight. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It should be back to the quiet life. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As quiet as it gets anyway!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj820IVPiR-Q3dFJQrrB5MtKCyvcYxYSZQhVXWvNEtrmtV0n0QEPIcudsIKojKcxEoM06PVrlZufDRGFRXdjwsqInQ_l7VAre5Vhs1aT4ZydYt-6jmFusESEu8bjlVv3l3nSfolox7gOv59/s1600/IMG_7380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj820IVPiR-Q3dFJQrrB5MtKCyvcYxYSZQhVXWvNEtrmtV0n0QEPIcudsIKojKcxEoM06PVrlZufDRGFRXdjwsqInQ_l7VAre5Vhs1aT4ZydYt-6jmFusESEu8bjlVv3l3nSfolox7gOv59/s320/IMG_7380.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is our little grand-pet. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiAoZiosiqJc2k7byx8FZAm0Sl3VzQiMveLlj9o6N2edw1co0TTxS_BfhtfgsYdIIe2pt87XzIs_UiXnAfP4-J8Hf4pESt8nC_yfhovG6PZjV7tWHDaRPd8HmiGM927qfwfZ2M80qxua9R/s1600/IMG_7381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiAoZiosiqJc2k7byx8FZAm0Sl3VzQiMveLlj9o6N2edw1co0TTxS_BfhtfgsYdIIe2pt87XzIs_UiXnAfP4-J8Hf4pESt8nC_yfhovG6PZjV7tWHDaRPd8HmiGM927qfwfZ2M80qxua9R/s320/IMG_7381.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Rastus. .is Tristan's little hedgehog. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He is quite ugly, really. .which ALMOST makes him a touch cute.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Cami and Devin are in love. .and I hope I can remain firm in not having one in my own home in the future!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit4kUr5IdTVkg8Rr6M0RHYP7LiZ5wXJs1MYPheHs0mTckGmTlRD87J0SgtSQMJDzNvKUL-eECn7Togrfo9ZWxZJ9CCudBL3wqN1yU8ps-r8lHHywcVKw1FE9a0c7RV-7wV87aQ6rETYwAi/s1600/IMG_7378.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit4kUr5IdTVkg8Rr6M0RHYP7LiZ5wXJs1MYPheHs0mTckGmTlRD87J0SgtSQMJDzNvKUL-eECn7Togrfo9ZWxZJ9CCudBL3wqN1yU8ps-r8lHHywcVKw1FE9a0c7RV-7wV87aQ6rETYwAi/s320/IMG_7378.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Well. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That's it from this crazy crew. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We have a characteristically busy summer getting started as soon as next week. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Camps, jobs, an exchange student coming, road trips, and of course. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
the LAKE!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I hope to showcase some garden blooms again soon. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But then, you know how that sometimes goes!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thanks for stopping by!</div>
Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-49806924365076235252017-05-16T13:19:00.000-05:002017-05-16T13:19:42.228-05:00April showers DO produce May flowers!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Happy spring!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The last time I posted. .It was early in the spring. .but there was already a lot going on in the gardens!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There is still a lot going on there. I wanted to give a little tour!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have some fun family pictures uploaded. .so hopefully it won't be much longer till I can post those too. .some exciting things have been happening around here!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7WffDacWYM0goFJJXwuRCryphP9eo7YKpIJKTj0qFAi9SDHEo99QerVtn8I2FVj3k4M6qwq1MAKxQ3JeeLJt8dtD4q3EtgT9zc3zU3kzZIUe1xbel_ZrW-adcPDs3HSUqQmypkd9_5MkI/s1600/IMG_7270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7WffDacWYM0goFJJXwuRCryphP9eo7YKpIJKTj0qFAi9SDHEo99QerVtn8I2FVj3k4M6qwq1MAKxQ3JeeLJt8dtD4q3EtgT9zc3zU3kzZIUe1xbel_ZrW-adcPDs3HSUqQmypkd9_5MkI/s320/IMG_7270.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On Mother's Day. .later in the evening, after the whole crew left for a short excursion. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I enjoyed sitting right here. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
listening to the pond and birds. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I just can't believe how beautiful the flowers are. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The honeysuckle's intoxicating scent filled the heavy air of evening. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
What a relaxing and perfect ending to the day!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0JOwFaqDl75kv-tCAyVScqKfYS6bpSvgjM2tp90JxhIRaJOMZn3AFL1OItu2NtxJEhkezfp9uHhm8MTGO3cgYciGZMqRCYO_RwH-qlbYv4zfjsOPXJ_b0oG2kWcVsuCfKAMdbOAJjQZW4/s1600/IMG_7271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0JOwFaqDl75kv-tCAyVScqKfYS6bpSvgjM2tp90JxhIRaJOMZn3AFL1OItu2NtxJEhkezfp9uHhm8MTGO3cgYciGZMqRCYO_RwH-qlbYv4zfjsOPXJ_b0oG2kWcVsuCfKAMdbOAJjQZW4/s320/IMG_7271.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was amazed at God's detail in our world. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It is always good to be reminded of how amazing He is. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And how much He has blessed us by giving us so much beauty to enjoy in the midst of the cares of this world!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And the chance to just BE STILL and allow myself to be impressed with my surroundings was JUST what this curly headed chica needed!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYTdUbusFv3VbM8jScl9EdWWU3wr6jdAFQaU7dt7GlhQhcMyPV79O0LPu4AimB0EFFbguTeoJ38lWYhzlcxhBMlDTTBLkmIpy7h9wGsxAzSu_sWSnVB6XZWrWupyV3FHQw4qykEAs6pbu7/s1600/IMG_7272.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYTdUbusFv3VbM8jScl9EdWWU3wr6jdAFQaU7dt7GlhQhcMyPV79O0LPu4AimB0EFFbguTeoJ38lWYhzlcxhBMlDTTBLkmIpy7h9wGsxAzSu_sWSnVB6XZWrWupyV3FHQw4qykEAs6pbu7/s320/IMG_7272.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was in the mood for sassy this year. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So red and purples went into the self watering deck planters. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Cami made the stepping stone a few weeks ago. .It's a butterfly, if you were having trouble identifying that!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwzr2m9TduvNhE5CIrnZNG25ZaO6FhbyNdJUR668Vd2X0TsRQyAnLj3r449dBpN5lEMVQfFjWzqZ6nBD9WwvNBtyl4kWgmVEiDG2qjpUNEwnO3QfXIXxiiwN90H7G4MVtcJjBcflHFh0tj/s1600/IMG_7273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwzr2m9TduvNhE5CIrnZNG25ZaO6FhbyNdJUR668Vd2X0TsRQyAnLj3r449dBpN5lEMVQfFjWzqZ6nBD9WwvNBtyl4kWgmVEiDG2qjpUNEwnO3QfXIXxiiwN90H7G4MVtcJjBcflHFh0tj/s320/IMG_7273.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I don't typically do Gerbera daisies well. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But they've been in the pots 3 weeks. .and they are still blooming and look happy!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If I can remember to get some fertilizer to them, they may last for another few!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGRIZkCyPiqd5B-ve2vf7L9rjXQBwln0c3qlrVKZq4t1AuGWalOfWzd9OvhC51lgYkEsMwNpCW2QgX-EHC7d203PNW8B7ffSKB0a4bUxsueCyUS9zYDVg82snAwGpO2Gut-7sq49zYvI5m/s1600/IMG_7274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGRIZkCyPiqd5B-ve2vf7L9rjXQBwln0c3qlrVKZq4t1AuGWalOfWzd9OvhC51lgYkEsMwNpCW2QgX-EHC7d203PNW8B7ffSKB0a4bUxsueCyUS9zYDVg82snAwGpO2Gut-7sq49zYvI5m/s320/IMG_7274.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For years I wondered if this pond would ever looked like it belonged in the yard. .And after much trial and error, it seems to be coming along. The yellow water irises were part of my aunt and uncles pond before they moved to Oregon. They were quite showy!! I also figured out that these salvia bushes can take the heat. .AND multiply!! They are already twice as big as they were last year! There is a little bit of gallardia hiding in the middle too, it has just started to bloom in the last day or two. The green clump in the middle will be Mexican hats it looks like. .they self seeded. .I haven't seen one bloom for a couple years now, so apparently the seeds are hardy!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAPe-CYBAyLKLWEGKEdpbOdFq2Y_sLUectd86hZWYhAhn4DYUh8zoqoPsALEjod1IS0RY9zMuDusXY6hgh8ZfHT4oGnj5v8nJNaby3qD6J4bytyFBLBzM1AyyOrwFE3dAE_aCzeFR8Vfr5/s1600/IMG_7275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAPe-CYBAyLKLWEGKEdpbOdFq2Y_sLUectd86hZWYhAhn4DYUh8zoqoPsALEjod1IS0RY9zMuDusXY6hgh8ZfHT4oGnj5v8nJNaby3qD6J4bytyFBLBzM1AyyOrwFE3dAE_aCzeFR8Vfr5/s320/IMG_7275.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Last week I saw a hummer on the penstemon. .I was pretty excited to see him there. .I haven't seen him for about 5 days now, so I figure he went on to town where there is more going on. He fed on a number of the plants around here. .but never the feeder that I witnessed. .Maybe one day, I will have a habitat that will keep them around for the whole summer!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrbCpiU-qUtlJLxp_3T6wULWapetAOMGTF3m0PEe1c_x82TbPBpCfAXl4FRGQJT-cRjssyaGrCqBGm_29dAz08sDZGYZoWgFbXJnd2OCXESqTRT3xxLjCyPjL9cB2jOVtOJDPBjW2BVndM/s1600/IMG_7276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrbCpiU-qUtlJLxp_3T6wULWapetAOMGTF3m0PEe1c_x82TbPBpCfAXl4FRGQJT-cRjssyaGrCqBGm_29dAz08sDZGYZoWgFbXJnd2OCXESqTRT3xxLjCyPjL9cB2jOVtOJDPBjW2BVndM/s320/IMG_7276.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A look up toward the deck where the planters are.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSSdwyABrD0WRAISEoVMrb367KFP5gDofMqVlt1bIHv7GLSvgi_nFSt3YrtHp0O7VCVJS1rBXJBBkatWt8AUEOrLwDDUHMEvF69L4ElM5Gts3St7rpJ89ZisOu5zX57GmMeHO1Ac2YF41J/s1600/IMG_7277.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSSdwyABrD0WRAISEoVMrb367KFP5gDofMqVlt1bIHv7GLSvgi_nFSt3YrtHp0O7VCVJS1rBXJBBkatWt8AUEOrLwDDUHMEvF69L4ElM5Gts3St7rpJ89ZisOu5zX57GmMeHO1Ac2YF41J/s320/IMG_7277.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have this pink peony and one that is more of a crimson. .This one doesn't smell much. .but the blooms are crazy amazing!! I have been looking for a white fragrant one with a pink center this year. .but no avail yet!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE_AA74FIiu3_e15MnmLC5tByQKYg2uSZuiICmHzzR-XlcK2mvNugpUyZCqltb6wnXoNZZ15pMB5jUQ7RF1I8axwFo5nvOAxmC0cacfEXy2DHwBLsyvaUEsEEO9aG-Y7H8P5gHfo26EHQ3/s1600/IMG_7278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE_AA74FIiu3_e15MnmLC5tByQKYg2uSZuiICmHzzR-XlcK2mvNugpUyZCqltb6wnXoNZZ15pMB5jUQ7RF1I8axwFo5nvOAxmC0cacfEXy2DHwBLsyvaUEsEEO9aG-Y7H8P5gHfo26EHQ3/s320/IMG_7278.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The orange honeysuckle that has never thrived seems to be coming out of it's 10 year shell!! It has climbed up onto the metal bedframe clear to the roof line. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguEC2GDbJr1Iiz-DFm-WLboqcHP8ooUXZPyZCen5Gx78tIAYVQ42U2z5vZj06GAs_KS2XiAtXRpin5OOWHTuRlbvMC9SBI593cXO0zSYcZT0a3YnhPtRc8JJD4c_FP-qI5O0ivSevnZZ72/s1600/IMG_7279.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguEC2GDbJr1Iiz-DFm-WLboqcHP8ooUXZPyZCen5Gx78tIAYVQ42U2z5vZj06GAs_KS2XiAtXRpin5OOWHTuRlbvMC9SBI593cXO0zSYcZT0a3YnhPtRc8JJD4c_FP-qI5O0ivSevnZZ72/s320/IMG_7279.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It doesn't smell, but it sure is pretty!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The hummer sure did enjoy it too!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The other plants near it are ones that I got from high country garden last year, hoping to find something that will do the intense west afternoon sunshine!! So far, so good!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVAJAJ6zIxPlWc11HrqN-jM9ryC7zncTFenD1-UTn_wkcJsuANo3yTpZzAcJldI-n6SOX6x82aG0tVq2vIYv0A5OPk5qzhM_tSfTFokv8BtSppwC7cSjEiNm3OP6WMhWl5fcKFkh8v3cql/s1600/IMG_7280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVAJAJ6zIxPlWc11HrqN-jM9ryC7zncTFenD1-UTn_wkcJsuANo3yTpZzAcJldI-n6SOX6x82aG0tVq2vIYv0A5OPk5qzhM_tSfTFokv8BtSppwC7cSjEiNm3OP6WMhWl5fcKFkh8v3cql/s320/IMG_7280.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I discovered two of these little dudes growing. .Oriental poppies that I started from seed last summer. .I popped them in the ground right before the first frost last year. .and forgot about them. .Because seriously, they were about 3 inches tall with about 6 leaves on them! I was so excited to see them coming up. This one now has a big fat bud on it. .I can hardly wait to see what color it turns out to be!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjac5xBSfcIteICmBSlXRIdyhBDs384-RG648Ntb1aUl8QXITEP0WFftAL-k31mjWYMcmNGbLvOUF8fDFTCvxU76SXe49EUPNYoX4-YBDTZBgXdQiGhCoQEyXGuZ1GO6v9XDSAFWId7ufZr/s1600/IMG_7281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjac5xBSfcIteICmBSlXRIdyhBDs384-RG648Ntb1aUl8QXITEP0WFftAL-k31mjWYMcmNGbLvOUF8fDFTCvxU76SXe49EUPNYoX4-YBDTZBgXdQiGhCoQEyXGuZ1GO6v9XDSAFWId7ufZr/s320/IMG_7281.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
GonSS. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These little puppies are from your garden!! I always forget the name. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But I sure do like them. And last week, I even saw them for sale in a nursery in Topeka!! They get very little attention, and lots of the intense sun. .But they have survived and are doing well! THANKS for sharing them!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8eLrmPT_XlwEFnXBaSEjt_T1Noa6PF5VQ-kthtN1_pSype9XhnpXoRkklgoYC5upYEnu2NQwjiKde4uycl-f71P3vdxfqKUnktj5JGO8AzgTHR1Efj_-nvBBH4nCr3-z9dZcm4vW069LC/s1600/IMG_7282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8eLrmPT_XlwEFnXBaSEjt_T1Noa6PF5VQ-kthtN1_pSype9XhnpXoRkklgoYC5upYEnu2NQwjiKde4uycl-f71P3vdxfqKUnktj5JGO8AzgTHR1Efj_-nvBBH4nCr3-z9dZcm4vW069LC/s320/IMG_7282.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is my answer to west afternoon sun, a deck that needs summer flowers, and an inability to water them enough to keep them alive!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
SUCCULENTS!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have kept these pots alive for a couple years now. .and move them into the greenhouse for the winter. Due to an oversight on our part, we let it get too cold in the greenhouse one night. .and several of them froze. .but, many of them were preserved, and I have just taken other cuttings to add into the pots!! I can now have some added interest. .and only have to water them a few times per week! The potted purple fountain grass is a new experiment. .I will see if they can flourish in a pot with very little water too.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4jRyZibhk6ZOSo5XKtTVS2LfO84g__63A_umKUawJ6Bp7HjFPoxuSGCmarxKqausZZyxd0_EjbHIvCB6s-ZtP4DEUkeIVZN66b5nvPZ3Cefvabm09HrLGvXRjt8t2Obkot7FBN8LSq01Z/s1600/IMG_7283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4jRyZibhk6ZOSo5XKtTVS2LfO84g__63A_umKUawJ6Bp7HjFPoxuSGCmarxKqausZZyxd0_EjbHIvCB6s-ZtP4DEUkeIVZN66b5nvPZ3Cefvabm09HrLGvXRjt8t2Obkot7FBN8LSq01Z/s320/IMG_7283.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This little clematis has existed for years. .but never got more than 2 feet tall. Last spring I had to move it to another location, and it ended up on the north side of the house. .It is going to town. It is now as tall as the 6 foot trellis and has a number of blooms on it. YAY!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_0-k4FpOKUahGffzbIeMLz6ov2opc6SKOcuQlWhIrRvAbcX6j6JlbAW7kZac70KwwIu3QUCYW5pd1MO-kn0FryVk_dekypcLtWcK65_SZ_p3iqTOHYxB1EjjNLlkKNUvGcN0z98dUF_X-/s1600/IMG_7284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_0-k4FpOKUahGffzbIeMLz6ov2opc6SKOcuQlWhIrRvAbcX6j6JlbAW7kZac70KwwIu3QUCYW5pd1MO-kn0FryVk_dekypcLtWcK65_SZ_p3iqTOHYxB1EjjNLlkKNUvGcN0z98dUF_X-/s320/IMG_7284.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is the bed on the north side of the house. The hostas are getting big. .and I am hoping to get some blooms this summer as well-so far it has just really been foliage. Cami and I had the day at home by ourselves on Saturday, so I moved the pitcher pump water feature (you can see it way at the back in front of the post). .I just moved it about 3 feet over. .but it radically changed the view from the back. .and the appeal of the feature! I will have to get pictures and post them soon!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixwya-OW3VZkeJWzgzaWVKCqefqeSr72FRLk23GQFRi1C1ErpH6vy6i-9XMs2AuQdBoUIMm1Xl_bF3K_vXUb4xp578tWCPKOHoyNXVKZQORG00bo2O7pwUqfBrKJm23eVh63XHQS5SmewI/s1600/IMG_7285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixwya-OW3VZkeJWzgzaWVKCqefqeSr72FRLk23GQFRi1C1ErpH6vy6i-9XMs2AuQdBoUIMm1Xl_bF3K_vXUb4xp578tWCPKOHoyNXVKZQORG00bo2O7pwUqfBrKJm23eVh63XHQS5SmewI/s320/IMG_7285.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is the memory garden. The Blue atlas cedar looks pathetic. .but it has new growth on nearly all of it. .so I want to give it some more time to see if it recovers from the winter burn or not. I hate to see it go! All the daylilies I planted in there are living. .so the colors should dramatically improve in a year or two. The tulips there looked great. .and really, there has been a little color ever since that. .so it is changing like it was designed to. Cami and I put some seeds in there. .and some of them are sprouting. .it's hard to see them, because the weeds sprout at the same rate!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig49JftWjnHYvySAtf-tRCmhgSDqZbvBIiMUgepO4C6yA5bdMcxjsCMWiZwDG3IGcKD3MmKoMMBVixQo1xHQT9eMUIlHr0Sl2F0gzTc6TJv8f9wZm2Z1olzq43OTNUfHYW6UNPRWFXd1RQ/s1600/IMG_7286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig49JftWjnHYvySAtf-tRCmhgSDqZbvBIiMUgepO4C6yA5bdMcxjsCMWiZwDG3IGcKD3MmKoMMBVixQo1xHQT9eMUIlHr0Sl2F0gzTc6TJv8f9wZm2Z1olzq43OTNUfHYW6UNPRWFXd1RQ/s320/IMG_7286.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Big clump of iris from a friend. We enjoyed several bouquets of those!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGYeJjMZsVZBeOknU0j9984mpeSwjjfQo9YTZ5Z5KH97PWQZD37W5JDq8ACilDz04QRP9ShYnJKM1fxaamemmhn-FjMLYzIkpF0FsCFkNAJYLhF5TZkM5BwuKy32aUJkvBaX_aD-DAohsK/s1600/IMG_7287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGYeJjMZsVZBeOknU0j9984mpeSwjjfQo9YTZ5Z5KH97PWQZD37W5JDq8ACilDz04QRP9ShYnJKM1fxaamemmhn-FjMLYzIkpF0FsCFkNAJYLhF5TZkM5BwuKy32aUJkvBaX_aD-DAohsK/s320/IMG_7287.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The pampas grass is already taking off. I will be excited when they occlude the view of the dead car lot! And the asparagus patch is looking good for it's first year. I was sure that most of those roots in the big-box store package were dead. .but they just remained dormant from last June until now. .Looks like we will have about 12 plants as they continue to grow. Enough to eat AND share. And maybe pickle. .if you haven't purchased pickled asparagus to eat. .you are missing out!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMvSeosXvY3SX9-PrYFLIKzWK9Rgc7L4LozW3nPkRS_vMFmwKF_cbPzbmInjqHHPA1IicF8Qg7Jakzxi0Qb3_YQ1BqMHr59mEbeCVq4HVe2TGjsqGofQYt-NCe0xBKJoEumCaZG9km8xel/s1600/IMG_7288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMvSeosXvY3SX9-PrYFLIKzWK9Rgc7L4LozW3nPkRS_vMFmwKF_cbPzbmInjqHHPA1IicF8Qg7Jakzxi0Qb3_YQ1BqMHr59mEbeCVq4HVe2TGjsqGofQYt-NCe0xBKJoEumCaZG9km8xel/s320/IMG_7288.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Some blue flax that reseeds itself into the little corner garden!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig8DRrnibwvnIbekxyxE78u9GKGTMYg-kPUCeLyo0bBNCvyvp7Mjz6rzTIw9T_Vvoft8Vn-wbsbhrIDbYuWH1V6SIWReUJgn9CBXmOowhw8xM3tEyGyeDGbuqIS3Rm7eLwyJnxtqNOMhA6/s1600/IMG_7289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig8DRrnibwvnIbekxyxE78u9GKGTMYg-kPUCeLyo0bBNCvyvp7Mjz6rzTIw9T_Vvoft8Vn-wbsbhrIDbYuWH1V6SIWReUJgn9CBXmOowhw8xM3tEyGyeDGbuqIS3Rm7eLwyJnxtqNOMhA6/s320/IMG_7289.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And the Red Texas Yucca has four stems starting! The other three plants have some as well. .These blooms will last throughout much of the summer. .I found some miniature ones last week. .and planted them by the walkway up to the house near the pond where it is hot and dry! I think they will do well!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSjZ1HFLrIyLDPFPtUJwySnvYYWHmW8ZhmMEozrijId-BTU0ixRde_J-108J9Qb4DIsLZ-YY9FcFSXE2LfLurO1sxKPijlf9DVjXX-qqMJA2rx2-dVxFFBI4wmPUWDQ2uMr-KOjHlu4Gh1/s1600/IMG_7292.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSjZ1HFLrIyLDPFPtUJwySnvYYWHmW8ZhmMEozrijId-BTU0ixRde_J-108J9Qb4DIsLZ-YY9FcFSXE2LfLurO1sxKPijlf9DVjXX-qqMJA2rx2-dVxFFBI4wmPUWDQ2uMr-KOjHlu4Gh1/s320/IMG_7292.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was so enthralled with my aunt's Dutch iris last year, that I ordered some bulbs for my yard. .I don't know why I never knew about these before!! They were beautiful!! I'll be excited for them to multiply and treat us to many more blooms in the summers to come!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTwGeycW0f_jYQWfsDDz4r0xsYBJ5_YeX3Q4oVAx3V8QgNjcucrvAYR4gE9-lMlS8jdAtSa4CFm6AWTSy-zOkCbH1OafwUFMw9MKVUDdyHJ3qYOblZ56XIh00ShTH7E9_Esvb-H3Q3ijl3/s1600/IMG_7291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTwGeycW0f_jYQWfsDDz4r0xsYBJ5_YeX3Q4oVAx3V8QgNjcucrvAYR4gE9-lMlS8jdAtSa4CFm6AWTSy-zOkCbH1OafwUFMw9MKVUDdyHJ3qYOblZ56XIh00ShTH7E9_Esvb-H3Q3ijl3/s320/IMG_7291.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm so glad to live in a location with amazing blue skies. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And changing seasons!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Be back soon with some pictures of my other passion. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My family!!</div>
Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-14740612596263842522017-03-28T15:24:00.000-05:002017-03-28T15:24:10.658-05:00The Great Outdoors<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK8Rq76Wr-TTQBriurMS3eTsEnYVLQaM3Qi6X1-Dv_iBYnAFD6JXVjK4_PZCaLXt6Z1dGleiRGS9Hwu-wWCNCz1aIdtPfcWIHEXzuQKX4Yn48tide0nrhnt0lHXaqy21onXbIBSAAUBcPA/s1600/IMG_7169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK8Rq76Wr-TTQBriurMS3eTsEnYVLQaM3Qi6X1-Dv_iBYnAFD6JXVjK4_PZCaLXt6Z1dGleiRGS9Hwu-wWCNCz1aIdtPfcWIHEXzuQKX4Yn48tide0nrhnt0lHXaqy21onXbIBSAAUBcPA/s320/IMG_7169.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hey!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hope this note finds everyone well!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It is spring in Kansas!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love the few days that we have here when it is deliciously warm with only a very slight breeze!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That doesn't happen very often!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So when it does, I am eager to get out and see what is popping up!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHMgXnOkbQbNZNUJsKDzY-GdpWq2xdKwY7qQ3Ox75BA_42fXGD5Dooe9-WGSaF0HLkifGwdVqg58PImhmjfQoGXWIbMyYjgaWJ4mpz9VddO51gZX1zykQyM_XUgDqddzI5c1odBB0xYB3b/s1600/IMG_7159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHMgXnOkbQbNZNUJsKDzY-GdpWq2xdKwY7qQ3Ox75BA_42fXGD5Dooe9-WGSaF0HLkifGwdVqg58PImhmjfQoGXWIbMyYjgaWJ4mpz9VddO51gZX1zykQyM_XUgDqddzI5c1odBB0xYB3b/s320/IMG_7159.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It seems that we are at a place now where new things are happening in the garden every day!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can see my little herd of goldfish and koi. We have had a lot of trouble with our pumps getting clogged due to the roots of the water lilies. .and as some of the pumps have failed, not enough aeration has gotten a few of the biggest fish! You can see a small clump of the lilies in the lower left. .Those lilies had green leaves ALL. WINTER. LONG!! Crazy! Hoping for flowers early!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi29qLM1voTh_GZANdMggVWqEi8iMsUMGXJ2oVw18Q9_6fjmeKevSM963wkOVioMOZJKy3sx57p51jR9PjjA9h-7CJmR6EDu2mY8KzffdtvqCXW8J7CkWxKKML1Q-Mqs9y6nWmN9xS_AIsv/s1600/IMG_7161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi29qLM1voTh_GZANdMggVWqEi8iMsUMGXJ2oVw18Q9_6fjmeKevSM963wkOVioMOZJKy3sx57p51jR9PjjA9h-7CJmR6EDu2mY8KzffdtvqCXW8J7CkWxKKML1Q-Mqs9y6nWmN9xS_AIsv/s320/IMG_7161.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On the south side of the pond, I planted two of these little ornamental cherry bushes last spring. I babied them along all summer. .and they are leafing now and full of bloom! The butterflies have already noticed them! They will be very showy as they get bigger.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkTipO6wIRnmliZWhsLob0u8Wy0Rtl-6k0p6mb8eXo7mcN1IlqrtsjtD1gvckPaT7PqN4H6bLTaI6UkQ4DnPasFE6sL4de2XtGGb1PAt_ZBGxCdLpmU7oVYRYsUbiD52aK9bO6M8OhbfJg/s1600/IMG_7162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkTipO6wIRnmliZWhsLob0u8Wy0Rtl-6k0p6mb8eXo7mcN1IlqrtsjtD1gvckPaT7PqN4H6bLTaI6UkQ4DnPasFE6sL4de2XtGGb1PAt_ZBGxCdLpmU7oVYRYsUbiD52aK9bO6M8OhbfJg/s320/IMG_7162.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here are a couple of honeysuckle bushes. They are producing a nice little bit of privacy for the yard. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_HBy5YU9YV-DDDc2SPWDlSynIeEKYLR25hd1ipNJuh1eqH_RWsxVSFKpR72HSoQN66x6f9bcM-xkKsy_xOaNP5ZLtxsIYMUMWRLA69QxAaqhyD_i2Lg0zjGtzB2RqbZS4rSl25fEeMERp/s1600/IMG_7163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_HBy5YU9YV-DDDc2SPWDlSynIeEKYLR25hd1ipNJuh1eqH_RWsxVSFKpR72HSoQN66x6f9bcM-xkKsy_xOaNP5ZLtxsIYMUMWRLA69QxAaqhyD_i2Lg0zjGtzB2RqbZS4rSl25fEeMERp/s320/IMG_7163.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They don't smell good. And that bothered me at first. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But they are lit up with these tiny red blooms all over. .and they will form little red berries that the birds seem to eat. They were described as good plants for nature. .And it seems they are. I am hoping that they might catch the attention of any stray hummingbirds heading north!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsa1XwVuSIVWaQaXJOf-r42pe3VcZnPa7Y4IIvz8oYeCQ2N1TA_A_BozsDnT2FDbE9if1msshTLBobiP5iv-eL5_r_MN2bWQkOD5NS8_7JWtnxKHoKr6VqLUhcPZ9XlYlFAWbxI3EZVvSF/s1600/IMG_7164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsa1XwVuSIVWaQaXJOf-r42pe3VcZnPa7Y4IIvz8oYeCQ2N1TA_A_BozsDnT2FDbE9if1msshTLBobiP5iv-eL5_r_MN2bWQkOD5NS8_7JWtnxKHoKr6VqLUhcPZ9XlYlFAWbxI3EZVvSF/s320/IMG_7164.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Tulips are starting their show. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5s7RFqNId10AeEmDTGVCiMgG6KEZRmVqMxCLC3bwk49x0yUq9a9mDSQc7NQTbQbNN40dgrhRS5t6oRwEXNR6ZxALl0CPzozKjAk7R_UOgz40xawXkQvTGM_16Sz2iAzR7WfQKpBnBCtl3/s1600/IMG_7166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5s7RFqNId10AeEmDTGVCiMgG6KEZRmVqMxCLC3bwk49x0yUq9a9mDSQc7NQTbQbNN40dgrhRS5t6oRwEXNR6ZxALl0CPzozKjAk7R_UOgz40xawXkQvTGM_16Sz2iAzR7WfQKpBnBCtl3/s320/IMG_7166.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love that they do their thing in stages! It seems that always a new one is blooming as the old ones finish! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqR2jjLVg5rJF4zG6cEUEW4ZdiDuFUMMRVCG0jlv7ydclIzqs_DycGxJBjQQBkVl6DTScAbw1upr4I6g5RuQVeg4H9DJZiwb0JjlQE4HSAwoWX1Oy-v7Ueux50mOVQQq3RgTBYgNcbpHZQ/s1600/IMG_7168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqR2jjLVg5rJF4zG6cEUEW4ZdiDuFUMMRVCG0jlv7ydclIzqs_DycGxJBjQQBkVl6DTScAbw1upr4I6g5RuQVeg4H9DJZiwb0JjlQE4HSAwoWX1Oy-v7Ueux50mOVQQq3RgTBYgNcbpHZQ/s320/IMG_7168.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These are all in the memory garden. The Blue Atlas Cedar tree that anchors that garden got a good case of winter burn a few months ago when the temperature hit negative digits. I am not sure that it will recover, but we are watering and waiting. It will be a big loss if it dies!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizJDractnKyHydGEC_uJ2vN6GeYO3r9OGT6SPkrNputpxIpV1f7zRv4zj_Ug1XnFzOxA95qK7ThpwY5dO4_0npipyZp9H0JyU2tkyCKTFjLcWAdX5K3nRblSIDNmeo8AGexAr3ZRLXKX1u/s1600/IMG_7165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizJDractnKyHydGEC_uJ2vN6GeYO3r9OGT6SPkrNputpxIpV1f7zRv4zj_Ug1XnFzOxA95qK7ThpwY5dO4_0npipyZp9H0JyU2tkyCKTFjLcWAdX5K3nRblSIDNmeo8AGexAr3ZRLXKX1u/s320/IMG_7165.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
At the back of the memory garden I put in 12 new roots of asparagus last spring from Walmart. One bag of them never did a thing all summer, so I was convinced that the bag was bad. There are 3 roots of them that have spears. .and the other bag has several roots starting too. I am super excited about them. .as grilled or roasted asparagus has become one of my favorite spring time foods!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyzkyVuhPzRrrxl7WvR00rPfAezrtytXYNcMVYD3aU90hUPOcXGkHSRyOr-Bz1YSy4V3KR_w6StAfapBC37u8GM2m3D4T_h2tzl60ZrQ25Ps3fIfP7UEWbL8irpm_b4vQPM7mR2Kl3-wMz/s1600/IMG_7170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyzkyVuhPzRrrxl7WvR00rPfAezrtytXYNcMVYD3aU90hUPOcXGkHSRyOr-Bz1YSy4V3KR_w6StAfapBC37u8GM2m3D4T_h2tzl60ZrQ25Ps3fIfP7UEWbL8irpm_b4vQPM7mR2Kl3-wMz/s320/IMG_7170.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The lilacs will be blooming early too! This little bush is loaded. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Last month when the weather was getting warm, Jeremy let our outdoor wood stove go out. This is how we heat the house and the greenhouse. With the exception. .that the house. .is also on propane if the wood heater isn't going! One night it got COLD. .and because we hadn't thought about turning the heater back on, it froze every tomato plant in the place. .got the majority of both huge ferns. .and some of the succulents didn't make it out alive either! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
GRR! Live and learn right!?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjx6KP39_aoXm19yzbznYhXnjYpYTEVUYFNfJuNklYCKPt3wdHFvlLF3FMZLgNP95EjITt3oarpn88O3VDG7XJlNF9dBQKEIWeOlZbTvkQ1Iqbdmh9lYYSZI4ifh7KIBp73ysDj7YoMfGV/s1600/IMG_7171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjx6KP39_aoXm19yzbznYhXnjYpYTEVUYFNfJuNklYCKPt3wdHFvlLF3FMZLgNP95EjITt3oarpn88O3VDG7XJlNF9dBQKEIWeOlZbTvkQ1Iqbdmh9lYYSZI4ifh7KIBp73ysDj7YoMfGV/s320/IMG_7171.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And the redbud tree. .which became a bush when the main stem died! They are one of my favorite spring blooms!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We were very fortunate a few weeks ago to miss the fires! It was probably 15 miles from us. On my way to work, I drove past a couple of homes that had been burned down in Oklahoma. It has been raining today--with expected rains to continue for a few days, leaving us with significant amounts of liquid gold. We are thankful for that!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEind26Il1yP2GQrTkVVyz5Cx7sI1Mp82j0b3Pw-Ez4kU0qTNTug3KpiJbGnWFYOSMueDJZ8jY7VkM-jMJwaPC5OTaZL4k1tKb2tSJ1eHwM9dTpFe6kfXXrcdW6Mf5BDfPmI87uPGyoBQSpF/s1600/IMG_7149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEind26Il1yP2GQrTkVVyz5Cx7sI1Mp82j0b3Pw-Ez4kU0qTNTug3KpiJbGnWFYOSMueDJZ8jY7VkM-jMJwaPC5OTaZL4k1tKb2tSJ1eHwM9dTpFe6kfXXrcdW6Mf5BDfPmI87uPGyoBQSpF/s320/IMG_7149.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The older boys were both home for parts of their spring break last week. We enjoyed their company! Cami and I went with some girlfriends to a barn quilt painting class on Saturday. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We had a BLAST!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Well, after the lady in charge helped Cami and I get our patterns drawn on that is! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My mind has NEVER computed geometry. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And due to the portion of my personality that ALWAYS has to pick out the hardest route. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The designs we chose weren't simple blocks and triangles! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So 15 minutes into the project, my blood pressure was BOILING and I was wondering what kind of crazy dumb thing I had gotten us into!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRwbUtP2581EY_u2odtB8lCO_-cZ-5g_vBHsRCY0tpiv6X-U7x_RAKQRZdcEmyK4ZCIznu08b5pTZoRcgQG9jAo1vdOROF4C0oV0m5Wrbf70iJunA7rGugFICMeQ3MLGiqhtU-5IY1PSJl/s1600/IMG_7156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRwbUtP2581EY_u2odtB8lCO_-cZ-5g_vBHsRCY0tpiv6X-U7x_RAKQRZdcEmyK4ZCIznu08b5pTZoRcgQG9jAo1vdOROF4C0oV0m5Wrbf70iJunA7rGugFICMeQ3MLGiqhtU-5IY1PSJl/s320/IMG_7156.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Cami and Cashton worked with the help of the lady in charge.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They enjoyed the experience and had a fun day!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghKfnYeBafYaXizFVVeO-Gwk-2pLqfUWFu3mDVebVyafPzLO6qZp6AroUZdFHfaozu-g5zEZ-O7eyXBSJFQ__bY34lFVQlkFAwsNxS2nXrDDXvymC4fE1pAU6Xjy7Q7akqKe0zPDixbk9b/s1600/IMG_7158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghKfnYeBafYaXizFVVeO-Gwk-2pLqfUWFu3mDVebVyafPzLO6qZp6AroUZdFHfaozu-g5zEZ-O7eyXBSJFQ__bY34lFVQlkFAwsNxS2nXrDDXvymC4fE1pAU6Xjy7Q7akqKe0zPDixbk9b/s320/IMG_7158.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And despite how the morning started. .they really did turn out phenomenally well!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here we are with our finished boards! Cami's was a 1x1 and mine was a 2 foot square. They are still propped up in the living room. .with the hope of being hung this week!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoGj3px8QIyI2mpjOwWB9W4F-DWUFKojzNTBp-MGzRNTPEDU4C5HGzaLplqVMihP7IPWZGZWe0OYtYWdYK8fea75h7GSfHQNmOAcO6WXfjynh5QYcom9vW97txr1cSjr6WLhV3Ky-EPtrc/s1600/20170325_155934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoGj3px8QIyI2mpjOwWB9W4F-DWUFKojzNTBp-MGzRNTPEDU4C5HGzaLplqVMihP7IPWZGZWe0OYtYWdYK8fea75h7GSfHQNmOAcO6WXfjynh5QYcom9vW97txr1cSjr6WLhV3Ky-EPtrc/s320/20170325_155934.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She and I are going to have a lot of fun doing girl things together!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I just know it!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now, if I can just get her interested in pulling weeds!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thanks for stopping by!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Will try and keep the garden pictures coming!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And maybe a family update!</div>
Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-48643127629927667292017-02-21T10:59:00.000-06:002017-02-21T10:59:07.182-06:002017 updates. .<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWmZkWYKKMOVleeI4Zanv98dL5n-UIg9uZoo0Wb9BfaT8j57K5wiU5__RopYLPbYlZVKeU6pXDq5DTnCfQ-IGSYDSFEabpTxWTj8xGTHtoSO5UopWGPDZQFxqYMeH5tTmq7X9lOFu5zlC0/s1600/IMG_6677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWmZkWYKKMOVleeI4Zanv98dL5n-UIg9uZoo0Wb9BfaT8j57K5wiU5__RopYLPbYlZVKeU6pXDq5DTnCfQ-IGSYDSFEabpTxWTj8xGTHtoSO5UopWGPDZQFxqYMeH5tTmq7X9lOFu5zlC0/s320/IMG_6677.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I seriously don't know where the time goes to! It has been so long since I have posted any pictures. .or added any updates!! I don't do facebook very often. .and rarely post pictures or information. .So that's not my excuse. .I guess I just get caught up in the day to day. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Seems like everyone is still growing by leaps and bounds. .and changes are occurring regularly. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Like Jeremy's hair!! HA!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I did have to include our Halloween picture. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Cami is not about to let us stop celebrating the season with a still-huge costume party.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now it's all about her. .and her friends. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But we only must survive 2 more. We are well into double digit hosting now. .And I suppose, that all these "lasts" will be more bittersweet than all the "firsts!"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcB9HNzICGApi2DU-ApoKjwgiNwQQc_ZoDPVjGqmqI_WnxUTZIH-q_qzT6wU8urtkXREBGJuiKkaQW7uuNgmoMVA3RupcAVIYp4KIeuInheeaK86NpWx8J5ulMIslX8aNS6xaRTU18ZKbW/s1600/IMG_6861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcB9HNzICGApi2DU-ApoKjwgiNwQQc_ZoDPVjGqmqI_WnxUTZIH-q_qzT6wU8urtkXREBGJuiKkaQW7uuNgmoMVA3RupcAVIYp4KIeuInheeaK86NpWx8J5ulMIslX8aNS6xaRTU18ZKbW/s320/IMG_6861.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Tristan has just flourished this year. He is finishing up a year of cabinetry school. He works part time at Lowes and has been able to find regular carpentry projects in the community too. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif1XkZlmE_sqmNsAEnsFXpebgtW8aevrm74UoH16NqGn3EErLQsBEnn_Rc0OHHLPjg_gvmmYO7nCqKxNlVT_XcHtXgblnEtIYwX7Voo-VqJgN23X5R0f3iYczygnrXhANfBQVr-j6Qa_mg/s1600/IMG_6995.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif1XkZlmE_sqmNsAEnsFXpebgtW8aevrm74UoH16NqGn3EErLQsBEnn_Rc0OHHLPjg_gvmmYO7nCqKxNlVT_XcHtXgblnEtIYwX7Voo-VqJgN23X5R0f3iYczygnrXhANfBQVr-j6Qa_mg/s320/IMG_6995.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He is looking at his options for employment in May-thinking he wants to keep doing the broader spectrum of carpentry for a while to increase his skill set. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8dHu0e9mlxryXr5b7ZrqYVhnvDtceMJAHmZ5cl55xEICsUv_DXNrJlWnzf5dWiAu7u_f3p1HcfgZZrl4zbg2Xbtz0Zso6UYModzewOIqfxy9PhJyPUhiJQPlzfEO3v0zFD6v4nR9jESRQ/s1600/IMG_7071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8dHu0e9mlxryXr5b7ZrqYVhnvDtceMJAHmZ5cl55xEICsUv_DXNrJlWnzf5dWiAu7u_f3p1HcfgZZrl4zbg2Xbtz0Zso6UYModzewOIqfxy9PhJyPUhiJQPlzfEO3v0zFD6v4nR9jESRQ/s320/IMG_7071.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grant is also starting to consider employment options. He is finishing up diesel mechanic training. .and is hoping to work for a large company on their trucking fleet. There are several options around </div>
Topeka. He is working part time for a small farm and ranch store there and that keeps him busy and provides some spending money. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmZWR6dEJv3u38-vEs_Dj9nVN6L0SoO8epEO09MKFBHaNbITo0GkWyeCUPYNL2iEdkxKuwvI18PjoouJLQb04uYWAclzvzIOeDactz9OJ3mErgg_EKIq6JpNp-6mYCjZ0y0cULKVnrquWA/s1600/IMG_6866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmZWR6dEJv3u38-vEs_Dj9nVN6L0SoO8epEO09MKFBHaNbITo0GkWyeCUPYNL2iEdkxKuwvI18PjoouJLQb04uYWAclzvzIOeDactz9OJ3mErgg_EKIq6JpNp-6mYCjZ0y0cULKVnrquWA/s320/IMG_6866.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We got to enjoy them at home for about a week around the holidays. Last month, we visited them one weekend and enjoyed going to a local trampoline park. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This old woman was super sore after jumping for an hour. .but it was a blast, and we all decided we would do it again in a heartbeat!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGV0Q_ByRYUheALSxlO0Zl8mvh5XjKSG9ay4QrcT03LZ8UN73T0WB_DAoHgcEZuGWt2V-CxZ4YLFaGlwQouK3exGGJtEOB5ZWFzi-qXLYNWnR9I4aVgksaxICwnlVGGwtxpf4xKeQVNWJr/s1600/20161208_084551.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGV0Q_ByRYUheALSxlO0Zl8mvh5XjKSG9ay4QrcT03LZ8UN73T0WB_DAoHgcEZuGWt2V-CxZ4YLFaGlwQouK3exGGJtEOB5ZWFzi-qXLYNWnR9I4aVgksaxICwnlVGGwtxpf4xKeQVNWJr/s320/20161208_084551.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This guy is growing INCHES at a time!! Seriously, this photo was taken one morning when he was all at once taller than he had been the day before! It was a monumental day for him. .He finally was taller than his mama!! I am 5'10". .and he was super pumped! I guess it won't be long and I might be the shortest. .which doesn't happen very often-trust me!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK2V31uMipts8iPjdg01f8qG-ZcpWsi-WlwdBRgC8JmsQflhDkv741PNyJ_GyOjm5f7yBbdS5ReUaphbmOKEpnRoRCG0LW_2TFpTRN09qebYQl-JLEresNFGCcdzJdshKmR9izAK8L4SKs/s1600/IMG_6968.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK2V31uMipts8iPjdg01f8qG-ZcpWsi-WlwdBRgC8JmsQflhDkv741PNyJ_GyOjm5f7yBbdS5ReUaphbmOKEpnRoRCG0LW_2TFpTRN09qebYQl-JLEresNFGCcdzJdshKmR9izAK8L4SKs/s320/IMG_6968.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He is pretty excited for high school next year. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And, again, I can't believe that time has gotten to this stage. He is 14 and his dad promised to take him to get his farm permit to drive. .We have seriously missed the big boys carpooling the kids around to where they needed to be!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdLeec2GOXY3ffGizL2a75uNJmKc_5nwSPx1CBRWQlNOyqYHvGeUuHQcxdNHzCSS2K2aWSS6JGB-MDeH9SKp-fuqNhs46dgYbKfkvipVcIp5oT7UUhwtWZIeuxtZ_j1EszfE3aEw_6ygkx/s1600/IMG_7115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdLeec2GOXY3ffGizL2a75uNJmKc_5nwSPx1CBRWQlNOyqYHvGeUuHQcxdNHzCSS2K2aWSS6JGB-MDeH9SKp-fuqNhs46dgYbKfkvipVcIp5oT7UUhwtWZIeuxtZ_j1EszfE3aEw_6ygkx/s320/IMG_7115.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They just finished basketball last week. .League champions! And we will look forward to a slower month before the crazy spring activities start! He has been involved in a local drumline. .and is now on to playing his 3rd instrument since 5th grade. .the baritone sax. I think that he is going to be a man of many talents as he grows!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbydwFAJ5z5zAXcaKzBPeGrkfiyRaW5M4sWiZt4z3E5jNn40_9ZlfyURfYUzvN-MG4nhW5jPA7tj6oT3k_L3utJFNR2Wi-0ZPBTMT_IV1fsyYPK-heMAAMBLMXT4FdWJZ-xZHS9AgMT1Wm/s1600/IMG_7108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbydwFAJ5z5zAXcaKzBPeGrkfiyRaW5M4sWiZt4z3E5jNn40_9ZlfyURfYUzvN-MG4nhW5jPA7tj6oT3k_L3utJFNR2Wi-0ZPBTMT_IV1fsyYPK-heMAAMBLMXT4FdWJZ-xZHS9AgMT1Wm/s320/IMG_7108.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He and his dad are making more time to go fishing as the weather warms. .and the guys have a guided fishing trip booked for June. .for all 4 of them. Cami and I are going to need a girls trip too I think!! Devin will keep us busy and young for a while yet. .as he has a lot of passions. .and wants to be in the middle of most anything! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0BQyvaY-iOJqHSlG-9MbG7lmRW2hD92MN_QpdFNYj_W_Ii5fvxK4Z5q63DbpY7lcgVSMgIBRTFErTeQNZgeEC4IhFUMwPa6P_EWZQ02tXezJNcWr5CfvxAz6uW2SGmGLgnZebNYvOYSuH/s1600/IMG_6835.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0BQyvaY-iOJqHSlG-9MbG7lmRW2hD92MN_QpdFNYj_W_Ii5fvxK4Z5q63DbpY7lcgVSMgIBRTFErTeQNZgeEC4IhFUMwPa6P_EWZQ02tXezJNcWr5CfvxAz6uW2SGmGLgnZebNYvOYSuH/s320/IMG_6835.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And then Miss Cami. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She and her brother have gotten used to having their brothers gone. They tolerated it better than I expected. .and better than I certainly did! She and Devin are pretty good buddies now. She is still ALL girl. .but likes shooting her pink camo BB gun and her cross bow. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZwpyjVy_EzKE77TDhrBX4z-xQ-WHKiWhQVXLd9fYAwXdMfUsoQSZuqv-3h2wT2qrwFL77IxHmFNVh5BUgIF0OpfSYmcyG_WAkNnimUMJ4y8Z2rgquPvbojeJPUAqg5w65qI1HkGnwBvXd/s1600/IMG_6809.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZwpyjVy_EzKE77TDhrBX4z-xQ-WHKiWhQVXLd9fYAwXdMfUsoQSZuqv-3h2wT2qrwFL77IxHmFNVh5BUgIF0OpfSYmcyG_WAkNnimUMJ4y8Z2rgquPvbojeJPUAqg5w65qI1HkGnwBvXd/s320/IMG_6809.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She's in 3rd grade. .For her birthday, her friends brought their aprons and enjoyed doing a little cooking. It's different having girls at the party than boys!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEgu0PgMDNWdFYJnPP4sEQK8fLmdQUDZFw7YmE03mxCvKf2q1l2niFTyv36j1Za-GgPdMeKfgyayQkPTnmChCINlKw4XH0VsomfZlNI5EBbPGHa7oFyByHEd60pdeY2SD6a7_ycD6pa0er/s1600/IMG_6983.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEgu0PgMDNWdFYJnPP4sEQK8fLmdQUDZFw7YmE03mxCvKf2q1l2niFTyv36j1Za-GgPdMeKfgyayQkPTnmChCINlKw4XH0VsomfZlNI5EBbPGHa7oFyByHEd60pdeY2SD6a7_ycD6pa0er/s320/IMG_6983.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She still loves cheerleading and is in her first year of a gymnastics class and dance. She has been mastering handsprings on the trampoline. She is totally a mama's girl. .and wants to be wherever I am at. .or maybe I should say. .she wants ME to be wherever SHE is at!! She is quite something! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She has mastered the social media sphere of SNAPCHAT. .and will snapchat her brothers, the neighbors, and her cousin! It has been fun for her to keep connected with them that way!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZYcU9RT9Hj5aY_vacpI9cQg-QOBdnCU7k6HVXiAorHdjasfJP1KwD2SzwugMIisCmigmHn8a_ACpfaVtZ3XwWhImQyvCEiXn-eJB1f1VmC0GFm9iwKE1WXLWPafxzaZvhl-FCBHR3lEYw/s1600/IMG_7061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZYcU9RT9Hj5aY_vacpI9cQg-QOBdnCU7k6HVXiAorHdjasfJP1KwD2SzwugMIisCmigmHn8a_ACpfaVtZ3XwWhImQyvCEiXn-eJB1f1VmC0GFm9iwKE1WXLWPafxzaZvhl-FCBHR3lEYw/s320/IMG_7061.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Not too much has changed with us old farts though! We're getting ready to be a little older. .and we are trying hard to get a little wiser as we go. Lots of work. .and plenty of play. .both of us are ready for the warmer weather to come around and stay!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3tJOyLB3fIFBrQCPQt6a-A8ZFqqrcdO1OmGik_6M7Qf2LDZKhi4qarf8HGKP13bO0jM7otB4G1l4hEjrwforlKvBkEhZcmnpnpX313UnB_bGNWwHAziRhVh5_JB9Tm9FfwsXwvlbk849/s1600/IMG_6851.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3tJOyLB3fIFBrQCPQt6a-A8ZFqqrcdO1OmGik_6M7Qf2LDZKhi4qarf8HGKP13bO0jM7otB4G1l4hEjrwforlKvBkEhZcmnpnpX313UnB_bGNWwHAziRhVh5_JB9Tm9FfwsXwvlbk849/s320/IMG_6851.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We finally made it to that iconic family of 4. .one girl. .one boy. .it's super weird!! I am not sure I will ever learn to cook for less than an army. We get sick of leftovers. .I get sick of not having to cook something new for days. Laundry doesn't take that long though anymore!! That is a plus. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS_rYk9dE-oojwD4F37U14SClbtlCP7f33WScAlAXHZ88SD-_4JrQ3mfoxvKk3cTwRy8pdgq0gJfbCi4BWxRylDPgTvgVRBex7B8X2AprxaHAPMMF41UY9EX4Q1OencIj2WHhdGbv4UfGn/s1600/20161124_095928.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS_rYk9dE-oojwD4F37U14SClbtlCP7f33WScAlAXHZ88SD-_4JrQ3mfoxvKk3cTwRy8pdgq0gJfbCi4BWxRylDPgTvgVRBex7B8X2AprxaHAPMMF41UY9EX4Q1OencIj2WHhdGbv4UfGn/s320/20161124_095928.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We did apply to get an international 4-H student for a month this summer. .either from Costa Rica or Japan. THAT will be incredible!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So that is about all we are up to. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thanks for checkin in on us! Wish I could say when the next update will come. .Some day I look forward to catching up on everyone else's blogs as well. .Enjoy the few weeks left of winter!</div>
Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-47873901644360273722017-02-14T11:17:00.000-06:002017-02-14T11:17:12.576-06:00Wintertime News<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hey there!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I got a Christmas card with a special request in it nearly 2 months ago now. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm not the quickest. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But I AM perseverant!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMp5Uz3THcEnwpBNSka9ZsGokowFBjRgb7cFkrxLE6rSgnnJci-p_BhAlhvYFvmpD3P_45u6H_crx5ueY5oALPFqw1hg_xFIrY4VTA-kCah0804jaFcpkSuYKu7tY5L7UWahCxtvYI7_lx/s1600/IMG_6837.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMp5Uz3THcEnwpBNSka9ZsGokowFBjRgb7cFkrxLE6rSgnnJci-p_BhAlhvYFvmpD3P_45u6H_crx5ueY5oALPFqw1hg_xFIrY4VTA-kCah0804jaFcpkSuYKu7tY5L7UWahCxtvYI7_lx/s320/IMG_6837.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ms. Sue from Michigan was hoping to warm up her winter with some pictures of my greenhouse! And I did oblige quickly with some pictures. .and then took my time to get them up! In the meantime though, we endured a nasty ice storm. .and then some 80 degree days this past weekend. .so I have a few photos from that to share too!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi778wqby4mypipCVHG_8kS4DIaMxwjL8hyNOX02US2vOnsHBWigIkah_J02ykK3xhP6D1AIPMLOuJN06aUxGjhQsFW2XSG-ubVP5k2xA4Qtwi8LFVEfB4xggjMKvoFPZIZPjxqDUp4brqn/s1600/IMG_6839.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi778wqby4mypipCVHG_8kS4DIaMxwjL8hyNOX02US2vOnsHBWigIkah_J02ykK3xhP6D1AIPMLOuJN06aUxGjhQsFW2XSG-ubVP5k2xA4Qtwi8LFVEfB4xggjMKvoFPZIZPjxqDUp4brqn/s320/IMG_6839.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A few years ago I bought a pomegranate tree. It flowers well. .and has grown some tiny pomegranates. I had read somewhere that the decorative trees aren't designed to be able to offer edible fruits.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid-0ulLwOnPKIqUHJbdXxbA46DFtuuPpQ19UidxE_k9F3-tA9zMDKICFS-CWUB0W5o6uCGv97FiUB-k95lWvK6FqatiCfApPW1ep63w7E3ivWPgKnuK-9X1imtJr8e1sSQTM52JE77KUCs/s1600/IMG_6838.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid-0ulLwOnPKIqUHJbdXxbA46DFtuuPpQ19UidxE_k9F3-tA9zMDKICFS-CWUB0W5o6uCGv97FiUB-k95lWvK6FqatiCfApPW1ep63w7E3ivWPgKnuK-9X1imtJr8e1sSQTM52JE77KUCs/s320/IMG_6838.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So I was surprised that these little fruits appeared. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They grew for a while. .but when they got big enough. .They split open. .to reveal the tiny little, normal looking pomegranate seeds inside! That was fun to see!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigwDniJqvu0RSECgtmEWqjT6cN8-DvJ4gGOHezbqZMhhGaY1HoE6M2uBZZ3LHjizsGUXgYrS71biUTtAbxWJOs4FlYomdIySSsEvkwJrlPV2eHMwnI29C27VOHWDEHRCroQqDk4G3QcwNd/s1600/IMG_6842.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigwDniJqvu0RSECgtmEWqjT6cN8-DvJ4gGOHezbqZMhhGaY1HoE6M2uBZZ3LHjizsGUXgYrS71biUTtAbxWJOs4FlYomdIySSsEvkwJrlPV2eHMwnI29C27VOHWDEHRCroQqDk4G3QcwNd/s320/IMG_6842.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have only used the greenhouse the last couple winters to house my succulent collection. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAwJ4ecTWeWiGvVZTR9bkApp0Vc3tYgjjKD8w5zAcLKA-2PrW-HMhka2BKW7Z0yivm-8rhtJOUkXgKORpLIRwGVawHX2217W6uFBD4HBY9zcvHvLLLvxo7MBig9NGQvw2WwetK06rsHaYJ/s1600/IMG_6841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAwJ4ecTWeWiGvVZTR9bkApp0Vc3tYgjjKD8w5zAcLKA-2PrW-HMhka2BKW7Z0yivm-8rhtJOUkXgKORpLIRwGVawHX2217W6uFBD4HBY9zcvHvLLLvxo7MBig9NGQvw2WwetK06rsHaYJ/s320/IMG_6841.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But I felt like I might have some extra time to worry over tomato plants this season. I just did little grape varieties. .yellow and red. Jeremy is eating them as fast as they turn.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAUJqfXXJgiurEsnVxD1dNm8akC6idrcfw-eih1tBQlk398u9rYzhEACOm4gsQuIpp9inmXKyrEYBDUdLfz4t93aiVM7iZNO1yeEdHr-C6ejhbbJXSogiNP2ZtFcin0NYDO8czyVEp72n1/s1600/IMG_6843.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAUJqfXXJgiurEsnVxD1dNm8akC6idrcfw-eih1tBQlk398u9rYzhEACOm4gsQuIpp9inmXKyrEYBDUdLfz4t93aiVM7iZNO1yeEdHr-C6ejhbbJXSogiNP2ZtFcin0NYDO8czyVEp72n1/s320/IMG_6843.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My two big ferns are looking mighty good for this time of the year!! I have been growing them in self watering planters on the east deck all summer. .which is the only way that this lazy over-scheduled gardener can keep them living. .and this is the first year that I have overwintered them successfully too! They should look great when the season changes! The big pots of succulents are doing well too. .but I think I neglected to get photos of them on!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9qzKufv3-V_SXUBXxl00TikXAHDVa9dFUQzKnTAi0SztwpzHoe30_6EBTEILLL5_zW22iYeJpKMUuqgidMDeH43_9NhW0Ml-d7RX6sDcVftUg96CcXVY2aZWUOladXZVF6C2dMzapC897/s1600/20170115_083142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9qzKufv3-V_SXUBXxl00TikXAHDVa9dFUQzKnTAi0SztwpzHoe30_6EBTEILLL5_zW22iYeJpKMUuqgidMDeH43_9NhW0Ml-d7RX6sDcVftUg96CcXVY2aZWUOladXZVF6C2dMzapC897/s320/20170115_083142.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In January we had a yucky 3 day ice storm. Our old elm trees didn't fare very well at all! This tree is in the front of the house by the pond. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAZ2vO-qKnHQPFkdjeJkzF4ehZPGroLNrKHH6HIC4DgX5duveNceWexFEgApdf-B-RiypStV6YZte0Ujwry6W4qKcbndawC7h9-NykvJAhUe8uIwOdlIKKOoktd7WB0DRwtdgDhRR9PiYC/s1600/20170115_140305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAZ2vO-qKnHQPFkdjeJkzF4ehZPGroLNrKHH6HIC4DgX5duveNceWexFEgApdf-B-RiypStV6YZte0Ujwry6W4qKcbndawC7h9-NykvJAhUe8uIwOdlIKKOoktd7WB0DRwtdgDhRR9PiYC/s320/20170115_140305.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The guys had to use the tractor to get the branches out of the pond. They did this on day two when we were kind of in between systems!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS7wH33CH2sDk6jhZTt3hPD3Ytv4OS_lV-LEC_4cn8lFldSd7Vzm62WDB8SZyIkWicho3vLD9kTZpdW-X_nuNv-KM15taY8LO9Iu6hawYWex2Cy2Z4E8cOuZaedh_5NLoSnxMSAIi39mXX/s1600/20170115_141952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS7wH33CH2sDk6jhZTt3hPD3Ytv4OS_lV-LEC_4cn8lFldSd7Vzm62WDB8SZyIkWicho3vLD9kTZpdW-X_nuNv-KM15taY8LO9Iu6hawYWex2Cy2Z4E8cOuZaedh_5NLoSnxMSAIi39mXX/s320/20170115_141952.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was BEAUTIFUL. .</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But look how thick that stuff is on the lilac bushes!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVJIM5TXb0PCBhpGvmCWKW7gNqgdcqfyZpWAm527X4FxO0RiNG0HI4NDRQp3myYEmtviypKymIlbRpP3nO6-RZ-q8GqVBekNvikXgCfY4EQOxalQTK2FG11Bn2OjMMT_s_ZfMYGQz0Buaf/s1600/20170115_142054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVJIM5TXb0PCBhpGvmCWKW7gNqgdcqfyZpWAm527X4FxO0RiNG0HI4NDRQp3myYEmtviypKymIlbRpP3nO6-RZ-q8GqVBekNvikXgCfY4EQOxalQTK2FG11Bn2OjMMT_s_ZfMYGQz0Buaf/s320/20170115_142054.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It took us a lot of days to clean up. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In fact, we still aren't done yet-but the majority of it is cleared out into big piles, waiting for a match when the time is right!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuLVF3xrYGr4l7kCNAlKzT8U9KFOfBC6e_TJXClFYnwPdDQzltLdCgu8aA0QbbSJ8MutiJ4nYbQEDw6YfuL9aXbweUL4Ql-K73aflUjp3RP98usjy89sSTMkP9jiDO55FOcTDN2c8Vb9D6/s1600/20170115_142144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuLVF3xrYGr4l7kCNAlKzT8U9KFOfBC6e_TJXClFYnwPdDQzltLdCgu8aA0QbbSJ8MutiJ4nYbQEDw6YfuL9aXbweUL4Ql-K73aflUjp3RP98usjy89sSTMkP9jiDO55FOcTDN2c8Vb9D6/s320/20170115_142144.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Jeremy ended up taking down a lot of the old, ugly elms. .which I was sad about. I am still fighting for the few that are left. I want them mainly for the bird habitat until our younger trees get bigger! It is a battle of the wills!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEe7QTvW20NZl8-cxAnrqqWDds1hILJU7iEqziYaIAEno2VFBDX5zU6f4lVpuRt9cNm4QdBxeEyfEXlch6ukbM2sHXVblhcUFDtvjJQ-aC7zVYHe8-DYyY1dWwhGC2rXiTXXTqqUtBfImO/s1600/20170115_093245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEe7QTvW20NZl8-cxAnrqqWDds1hILJU7iEqziYaIAEno2VFBDX5zU6f4lVpuRt9cNm4QdBxeEyfEXlch6ukbM2sHXVblhcUFDtvjJQ-aC7zVYHe8-DYyY1dWwhGC2rXiTXXTqqUtBfImO/s320/20170115_093245.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was a little unnerving to stand in the house, listening to the CRACK-CRASH cycle all around. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzrjtn-bYg8aNDrL72qq5jDmzbPpJ_7wQEJVzMrctgxQ7rIZMIlGOSPwwEMYp6tixW781i7fltJchoLBLmD_-6645T76Av1Kcrt909dnlZIJhWebAGpPs3lvL6qUwQQ5QiKtnB8l11YkEL/s1600/20170115_142510.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzrjtn-bYg8aNDrL72qq5jDmzbPpJ_7wQEJVzMrctgxQ7rIZMIlGOSPwwEMYp6tixW781i7fltJchoLBLmD_-6645T76Av1Kcrt909dnlZIJhWebAGpPs3lvL6qUwQQ5QiKtnB8l11YkEL/s320/20170115_142510.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But it was the quietest, still air in between the crashing. The ice-blanketed world made the atmosphere seem unusual!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO1r_4GEsXCOnm5FPb3aKrsBfaCW2yXF7GUizRfwNlaKZIcib0kMU6QzMhummhPHdw4LtrUY-ubdj-n32YunUEpEn55sOvtdhq8411c7PFMWXXPTQuXSt-tnjVkdSoV1S6HY_K5vhleIq4/s1600/20170115_142539.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO1r_4GEsXCOnm5FPb3aKrsBfaCW2yXF7GUizRfwNlaKZIcib0kMU6QzMhummhPHdw4LtrUY-ubdj-n32YunUEpEn55sOvtdhq8411c7PFMWXXPTQuXSt-tnjVkdSoV1S6HY_K5vhleIq4/s320/20170115_142539.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
CRAZY!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfNjcylWbsTbrS-AHuhkQngOMH9jJUmdDfdTUb27Fb2y0y4L4tHnZGyZPyuVRsNlRLhWwxO6Ipx3jQOHaorZuJkO1GxZzLZl69PRitx9L_a-dzsgWj_ZugUEo053kEQhyphenhyphenRKg7Og3eesP6B/s1600/20170211_174230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfNjcylWbsTbrS-AHuhkQngOMH9jJUmdDfdTUb27Fb2y0y4L4tHnZGyZPyuVRsNlRLhWwxO6Ipx3jQOHaorZuJkO1GxZzLZl69PRitx9L_a-dzsgWj_ZugUEo053kEQhyphenhyphenRKg7Og3eesP6B/s320/20170211_174230.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Fast forward into mid February!!</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Two days above 80 degrees!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw2yWZUDkI7bYGxQw4hrCXXAuY5CtB9nst1gHu50pUQ7IjIfogc4dg644ookkp5KBYAU4aRc1Cfw-o3FbniKlV2Y_Afrmrdn7JEUgFE2Y15DVMSNrWyUg5xU-z055lQUDx4ZfHvcao3h6Z/s1600/20170211_163617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw2yWZUDkI7bYGxQw4hrCXXAuY5CtB9nst1gHu50pUQ7IjIfogc4dg644ookkp5KBYAU4aRc1Cfw-o3FbniKlV2Y_Afrmrdn7JEUgFE2Y15DVMSNrWyUg5xU-z055lQUDx4ZfHvcao3h6Z/s320/20170211_163617.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The boys got a very old fishing boat a few weeks ago. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIzEPeQdFbJ-VBzsKosR5Z8tjKk3ecLK5JznfckW7HaN53OUy_Xl1_y9U1WloH-OR_wpl21vgIrW0b61Fy3Kn_K5Jut8Hks2XD_Nf0r4lzehmieBybMeWdOqDupcb6nd-POg2AsgtDZU0g/s1600/20170211_164351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIzEPeQdFbJ-VBzsKosR5Z8tjKk3ecLK5JznfckW7HaN53OUy_Xl1_y9U1WloH-OR_wpl21vgIrW0b61Fy3Kn_K5Jut8Hks2XD_Nf0r4lzehmieBybMeWdOqDupcb6nd-POg2AsgtDZU0g/s320/20170211_164351.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And spent countless hours cleaning it all up and fixing the brokenness.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Jy3C8IxIMehJy4Z4bQGhXfdoVKZQXYL4H0gZ8aVnBGamCaTmCBqsC3SkRBYh_jgag3dkRtgoPh4_NZhx2jD1S8QCRgEVbU_74RWJTMEh4uvWovdTWQSJPEHp8TuOMrTg1tuZbxRoARzw/s1600/20170211_163520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Jy3C8IxIMehJy4Z4bQGhXfdoVKZQXYL4H0gZ8aVnBGamCaTmCBqsC3SkRBYh_jgag3dkRtgoPh4_NZhx2jD1S8QCRgEVbU_74RWJTMEh4uvWovdTWQSJPEHp8TuOMrTg1tuZbxRoARzw/s320/20170211_163520.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sunday it was ready for it's maiden voyage. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was a gorgeous afternoon with zero wind. .And while we didn't catch a thing. .It was great just to relax and soak up some fresh air and sunshine and DREAM about summer!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8b_qLZLILFS_Qj6asZ1j43sLExYqwdXuDpv2B_CMNkIvLitXs5vBKECK7VgKOjedoT92z_Nk9Wd6smSRj8O95LL1iPb9fR78NJ4qEHf4V4Q5IW2GniFGWvkpP9VAs7bHx5MWgwbnKiklA/s1600/20170211_173641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8b_qLZLILFS_Qj6asZ1j43sLExYqwdXuDpv2B_CMNkIvLitXs5vBKECK7VgKOjedoT92z_Nk9Wd6smSRj8O95LL1iPb9fR78NJ4qEHf4V4Q5IW2GniFGWvkpP9VAs7bHx5MWgwbnKiklA/s320/20170211_173641.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I do have a few pictures uploaded to the blog already. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Just waiting on a few minutes to spare so I can tell you what everyone has been up to!!</div>
Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-40547659868986316072016-09-10T13:06:00.001-05:002016-09-10T13:06:45.679-05:00Digging me some Daylilies<div style="text-align: center;">
So those of you who showed up today for a nice family update are out of luck for now. .<br />
Though I have plenty of new photos and news to share. .<br />
<br />
This post will be boring for most of you. .<br />
I had ordered a reblooming daylily collection on sale a few months back. .<br />
And this week I received the box in the mail. .<br />
<br />
I have decided that, while daylilies don't hold up well in a bouquet. .they are stunning in my garden. .And I LOVE them!! I knew that I would never remember their names when they started to bloom. .<br />
So I google imaged photos for the varieties I planted. .and then added them with the name and location of where I planted them.<br />Lucky for us. .<br />
We got a nice shower last night and cool temperatures today to get them adapted in well!!<br />
<br />
So here goes!<br />
The first four went into the south flower bed. .well. .it's a bed. .mulched in. .but it doesn't actually have ANY flowers growing there. .<br />
Hopefully the addition of the new daylily plants will fix that!! And make a stunning little border in the spot I planted them at.<br />
<br />
Starting at the east side of the bed and moving to the west I planted one tuber of each of the following daylilies. .<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimJCiFkBXnF0A8NuO8lAtSQJ2minLZcI7mNzZge0eWgaQB4esgnZ27o1PRubPR7gcyjANVfCbrQZc03E8wBLKwwfg12ITD4Qm0t9KcSKhD2QmfBExTjeQm06KiwLhgbbSFwKYZhVWZot3n/s1600/elegant+explosion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimJCiFkBXnF0A8NuO8lAtSQJ2minLZcI7mNzZge0eWgaQB4esgnZ27o1PRubPR7gcyjANVfCbrQZc03E8wBLKwwfg12ITD4Qm0t9KcSKhD2QmfBExTjeQm06KiwLhgbbSFwKYZhVWZot3n/s320/elegant+explosion.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Eggplant Explosion<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU9V0nVO58UGo6jooPz_0Pc8N41_EOASVB-uFUxUG_XlQ_rxgT7uxOSuOSJRKSu1PqPlmi8Vnxgy0Qz1yH81pswJoTM16M6hTaOimuMNSnyfuThqKZt1NJZ_Exaecp2EPpbTZFzY2ckfuj/s1600/Passion-For-Red-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU9V0nVO58UGo6jooPz_0Pc8N41_EOASVB-uFUxUG_XlQ_rxgT7uxOSuOSJRKSu1PqPlmi8Vnxgy0Qz1yH81pswJoTM16M6hTaOimuMNSnyfuThqKZt1NJZ_Exaecp2EPpbTZFzY2ckfuj/s320/Passion-For-Red-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Passion for Red<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilGV2AjGE_UkyqUPLieqQW39uyPVp3r3-bL0JKZrYVKOow5vDhhrelVlGxBM6ldnb5I5AZ-S6unZnnyhpkkl3avaAsdKTenCyxhE6E70GBS2WYi88I7_yfJLZGzjDraJCv4MwgSRnvH_DV/s1600/blackthorne.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilGV2AjGE_UkyqUPLieqQW39uyPVp3r3-bL0JKZrYVKOow5vDhhrelVlGxBM6ldnb5I5AZ-S6unZnnyhpkkl3avaAsdKTenCyxhE6E70GBS2WYi88I7_yfJLZGzjDraJCv4MwgSRnvH_DV/s320/blackthorne.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Blackthorn<br />
and finally. .<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimzJifaKHjR_KGiyrhDluV9uIXbbQaDrr5wjsPTWbJoJLZBbxNmv-wdf42bTFGCSreysXeJd6bmfSR3iSZx1XXeMJPjNAfZvo0azZ2hSSJV-9GRKh6vGi_Lzh7i3UyojAyi9Y-3aG0G-lx/s1600/mighty+chestnut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimzJifaKHjR_KGiyrhDluV9uIXbbQaDrr5wjsPTWbJoJLZBbxNmv-wdf42bTFGCSreysXeJd6bmfSR3iSZx1XXeMJPjNAfZvo0azZ2hSSJV-9GRKh6vGi_Lzh7i3UyojAyi9Y-3aG0G-lx/s1600/mighty+chestnut.jpg" /></a></div>
Mighty Chestnut!<br />
<br />
The last four were planted into the Memory Garden. .<br />
nearest to the south sidewalk is<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6aIkMpd7C9UN4inumXvXvFGH89dnQlBKO1oZgR1mn7t8Zs8INEuh8dz72yzKifvMKB7OSoIsy8ksQ7OMBmHCrYTQrF7K0awS0gOkAnybOzXAuw3oA4hyphenhyphenQ1QwQ5Xj7rSOwqPsgfueo7lL8/s1600/daring-deception-daylily.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6aIkMpd7C9UN4inumXvXvFGH89dnQlBKO1oZgR1mn7t8Zs8INEuh8dz72yzKifvMKB7OSoIsy8ksQ7OMBmHCrYTQrF7K0awS0gOkAnybOzXAuw3oA4hyphenhyphenQ1QwQ5Xj7rSOwqPsgfueo7lL8/s320/daring-deception-daylily.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Daring Deception. .<br />
And a few feet to the north is<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvTghY-v97ARKp8043kwYQnqY_NSU3YCh_9Z_pjPFfnUi5Q0iIRgoZAF2JQfVLQtkaI07pK2ZIQMGOJOUIdHhky57EbF7px7xqcmbBjE8XTvyHpGSH4O5S6nBcR_1SNoBtaNXxmIFjDFKb/s1600/exotic+candy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvTghY-v97ARKp8043kwYQnqY_NSU3YCh_9Z_pjPFfnUi5Q0iIRgoZAF2JQfVLQtkaI07pK2ZIQMGOJOUIdHhky57EbF7px7xqcmbBjE8XTvyHpGSH4O5S6nBcR_1SNoBtaNXxmIFjDFKb/s1600/exotic+candy.jpg" /></a></div>
Exotic Candy<br />
Then about 10 feet to the north of that near my little rock bench. .<br />
<br />
On the south side of the rock bench is<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2kTUnmPpk4yx1C_N3-eilGHqoR36GRmMi9fc-oHqiok2JBGd1SRF7skd3yyHxnjzPEkJGqg_8-phSibQV0eOVs2x30OeoJAaw0BhKm95Iuy1xkFFvdOCyhpURPnUKL-1Pw-g1f0zpzPvA/s1600/Midnight-Raider.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2kTUnmPpk4yx1C_N3-eilGHqoR36GRmMi9fc-oHqiok2JBGd1SRF7skd3yyHxnjzPEkJGqg_8-phSibQV0eOVs2x30OeoJAaw0BhKm95Iuy1xkFFvdOCyhpURPnUKL-1Pw-g1f0zpzPvA/s320/Midnight-Raider.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
midnight raider daylily<br />
and on the north side is<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7G3kVLPgOlW3oXXqmb-5bM5cH4kwGLxW594dqk38VsE7gJhYo-lDNEcYgpon-w8x2aZmbx-NpKm_UAy3I10R-QSdOVjK2y_7pJN2gk2-UsCJYjlkHkmN8RWLnORN5IdX09BAjyli4n_Va/s1600/Daylily-Ruffled-Pastel-Chee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7G3kVLPgOlW3oXXqmb-5bM5cH4kwGLxW594dqk38VsE7gJhYo-lDNEcYgpon-w8x2aZmbx-NpKm_UAy3I10R-QSdOVjK2y_7pJN2gk2-UsCJYjlkHkmN8RWLnORN5IdX09BAjyli4n_Va/s1600/Daylily-Ruffled-Pastel-Chee.jpg" /></a></div>
Ruffled pastel cheers. .<br />
<br />
These last four will also be readily visible as we walk the sidewalks. .<br />
Hope my flowers are as pretty as the ones I found online!!<br />
<br />
We are enjoying a beautiful fall-like day here. .<br />
Hope you are too!</div>
Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-45371215446790039202016-08-23T11:22:00.000-05:002016-08-23T11:22:26.466-05:00Dog Days of Summer. .<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXlx-zvrGwlHPKpXh6wxdGa2oHM5neRaF8N0nHDargpaO51zLJ1mgoibzoIxcZpsBLj76lwnc82uz3yozR4oTWYK395s-Pk_7ViK-E-gBzIuu8Hsqu7V6H3ohLoaA2r5VXWLGDqCNf-5Cn/s1600/IMG_6422.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXlx-zvrGwlHPKpXh6wxdGa2oHM5neRaF8N0nHDargpaO51zLJ1mgoibzoIxcZpsBLj76lwnc82uz3yozR4oTWYK395s-Pk_7ViK-E-gBzIuu8Hsqu7V6H3ohLoaA2r5VXWLGDqCNf-5Cn/s320/IMG_6422.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My goodness. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Time has flown!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I intended to be posting more regularly. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
but the summer just flew by. .And I guess I spent more time living it than writing about it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Let me run down where we are in our lives. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-psluhIVOkG57mBHfJnwQWkG24FWTdrsaL4ltBRK_tn71G2_UTsfHutDGO7N87Z2smIA6H1DdQdBfJj2-00UWn-GKkBQtZSZ5uue7G40cHp3A6Kdwbrk-C6ncKKeYvnwcH0VId3I0GcCG/s1600/IMG_6432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-psluhIVOkG57mBHfJnwQWkG24FWTdrsaL4ltBRK_tn71G2_UTsfHutDGO7N87Z2smIA6H1DdQdBfJj2-00UWn-GKkBQtZSZ5uue7G40cHp3A6Kdwbrk-C6ncKKeYvnwcH0VId3I0GcCG/s320/IMG_6432.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These two have flown the coop. .Tristan won't be back to live again. .Only to visit. Wow! He finished his carpentry classes in May. .worked all summer for our local contractor. .even getting to do some projects on his own. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfsmkrCzqJabQ5QRU6HsX910ocldB2QmfagC-TdeWheG9hdDQhEtMHRcktTl3HPhrit0BBpqaO8bnix2k0Q75zPZ7WzN6PQDAZTahdiy20-sezWXJGK1DXGfMJlko4gMHZnqFclpxJJqJc/s1600/IMG_6495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfsmkrCzqJabQ5QRU6HsX910ocldB2QmfagC-TdeWheG9hdDQhEtMHRcktTl3HPhrit0BBpqaO8bnix2k0Q75zPZ7WzN6PQDAZTahdiy20-sezWXJGK1DXGfMJlko4gMHZnqFclpxJJqJc/s320/IMG_6495.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He has moved now to Topeka where he is focusing on learning cabinetry and millwork. I did get some use out of him replacing some yucky doors and trim in my laundry room. .and I am loving that. .a nice reminder of him since he is gone. He called yesterday and told me he got a part time job at Lowes. That will help him out a lot--both giving him something to keep him out of trouble. .and helping him pay for his apartment expenses. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ZTfvJru4UsuwpFzlpUuQJw3YVpMp2yW2OcEZKgtyFO365SxAqsp5CPjKtV5Uprem2Ekq9Rq2nDNVHknkkDinbmfKYbfLvLlhPjBZy8RZUKdEduF09eYqE7ZegC-fsHvTf8qo365AMsZf/s1600/IMG_6523.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ZTfvJru4UsuwpFzlpUuQJw3YVpMp2yW2OcEZKgtyFO365SxAqsp5CPjKtV5Uprem2Ekq9Rq2nDNVHknkkDinbmfKYbfLvLlhPjBZy8RZUKdEduF09eYqE7ZegC-fsHvTf8qo365AMsZf/s320/IMG_6523.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This guy will also not likely be coming back to live either. He intended to study diesel mechanics for 2 years in Topeka. .but over the summer, they revamped their courses and program, and so he will learn most of what he needs to know in a year. At which point. .he too, will be ready to get a job and be his own person! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv4Eo2vUW743y9Ywf5Q1BOdpKeSw2AnyzSR2X4L6a-23FxgKkGtXd2snQArR6SJZlHzjOib_aYmOa_eNzUXcpAenb3yGu7PmkSQdSPN3jRI6qCx7lRty29ExTCKqa3Ukv179C_xNP0-oMH/s1600/IMG_6433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv4Eo2vUW743y9Ywf5Q1BOdpKeSw2AnyzSR2X4L6a-23FxgKkGtXd2snQArR6SJZlHzjOib_aYmOa_eNzUXcpAenb3yGu7PmkSQdSPN3jRI6qCx7lRty29ExTCKqa3Ukv179C_xNP0-oMH/s320/IMG_6433.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He and Tristan are living in the same apartment with another buddy, and that will make the whole transition from high school to college easier. He is loving the classes, even after a week. .and is also putting out applications for a part time job. Seems, as they have talked, that there is no shortage of part time opportunities available. .so that is great!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBmVNpp_I89D_kYtms89-tBPm535V21lr2-YOL6h7qXVOZYsNtKgizV7g7e7dX_GCl5RmgYtwkFAl7YVeA-EQoUCpv0QDco1UybXNphOnp0LKzIl2gAONkFQcNHsjTdSs723HF_G0pjEng/s1600/IMG_6511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBmVNpp_I89D_kYtms89-tBPm535V21lr2-YOL6h7qXVOZYsNtKgizV7g7e7dX_GCl5RmgYtwkFAl7YVeA-EQoUCpv0QDco1UybXNphOnp0LKzIl2gAONkFQcNHsjTdSs723HF_G0pjEng/s320/IMG_6511.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This past weekend. .we cleaned out the rest of Grant's basement abode. .repaired and repainted the walls and shampooed the carpet before we let Devin move down there. It is much cooler than their upstairs bedroom. .so he was excited. It also made the loss of the oldest two a little more acute though for this mama! 18 years goes incredibly fast!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7TUZOT4-zh6KHVyTvqdQCZbEpyJPX2qr3NYMczVv1f3cXXFwsSeY0u5j9PChyphenhyphenWeenlYrj_YYni_ZFJTlFg_f1tXA5kbltyzvdZXRZQQWgeHFVOsoqjZU0vLqDKaVWnd98o-HnA1qMN0pG/s1600/IMG_6436.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7TUZOT4-zh6KHVyTvqdQCZbEpyJPX2qr3NYMczVv1f3cXXFwsSeY0u5j9PChyphenhyphenWeenlYrj_YYni_ZFJTlFg_f1tXA5kbltyzvdZXRZQQWgeHFVOsoqjZU0vLqDKaVWnd98o-HnA1qMN0pG/s320/IMG_6436.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can see that we made it to the lake again.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm-smlcT-c2KlRcSvp6pcD8OLYfx2R7GRmD5x0lI_Fo2Ltoj0kMOw8Qihto0cV2wOD6PC4tntJYiqSKutNkvTLE9_L0aizuQiPlYbdSTX6SLfMArLrASVmqypgjPYLf3LJNSq1JYYGVrTX/s1600/IMG_6453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm-smlcT-c2KlRcSvp6pcD8OLYfx2R7GRmD5x0lI_Fo2Ltoj0kMOw8Qihto0cV2wOD6PC4tntJYiqSKutNkvTLE9_L0aizuQiPlYbdSTX6SLfMArLrASVmqypgjPYLf3LJNSq1JYYGVrTX/s320/IMG_6453.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We weren't going to go at all this summer. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But WHO can pass up amazing opportunities like this one??</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Skiing at sunset? Unbeatable!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We did have a wonderful long weekend away to relax and play before everyone had to get back to reality and to our schedules!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGPsLV5QJHe1LGpmfDjJepNkaoMshyphenhypheniL3WDzr4glvcDmvA7pHraDmeyr7YHjupj7DLeVequj3hRACwooWa8U_GdI5GWKoSk2p5Fwb-tKdZi-4nvoDu2qmYYG7V6PulclPELkZ1ZXu8tR4F/s1600/IMG_6564.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGPsLV5QJHe1LGpmfDjJepNkaoMshyphenhypheniL3WDzr4glvcDmvA7pHraDmeyr7YHjupj7DLeVequj3hRACwooWa8U_GdI5GWKoSk2p5Fwb-tKdZi-4nvoDu2qmYYG7V6PulclPELkZ1ZXu8tR4F/s320/IMG_6564.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This guy is trying to adjust to being the big man on campus now!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Not only is he the biggest kid at our house. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He has officially started 8th grade!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaBFi31apyP8zXco4NX1iIbCPNRuXqbZuOOCbaB5Tu3hA40VBbknvzXZ6Fl0u_qxWrsqA0gYiyxcB9oKpB6RfvsFXPR6yOxffEM2tsJ4yhkCV3zsOChkEgRH0lNbCUNflwlD1NBgmtfbbZ/s1600/IMG_6413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaBFi31apyP8zXco4NX1iIbCPNRuXqbZuOOCbaB5Tu3hA40VBbknvzXZ6Fl0u_qxWrsqA0gYiyxcB9oKpB6RfvsFXPR6yOxffEM2tsJ4yhkCV3zsOChkEgRH0lNbCUNflwlD1NBgmtfbbZ/s320/IMG_6413.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He had a super busy summer working for his dad. .mowing granddad's lawn. .a week of church camp. .and a week of a community oriented mission trip service work right here in our county. Oh. .and some pool time in between! He has started football. .and is committed to working his hiney off to earn a position on his team. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgt55xvk1DsF4TgPl045YydGQJ4lcctrFveI6vE_nh6ELp8H9XAB2XtDrdxyc4p8UvdG_SSXFCA-QMQa6P2qnyWiZcF-h5ug4u1rCBMjG1_8w5Fwpd-8yiK8sdFYOopojygWbT9_IrDlLr/s1600/IMG_6527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgt55xvk1DsF4TgPl045YydGQJ4lcctrFveI6vE_nh6ELp8H9XAB2XtDrdxyc4p8UvdG_SSXFCA-QMQa6P2qnyWiZcF-h5ug4u1rCBMjG1_8w5Fwpd-8yiK8sdFYOopojygWbT9_IrDlLr/s320/IMG_6527.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He got 2nd place in his cooking division at the fair and earned the opportunity to sell his amazing German Chocolate layer cake at the premium auction! He and Cami will continue with 4-H this year. .and I will admit great fulfillment in graduating from helping with 4 record books--to only 2 record books!! And the little girl already seems much more patient to write and take care of business than any of her brothers ever were!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1GGZi-z5NTlp6ZJE_UcsfGRH7iP3AWaUGtTkGLneRC6xkIqBo4ZpqUZANKdpFyjp78qfwcDZ1J8LUzkOtrAJ19NqoT9ITsHbLFrYAT8ge1fVKJfP6qEiM5Oph7i-eGHnOrkeAhheOJUr8/s1600/IMG_6569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1GGZi-z5NTlp6ZJE_UcsfGRH7iP3AWaUGtTkGLneRC6xkIqBo4ZpqUZANKdpFyjp78qfwcDZ1J8LUzkOtrAJ19NqoT9ITsHbLFrYAT8ge1fVKJfP6qEiM5Oph7i-eGHnOrkeAhheOJUr8/s320/IMG_6569.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Speaking of little girls. .This one is growing up fast!! She is in 3rd grade. .She is quite social-and on a brother/sister status with nearly every lifeguard at the pool. She is becoming really helpful around the house. .and has had to step up her game since her older brothers left. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqr37ap2pwIM7TtUpQSL1AOptURj1KaO4p8zHxYZducMhAFfXLGSIW-NcLBqrJtz_Xyn4z3m2X4cSLcHygbpidRzb4T8HC3A6d8_PcdOUyrkZoOMpGXlZaLXEKrocLoVpSohKHMV3x6kwf/s1600/IMG_6573.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqr37ap2pwIM7TtUpQSL1AOptURj1KaO4p8zHxYZducMhAFfXLGSIW-NcLBqrJtz_Xyn4z3m2X4cSLcHygbpidRzb4T8HC3A6d8_PcdOUyrkZoOMpGXlZaLXEKrocLoVpSohKHMV3x6kwf/s320/IMG_6573.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These two are attempting to learn new skills to help our church with worship music. Cami is still trying to learn the guitar--we have been lazy about it. .but she has new motivation now to try some more! Devin is learning how to play a Cahon--a wooden box with snare drum stuff on the inside. We saw it used during the mission week here. .and fell in love with the sound and potential!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigkbmRf3vdbzqB_uLM6r-7zjt5V0dclGdAJEWVE_fbnH64rYl88vb7idYigFvwLCoYREQbK_L2QCx1WE_T1dyoomhw1shb1-UmgMrmkthcUalJgGBp6M3XnV6L2ReR6FINTaDkxS2tFguG/s1600/IMG_6444.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigkbmRf3vdbzqB_uLM6r-7zjt5V0dclGdAJEWVE_fbnH64rYl88vb7idYigFvwLCoYREQbK_L2QCx1WE_T1dyoomhw1shb1-UmgMrmkthcUalJgGBp6M3XnV6L2ReR6FINTaDkxS2tFguG/s320/IMG_6444.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So then, that just leaves us!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
What an adjustment!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Granny took the kids to a rodeo last weekend. .</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And we enjoyed supper out and a trip to the movie to watch Jason Bourne. .</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We can still have a good time with just the two of us. .so that is in our favor :-)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisN_6Z0RDYnaod0WeAzcCIOMu7CGTCKUzj5R8acoN4C6EnvU8pGsjPr6WRqWCChtJCvxZdsDJZrtYM8Pa-YoyDtrvcLOo3TQnDjmXwCK-8yzBXeCH41QWsmo5ih2SsA7J6L4crn5XcifQm/s1600/IMG_6480.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisN_6Z0RDYnaod0WeAzcCIOMu7CGTCKUzj5R8acoN4C6EnvU8pGsjPr6WRqWCChtJCvxZdsDJZrtYM8Pa-YoyDtrvcLOo3TQnDjmXwCK-8yzBXeCH41QWsmo5ih2SsA7J6L4crn5XcifQm/s320/IMG_6480.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He's been helping me with a lot of honey-do's lately. .but we are about to get them all caught up. </div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
His boat driver left. .but Devin is learning to drive it--however, since the kids have been in school, it just leaves him hot and bothered. After 18 years in that hot metal shop--he finally consigned to getting a huge water cooler which drops the temperature about 20 degrees. .so it is really helping on those 100 degree days!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkQbjWENoioTz2IeMwOtHQJSZi1J5Yc8OdzV7owgEZsSwu2QRlY8LTflkp3Ikb7KltAva82Pp1sANZnsf42n8DAWo9KMxkS_JazFtVaCcvxl2niVWHO4LaMwZgt-JtZ81r8ECvGLJTLmCO/s1600/IMG_6519.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkQbjWENoioTz2IeMwOtHQJSZi1J5Yc8OdzV7owgEZsSwu2QRlY8LTflkp3Ikb7KltAva82Pp1sANZnsf42n8DAWo9KMxkS_JazFtVaCcvxl2niVWHO4LaMwZgt-JtZ81r8ECvGLJTLmCO/s320/IMG_6519.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And his temperament improves too!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjefd0EoQ9-X3k-Ozd0xZjIC37OuL_I-jOT40ixLgG_LKFWsZrrtnwuwCqoOMatiDF1lX3KPZZzHv4dmyudAzGSqDS0Jh0epkSq65reQ51trJzWQi4CjrHeO7nQxfYSCKMNXqIZxPfJkI9V/s1600/IMG_6552.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjefd0EoQ9-X3k-Ozd0xZjIC37OuL_I-jOT40ixLgG_LKFWsZrrtnwuwCqoOMatiDF1lX3KPZZzHv4dmyudAzGSqDS0Jh0epkSq65reQ51trJzWQi4CjrHeO7nQxfYSCKMNXqIZxPfJkI9V/s320/IMG_6552.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Still work for me. .plus youth group, Sunday School and our online women's bible study. I was hopeful that moving another kid out this year would be easier than last year. .but it wasn't. I just knew what to expect. .and so did Jeremy!! (Last year he thought I was going C-R-A-Z-Y!) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9RGNBnMZsSYIZhVpBrKwmVljLe8eBO31po9htmwGyKgYCFf_e7MI3Tt6zUrXVYqfkwCWsbbA_DyXfqA72Y8Yydq_2e0BTf5oqFgvHEhAIFIJJNzDa2w0DCJ2ykriN37RrUt8MomUs2F34/s1600/20160818_154303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9RGNBnMZsSYIZhVpBrKwmVljLe8eBO31po9htmwGyKgYCFf_e7MI3Tt6zUrXVYqfkwCWsbbA_DyXfqA72Y8Yydq_2e0BTf5oqFgvHEhAIFIJJNzDa2w0DCJ2ykriN37RrUt8MomUs2F34/s320/20160818_154303.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
BUT. .one of the perks of growing up. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Is that I graduated to this AWESOME and sporty little mustang to drive to work.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The first time that Cami rode in it with me, she looked in the back seat and said "Mom, I don't think I can fit back there." I just smiled and said "Exactly!" </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtsl3-rEI4XhQkzXvDhhwgFwfO2s3XrZljLUDbKRMjBd1qmoL0hZKAz_2ygee7d5s4UjdHJhLS7RNqCQpZDK7iwKnVa82t2L3C8CgmCvU4j9-_Yo2klbLmR4-TuLaS1XtECgEbS941wk53/s1600/IMG_6457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtsl3-rEI4XhQkzXvDhhwgFwfO2s3XrZljLUDbKRMjBd1qmoL0hZKAz_2ygee7d5s4UjdHJhLS7RNqCQpZDK7iwKnVa82t2L3C8CgmCvU4j9-_Yo2klbLmR4-TuLaS1XtECgEbS941wk53/s320/IMG_6457.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Mid life crisis??<br />Maybe!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thanks for stopping by!</div>
Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-76073205130937418602016-07-09T20:49:00.000-05:002016-07-09T20:49:13.717-05:00Garden Tour. .<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hello!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've stayed away longer than I expected!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I took a few pictures a couple weeks back. .but never had time to post them. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So here ya go. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Beware--heavy on photos this time!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We have had so much rain and cooler temperatures than we have for quite a while. .that the vegetation is looking great!! And I wanted to document it. .oh and share it with you all too!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaMPYpiiG7yluj6kPAGkpRrb8Bg8OulM4N1ogJgOZ6qekhljUQKWG7nKynh5MyKLi52kKzR895wXNhuL8YtsBwASgqAVUEEdC6GpIumO4Lci8VNPl1SFOk4VjMdXoulhLzye2EkWaqWgfL/s1600/IMG_6311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaMPYpiiG7yluj6kPAGkpRrb8Bg8OulM4N1ogJgOZ6qekhljUQKWG7nKynh5MyKLi52kKzR895wXNhuL8YtsBwASgqAVUEEdC6GpIumO4Lci8VNPl1SFOk4VjMdXoulhLzye2EkWaqWgfL/s320/IMG_6311.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is the cucumber jungle! I have picked a few small picklers and one large cucumber today! The dill is at the lower center of the photo. At the back of this garden is the pepper plants and beets! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMezHCSlqA_K4m2JK4LInIioNHfAFPH5rR3zmdWzskc-Dq3pdi6eEistd-qKRx-DhB7Ap8IYqHQNQc-CbTusjAhIpStr6i8LeBf8DuFJKLATB8YjqHOQpfHx6CQxoiwV4Mvfv7jtqSeGn7/s1600/IMG_6312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMezHCSlqA_K4m2JK4LInIioNHfAFPH5rR3zmdWzskc-Dq3pdi6eEistd-qKRx-DhB7Ap8IYqHQNQc-CbTusjAhIpStr6i8LeBf8DuFJKLATB8YjqHOQpfHx6CQxoiwV4Mvfv7jtqSeGn7/s320/IMG_6312.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is my blackberry bush! WOW!! We have picked handfuls and handfuls!! Because the garage we just tore down was mounted on a concrete base wall. .I can now walk behind this bush and the soil level is at my waist. .SO. .after Jeremy builds me a wooden support. .We will train the bush over it and it is already a blessing to be able to pick from the back side of the bush as well as the front!! My $7 plant that I have moved 3 times is finally paying for itself! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3x8eHfdAholtnsbEIx432HWkllnv_qQSgmcL6CHrJZPWmNufJEiTQAF4-J2Jo_g-N6ks9Ynrx_wEYpAqaqhcNdhSmWQQ1HYjHqP3KeMhFeE9IxzhGz4JqQAb9LUMHF_TiZb4j7e2yAvJh/s1600/IMG_6313.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3x8eHfdAholtnsbEIx432HWkllnv_qQSgmcL6CHrJZPWmNufJEiTQAF4-J2Jo_g-N6ks9Ynrx_wEYpAqaqhcNdhSmWQQ1HYjHqP3KeMhFeE9IxzhGz4JqQAb9LUMHF_TiZb4j7e2yAvJh/s320/IMG_6313.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The trumpet vine has also really sported the blooms! We even saw a lone hummer on it last week! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbMLSm5atsKKDUK92tiicAF_SuHc-BYXRxJ96qf8E_OzRGo9kckt6iNLc4qFRDaROlYaZtwOzcdU9gawiO_Lt9Oa7qxN-Rv4iCogKoWT2e6yChkW_IS91fyuOA2cj1nsz-3hiIeLmAIIDH/s1600/IMG_6314.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbMLSm5atsKKDUK92tiicAF_SuHc-BYXRxJ96qf8E_OzRGo9kckt6iNLc4qFRDaROlYaZtwOzcdU9gawiO_Lt9Oa7qxN-Rv4iCogKoWT2e6yChkW_IS91fyuOA2cj1nsz-3hiIeLmAIIDH/s320/IMG_6314.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I dont' know what little succulent this is. but it loves the horse trough it is living in! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLUbwEHA_-ukH768F73T2ZBmeRq2XKhpoxay1tCk3nDbt-duPBUqupkfw-_nNUgSJE_UDjBkSLaO1ZBBzrN1Sxq46FJHz2ANpi8f_XMtW8KZvRSfep65i3qWg7SWsVcImdT9h7BlhbuLuN/s1600/IMG_6315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLUbwEHA_-ukH768F73T2ZBmeRq2XKhpoxay1tCk3nDbt-duPBUqupkfw-_nNUgSJE_UDjBkSLaO1ZBBzrN1Sxq46FJHz2ANpi8f_XMtW8KZvRSfep65i3qWg7SWsVcImdT9h7BlhbuLuN/s320/IMG_6315.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Because of the construction of the new garage, my compost pile got relocated! Jeremy built me a sturdy iron structure to replace my rotting, falling down pallets. .and we put it on the north side of the green house. The watermelon rinds are sure attracting the butterflies!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha1oE_i8v5wh8EaYNqVIWAwU42WA4fQh-nT8HYFjvHbAEA6vH7B4wJeIhpMw7wrzzaBvN5VcTgWGR5HcXEWeQmacK5JMBTpqZyymK28koxY5TsMFvXU2_fGtmGjkrmYry4ZkTPuDQPGatN/s1600/IMG_6317.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha1oE_i8v5wh8EaYNqVIWAwU42WA4fQh-nT8HYFjvHbAEA6vH7B4wJeIhpMw7wrzzaBvN5VcTgWGR5HcXEWeQmacK5JMBTpqZyymK28koxY5TsMFvXU2_fGtmGjkrmYry4ZkTPuDQPGatN/s320/IMG_6317.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Chocolate flower. .new little plant I bought from High Country Gardens to go on this super hot west bed that nothing else will grow in. .He likes it there! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt7wQG8zcwDJo5XDu1IkrypssX7WrLltbATFBp0RYUBRFFsn2iCBfTjcQXYeBCWoazP-iKNaLzSuGOdWvnncZMyqrCRRFueE49qqmw2-Et9_SPg5VDrVOw6_C406MA9g8acIErYfaXoWou/s1600/IMG_6319.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt7wQG8zcwDJo5XDu1IkrypssX7WrLltbATFBp0RYUBRFFsn2iCBfTjcQXYeBCWoazP-iKNaLzSuGOdWvnncZMyqrCRRFueE49qqmw2-Et9_SPg5VDrVOw6_C406MA9g8acIErYfaXoWou/s320/IMG_6319.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I LOVE frogs!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm_55Ji1ruCSx7OJ-ytarH11pJiLfWMNyoAMQdbZ88Lwmp96IDL8r8AQKOo6_T8PyhiNcHQ3MB3QhtCgCQ4A7Au21TJxj3UkRCQrlvfYH-yeYMvH00rDeJ248-Bn29azANfNEiBz3_4rkv/s1600/IMG_6320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm_55Ji1ruCSx7OJ-ytarH11pJiLfWMNyoAMQdbZ88Lwmp96IDL8r8AQKOo6_T8PyhiNcHQ3MB3QhtCgCQ4A7Au21TJxj3UkRCQrlvfYH-yeYMvH00rDeJ248-Bn29azANfNEiBz3_4rkv/s320/IMG_6320.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I don't know how they find us in this desert land. .but there are about 100 that hear jumping into the pond every time I walk by! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDb-q8AICkVY7vRkp7w7BYHB5-jKsYziahMiinb3nd_nD5PxVpjwYOPx0_b0srJo_qJpKfeMXjaaO4QZdvuhwxCm0sb6MNslJz67xd_UjeZiX_brhiCtOwZntr6cWeCSIz4bahJnqpGV6_/s1600/IMG_6321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDb-q8AICkVY7vRkp7w7BYHB5-jKsYziahMiinb3nd_nD5PxVpjwYOPx0_b0srJo_qJpKfeMXjaaO4QZdvuhwxCm0sb6MNslJz67xd_UjeZiX_brhiCtOwZntr6cWeCSIz4bahJnqpGV6_/s320/IMG_6321.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Speaking of the pond. .</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I LOVE this!! Jeremy has really helped out with maintaining it. .</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And the plants are finally looking good!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ8BSkm10OEUuZGy55gOhXOU4uI7qIeb6VzK5yURNsXAOKUV_AzPkYNNyKWIVS1ksJKDHZuxR3isOYvVX2C2loFXeDY86jnA3m1jQgPysyih-QTucX_y4TnWooNKRQqLQLwEVe9HYbluPh/s1600/IMG_6300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ8BSkm10OEUuZGy55gOhXOU4uI7qIeb6VzK5yURNsXAOKUV_AzPkYNNyKWIVS1ksJKDHZuxR3isOYvVX2C2loFXeDY86jnA3m1jQgPysyih-QTucX_y4TnWooNKRQqLQLwEVe9HYbluPh/s320/IMG_6300.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here it is again, peeking up toward the house. You can't see the pond when you drive into our driveway. .and it often surprises people when they walk up the sidewalk to the house. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhgexJ-deWAsGzNzsttbOCILNS35iRUDOyk-kTdRxYDmXLqbdX_1VkjlHwJBFGuwpublaxEjmdebiFpij5yAKDJeZ0NWDigTYL5cm_H9aAhwT-BszRQxMeaDTY8vhXdonIlMKnGIkmlm4n/s1600/IMG_6310.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhgexJ-deWAsGzNzsttbOCILNS35iRUDOyk-kTdRxYDmXLqbdX_1VkjlHwJBFGuwpublaxEjmdebiFpij5yAKDJeZ0NWDigTYL5cm_H9aAhwT-BszRQxMeaDTY8vhXdonIlMKnGIkmlm4n/s320/IMG_6310.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Look at this gorgeous water lily!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwPt_USC-F6IQbKpiaYRcjz8BkRMJRSPoVZtvLPoE_mRHaGkIl9jFJDnk-onrfFqR1QOsHyxSD-TAdSyLC8vySrZkIuMdUk1kXAR-nyWmL68UPW48vHm2wTDqEamx-tHEyu1QRkz3EGl58/s1600/IMG_6322.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwPt_USC-F6IQbKpiaYRcjz8BkRMJRSPoVZtvLPoE_mRHaGkIl9jFJDnk-onrfFqR1QOsHyxSD-TAdSyLC8vySrZkIuMdUk1kXAR-nyWmL68UPW48vHm2wTDqEamx-tHEyu1QRkz3EGl58/s320/IMG_6322.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
4th of July found Tristan and I digging holes for these salvaged rail ties. We put in solar lights to light up the sidewalks. Both up the front walk (see the pond up yonder) as well as outline the memory garden walks. LOVE THEM!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNAwM9grmXuKIlxd8BZ3hrPkhsJ27RA6qTaBH0mUzfWa7sSwXdC_nbR1gWJiS3P_yW4Fip_vqyOYJGxojpHfOcg4-aFQ2OdL9fviopJppBeikZN-5jdvL5hPesBLJ8wcCmqjNqv-GYlP2b/s1600/IMG_6323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNAwM9grmXuKIlxd8BZ3hrPkhsJ27RA6qTaBH0mUzfWa7sSwXdC_nbR1gWJiS3P_yW4Fip_vqyOYJGxojpHfOcg4-aFQ2OdL9fviopJppBeikZN-5jdvL5hPesBLJ8wcCmqjNqv-GYlP2b/s320/IMG_6323.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My favorite daylily. I need to see if I can find a plant label. .but I love the colors! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCX8BITvZz2TKmucEncYv0s3e0COEKYBdHWx0RGuDfZopg76Hg5bDefyC_AhCG3-iRKD5DSmpi603NNFZdhqJ1djFsCqcP7m1kKe65C5hsKp669pSuoUPmF5w-bxBNd1FKorUwarH_Pp2V/s1600/IMG_6324.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCX8BITvZz2TKmucEncYv0s3e0COEKYBdHWx0RGuDfZopg76Hg5bDefyC_AhCG3-iRKD5DSmpi603NNFZdhqJ1djFsCqcP7m1kKe65C5hsKp669pSuoUPmF5w-bxBNd1FKorUwarH_Pp2V/s320/IMG_6324.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My little asparagus plants are doing well. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif9abAIq-dK4epc5_ZtyWuXSA3yhwhlAA9B9piZvjt-Nh3n_p5IVfNSKvT85WNpIEk7NH0k8lJUIEHOGMk2QmY90BQlXW6PvfyWKvcp7hZyBnLXqgRRLsw0yRwfBF4iTPMyrLh2TZpJUfA/s1600/IMG_6325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif9abAIq-dK4epc5_ZtyWuXSA3yhwhlAA9B9piZvjt-Nh3n_p5IVfNSKvT85WNpIEk7NH0k8lJUIEHOGMk2QmY90BQlXW6PvfyWKvcp7hZyBnLXqgRRLsw0yRwfBF4iTPMyrLh2TZpJUfA/s320/IMG_6325.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Pampas grass that will grow up tall so it will block the unsightly views of the dead car lot! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqAv-8WqPajkTTxzkVTADbRKFDHOkD3sdUSg8aG6Uzd93mfqvN8GAHrln9oOsrodmk08cYRmXW3Vjrpke-CN40a4IdUQN_r_WLFXbbCmuapfbSehrSZ_xOZh8j7cu41vLvjGaLKEoTNjD3/s1600/IMG_6326.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqAv-8WqPajkTTxzkVTADbRKFDHOkD3sdUSg8aG6Uzd93mfqvN8GAHrln9oOsrodmk08cYRmXW3Vjrpke-CN40a4IdUQN_r_WLFXbbCmuapfbSehrSZ_xOZh8j7cu41vLvjGaLKEoTNjD3/s320/IMG_6326.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Other thing Tristan, Jeremy and I did on the 4th was trench in a water line UNDER the existing sidewalk so I will no longer have hoses left over the sidewalks! It was an all-about-me day. .and I made over 14000 steps that day. .plus some SUPER sore arm and chest muscles from all those post holes and digging!! I'm not 20 anymore. .I'm not 20 anymore. .I wish I could remember that!! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS_vTq7P8e8P3TJhTfnFLu2ilUnrWQLXsHXt6BShqixTbv00oUXnpDBgJ-CaGnJOaQjdMl0iQGo1h4g-BIkd8G_7ndnXpOxxm_fURr7V6iUXZP6mcJVCGzo-IXPPoy1r40mNtNV5ZClojx/s1600/IMG_6282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS_vTq7P8e8P3TJhTfnFLu2ilUnrWQLXsHXt6BShqixTbv00oUXnpDBgJ-CaGnJOaQjdMl0iQGo1h4g-BIkd8G_7ndnXpOxxm_fURr7V6iUXZP6mcJVCGzo-IXPPoy1r40mNtNV5ZClojx/s320/IMG_6282.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is the memory garden about 2 1/2 weeks ago. .It's filled in more since then! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifAl9_PnHySUxzKJBoZCUFQphE0uR3B0I6D4DFkwlUzrBVGruyIBP-4_7vBkjS6PyyvG7HEz2hPVMthBxQSqRrW-ZzsoQtffi7ln3qVSD1-r0l4j91PCOu6X9ygyG2ujS0zPWWeJBR7fm7/s1600/IMG_6285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifAl9_PnHySUxzKJBoZCUFQphE0uR3B0I6D4DFkwlUzrBVGruyIBP-4_7vBkjS6PyyvG7HEz2hPVMthBxQSqRrW-ZzsoQtffi7ln3qVSD1-r0l4j91PCOu6X9ygyG2ujS0zPWWeJBR7fm7/s320/IMG_6285.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Shasta's, yellow coneflowers, and a salvia in the memory garden. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju80WOyU2yQvgl_EOLvDIQs-_JX0vtlw_k9iS5mCgrKi-IjEqzoL474tJ906LN8P9LECHcKK5LQZEy8TqtQlxuYOkGWwngFMroEuOOqfKjHS-UaLHJIxzwzNEsIqPdtPbc0FZbiaN0zZXv/s1600/IMG_6286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju80WOyU2yQvgl_EOLvDIQs-_JX0vtlw_k9iS5mCgrKi-IjEqzoL474tJ906LN8P9LECHcKK5LQZEy8TqtQlxuYOkGWwngFMroEuOOqfKjHS-UaLHJIxzwzNEsIqPdtPbc0FZbiaN0zZXv/s320/IMG_6286.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You see how quickly those cucumber vines took over the place?? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuLONUvuFSCeIhB0TEhEzHSHDPJIAvZ393B2BNyyn2OcOZzIZipJYIzGbcE2tyqbFcNmm1TnW9G1CqhIadl4sbQjNxDKUNh0kmsKJuR7R58px9kxLo0cujypoHlhR3dGm-fZy4k2ZGtYBD/s1600/IMG_6287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuLONUvuFSCeIhB0TEhEzHSHDPJIAvZ393B2BNyyn2OcOZzIZipJYIzGbcE2tyqbFcNmm1TnW9G1CqhIadl4sbQjNxDKUNh0kmsKJuR7R58px9kxLo0cujypoHlhR3dGm-fZy4k2ZGtYBD/s320/IMG_6287.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I finally had Black Eyed Susans that look like the kind that bloom in Michigan. .right Sue?? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Wy12AQM-Wa9WtLYSaWb6Kz3lyzjhQbmmBesKJtsccnHCW-Rwzf6GplR06tbD8AdKfddGDOnjgPurbRoKJWpjvIAnGBV5Z2Wl50V0ig60yBe2DxReiO9yNI-8WjyKENYkvEMKVk1PVVk2/s1600/IMG_6288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Wy12AQM-Wa9WtLYSaWb6Kz3lyzjhQbmmBesKJtsccnHCW-Rwzf6GplR06tbD8AdKfddGDOnjgPurbRoKJWpjvIAnGBV5Z2Wl50V0ig60yBe2DxReiO9yNI-8WjyKENYkvEMKVk1PVVk2/s320/IMG_6288.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can see how loaded those black berry bushes were! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyc4vxpPEtpEVNrgrBqfsA7u8gqtcq3NMXkllEexB-G8A7rxw73OqFKaJNwdePRePMerZ3ChdcK6P8tAbHhi9sqYzF6hyAWH1M-8Eq8HXfMggQVHgKGN80P2hLQEysVeZ5jmyqwSfmUVyy/s1600/IMG_6289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyc4vxpPEtpEVNrgrBqfsA7u8gqtcq3NMXkllEexB-G8A7rxw73OqFKaJNwdePRePMerZ3ChdcK6P8tAbHhi9sqYzF6hyAWH1M-8Eq8HXfMggQVHgKGN80P2hLQEysVeZ5jmyqwSfmUVyy/s320/IMG_6289.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
East deck with some gorgeous ferns!! Those self watering planters made 100% of the difference! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC7QLCmg3UgmMCqcVHGtB2UG0__EqSGvaEZhx9M9IewAVEa5NniHw4h6uzVJn2YXCJYsUkaPV7EaG-7DEZr9vd7PE8IHqrRzNa3h31IJ3u_vBCRstdLh0osFMXJ1lgoSV86EggvhfK6l6o/s1600/IMG_6290.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC7QLCmg3UgmMCqcVHGtB2UG0__EqSGvaEZhx9M9IewAVEa5NniHw4h6uzVJn2YXCJYsUkaPV7EaG-7DEZr9vd7PE8IHqrRzNa3h31IJ3u_vBCRstdLh0osFMXJ1lgoSV86EggvhfK6l6o/s320/IMG_6290.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
North garden is finally filling in. It doesn't take a great photo yet. .but it is coming right along! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP1E46vLrfH_AdcF1S6IT5NSbGryNHH1sCO2cbT4dlRbrOBKxKvvISXrmb1c0HqNWBGgLCZ8CUfxt70-Q01O3IcrOl4T7jtkorlqbch0kWN0lFJuMDOjBBSbTdFcorkmB5q14iun_pgAQ-/s1600/IMG_6291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP1E46vLrfH_AdcF1S6IT5NSbGryNHH1sCO2cbT4dlRbrOBKxKvvISXrmb1c0HqNWBGgLCZ8CUfxt70-Q01O3IcrOl4T7jtkorlqbch0kWN0lFJuMDOjBBSbTdFcorkmB5q14iun_pgAQ-/s320/IMG_6291.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
love!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCLGknTTcHfEpechuS-pYnh193BnED4G7Up_ETCSjUY_VksePg7sx_B-S5vt8kN1lT04uqR6jDS0hyeB8G2WrhyBLd9V-YFuh0WcFwwGlYH0DGgK3mb0K0TfgyUjBkCh-xN0_R0_Roa-xY/s1600/IMG_6292.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCLGknTTcHfEpechuS-pYnh193BnED4G7Up_ETCSjUY_VksePg7sx_B-S5vt8kN1lT04uqR6jDS0hyeB8G2WrhyBLd9V-YFuh0WcFwwGlYH0DGgK3mb0K0TfgyUjBkCh-xN0_R0_Roa-xY/s320/IMG_6292.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lavender and a different variety of susan. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv6HqTkKSWnOP4Emngy8ZH4L7syX7v7AOS-mkd2YHaYP2rxV5B-E43vQuZoZ7vjn5IeF-M143wG1u9zt3AVJwI1F76bUb3TP3SbqZyi2PDjJfy4nuPNy_YWPiZFAaJzaowH9YlQu5uZdox/s1600/IMG_6293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv6HqTkKSWnOP4Emngy8ZH4L7syX7v7AOS-mkd2YHaYP2rxV5B-E43vQuZoZ7vjn5IeF-M143wG1u9zt3AVJwI1F76bUb3TP3SbqZyi2PDjJfy4nuPNy_YWPiZFAaJzaowH9YlQu5uZdox/s320/IMG_6293.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A couple photos of some of my daylilies. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwrMjRT-DGjuIqre7D9XZQAUlydv-uwDsuHgPtaz8Scgcen8qYLh4u3FqJus41Gn35tn14lkDc4VmH60oxL7H_ZVYzpiS_1OOzaVBJwL3dcxxKBN-JOCvOV73RUiT98zPlmyZ-Um35pMml/s1600/IMG_6294.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwrMjRT-DGjuIqre7D9XZQAUlydv-uwDsuHgPtaz8Scgcen8qYLh4u3FqJus41Gn35tn14lkDc4VmH60oxL7H_ZVYzpiS_1OOzaVBJwL3dcxxKBN-JOCvOV73RUiT98zPlmyZ-Um35pMml/s320/IMG_6294.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This one has a little Monarda in the front. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSrEfJZ1FMqU9muiJk5r5ZB4tnu5SMTnh1FLfjObn_UcqtrhCKw039qcycqdAGD5Ydi3tUibHIok-AKWkPZioLwIN-TjlKV0quu33KOdxcyfKkWmSOMCJ8a-T3rIxbv5jspGGDG49ygIHJ/s1600/IMG_6295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSrEfJZ1FMqU9muiJk5r5ZB4tnu5SMTnh1FLfjObn_UcqtrhCKw039qcycqdAGD5Ydi3tUibHIok-AKWkPZioLwIN-TjlKV0quu33KOdxcyfKkWmSOMCJ8a-T3rIxbv5jspGGDG49ygIHJ/s320/IMG_6295.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This hosta gets dripped on by the condensation from the roof. .It loves that! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW0eryvKLr3QYNT4Api61sbhOVOKbRgSYfiTVxrf-d5nAV3Y7EtP0hY22hXLuVLX1c-iOcQHdgWUEQ78M1kU7UdhQpxZ5DJFA6r-tUUxVMeCmF9Wcy0UEkQogQLyiPDLyluBKUJq88JOO_/s1600/IMG_6298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW0eryvKLr3QYNT4Api61sbhOVOKbRgSYfiTVxrf-d5nAV3Y7EtP0hY22hXLuVLX1c-iOcQHdgWUEQ78M1kU7UdhQpxZ5DJFA6r-tUUxVMeCmF9Wcy0UEkQogQLyiPDLyluBKUJq88JOO_/s320/IMG_6298.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is the blooms from my Russian garden. .They looked nice this summer!! It is one of my neglected beds. .and there are plenty of weeds to pull. .ug! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvw5pZxHnH91VBvYkLal8z5_vG68HWDOcBcm3vYN1L-FlpnZWIYIlEE5Bg8U4c2vNZIYi0VmS8Q7EaEvXHvt_Kpt3So6yjcdHn2X2QI-7GIU9WLJsdel4U4kqYQwswIAbECRUYePSObL92/s1600/IMG_6301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvw5pZxHnH91VBvYkLal8z5_vG68HWDOcBcm3vYN1L-FlpnZWIYIlEE5Bg8U4c2vNZIYi0VmS8Q7EaEvXHvt_Kpt3So6yjcdHn2X2QI-7GIU9WLJsdel4U4kqYQwswIAbECRUYePSObL92/s320/IMG_6301.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Love this little penstemon!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7rW5Hi8jL5DDWTKUmKJYMDr7jKdJaegLWNGQxqrCEo0yyQY8CwUdMYJMiJIpVliGRGc2tppCyjIllAv4kx9dJQm9yiB4xsCmtRjxXqANdBbBbiWFXRga4KKMqOb40R6PI0RnvH4VC0BF5/s1600/IMG_6308.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7rW5Hi8jL5DDWTKUmKJYMDr7jKdJaegLWNGQxqrCEo0yyQY8CwUdMYJMiJIpVliGRGc2tppCyjIllAv4kx9dJQm9yiB4xsCmtRjxXqANdBbBbiWFXRga4KKMqOb40R6PI0RnvH4VC0BF5/s320/IMG_6308.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's planted next to this Videx tree. Cami spotted a hummer here last week. We haven't seen him since. .but it spent quite a while on this bush! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmTozjcqPw7ZPkmiEQGGADFmZU0hD82M0XWvXSQbGdt-trYav6h5J-HpnmyQoiWfi_1zBsT9UG_o8NwhITRYo5tjYSnCfxGPmbDoWgdJF_lBjHQ93PGOEIavSan5wXWe5AMFSvEKVNkjYA/s1600/IMG_6302.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmTozjcqPw7ZPkmiEQGGADFmZU0hD82M0XWvXSQbGdt-trYav6h5J-HpnmyQoiWfi_1zBsT9UG_o8NwhITRYo5tjYSnCfxGPmbDoWgdJF_lBjHQ93PGOEIavSan5wXWe5AMFSvEKVNkjYA/s320/IMG_6302.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Memory garden. .It's before the next light fixtures. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHi9gemutG1qTSte11jAf4-OMMmlgILI3PwEA363hHREtKgqZe8sXLm9ui2butXIXaPc-MFezzkMfMhLbrtn-kC6mpj_pykpT0uZ4r9GkxJQB39zM6hB4bamSFpVsFU5EDsiYPQcwDqiRX/s1600/IMG_6304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHi9gemutG1qTSte11jAf4-OMMmlgILI3PwEA363hHREtKgqZe8sXLm9ui2butXIXaPc-MFezzkMfMhLbrtn-kC6mpj_pykpT0uZ4r9GkxJQB39zM6hB4bamSFpVsFU5EDsiYPQcwDqiRX/s320/IMG_6304.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We also enjoyed several handfuls of raspberries this summer too!! I can't WAIT till those babies produce again next summer. .they were delicious! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEBcbhfRmHMM6Dn-7evkscKhi6lMA1mEIXnSDw3mjAbeYGr8T1lPVfRuU2nz5LMVrz2AykrPaeobvSiH4zLHauaVGM_rqJ4WhnYGSBcwsIqHRKbBO8hmqsu_89mjnjwpWjLCx9hOG5r4Fw/s1600/IMG_6306.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEBcbhfRmHMM6Dn-7evkscKhi6lMA1mEIXnSDw3mjAbeYGr8T1lPVfRuU2nz5LMVrz2AykrPaeobvSiH4zLHauaVGM_rqJ4WhnYGSBcwsIqHRKbBO8hmqsu_89mjnjwpWjLCx9hOG5r4Fw/s320/IMG_6306.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here are the cucumbers again. .looking toward the new garage. .and by the white picket way in the back and upper left is where the black berry bush is. .you can see the concrete wall there. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_kvcFXakyHiZFWzxUxJOV-p7DT4O-620g9PVLUrWnJrTDS-EiqVni5cAFMJ0mzNumtqTXCUr8CloIGO5U5bcmXz8O7Ykesrf6kHo4FA0as4jpZJ7TXZqvDTNSyAIP__toWdZSAopFItP_/s1600/IMG_6307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_kvcFXakyHiZFWzxUxJOV-p7DT4O-620g9PVLUrWnJrTDS-EiqVni5cAFMJ0mzNumtqTXCUr8CloIGO5U5bcmXz8O7Ykesrf6kHo4FA0as4jpZJ7TXZqvDTNSyAIP__toWdZSAopFItP_/s320/IMG_6307.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Cynthia. .here is that monarda that you shared with me a few summers ago! I have transplanted some to two other places in my flower gardens. .I LOVE it!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPlP-6iEN7fWXEgRHt0-dhK60Nc36_28n6tHw-REV0DXjgZZRMOqZ_fKm-hQzBHwFitsw8TLWEIfAAqwYoAdATUSpwGjzP45bNNSSfr7ZASXQQmBdw3IfH_Kk7ECVHnGzv8T9YKimTpBUR/s1600/IMG_6281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPlP-6iEN7fWXEgRHt0-dhK60Nc36_28n6tHw-REV0DXjgZZRMOqZ_fKm-hQzBHwFitsw8TLWEIfAAqwYoAdATUSpwGjzP45bNNSSfr7ZASXQQmBdw3IfH_Kk7ECVHnGzv8T9YKimTpBUR/s320/IMG_6281.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Had to end with a spectacular Kansas sunset!! I LOVE our sunsets. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thanks for stopping by!! </div>
<br />Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-61150944794041625522016-06-23T06:00:00.000-05:002016-06-23T06:00:21.078-05:00Best Vacation. EVER. Part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Welcome back. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's the second and final part of our trip to the beautiful state of Oregon!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKfVb6r__390X-3d97IMktvP99UNst8MEVq69l4CIuRGD_Ay-xa8bxFviZ2NWxlKuhBH6stQE7cWoJ6W801SAQKRee0Y8004Kg1pLcsZCp9flcswmPq_OEsV8751zSlaxsUnZyMbdm8Sqe/s1600/IMG_5990.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKfVb6r__390X-3d97IMktvP99UNst8MEVq69l4CIuRGD_Ay-xa8bxFviZ2NWxlKuhBH6stQE7cWoJ6W801SAQKRee0Y8004Kg1pLcsZCp9flcswmPq_OEsV8751zSlaxsUnZyMbdm8Sqe/s320/IMG_5990.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So. .we headed out of Crescent City California on Wednesday morning. .Giving us 3 whole days to make the approximately 8 hour trip back up to Portland. Our plan was to drive up Highway 101 as far as we could--hopefully all the way to Washington. .which we were able to do without rushing!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtdoyaAC1lcfDDCwtc_oovuWWp1rwD6WXMIFfvSh1q-xkfXkowb9KL_3m-cpBAJ2uFu4F5nGIYwy7dJBLsye9aVN9qHltrgbld1EaJ8BalX8cc_VWfQrqPSKrwZoFJsq27_XoJkXe1QmpT/s1600/IMG_5999.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtdoyaAC1lcfDDCwtc_oovuWWp1rwD6WXMIFfvSh1q-xkfXkowb9KL_3m-cpBAJ2uFu4F5nGIYwy7dJBLsye9aVN9qHltrgbld1EaJ8BalX8cc_VWfQrqPSKrwZoFJsq27_XoJkXe1QmpT/s320/IMG_5999.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was so amazed at all the different variations of the coastline!! I just randomly picked photos to upload. .but, without taking time to study them in order again. .I would be hard pressed to tell you where they were taken!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIN2he39CkXQLWezjwVdKOQACkjMgfW-IW5Zu_YUGFSUJ8We_Rqxnm-Pnk-IeZTWObkoHMntq7t2K6c1kMWy1jvmy87UlgD6hHR1YUv-dkVl8dqdST0wu3AJSFpbUCsqQ_U8k6R0L5iawV/s1600/IMG_6006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIN2he39CkXQLWezjwVdKOQACkjMgfW-IW5Zu_YUGFSUJ8We_Rqxnm-Pnk-IeZTWObkoHMntq7t2K6c1kMWy1jvmy87UlgD6hHR1YUv-dkVl8dqdST0wu3AJSFpbUCsqQ_U8k6R0L5iawV/s320/IMG_6006.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Often times as we drove, there were signs alerting travelers to the pull-out spots where you could get off the highway and get out to hike or gasp at the views! We did a lot of both!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Once, I think Cami and I walked about a mile because they would have bridges and walkways between the ocean cliff and the highway. We walked to the next pull off and Jeremy and a boy or two would hop in the car and drive forward. It was AWESOME!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbEdofXHdVAMVQedzgqslrLZrSWpq8oNTABp_3HH2c-z4vEwpY8yyx9tvovXpbsLO1s2CpTiuz1Sy0Delyamg_eMr2RAh-_sjfqPKAKNfth1j62QZ_eI3DexUA3yfkOJTs_GPOrzfF8j/s1600/IMG_6011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUbEdofXHdVAMVQedzgqslrLZrSWpq8oNTABp_3HH2c-z4vEwpY8yyx9tvovXpbsLO1s2CpTiuz1Sy0Delyamg_eMr2RAh-_sjfqPKAKNfth1j62QZ_eI3DexUA3yfkOJTs_GPOrzfF8j/s320/IMG_6011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We put about 1500 miles on our rented suburban while we were in Oregon!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhd1isJ_SgHUrl3R_dw9hPIInI1t4UQwvtissBKqlz-PZ4704OlR7VSuACZXcmH8DRwRnvcqjdY17rKFdJghei9ClkS6pCZtYQtz5MzKSddEYLZIQCaMwHSU2waIjBpCxjeCOIK14ZF3sp/s1600/IMG_6030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhd1isJ_SgHUrl3R_dw9hPIInI1t4UQwvtissBKqlz-PZ4704OlR7VSuACZXcmH8DRwRnvcqjdY17rKFdJghei9ClkS6pCZtYQtz5MzKSddEYLZIQCaMwHSU2waIjBpCxjeCOIK14ZF3sp/s320/IMG_6030.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We drove to many of the lighthouses on the coast. They are such interesting structures! We really only got to tour one that we hit during the open hours. This one was Cape Blanco Lighthouse.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtakhpefRp0jmGjHJeD7HTJXsyyZr-gJmwmiKoBkvWw3ivXMFruYsouCrHt8iTbKWGXXndrVW26A4GPDA_x3v00_ZUOF6cBUMhHTZixXqEZ4WuA7Se9DwJKVF_rzr33gNt_sRqN6BckHpz/s1600/IMG_6037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtakhpefRp0jmGjHJeD7HTJXsyyZr-gJmwmiKoBkvWw3ivXMFruYsouCrHt8iTbKWGXXndrVW26A4GPDA_x3v00_ZUOF6cBUMhHTZixXqEZ4WuA7Se9DwJKVF_rzr33gNt_sRqN6BckHpz/s320/IMG_6037.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This little stop was actually at Heceta Head. .and the lighthouse was behind Cami out of the photo. She is standing next to the jaw bone of a whale (I'm at a loss for what kind of whale) We never spotted whales again after leaving Crescent Beach. .so I was so thankful that we were able to view them multiple times from our hotel and beach there!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqzLWxzFno2Pxryn70_EHwHP9zz4UNdVPVyT_DdX2IZcH6FYvUM_pyFHxum6cTL76zaLe8lQwjcmm7fk__FCSwMl_CVdO9Fso-JxSeGDyhKz04kqqodMja-xnAiCphPMmsyCMjo7fE7-kQ/s1600/IMG_6042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqzLWxzFno2Pxryn70_EHwHP9zz4UNdVPVyT_DdX2IZcH6FYvUM_pyFHxum6cTL76zaLe8lQwjcmm7fk__FCSwMl_CVdO9Fso-JxSeGDyhKz04kqqodMja-xnAiCphPMmsyCMjo7fE7-kQ/s320/IMG_6042.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On Wednesday night we were fortunate enough to find another hotel on the beach in Florence. We stayed at Driftwood Shores Resort in an amazing little 3 bedroom condo! It was very cloudy the night we stayed. .and drizzling the next morning. The ocean had a more sinister feel to it here than it had the entire rest of our trip. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBexMoSIx_bssbFKYNnWTNGQ7ghUyImnH3OOPppfkHsmqUsaSaFxAlv76uRr2vC5zNn_hRA5zzpapVglFJ9cHGRwrAwjf1AJ6hnwPDe71eWbLM6lRT5F4VYZjhV5dr5ZUKajW0IMjJmAET/s1600/IMG_6045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBexMoSIx_bssbFKYNnWTNGQ7ghUyImnH3OOPppfkHsmqUsaSaFxAlv76uRr2vC5zNn_hRA5zzpapVglFJ9cHGRwrAwjf1AJ6hnwPDe71eWbLM6lRT5F4VYZjhV5dr5ZUKajW0IMjJmAET/s320/IMG_6045.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The resort was very isolated. .and not all that busy due to our timing I suspect. .so if felt a little lonesome here. The boys were ready to relax with their electronics by this time. .so Cami and her dad enjoyed walking on the beaches looking for shells! This was the one place that all the kids enjoyed the indoor pool. .however. .Devin and Cami didn't miss one day of pool swimming. .which is always a highlight for them!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMBSe-ZWX1-D0EQg-kueaFCgih7frnJWyairv7BY4swIjgeLMvIa_q758nRDBvi9tVs1WFTKQHxkY5xoRFmSU3WDC3oeDkJNzVpA9XD_wzgcD2XzMcT5bGGYFpHC4V9NXgR9LQNaUZdsVL/s1600/IMG_6067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMBSe-ZWX1-D0EQg-kueaFCgih7frnJWyairv7BY4swIjgeLMvIa_q758nRDBvi9tVs1WFTKQHxkY5xoRFmSU3WDC3oeDkJNzVpA9XD_wzgcD2XzMcT5bGGYFpHC4V9NXgR9LQNaUZdsVL/s320/IMG_6067.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was really looking forward to seeing Cape Perpetua and the violent wave action that they get there. The tide was fairly low when we were there. .but the force of the waves was still incredible!! I took this picture before Grant got completely soaked from the waist down by the wave that came up over the rock he is standing on. He was NOT impressed!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjELX-hrou_k3XWnNOltMLc3CHMPlrt0T62m07melBGlz2keHCJWhYjzm1JWjDi9q0KFtrOCwmvQhaedPUw4AyV86OdepJXPsIyNzkF9HVnmJxivf1DeEszLcbC0YWK3Wby5VkR2M95WQe1/s1600/IMG_6070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjELX-hrou_k3XWnNOltMLc3CHMPlrt0T62m07melBGlz2keHCJWhYjzm1JWjDi9q0KFtrOCwmvQhaedPUw4AyV86OdepJXPsIyNzkF9HVnmJxivf1DeEszLcbC0YWK3Wby5VkR2M95WQe1/s320/IMG_6070.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was still cool and drizzling as we came across this area. It made the force of the water that much more frightening! We had just finished studying the last 8 chapters in the book of Acts before we left on vacation. .and this area made me stop and think about how frightening Pauls' shipwreck was if the water during the storm was even partially as violent as this water was!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiNm_YK62rk4R4bbxfJBdqb5vpaRJsogXuQmMlBvSusnP4nvWl8RtQatDJl02-NjJArltYCNWpbVPpc1uAofD1lYoYDSbFXDDPyeI7wFwRLPchslCoWC9vVjFNFrN21IAnQp_w-iZ5XxIN/s1600/IMG_6092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiNm_YK62rk4R4bbxfJBdqb5vpaRJsogXuQmMlBvSusnP4nvWl8RtQatDJl02-NjJArltYCNWpbVPpc1uAofD1lYoYDSbFXDDPyeI7wFwRLPchslCoWC9vVjFNFrN21IAnQp_w-iZ5XxIN/s320/IMG_6092.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The foxgloves were blooming EVERYWHERE. .in the ditches, under the trees, on the rocky cliff areas. They were so beautiful!! All of the flowers were!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJPsQthitXWw1jLQOQmhr5lADewsTKA7oTAuRu9ksehM0PWafLb2kop_dfC5LH9_kb6M49UjalTxFWs3IEitBt4y4EUWTb6L5efsnspF7i5lHPR9X3pJ2yDwsSl2eN09HmSg4P99ikZvRx/s1600/IMG_6101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJPsQthitXWw1jLQOQmhr5lADewsTKA7oTAuRu9ksehM0PWafLb2kop_dfC5LH9_kb6M49UjalTxFWs3IEitBt4y4EUWTb6L5efsnspF7i5lHPR9X3pJ2yDwsSl2eN09HmSg4P99ikZvRx/s320/IMG_6101.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdLRw54uoXxS4q5RGxvIp87_DtEXy4MAV7J7fupJmFWvbe3XYboBInAQKuSSyvWiYX_0mlSADRMIIbDUYGvPlXqQCEVmGuo1N7Pu4oasujgSRsQTrHfMI2b6zUl2qgRPujiw2_zqwSiNAk/s1600/IMG_6102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdLRw54uoXxS4q5RGxvIp87_DtEXy4MAV7J7fupJmFWvbe3XYboBInAQKuSSyvWiYX_0mlSADRMIIbDUYGvPlXqQCEVmGuo1N7Pu4oasujgSRsQTrHfMI2b6zUl2qgRPujiw2_zqwSiNAk/s320/IMG_6102.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is Yaquina Bay Lighthouse near Newport. Some of our crew headed for a bathroom break. .but Grant and I ran into the lighthouse to do a quick tour. It was really interesting!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCo8NXtZtbMm3HyyUtijLxtcO8O-97dbpUDSEEjlhpLvkrwIxIpJtG9ZQRlHB1EqvzSseezk57V0m-iAM0u14ZQ9WowCeUc9fyfybXeH-MxtwbMKzbZaDnxhn4d-hgDp27CIVxisg2ga62/s1600/IMG_6103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCo8NXtZtbMm3HyyUtijLxtcO8O-97dbpUDSEEjlhpLvkrwIxIpJtG9ZQRlHB1EqvzSseezk57V0m-iAM0u14ZQ9WowCeUc9fyfybXeH-MxtwbMKzbZaDnxhn4d-hgDp27CIVxisg2ga62/s320/IMG_6103.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The rooms were bigger than I would have thought. .and they were still decorated for the period.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The lighthouse keeper and his wife had 8 kids. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtRnXvCBzodjl6Xj1v0DJ0JLpkbYjuMS9bP7Sinqozd6HyAlFMmuLwQ0XdGyYfLi28DAynn97OLAi1yXXN3rpNy_0Qx7OzUyAb6u2K6wiSPHkjMZYsQxqLYI4F9weCwEfiBWfWtsL-n4QL/s1600/IMG_6107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtRnXvCBzodjl6Xj1v0DJ0JLpkbYjuMS9bP7Sinqozd6HyAlFMmuLwQ0XdGyYfLi28DAynn97OLAi1yXXN3rpNy_0Qx7OzUyAb6u2K6wiSPHkjMZYsQxqLYI4F9weCwEfiBWfWtsL-n4QL/s320/IMG_6107.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
What a view from your second story window!! We did get to go to the 3rd story to see the little bedroom the lighthouse keeper stayed in each night. But the shaft that he looked through to see how the light was doing was closed up.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXPhPsZrz1ZGa62jK11UpOLSvbTx5l7ZYJ0QefR5IoFWz5P6uTiGjL-r_2bLeqICnDD7pdnDRMsd7YJP45pX_NN4h0hipIbIi01UCsnhGeKHXU27HIwE7ZbPvaJSmSEIEn1RW0FrQ4d7rP/s1600/IMG_6116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXPhPsZrz1ZGa62jK11UpOLSvbTx5l7ZYJ0QefR5IoFWz5P6uTiGjL-r_2bLeqICnDD7pdnDRMsd7YJP45pX_NN4h0hipIbIi01UCsnhGeKHXU27HIwE7ZbPvaJSmSEIEn1RW0FrQ4d7rP/s320/IMG_6116.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
While we chose not to stop at the big Sea Lion cave near Florence. .we were delighted to see some sea lions both in Crescent City. .and again in the Old Downtown Newport.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHjLHqaZxafx-wyAPBfGs4Y-j0TpglLTV7WCeFaMCzBrDvXmdhBdWSIJU7eiKj-4FwK9kuYT4YbTEXoVDqqQYL-UmCDxpsKURErC9KfHKISL2oyNxCG28P1Ry1nzLT184NAbgI_72K8oip/s1600/IMG_6117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHjLHqaZxafx-wyAPBfGs4Y-j0TpglLTV7WCeFaMCzBrDvXmdhBdWSIJU7eiKj-4FwK9kuYT4YbTEXoVDqqQYL-UmCDxpsKURErC9KfHKISL2oyNxCG28P1Ry1nzLT184NAbgI_72K8oip/s320/IMG_6117.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They were SO noisy. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But fun to watch!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWMFik5lSLuexyFGOr8ToWMWFabjytFqVhTSDwE880EpFfR6wRflnOp8UGEnBYkNP-jcpPtx-9mPjCWg2huNbqsiubri_kr6W1MaNvMfqw8X2-_2gx_y2qLfjYSbam4H3H_GaejfpPiRPf/s1600/IMG_6125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWMFik5lSLuexyFGOr8ToWMWFabjytFqVhTSDwE880EpFfR6wRflnOp8UGEnBYkNP-jcpPtx-9mPjCWg2huNbqsiubri_kr6W1MaNvMfqw8X2-_2gx_y2qLfjYSbam4H3H_GaejfpPiRPf/s320/IMG_6125.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Jeremy convinced Cami to try oysters on the half shell. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Which she was a little skeptical about. But this girl can eat sardines and oysters right out of the can!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She thought they were "ok" but she probably wouldn't eat them again :-)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Look how huge those suckers are!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE_1A4SghHbghr70GDVo9qv0wRtP_tQ9u_rplTxipgTL3RZJ25_xpqnpKIftkJx6lfvRtNw5TfA7b-sYtQxX6bqv778agJRygkB8OTUTQxzeGqsYmCDaTs17erBtLxnY16t8iSFnPMp3Hz/s1600/IMG_6140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE_1A4SghHbghr70GDVo9qv0wRtP_tQ9u_rplTxipgTL3RZJ25_xpqnpKIftkJx6lfvRtNw5TfA7b-sYtQxX6bqv778agJRygkB8OTUTQxzeGqsYmCDaTs17erBtLxnY16t8iSFnPMp3Hz/s320/IMG_6140.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was so excited to see one of these little guys for the first time at AJ's house. It's a stellar jay. I caught this picture outside of our hotel window!! It actually reminds me of a couple of paintings hanging on my bedroom walls with tree branches and bird silhouettes. I'm thinking about getting this guy blown up and framing him! I did notice that there didn't seem to be a lot of birds that we could see in the redwoods, where I thought we would see a ton!! We saw a few different varieties in the trees along the coast. .but we saw mainly the same types of birds that we have in Kansas. .and a lot of the same vegetation as well! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgHVwkVOwm1uetV260fguwCL5ZV4IkSS1oDWenqsHvIEWQfAvT065z4MzFDXDhuJPQoMmDcC6WDfne52IBD0A2sq7gbUQs22B1-Ud7heFRVsjOYSNsbN5BsiF8gPylR6zzzkbQH6MZAWAa/s1600/IMG_6152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgHVwkVOwm1uetV260fguwCL5ZV4IkSS1oDWenqsHvIEWQfAvT065z4MzFDXDhuJPQoMmDcC6WDfne52IBD0A2sq7gbUQs22B1-Ud7heFRVsjOYSNsbN5BsiF8gPylR6zzzkbQH6MZAWAa/s320/IMG_6152.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I could drink this view in every single day!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeW1ZAN0EzgHWLbZ5rf3Y7srkqjdWlYKXfAAPpwdUjqlot48_r6PhQcRRcOp2AmH-6Edta8bUp5F2HJtC2qihSIx0WYt_EqIO0o6Q3NazxZYlo5c9uGUfezOTuSGPafH2mPHwM5U_2hicu/s1600/IMG_6170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeW1ZAN0EzgHWLbZ5rf3Y7srkqjdWlYKXfAAPpwdUjqlot48_r6PhQcRRcOp2AmH-6Edta8bUp5F2HJtC2qihSIx0WYt_EqIO0o6Q3NazxZYlo5c9uGUfezOTuSGPafH2mPHwM5U_2hicu/s320/IMG_6170.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thursday night found us staying on the ocean at Rockaway Beach. This was a beautiful beach right out of our hotel windows. The hotel was not so great. .but sometimes compromise is necessary. And by then, we figured out that staying on the beach was just what we all needed! The water was still icy cold. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4fDHDqGp_TKdnb_vI1vLZVbj6FxUMYN1wHXGOyYgJ-DKWF5prB80T4019ZtP6fsLkLVvfP9X27aO8DzzXjsXDVmsgjKsH3_-076IhVf30lS5zJ-MoQcFTfntTGz36P27a-YLb4ueKtz-G/s1600/IMG_6188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4fDHDqGp_TKdnb_vI1vLZVbj6FxUMYN1wHXGOyYgJ-DKWF5prB80T4019ZtP6fsLkLVvfP9X27aO8DzzXjsXDVmsgjKsH3_-076IhVf30lS5zJ-MoQcFTfntTGz36P27a-YLb4ueKtz-G/s320/IMG_6188.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But that didn't deter the two young kids in their swim suits from getting wet!! Of course, they later warmed up in the heated indoor pool!! And. .You can make out by the photo. .that those who have all their mental faculties. .have on sweatshirts!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihoJeju3aLepxuuUROFcUjycnGlKleMVRTkFzLMvdsGhQCSeWfcclARjz4rZLqkGwZ-RpimuOAR2D_WHmvGfqEGJNCqtKamqk9JjV-FfeqrtP0FgV6YUUxBsNHteyOxTAeCAyMyGk5kVOM/s1600/IMG_6173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihoJeju3aLepxuuUROFcUjycnGlKleMVRTkFzLMvdsGhQCSeWfcclARjz4rZLqkGwZ-RpimuOAR2D_WHmvGfqEGJNCqtKamqk9JjV-FfeqrtP0FgV6YUUxBsNHteyOxTAeCAyMyGk5kVOM/s320/IMG_6173.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The sunset was phenomenal that night. .and we were able to get some great photos and some great memories!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVs4LQemxF363t782A8QkK3J_f1vni2W-BkWmqBQEk_Iy2BsNcXtgbBgguxvuj_U41Mla5Q5Za2mRDcY2O7dhyphenhyphen8crdRGZbla244pX2qFb-tyG3Ve19wI-AEF-ugztB-WMuslnQ-SHs2BsD/s1600/IMG_6210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVs4LQemxF363t782A8QkK3J_f1vni2W-BkWmqBQEk_Iy2BsNcXtgbBgguxvuj_U41Mla5Q5Za2mRDcY2O7dhyphenhyphen8crdRGZbla244pX2qFb-tyG3Ve19wI-AEF-ugztB-WMuslnQ-SHs2BsD/s320/IMG_6210.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The last day found us finishing up the Oregon coast! Beautiful blue skies. .and equally beautiful blue to aquamarine colored waters!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8salhW97zabRNEqiqxDqDKaNaiNlXOzrulw957wWwe9LrLDpZDUwnLtedrbAEJ8IHscBPKsUrZGoEp0laXm1F3j6SFXuWG_qxcMFX6MTwSpRteTmsAQbLZ4kKpPCKA8sZNaJTD5xffZ5D/s1600/IMG_6236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8salhW97zabRNEqiqxDqDKaNaiNlXOzrulw957wWwe9LrLDpZDUwnLtedrbAEJ8IHscBPKsUrZGoEp0laXm1F3j6SFXuWG_qxcMFX6MTwSpRteTmsAQbLZ4kKpPCKA8sZNaJTD5xffZ5D/s320/IMG_6236.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Look at the force of that seemingly innocent water crashing over the rock!! I still can't get over the sheer force of the waves on this coast. It was much different than what we saw of the Atlantic in Boston and southern Maine. .and that of the oceans surrounding Key West!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLM-7KZNFPfY80VHmqbyWPpNsJI566lRuB-g7_097G8ZNUdFVm-038g_rIgXxGJ4kO662VZv3qzFG0MLmZT5ZjHm6cF2jBGYah8lI1_8i5h-pD-SvWduclSwdOQxN-CfOVCeLH9aCY0UoQ/s1600/IMG_6238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLM-7KZNFPfY80VHmqbyWPpNsJI566lRuB-g7_097G8ZNUdFVm-038g_rIgXxGJ4kO662VZv3qzFG0MLmZT5ZjHm6cF2jBGYah8lI1_8i5h-pD-SvWduclSwdOQxN-CfOVCeLH9aCY0UoQ/s320/IMG_6238.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We stopped at so many tiny beaches to run and play that I lost track of where we were. I am hoping to put most of our photos into a digital album. .and am just hoping that I can get it done before I forget all of it!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg75E1nurIDjnmCzp4tySekBrVGstg9C7NdQTWQUAIqSo0ut-exXKRXGgicg5Be4a5GxhIN5JlVvn5o6heknB2aG7o_M72CzFETXzUy3GUy3wFgXJE3cI9pe3wns4rj7fUj1FTlFMVCbkAU/s1600/IMG_6243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg75E1nurIDjnmCzp4tySekBrVGstg9C7NdQTWQUAIqSo0ut-exXKRXGgicg5Be4a5GxhIN5JlVvn5o6heknB2aG7o_M72CzFETXzUy3GUy3wFgXJE3cI9pe3wns4rj7fUj1FTlFMVCbkAU/s320/IMG_6243.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grant found a live star fish. .and then complained the rest of the day because I made him throw it back! His dad felt so sorry for him that he bought him a starfish shell when we stopped to shop in Seaside!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSSnybUG6pkustlcRdRkhEgLPY51Hm3ZHmsjpbH5evYmpUb3CNWUEctAONekwiAwdJkx4_gXxagDlmifCWWu8v7h-uXDN9fDnPaWP3dAemBArk9VF1j0c3t1Erkt1tdvDoQOcamgawZ5cj/s1600/IMG_6255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSSnybUG6pkustlcRdRkhEgLPY51Hm3ZHmsjpbH5evYmpUb3CNWUEctAONekwiAwdJkx4_gXxagDlmifCWWu8v7h-uXDN9fDnPaWP3dAemBArk9VF1j0c3t1Erkt1tdvDoQOcamgawZ5cj/s320/IMG_6255.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Incredible rock formations like this jutted out from the water everywhere! I guess I didn't get a photo of Haystack Rock onto the blog. .but I walked about a mile along Cannon beach to get as close as possible to it so I could see the little black puffins. I never saw one up close. .but it was a beautiful place! Cannon Beach was by far, the busiest beach we ran into the whole trip! For the most part there were only small handfuls of people any place we went until then. And I wouldn't say it was crowded like I imagine it is during peak vacation time!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcoRE_HA6rMZltfu_p4e4NtppU5WOnpfa8btme-PBlBWlzL9j5i9q8QEFKDni4wcUESDuqumtT5EdCCzDL7Zp8qDRrcukeRk0iEIuwvSJaLCxYltPA_eJvll9Lb43q8KtdNvwZW_Tdh3kn/s1600/IMG_6258.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcoRE_HA6rMZltfu_p4e4NtppU5WOnpfa8btme-PBlBWlzL9j5i9q8QEFKDni4wcUESDuqumtT5EdCCzDL7Zp8qDRrcukeRk0iEIuwvSJaLCxYltPA_eJvll9Lb43q8KtdNvwZW_Tdh3kn/s320/IMG_6258.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A picture of the Seaside Oregon sign in their famous little roundabout! We enjoyed some shopping and wandering on the streets there. We went further north to Astoria Oregon. <a class="irc_mutl i3597 ijXfuIQ60yj8-dTEICwVRfZc" data-noload="" data-ved="0ahUKEwiTgrnvqLfNAhVQE1IKHdOgBa4QjRwIBw" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwiTgrnvqLfNAhVQE1IKHdOgBa4QjRwIBw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wikiwand.com%2Fnl%2FAstoria-Megler_Bridge&psig=AFQjCNEXHNHNxT1IQuIBJuPYonmxXDg2pw&ust=1466536626192272" jsaction="mousedown:irc.rl;keydown:irc.rlk" tabindex="0" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="irc_mut ijXfuIQ60yj8-HwpH6ZlgJaI" height="265" src="data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/4AAQSkZJRgABAQAAAQABAAD/2wCEAAkGBxMTEhUSExMVFhUXFxcYGBcXGBoXGhsaGBcWFhcVGxgZHSogGR0mHRcXIjIhJSkrLi4vFyAzODMsNygtLisBCgoKDg0OGxAQGzIlICYtLS0tLTAyKystLS01Ly0tLS0rLS0tLy0tLS8tLS0tLS0tLS0tLS0tLS0tLS0tLS0tLf/AABEIALcBFAMBIgACEQEDEQH/xAAbAAABBQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAADAAEEBQYCB//EAEMQAAIBAwMCAwUFBgQFAgcAAAECEQADIQQSMSJBBVFhBhMycZEUQoGh0QcjUpKxwWJy4fAVM0OCohbCF1NjsrPS8f/EABoBAAIDAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIDAAEEBQb/xAAwEQACAQQBAgMHBAMBAQAAAAAAAQIDERIhMQRRE0FhFCIycaHR8JGx4fEjQoHBBf/aAAwDAQACEQMRAD8A1ISn20WKUV17nLsC20itFilFS5LAttNtoxFNtqZEsBimIo22ltq8irANtNFG20ttTIqwHbTFaNtpttTIlgO2m20bbTbavIlgO2lto0U22pcqwHbS20WKbbV5EA7aW2jFabbUyLsBK0ttFK0ttTIlgRWm20Uim21MiWBEU22jFabbVZEsCim20XbS21LksC20xWixSIqXJYFtpttFim21WRLAitclaORTbamRdgO2lRdtKpcLEuttICixSis+QzEFtpbaLFMRUyJYFtpttGim21eRLAYpRRStMRUyKxBRSiibaaKvImIOKaKLFNtqZFYg9tNFEIpRUyJiCK00UXbTbamRMQW2oFnXEjdskFmChZLsoJCsFAM7oJjHn8pPit7ZaYgwxhFwT1OdqmBkxM/hUHRLsVEQ+7DJAIwwI92qg5huqeT9/M1l6ms42SZcYoNrtUUU7V/eSFW0xgsxIwTwFEySCSIOBU2oDWVF0FiboUNuXCiWUwdzYaAI6COYmZqVpHncBwGO2Z4gSonsCfl1CldPXee3yFKASKaKIVpba6GQGIKKUUWKbbUyJiCikRRdtcxVZlYgopRRStNtqZkxBEU0UXbS21Mi8QUU0UUrTbamReIIimiilaYrUyJiC20qLtpVMgrFiuutHi7b/nX9aA/jNgEj3ikiJ29QznkYrDmygEhgeI7Dtyc1Y2tKvuxAXcMkqZB9MyayyqRirj405SNH/wAf08xvP8rR/SnueO6cc3R9G/pFY+9a8pj1+lVGo1HVP3og94j+9NpLPgTJuPJ6IPaDT9rk/JW/pE06+O6c/wDU/wDFv0rzVtSRxz3Myfl5VOsPsQk+U0c6eKBU7no2n1lt/gdWPkDn6V19pSY3p/MP1ry7S6nqy8D5T+Aq3W5ZKlWPI+f4iBS6kXB7GU0p+ZvhnjPyzTPjnHzxWAs6aGXZckEHsRx3/MfnQb+gvbiYLDnJ3H8PT51Iyi3yRwmlexvW1toc3bf86/rXH/ErP/zrf84/WsAtuCJ5PnzXIEtHl28zyKLXcDfY31nVh3YI24CI2FSCYBbJ8ty8U1i6fekbpBAEAHDKWO7I7jEgkdI785bw+3tS23JY3CTG6FhQZUyMbefUVdogZRBkRKgZhtrKGEFLagjHwkjPeuTPqHGpfyuMS0XUU0Vkbnj9622zcrZxuyfQeZPP0oA8b1LnoY5/wrtzgGSIj+v510fEVsmwHYtvE7ouai2hBNu220iMG4ywcnHSrCPVj5VD8VvKllWBDEKBB3FjL242nhSCGz2iuLoNsIHaRuVjuJlt5ssw6WIkgkyFXuccAN/UFktlp2qt2EG0kwWXdgDjbGMc965lSrnLIKxd2L6T02Wa4zOAUJ+IAqx92I7QcyOoCJwFckXGd7qPdQMAjDY8QjFBHSikAiNvmcnIrhqBbLKLrqB0yQYUbztZvMdeeRLknij2bpDlVIvP17g6bBwQOkZMGZYwMcYpcZWLL9CCARwf95HY9iPMU5Wsz9tvoNpdAzncirtfEAMvTItr8O2YzIAzXNr2iu8lVI9QQfqMflXVp1M1cFpI08U0VnL3tI5+BFB9Zb+kRUF/aPUTwsDJIUR65M06Kcim0jYRTEVldP7UXDyF/lMfUNTf+oLzcbAD3UEEfzTUaa5KTRq4pGscfHLqmDcPyZR/Wu09onPNxR8lg/U0Si+SZI1sU1Zg+P3o4tn1j/WKC/jN45NwD5AD86tQfdFZI1sVyRWMu+LXe94/zZ+gp08VuiIdj8zP9avw33Jn6Gyimis6PaVwM2wT3MkflFHT2jXE22n0I/vQuEkGpRZcxT1Uf+obX8Nz6D9aVDaQfumaa3cMq5G2ZLzMgDtHNWdq8LaLtChM5IyT57uxrO3NSo8jjgZ7nzFRhqSOI5niJ+f0FXKg6isyo1lB6NJqvFbZwVGJzMfhUDUXrb592fnJmfUxxHmKrU1Azgf60W1cnI5keXBBk+v+tXGiqfH7kdTPklC0o+6CRHqJPz/SpdrVAqPu+ox9RkGq73q8HIEz8wYHJo6W7jq1xQdiYZokCTiT+NBJZclqy4D605ACIP8AFAnMEHsP61FN7JBwRGPLtSGsORIK+XHef61YX9YbslpkxnbyfPHPbmhbcNNBWUtgPtLqPiIn8QY+fNNptUbnTiPy5jj/AHzXestQsQGB8p7gnzx5fjVdeti31Z2nEzxmfrFVBQkvUFuUX6Fm4IzJxx58RRE1TkgckkRJ8yAtBSYHkQP7TVjo7IC+8IBO1ts5IMbQQOBnzkms1WphHuG9bRJt6dgsLAgkAsOT7uTAUdUxHI571zdtBwzDYZ3GWlpIDMSVGDAgfpR9Tq9s72CjcpPYcIpGfkTH61UXPG7QG1dzGUMBSTCcLnkTn8a5iylwgXos3tx0hht/eSoUgGArjAceoHzjNC1Phq4nqZ7JPGwTvLkESRMVWX9eh4tXxAPKfiJicboP4UVvGbZa2N/zBUKcW4zMZDZn19KYozWytE6/bRrN4HulgyOZ/cq49eBz5GpGv0gCErARbUqACZVjbLEyJ79iZie9Vg14dCSWj3FuTHe21tWUkYHBb5fSpFnWi7btOdrD3DodsmNm9ZzBkC3mOM0LUkXYbUvF1DEgG2QBu3bTdRlVVIjft3ckwZM4EDTXuqLue/7vqkqQI/eXFFtgQwIwMgEgeeAC3mMWitzgNKlpYn3ggcYGVgdyscVFewT79QOlfeMqkQ8yGE/wkRJ/7hHejg15gtMtrTqd2w2lkEGLYuMvTBb3jBAp5PAqFq9BAkNvCiA7Sz3DMRsTdMR8e4k9x3PFzTK96VQknUKC8GCHjbDSJG4sNo4gzQdJ7wKGR3kzMkOAVcKbYjJjPkek9quLcX7rLVwbWWXBU4AJjMfMcr+MVFvBT3/DtM960I1k2LZ90rkiSpmGbfdSAF7zb4M8iJOKC+o3Ize4Qtu2lSHJELKgS2OCIjtWmn1U1yi3BSKILAPfGfL0+QmajXEfgjHpxV/r9INh221W5bZdxRjEOGO2GJypUZnliO0mse1d7hY7wRP4+db6PUOWwJUl5HGyMTjH+tBFuTtPSe3l9KsLVogdSg/JlB/rXGpt9JgDAn1PGAQf7VI1nexTpeZVXSymCc+lEGvaOFoyaEMs4U+rAfMQc+Vc/wDDD/EO/l254Nac4P4heEvIGusH3k+h/Wa7XXz90Af7+Vc/YSD8SkfOiWtJnJEZ7k9jHbzqp4FxUuAt18eX58Vxauf4vWpfTtZTmTjy/wBxUa3pwMyPkeO0578UiN7NMc4q+mE3egPrMf2pV0LsYCW47c8duBSoMZ9g7Q7idkBwFOB279/L8643ifhH05q62JAG/qMxkRIHwme4MAxPxCpmrINsF+cbGI2kg52lZ4/xR2A7iMcP/q0ljBbHPo5O7yMvK/wrTLtGQADEfXmraBxA+n+tDO3uq/yj9a3e1R7AeyS7lebnqfqa5+1OpJVmgiCJJkeRHcelWBKeS/yj9afba9D/ANsf3qe0Q84k9lqLiREs6zdwxB8tzQY8iP7076h1OSwPzP1+VdajRW2ynQ31U/Mf3BqLY1QzbvdJERMsD8jj6yCfPtQ+JH/VX9PP+SOlLiTt630/sHXWMMbjzPJp/trd2J9CTXTWVAkW3uf5JbzzgQPxA9Joem8NuXZLA6dOwMPcOJkgwEGRzmq9ppWv9gJ0KkeX+41zxUoOq6w/7j+Q70S3rNRcE21dREm44JxJJYwCTz5GpVrw6xZztDPhWDnc8nkwfhgGcjtzOKM/ixAIVcbQB1nGAu7jyA+k81i6jqFOyjEKnQqSK8eHiQ11muHcVYsSqqFCyYUyR1COoEwRFSHACPs+AQQy9Ibq2noWAsbhg59TipDiLaHdCmWCQplixBJmMAKoJxPHnD6dTcDgMJKMGWFUEgFldQp8wMdpng4lNxSz/OSnTkVi6xhwx/rQrr7hDAN88/1rv7IfP8v9aR0h/wBj/Wul4kRToSZBOkAyhKHPwnGZ7cdyfnXCa51Yb0W4VDjeB1KHRlMAdoYSMzyan/ZT5/lUseHQUIaAFVmYpwWltsQN5gjBnHMLxlrqk7aLVOceCBb1qtYCpdO5bhgXu25LbBNy5IBQknPep2s1je9KAMPeMvXyssCGWRj4Qwn1HnXPiHhVvUYS2EIB6SSS08kMfvf4OPKah3NJqNO493cZ0HuztOOkLlfKcx59IrI4bVuez5Dae7r9C0t6xLYtgAlibVwejK9wn72CZ+grrQ6Ye7ToXcpcso2yx93bYNPcSrY/LEVmdPrbRZve22t3RaaGmBCtO0judskRntNTNIt0brq3UvKFgMo2ud+wCV7k+nrQtW9CYautmi0A3aOCpLS5JG0L91tgkGJN9wJEGDniR6fW7bd0m31gBpLneuWtbvggN18kTmcQDQvZ/wAVV7OoDFLATazC6GAG8XlAgg7mL+7wOc0TRX0lw6m7NthugKCF/eAEm5uZf3feD2mI2itXui8GD0tpfdXRBVnt70kyCttrbFo2AgQHj5E8EGq4Efxr/wCQ/wDbU/woLcvAvcINz3i9aAbjdtm2qgozBfiAEgDgVU+6by/MV0Onna6v6i/DfYNu/wAa/Vv0pif8S/U/pQfdHy/MUvdHyrRmTD0Cz/iX6/6Uj/mX60E2m8j9KY2iOx+hqZkw9A0+q/UUxPqPrUcp6UitTImHoH3eo+tNv9R/v8KjkUoqZF4ht/qKVA201TIvE1ukJ94TkAEMRs6tuZUbiQSoHB9OCKNrLkOqlo2k9MGZ2zjBIk5n1jyqHpn27STk8BQdw2+hIMEsuZjv3qS2u69v3QGiPQjEx6ds5P4eGUmp3R176K++5GIlj8JmczIJ8jHy71EPiJnqQE9+x/I1N1V4QtxSCd0gd+JO0A9iCJnkgd81+t1CF4UTvWJBjYcziM49ZgV3Ol6uNkpRbdud8/n1MlTJcOwRvErcZtn+c/3qO3i9nsjk+jA/ntqHZFpid9shtpEksVB2iH/E/d/Wo6ofQfIE12aTp1L3TVu/9mWVWpHt+hNveIk/AoUebHcfyxXCXUYg3Pe3CPUKv0igKg7z+IJruf8AcGm4wXwoHxKj+Jll/wAQQZC3FPmrgf8AtqTpfHEIKXFO5ukPuA6QNw3wP8MYABx51ST/ALg0wb1P51lq0ISV/M0U+omueDTm0Dta3LIXJnJOTIOEAby/Xkha108fcHPPJ59apNNqCkFTgAjaQ0TiDg9o/OrCx4gGRcjcUAiIO49onGTXOqwlHTN9KpF3aLfV6xrJA2klUQKoPSOlSXbHG4nHc54568M8QuXbiEh53LzOxxMETEBo+vz558W94rTbF4sd4AG8qAGhSV4J2xjjz8qiPY1LjbdW+jAYuEXI9Bcjkf4hkd57Pp2lT8vz0ObNNSIeo1JR2SPhYrz/AAkjy9K4+3ny/P8A0rv2gUe/cjhiG5nJA3Z/zbvpVdW2DTimDlLuTW8QP8I/MmrfWa64XYRbFqztQsUVtsKAVEjqaQRHynFUfh9kvdRRyWHeO9WviQW9dKJethdzFRF2WYyzOYTB59AO/JpFa2aT7foVd3Ok8Ta6hFtbSuuQuxSXX0MZcYx37DtQ/FNe7JZumOpCpJESUPI7R1D+U1xe8JFra51KDOCq3GhgTgkL0sIOD5UbxZ/eaYOCh2XSsoGUHcNzEqwBUkkYGP7BeKnFx4v+Imyl1NzeNrqpHqKr10ezcbTFCy7fMQGVhHkQVFS6atUknpguNzq34wVS5b1Nr3iGyAW533BctN24+Fj8658Nt6Z1c6a/ctXCAER3Btgz1AhhJxjBET3pm05uAqOwLfgg3H8hXF7wjNoACbgVviLABm2ASOOogHng1mlThHh2GxqyXxb/ADuSff6rTlWu25VCCHtEMuCCJAyOKc+KC4zG08qWJAwCATgEdjEVF02ou2p2XfhXcVbMwYgZ88Y7CaNdu6a6Y1Fn3dz+NJGfmBVKbi9q/wAvsMXhy4dn2f3Cfan/AIjXJvsfvH61xc8IvAbrF1byfwtG6PRgf1qA2v2HbeRrTeoJHzmMU+NSM+Cp05x5LA3T5n6ml70+Z+tBt3AwlSCPMGRXVFcWdFjSmuaaash0TTVyaU1CD09czSqFmi8PuEhm43qQXaS2c/CfhgkTt/hHnQxbdVO7rAA3SJLGD1ERmOY/OYI5a+WtjgFcHg91QspPJgdyJ88VJXV/GF+6SSEnKxIA8+BOTgeleRnFx4Nt15sFaB3qDJMbyMTDGAQfoYPkAe8A1lkNalNkhiXiRIgMvoYHr2nzizuOhfcOkiDkrMlIAIHA4APrxVHrrIG7bvC7sAhoJJ4OAAYj69uK3dC4zrK2nry16ia94x3tEGT5UpPkf9/jTGab8a9T4Zzczv8ABvoP1pj8j+X60OlUcF2IpnZY+R/L9a53n+E/l+tczSqsVbgvN9yt1HiWpBKqnTOOi2TAOMxPb8aS+J6hiC6udvwwAI8sA1ZGaXFZZwQ+NVks+0d5iSyXCSZzj8pgUaz405JDW7hXssjGeeahBq6k1jdG472mRd2vFrZVVexhSSNzAwWjceDzA+lSG8YsbWAs2wxBEwCeCP71mWJrnNHHob7yZH1j4sXfs3Ium4pEW1ZmnyAJgeuP60EX/cLsB/ekDccSnfb/AJp7don4sK/gGoe2L11DBt254UiXPu0weck9qPpfFLxUljbW2MGLVvJI+ACBuY/wz6kgU2Secna60Y7+pWaLWC22YZThkJgMPI+vkexq+saUNpL5tuGtR7wA/ECNpKtGAQEHz3ULTeO7gUBXTt9xwqlT2CXRtx/nUACeIqX4NqNS199PfYCVyCq5WQpgqMghzmgruXxWtaz5/gJP1Mpvpb6GUIweRg/MYNNFb7AZMlaXVqhYsYBS4o75dGVRj1IqTprpe0AoMiVVvUuSQBzncBx938KpVsF7wQAEG2ZB4gMvIJg5I5DfI1o9L4TDyWIIUHpJxOI3HMeihRGIrndXVjF2NtHppVIZJkEJ+7lkktuCtIAgQhHnIkDPJHoa68T0JZr93DLjHnyJAIiOZ/1qRY8RbYbXVG1kGxtkktA3fxDcoMVPawhsuykwtkTt3FRsJuSWcSDInHyiBWRVGpXE1KMoakZa0zIzsjFdqFjHwkKrMSRGcAVb3fEhm1qkXB2k8gGY+a/MTUg6HZauq6RNv4ipiXB6FYDjrPzKRWd9qbJNtrrfwqDDc7SlstEZJYE9o/KtGUZvYVGrODsmTtX7N2536dyjHIE4PyYYP4/Wqi7q7tlit5JA+8BBHzHBqf7La0sFXa2xjtOOHjDIfInBHrV1q9OrjY/bg+U9/wDKfL1mr8aVKVpbX1N/gwqxvHTKGxqVcSpkd/MfMciu99UfiFg2XDoSpmPkTOPUYYEenlxaWLu9FuRG4GR5FTtMen610IyTVzm1Kbiw5elvoc0xNHoVdhN9KhzSqaCuzR6W1762vvATyIAKiAFBYP3JAGSQZJ/Ez21QGGIbpmFLMDnpMCADMdyBjOamXibO2WDMxb3m1QSBAFu35g43TzAxmq/7Rs6VPvHbdncBKgKQxBzPH1PFeOTvtfodOyR2bZ2jBYA5JDEFSBMwO5YZGc8c1C1eoC3DuLbQBtlixz6g+uPSKubN12GGlSACGAiSVgnzwewjjOag3dOLilmAVp2gmYG0GBAx1D5wV7UfTVIKb8TXy/P2F1Yv/UqL2mIBYEFZj+n15FR9tWDgpvAlgF6THSerk/zGOADUEufLjnP6cV6npJucXk1rh90c2pFJ6Q22lFcvdj7s/j+tN9oP8B/KtlkLOgKeK496fI1ybp/hNDovYWkKD74/wGhnWAcgilyg2EmTJp1ngCflJqEdePI1F8Q8QhCRuGRkY7+YrO6bQxNNlneuheTHH58D8qKLDETiPUgfkTWR/wCLuBHvLmDwWJ4nsTHc0e34qzbwWnclyZAM9DGSe5Bgz2ihynHiw7w4Pm5v/ZbRLft3uvpITcEydqXFP4EmY5xJqVf8ANxo94VUYRRaYKAckZMD1JJJOTVB+ybx63pftNy6pcLakqNskDdOGIB549K0jfta0w4014/9iD+9Y51KiqPAfDpqeKcgLeycZ96PpFH02nuWyLZuWmtqphmcb0BB/wCWeIkKdpxjtXL/ALXrRyNJe+YCiqP2t/aV9qsiymmdeoGWjsCO3z/KplVqPGfH/CSoUkrpnHj6bCt87Rb1BuPbIYMOkqXUwcQXHPNRnskGO/kJJPeY5j51mfEfGdRet2bbbtlkMEXbAG6N3AkkwMnyre+zftGiaa0h3bggBEHmTOFUxTatepSirbBp9PTm7cFf4Tp2XVgMjD9y8SCJ/eW8ieR8q2Wltkvx/wBMd6orWvGo11ogEAWLg4YH/m2z94A1sdJY6gf/AKfl6iudXm6klJryOlQioQxR5y0h/k7f/kmm1RIVfWQe8iSII8sUfWLDt6XH/rNSLvhV24qbUMbmy3QI3ebETjyzTqLSmrgdRFyptIdPHQyOrrk2yqhSqJJDchVnluJHqa48a0Fs2wFm45FsKqhWEgqGME7mJEGVDZiYqZpvZfaN164APJekfLe//wCv41ZafUW7SldPbLA8lQ20/wCZyZI9CQBRVXTTvTf2MVHpamSctIBpPDNiW7l2NyK21ZGN2ckd8kgdt5J4qq1upAkz2AHbAgSfIY/tzVwdDf1BEn5Ko94fwjo/8j8q0fg37PD8TqF/xXIdvmF+EH1IkedLgm33N9401o8vt+AXtW6qqlbZYE3CMtE9KL99iWJx0iQCcRUr2g0gsXBplXaLK7YJBJJJZmJHJJJ/GeBivVvGfGdH4aNluLuqaAJO4rMCXP3ABwvJx2yPLvaJ919mc5ZQxYnucnjGSTitsJuLWXBhq2lF2KbbSn/eK6ZIrgkVsVjDZiHyH4z+tKrHRWUKAmyXOeoXds5xI7Y/tSrJLraUW1Z/T7j1Qm1yvr9i907W7hdrQkGFOGGB1GC0yIIjEEA5NVF3SpPwkyxCqGlpUDEz33TOMT+EnT65pZraKAqqCG3SI3BZJnyEfI1JvakYubSSg2wgmO0bjx5cTzkQK89uEmkbdM7S6AQ24hGAEMduAW6gxHVkepG4eVcX7jFxL4XIA+6du4uCBAmD6Z/CgXFUXWtGR0hlV2+6JyIWYzPP3sAV1dv2zvIJ2rh2G0DJBPSBJMkjyI7Zk1GFpEQb3oAJ6jme0YUAZ7kiMHiIiOer8BGXtcVgvTBJBJgmOZCmPXFRNK6wDypyJhiO5bmAY9IkZxija3T23JZpDCDuEqPvEZMgTEjH9KuDUZ2u7fYmLsZwt/iX6f60g0iN35flNSrqgksNhyQe+eZ57jNCKfL8/wBa9VHqqc43V7/IwezTi9/uBMTyfoK6FweZqStsHtn1/rmoiaxWYqgBIiTgLkxExk/hRvqaaV2D7NJHS3F86NaggxEjMd49Kl6rSKuRwQDEZHmD2I8jVfqenqg4PIBPy+VJl1EakL039BkOnafvhC0fd/3APH40DVFWWCMeX+lcjxUA5gE43HgknuAMH17VE1XikrEAmCTyCfUEYzn6UmNdvlFyopcMCdOn8P5Cu7FhQcL+Q8qazryCdyGQvHOJicDjgfiKsbmnue73m2UA84WDE8MZOPIfhTf8b5ZWMuxEtahUDQAGkc9/p9fw78VcBzvjbbDMMduAIEecyYgGKy2uDk5O0yu4HIPBBEYPYwKsPDNK7MzhnZmhVPu+QSAznc2AOkepMDis1SEbtjYOXBphpG3BuniDGRyDXOusNtzH0FWPgPh6Ou5isQf+Y8kn4TIQrMGR357d7tdBpwOFP+W0WHzPvOD67qyynFcGtUpNHnr2WKjaMmcASfpzVjovCtSVHQy4xui3/wDfHlW+t2AAdlq4wAMmQEgZJhAYEZqy8L8Gu3baXbSWglxVdWGZVhKtLZyD5Uzx8o2jAHwIxd3Iw/gHgVxNSt244ICOsKGc5ZSOBH3fPvWxW6qmdhMLtJYhR6cSfrV1a9lLpjfeA9BJ7R22ip2n9kbCmWLOfWB/QT+dLlSqVHdqwxVqUFZMwi27aksqpJMkqJyeesBj9TRrfhd+6+9BcOI6MJyTuLNuk+uPwrdXdRoNNO5rKkcyQzfTJqp8Y/aNprKgoj3JO0Y2LMTy2fyoo0UnZyKlXk17sSHpPYm4x3OUX1abjfI7yR9Iq8seyuntjddZnju7Qo/T615r4/8AtM8Rd7CWLdrTpfcIjlTcaWZVkM3TjcD8NUvtlY1P2q4t69du2lusil33DBMGB0qYHYCKZjTik+fmLyqTdr2PVtR7c+G6dltWnV2JAAsjcuTGbg6eT5k1mfFvb6+uuOnvNa09lBcVoblxEA3XA8+AAfnXnFtIuoZEBlxOZlTJHlV37Taa3e8Vv6e8wFs3LjyCEMwBycRgCicrx9LFRhaXqUlzWp9rdt9p0N64QA4MyzbSNpkmSCKvLvjOn3xc04vEGCdrBsAluqQpAVlO0CT+JrI3/BAt9tpm0LjAEMrHaCSkx5gCrC5qbawkSJJjaDG5dpgyIiOBUq1FKKce1gYwcG79zfezWs0JR7j2LeGVQpsK5Eidu9oNw9/Qec1P1PtT4dbRmNu2BwsadJfpLFhEbVjzIJkd8V5P9p98VB90ltJViYJUQQZB6tpn5EgeVVhvkm6Lt4MEnIJYPJwqlQQCckFjGB6UuDm9XKbS8id4h44/vXNpiLZbpDQzAQBtJWAYj/8AvNKs4wQknPpifx4pqb4MfNfQB1J9z0fT6MC44dgxYAZEnExnBjqbAUziIomnu77gSWChU3YBWWYBDliYI2gfIfhF0Wra4xErvBw4YdRmSTEYbcZJ7c94m6y1curG1FZjJXgliDtmMkkE+QPc5gcWbeVpDk+wc2Qy7hht3KAAFgcM08x6eQxVZ70IxW7bEtJgyRtYFjmJ5bzPVNSHvXCy2YIPRmZ3AKIPYAdu/wAJBzzN06i2LY3ndyDHSASo+PtgYnype4re7hN32CtlFTCqAoIEgN1RElfujAIBicDEmIHi/iVm3JuEC5uE5ZiYgzBA6Yjg5mtDasWriwdsMOIlSpiV2qSDJzxwalXfCLSKHKM099ignMDqKg4kn60yjGLWcrhKnJ7TPMrHiqSQoLbgRtAJJEmCIHpUzT2r7wBYuAEj/pMOY+8R616BqrYUoFAXsd9yAZ5xuOQT/XmIqXplBgpbViYlkttdM4MBrSxiT3zW9dSm/dTC8Puzzp9HqXBVdqmDEuoPBMkA8geld+CezN4EA3EEQQFLt6HlAOPXvXqQ8IvsZTTOc97dtPPB980+XFTtN7N6vcDChZMhrxXBHlatkGP8wpkp1Zq1gcKSd2zF2/ZpipI3HAGFCyJM53EZ3Dt931rD+02qVCLYBBDDcC2RtO/CgZ8pPJ7Vo/2qeE/ZnRn1BLNgoC3wjMy7GRJAmMH8/NfEb6O4ZZKwogwDgZJ2iBJmOcdzTOmpuK50JqyjwkdtqgZPSSYkEHGcHHeBGO0cnger8QZ54AJk7QBJgCYAxxQLjyOK5QgGSMeUweI5/OtSihBsdB45Fu3aFlndkAXY5IBHSn7sgjd8IYTmRxWu8S0Gse2+rtacWjaVpEqJUAEhkJJclXbpxnbx38ktaohlaAYPBHSexBHHFXXiHtTqrzFndsgqyrKLBJxtUgQCVgdv6olRV7pDo1XazJPiWle8926IACBjgKJ6ExGAesLHM+ZIq00H2LbaNy91qpVlKqgja4GWeANwGNpPBMEmMnrNRuABLEiZJMrLRMGTiIrrV617lsKYAUjAwSY27sdhn+bvVuDasVkk2z1XwD2k8MsKyFWu3VHUyMTbPVkK3STIyJA4znJtvE/2o6TTNsseH72MEMSlsQ2QSYZpgcRXj3hzG0wbbyBgEKARIDExiCVJHMNW19kNl68/2u2lxdnRkAPdJPu7TPtwSA0HAkRM0h+5K/l/y5eWS2WXiv7WtdeRkt27FpWBBw1xoOMEsB/41s9P7UtpfC9EthEu3ha09trZaCs2N0kDv0gRjmsL4j4baFtj9lW20Xdym4WKbVYqQVMHqAGfP66DxDXAaDRp9mN0bLdwtgTdCmAGaJJls/4TzmnSlKKUlw+4t7TRaeyvtPr9Xca5da3bspjaiAb2PA3MSYAySO8etarULfuCfdrcWDAJ2/jM5+WPnWY9kPaTS6dWVoUBTtYS7MFMueJIDPHJnbNWd79p+gUkTdMc/uyOcD4iPI1Ua0am7r5f2FGMkrJb7lP4p7D6u9vNq8dOXKkgrbuL0iMQQw+prP3PY7xrTsSvutWDESxMHHUEcoFbHYmtV4j+1bSi07WlcttIUkCA5Viu6CcSKkeN/tAXSuLRt7oVCWLnlgenCHqHlzmrn4LVmlb5DEq17XZ434/au6bWaUauyLLrdS80bT0+9Un4CQI2kxVn7We1Gnu3HZC+27ca4oK5jcy9QBOZBjvA+VD9u/aBfEtSk2X3BGVNrFEmC0yycmI4jAqvvGxqLq3VtW7Kui7bRVSqQDJlJmZ3GVBzPeaXUjTwWtJ3LipxbvyHfSODbvxCEKMwoBD4JM9wRn0Pervxmzu8cuGDB3meMEAjE1Djb+7QKtqAwTbKxJdmLKekmRjO0bT2qX7ZW7p8Ua5ZlWIX3ZheNg3kh8difwxSKdbNYvs7DF8V/PRk/G9HdOvui2m7bd2hi0BZUE8npEEk/Kqq5qlW5tYhkBBIQyPIgYzM/nVtd8TCvcuMjXb7sgaQEWQVmNpEklYgTInNF0NpFJvEP1yJvIOOpQm7cRng4OAPlTXUaW16Izy+J2KK1/y2FtM7wdxMQpUDbJ4JPqDQAdzMqn4xk8T3OSeCY59Kufa3RqHDoSQwACxA6BlYxG0A+ciPWq7w3RMwY7ADtEHttJE4AJk4A+Z8qZConDIig27EnSpZVYKkHuCe/pNs4/GlV14f9rS2os3F93EgFzbjJ+6Z+c+ZPzpVndd35X6/wN8L8sTdC5Fx1FtUOWyCu9T0Txu47z97ymLmy1wjf7twWEKWXbmemGTC4B6pgwTMZqs1i9aXZLB12HOANrHrGeWcHdjjBmpyr1CP+WJG0sp6SPdkBJLGIJBjBBmQa5s7SsyQ52RtXrLaBBcBtq4OD8fSuFbaMsGAXkxBzQ7KKSXwSCSTlgZ6VBlRg7o/Afh14tYDf8u2AoB2kTAIiWYN1LkMMDscCoCM8sXWNvBgPClSxBHY95A4NGoprRbW9mjTYANjNdLSNksnwgwAQDu7HgDpwas7HiNlAxvWffAgEbi1wKCIYH3jEATHVHbI71iE8bthUVx0n7pAaQAQCoBwDA/M55qxu6wunUd3UQ0lmBw21VAy0YBB7sPMUOE4NFqcbF7f9tdPpbp2WLKtC7UlQQMZChAnkfimR27D/wDiRqEtIln3NsESg2tcO0k92cwZiAQRnmRFZXVXLP8A1LYItk7ZAEvghZY7pwgYAGDJJBJBx/jD3Ld1kJEzODJBPBx8LDyHEV0Onp5PTt5/MTOe9o3Pj/7S/Ebd65b+0noYqVCqjAjkYQTn8a70XtS2oCs+vIYtlLguMRgEmFaNszx28jivPPEhduO910YFmzPmR6+dQiYNa6vTwqLnYVPqZUpaRf8AtNqt91l3h5Ih4KiIkja0svUZ/XEUIgE94+lNcukmSST6maYg806nDGKiJqTc5OQ5aTP9MV1bQsYET6kDj1NDp0FEAWtu37osNpDBTuDL1I8hYIPw7Seeky2KsfaDX3W01m3d93ulmHT++2zcgXLhHUJZoBz3yCDVFqtY73DeZhvZizEACWPJ2jAn0EUa9rHvAe8JIVQqAAKFAjsoj0jHNA48MLLViMrCOCCB2OD6meKO9x2YCSZ4xA8+OOZPzzSa73aJOMcfDGQMdh9aJoLNydyoXEQQASIMqBKmRJx+NU3q4LfYls5W3sQnME4Ako7EZPxEbzmTyM4q99jvErCXrvvzfzpzbRbZJb3hcZEQoVZdpYwJ74rJcdRIjcREycQciZAzz6HyrUezJtH3mxCX93sMvht5ztEbi20EeXTyDSKrUYt2uFF3aLDSa6yxYhrwDKwYm4z85IJdiG+8IAnMgGavPFfapn0+m0GwraREVlb/AJjSu1GBBgAhm+nM1jrWoZGa2qBDtMBuobDmeDJzzEeXFWLgNuLWwRABgkISWyBBkoMECO2JzWepOSfOvmOxvH1LRdDZJUbi5AMpJZeGR12g7iQCO0SeORR1ZUD7tPYj3a9RU3AQGQgEXD1TCfCAeqeFNVZ195mumy4U5YnaQQohSysUO+ZngZK/IlF0bCIg4KlNxDBysjdxyvEY6hzwpuV7P/2/2Lp6dy4TRrdtge5sJ3cJbRNzDeWUlIMEFTy0EdqHdUtb33N5G9CVngSFQAZUkurAgE8QDRfZfTi7cVQzi/vG1bZVk2wzvOQVaAOoEbTEQeJWp8OKt7wt0sjMFZmcGHYlQYIV1O8xIjYJPNKlFvbZshK+kVWg9m2vsHQtuDSwjdBMcFZOdyxPeeM01rwIIy+8hXdALSEbd3vFJDnHwgBjDTysjArTeGXGeGtqpuQdq2ugoJ92tsndIAMkHJlyQIAoOj8JTVC8S4W4LiEe9EFLVskMs46tqEfhEgA0/bhZEly7lPc8Fu7rIZk3MN4VXW2CpGe/Q24GAY5cTHMf2gI032bWMjv7yVVmLEwGIAI3YDBZEAgg8Ve+z94u9x2KqLLWpEQWDG4WZX7/AA+8IzIQ571C1124luzffZZBu32tkqPeC4GIVSu1lTpyDB5jkilU01aUuwLSirR5M82lYt71raqSy9JUllIDPv2iCIAJAJEAzGKbTj3Sq5uFt370O3TKEMGkSTPOP4QJGaha5zbDneHG1Gc5HU0kiA8MS2wHbGCZESKWlv77q3NRtVL0JB+IknYbiEHpQr8RkAjGTNNdOUk5eQF/e2RNYFuiyEsM1zd+7uWj8Q3EAFRHDA9X51y2uayQp2GY6FO4EqQArOMiIAle8mOSSRd98lqwoNk7SRb5Kb+pbmZYgo3STBgQIIFD1/g1lGZ2uFVAHAEZElAJktJPcfKnLBJRf3/oDau0c+L+OMzg+6I6RiN0d4JRhHPBzxTVGBsMFb3m0kZUs4iCQB0qQcAZ70qZGEIq2IDbb5Ne03N/3cC0O4CDqUAYwNvB855oJ1ZtobSbAB1KSGJDqzBIYz2ntGeBSpVzIbbT9GV6k/UP73cqnaGEjpGWNsMQer4WPUMDbtz5U1lQQVuDMbVaO6yG3ZJYbQefTB4p6VIbt7qGLaKXx2z7spc91bUII4EkAsrEgCASd+RzHanu68X5tOu2ZhlwQ5kAmIwsYxmc0qVbqUVKmpPlGWT3Y78Lvhnsobhdwh2yCZEggkt6gY8xPoA+KNaLshBFwck9XxQwhu/IgwO9NSq8P8j+V/qWnopfF7oYSY3AktAIB4IiZjBn6RWdZ6elXSoK0QZ8nFKlSpwI7LFILT0qhBe7MT2mKsrekY2RtYdRJ2+gO0yY8z68/OFSpVSTSuHBX/Ql6D2fe6Hbd0q4TETJG6YJ4jPn+OK4fw+9Z6lbG8puQ7SHG0gZjzUyMUqVZFWk5Wf5wEoJxuRNYI2EEMGQGNu2MmR6GQeMUbw3cQQp6jCbZjHxg8Rgqe85+ipVpfwirbsd6AneruSNoME9eVBbbBMGT+HUas/DrxuMrM0sThjJMzMmecBlHHBPzVKk1VpsKHJa6lCQWBVg9sdQld1vcB/COWUEyAf7dkL7g21PEw0ssN7xVMATjpYn5Y7CmpVnT18mbpK17F37EeJMHfUrZW4ttEF1sK8uVCOCW3QYDQDzzV97VeOW7ztZssUUrttkL0rCozSkcja64MdQwcyqVXUeOl+clJv4vMqE1At3ywuOr2oIImeoBrZcZDE7vMx3PerC0t1jDENevObgbaigTIuKo6ivQDt6oxnJgNSpMdr5miO1cJ4fprty4/upVWGwDcBKoGKknI3HkdMDbmMQvsI1fvGt3LhU3jbFy6RLOpII2IAFQQIxnZnMU9Kl1YpUm+1hdaTjwVWp8BtBWsNuW4+65dXBRNoZ928NLCFGAvDNjNZm6ltrbFly7BfPKiN8kyPhK4Iwe1KlTrtLXf8AP2KS0H0ekW24dPu7gZHf3RCECYJ3DM4wPmajX6VivvQ6sob4dgBViRtGcMOqZ85xxKpUVCbyT+RdSCwa/OCNqdLJD3HRd6hl3KxO04B6cDg4pqVKupG8le/7GHFI/9k=" style="margin-top: 119px;" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I didn't take a picture of <a class="irc_mutl i3597 ijXfuIQ60yj8-dTEICwVRfZc" data-noload="" data-ved="0ahUKEwiTgrnvqLfNAhVQE1IKHdOgBa4QjRwIBw" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwiTgrnvqLfNAhVQE1IKHdOgBa4QjRwIBw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wikiwand.com%2Fnl%2FAstoria-Megler_Bridge&psig=AFQjCNEXHNHNxT1IQuIBJuPYonmxXDg2pw&ust=1466536626192272" jsaction="mousedown:irc.rl;keydown:irc.rlk" tabindex="0" target="_blank"></a>this bridge. .because I was too busy freaking out about going over it. .Instead I copied this one from google images (For all I know. .Grant took this photo from the backseat and posted it!) It crosses the Columbia River between Oregon and Washington. It is 196 feet above the river at high tide. .and it is 4.1 miles long!! There were some ginormous cargo boats on the river--which was also very interesting to see! We drove north into Washington for a bit before our GPS routed us back through Astoria to get to Portland. .so we crossed it TWICE!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We were glad to be headed home back to Kansas on Saturday. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was a super fun trip. .Great family time. .Lots to do and see.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Memories to last a lifetime!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thanks for coming with me to re-live it a little bit!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grabbed some photos of the garden a few days ago. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Will share them soon!</div>
Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-16611040819894983192016-06-20T10:59:00.004-05:002016-06-20T10:59:55.616-05:00Best Vacation. EVER! Part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Welcome back!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think that I have about 500 pictures left of our vacation (after editing). .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I thought that I would share some of them! My crew will be in a lot of the first post. .Not so much on the 2nd post. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Oregon was loaded with incredible scenery and a beauty like nothing that we have really seen before!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hope you enjoy our little mini tour!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj038q_fMWqGney8QgfnTQCG-UEcrzjQEmum8wNj7yQPyTXjCKZD38iJeaD8m32C-Z31xZpG4R333nghjtiKHqGurUk8f3q9jCX-kC7m_7c5J6tHiFmnPlI21pjW2-lEXqqtoV2VynNC2aA/s1600/IMG_5724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj038q_fMWqGney8QgfnTQCG-UEcrzjQEmum8wNj7yQPyTXjCKZD38iJeaD8m32C-Z31xZpG4R333nghjtiKHqGurUk8f3q9jCX-kC7m_7c5J6tHiFmnPlI21pjW2-lEXqqtoV2VynNC2aA/s320/IMG_5724.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Flew into Portland on Thursday afternoon. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The kids loved flying. .but we were all exhausted!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Got our suburban (perhaps the nicest one I have ever been in!!) and drove (well--after we figured out how to get OUT of Portland!) a short distance to Troutdale, more like a little suburb. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBgCt1Zn7nslYEP0KOct0lGb9nl48UTs8-MkesTaQLuFYxCFdeUTbHuwtlpSS6tBnQPi8vwoZmt59kWlO1TR0dOapq51CqxZD90m2QUG1NMLkuM-exNqB63F9eCEoSn8PQ7cOF2-yPe8I2/s1600/IMG_5721.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBgCt1Zn7nslYEP0KOct0lGb9nl48UTs8-MkesTaQLuFYxCFdeUTbHuwtlpSS6tBnQPi8vwoZmt59kWlO1TR0dOapq51CqxZD90m2QUG1NMLkuM-exNqB63F9eCEoSn8PQ7cOF2-yPe8I2/s320/IMG_5721.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The next morning we headed off. .stopping at several waterfall areas on the way.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Of course, we were all in awe of them--we don't have access to small waterfalls. .let alone waterfalls the magnitude of Multnomah Falls (which is the one pictured here!) We hiked a short distance up to the bridge you see. .And Cami mentioned that she would like to hike to the top.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdF0MSoddEILE8eNoyxo67aCG5m4EtN3Ls3wPW4t4BO2-3tmQT9uYImCaTzgAdUzqVo3ql1T4P_VDdCS6iEBcQaOpAT-2QSHbIjhUdrOAfGmpflhUuyMEQ53YA19EOa6Fdr6nvAEJKmj7g/s1600/IMG_5734.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdF0MSoddEILE8eNoyxo67aCG5m4EtN3Ls3wPW4t4BO2-3tmQT9uYImCaTzgAdUzqVo3ql1T4P_VDdCS6iEBcQaOpAT-2QSHbIjhUdrOAfGmpflhUuyMEQ53YA19EOa6Fdr6nvAEJKmj7g/s320/IMG_5734.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Always ready for an adventure--I was totally in!! Grant showed up shortly after we got going too. .and the three of us hiked another mile and the remaining 542 vertical feet up to the top. We actually turned around once when Cami decided she was too tired to keep going. .But after Grant mentioned something about "only coming 800 miles to see the top" we found a second wind. .and projected our wind onto the little one. .And made the rest of the climb!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you could have seen that little girl's face when she realized that SHE had made it clear to the top. Priceless!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I will never forget it!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A sweet lady took our picture at the mouth of the falls. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And the walk down was significantly faster and easier than the way up!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUfG5ocsadr1-9TEujmd2c_7sKseKXNVaKsJn-FuR-iFZoJx_x9NptsnT9bGfYY-ntS0zXTTDNWvCVID699U90GL92xNWIr82NnuyeGKuGz15LN5VHHB8wX1z6dmJRb3G8xLMn3B3HseOm/s1600/IMG_5780.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUfG5ocsadr1-9TEujmd2c_7sKseKXNVaKsJn-FuR-iFZoJx_x9NptsnT9bGfYY-ntS0zXTTDNWvCVID699U90GL92xNWIr82NnuyeGKuGz15LN5VHHB8wX1z6dmJRb3G8xLMn3B3HseOm/s320/IMG_5780.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We enjoyed seeing the locke and dams as well as a fish hatchery and even Mount Hood from a distance on our way to Aunt Jane and Uncle Pete's. The whole impetus for our trip was to visit them. They moved from Kansas about 4 years ago. They live near UP's family in the high desert Oregon country. And what beautiful country it is!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1KEj3mZZg6o3dFckX68HZFZ-x3AIgWxAYHt9FNfuMsbt1dyP3jXS5JthZ3xX__RezjBIbcgySEBe7_1rnpbXc7mW5rEAIL848i0Xphkqi9uuDPTlP3nQsTKBureevJy0odLncGZeRvX7u/s1600/IMG_5754.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1KEj3mZZg6o3dFckX68HZFZ-x3AIgWxAYHt9FNfuMsbt1dyP3jXS5JthZ3xX__RezjBIbcgySEBe7_1rnpbXc7mW5rEAIL848i0Xphkqi9uuDPTlP3nQsTKBureevJy0odLncGZeRvX7u/s320/IMG_5754.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A little scenery from their west deck!! AMAZING! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And while I didn't happen to include a photo. .the view to the south from the same deck shows the "three sisters" mountains. I could drink my coffee there EVERY morning and never grow tired of it!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We enjoyed hanging out with AJ and UP over the weekend. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And hands down. .from all parties in my family. .our time with them was the best of the whole trip!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvX4F6_NmlEywV7iTYbRlhu_1f6wyb__9iX5cPzJh5CSOERAi8qrp2Psw7mZnVSLWPiHDQ0UZA4SwkuD-XoQ_tAM7g4t3MyHTKiluizfiE4F0GwyX4nScCY8XhhOlr0D7Cg6iOAl8Su4C7/s1600/IMG_5771.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvX4F6_NmlEywV7iTYbRlhu_1f6wyb__9iX5cPzJh5CSOERAi8qrp2Psw7mZnVSLWPiHDQ0UZA4SwkuD-XoQ_tAM7g4t3MyHTKiluizfiE4F0GwyX4nScCY8XhhOlr0D7Cg6iOAl8Su4C7/s320/IMG_5771.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sunday we drove over to Smith Rock after brunch. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The name is a misnomer. .it is more like a BUNCH of rocks--sporting sheer cliffs on the east side of them that people enjoy climbing. There were some hiking trails there too. .I don't know if it was because it was Memorial weekend. .or if the crowd is always that big. .but there were people EVERYWHERE there! Hiking, climbing. We enjoyed watching the climbers through the binoculars. Those people are C-R-A-Z-Y!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn4gejEbM92NniCHTYyPagu3ME41d2KEhWzSpJcJwMpTpjd_iHrDVUhsVoKtrLTw2Rr9uveQa3T2OJr3Nhzqrd6GI0Vn7NSA-dE9CAGyNQ31XGFKD-jWKQvtqaUVXGvd5UOMdtKjAgeDoM/s1600/IMG_5777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn4gejEbM92NniCHTYyPagu3ME41d2KEhWzSpJcJwMpTpjd_iHrDVUhsVoKtrLTw2Rr9uveQa3T2OJr3Nhzqrd6GI0Vn7NSA-dE9CAGyNQ31XGFKD-jWKQvtqaUVXGvd5UOMdtKjAgeDoM/s320/IMG_5777.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
AJ, the kids and I enjoyed using one of the really nice walking trails that curved around the top of the mini-mountain that we were on!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's a different view to the south of the main climbing areas sporting a winding little river! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Amazing views!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was really warm--in the low 80's when we headed south Sunday afternoon.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So we were a little surprised to see. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCuhxIS849xHY-eH8QRhCdGyhAuvBGMVgWiDYCff2qSVNLZI1GFvO39vt3mzKS_22oOLj3e3h6qz8eEdQJZ7zDQGO6bMYJdUjTVolvq9m9H5E2_8NAKJvk63s8fZsBKSKOQHln6zRtBq_N/s1600/IMG_5803.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCuhxIS849xHY-eH8QRhCdGyhAuvBGMVgWiDYCff2qSVNLZI1GFvO39vt3mzKS_22oOLj3e3h6qz8eEdQJZ7zDQGO6bMYJdUjTVolvq9m9H5E2_8NAKJvk63s8fZsBKSKOQHln6zRtBq_N/s320/IMG_5803.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
THIS when we reached Crater Lake several hours later!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They had just opened up this pass two days before we got there. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And once again. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The scenery was AMAZING!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvrOuAbhadFLucfSp1GngCRygRymtFGzXOeliiGyyE_t0iof2HXRRbI00OpIIKCK23s-MBkX3IpmgA2k79cGyFmgU-cdy9MwelDn8JMpezspx8x70ZnsMGLujS3WnOTiwCD6tS41BJkZnE/s1600/IMG_5805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvrOuAbhadFLucfSp1GngCRygRymtFGzXOeliiGyyE_t0iof2HXRRbI00OpIIKCK23s-MBkX3IpmgA2k79cGyFmgU-cdy9MwelDn8JMpezspx8x70ZnsMGLujS3WnOTiwCD6tS41BJkZnE/s320/IMG_5805.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hiking in sandals through the snow. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Off the bucket list that came!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And my toes graduated to a totally different level of their normal cold!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfxfIfYc24TvQrtTyfbiNrqpJLMIi-jqjY2JJK_dBi0MQd1wl8BMUoHr-tOD-B4ZlqrYP8Wo1Izyl8_5zUm81jbZBq1ofJVK0Tkrvxa6CWDpVSLkhQWXeJXDy1e7p7y5cueyqDeOzaOkEo/s1600/IMG_5817.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfxfIfYc24TvQrtTyfbiNrqpJLMIi-jqjY2JJK_dBi0MQd1wl8BMUoHr-tOD-B4ZlqrYP8Wo1Izyl8_5zUm81jbZBq1ofJVK0Tkrvxa6CWDpVSLkhQWXeJXDy1e7p7y5cueyqDeOzaOkEo/s320/IMG_5817.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Much of the lake was still frozen. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And there were SO many people checking it out, just like we were!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We must have stopped at nearly every pull out area there was to get the vehicle parked in!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The kids were always ready to jump out and take another look at the crazy amazing view!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMpcoCne1OhB3j25OMlcBwK3swKriOmLBtRBtKKzhOcfAQv33yTuKK9WPwvGZjozxWPnC9D5opBdW-Zz2ciCKDhOzrgiJrQrnG_ckWxnkN4DmI2DoitapGjw-MH-qMjj-G29MJ05lG0pu6/s1600/IMG_5824.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMpcoCne1OhB3j25OMlcBwK3swKriOmLBtRBtKKzhOcfAQv33yTuKK9WPwvGZjozxWPnC9D5opBdW-Zz2ciCKDhOzrgiJrQrnG_ckWxnkN4DmI2DoitapGjw-MH-qMjj-G29MJ05lG0pu6/s320/IMG_5824.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Though it was one of the worst nights sleep I had during the whole trip (me-though-not the bed or accommodations!). .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think my favorite place we stayed was this old hotel in Prospect Oregon. I hadn't made reservations for rooms, other than a beachfront hotel for a couple nights in California. I didn't want to rush to get someplace. .and I didn't want to stay too long somewhere else if we were ready to move on. As our travel plans fell. .I was afraid that we would either be driving in the dark (and missing the scenery) or staying somewhere yucky. .so Sunday morning, after I had called a couple places that were completely full already, I found a room big enough for ALL of us due to a late cancellation!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY8pBorbBN_Rf9-cSwu2CQFV0gQYoBcb5HLIEG-B3rZ96HmD5aVBVkbEGo6jqHGRKiz8VUNtB2SuM0MDCC1owVAttGjsXMQELL0oKItVhBCXnqTqbx2hLkOv1Xpz5WhOnB1TC-UYZ-9xw2/s1600/IMG_5827.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY8pBorbBN_Rf9-cSwu2CQFV0gQYoBcb5HLIEG-B3rZ96HmD5aVBVkbEGo6jqHGRKiz8VUNtB2SuM0MDCC1owVAttGjsXMQELL0oKItVhBCXnqTqbx2hLkOv1Xpz5WhOnB1TC-UYZ-9xw2/s320/IMG_5827.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The Prospect Hotel is a completely refurbished bed and breakfast on the historical roster. It was a little odd, staying in a HOUSE (because that is actually what it was--luckily we got to stay in the house, rather than in the newer "hotel-like" rooms built on a side lot) with rooms full of other guests. .but the big wrap around porch-complete with porch swing, NO TV OR WIFI, and old furnishings were a hit with this girl. .everyone else--not so much!! We set a time for our breakfast. .and enjoyed eating in their 2nd floor dining area at a huge table set with beautiful dishes and a delicious homemade breakfast-down to my mimosa!! I would stay there again in a HEARTBEAT!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcqqhZr1Q3DM3U9u-WGOQwLbx0JWKTSMEhbUiew9DxyxvMShgouJW_E9z9RQ_3XikwHXlpymYCrrkmy0JxA3Ki-jUM6Rl_ZJV-6kgmQ8cO3Kmp0Wl_cxtYlGjZ8T2MPFHlPIsVRlww3Lra/s1600/IMG_5889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcqqhZr1Q3DM3U9u-WGOQwLbx0JWKTSMEhbUiew9DxyxvMShgouJW_E9z9RQ_3XikwHXlpymYCrrkmy0JxA3Ki-jUM6Rl_ZJV-6kgmQ8cO3Kmp0Wl_cxtYlGjZ8T2MPFHlPIsVRlww3Lra/s320/IMG_5889.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After taking a post breakfast hike down to see the local waterfalls, we headed for Crescent City California! (While the kids were all over getting out to see every nook and cranny of Crater Lake. .they were totally over it by the time we made it to the big California sign!!)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyYiAm5c69xYPr0sZY2uOkKbQbX4F6jVkZ1oabEPh5aXZUNDOUORrtFRfaUkj1e4nMIBJZPnIOkPRHhRQgUcF8rUlgcjsQMv_wbZk-PWfgKhSF0v53uacBIxaOGyH4Lj9r7I_f743Dgl6A/s1600/IMG_5905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyYiAm5c69xYPr0sZY2uOkKbQbX4F6jVkZ1oabEPh5aXZUNDOUORrtFRfaUkj1e4nMIBJZPnIOkPRHhRQgUcF8rUlgcjsQMv_wbZk-PWfgKhSF0v53uacBIxaOGyH4Lj9r7I_f743Dgl6A/s320/IMG_5905.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I knew that I wanted to experience staying right on the beach during our vacation. I was sure the kids would love that. .and they did!! We stayed at Oceanfront Lodge in Crescent City. .and loved every bit of it!! Here was the sunset view from our balcony! We were also able to see the gray whales in the distance (after a wonderful woman shouted to us from the beach to take note of them!)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi69r4dWehdk1BTeVQwDYqBOKKcyvwAUHhhSZ8MFCepoN2u5B5zImBsK6dZdtMNnPFDsPDjGrVJYPC4tuJblxsBLIE8IN99uvWQEKzzrvIXPwmuzywwwsNbd06RObaE62zkj4cSUOaZ_FeL/s1600/IMG_5979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi69r4dWehdk1BTeVQwDYqBOKKcyvwAUHhhSZ8MFCepoN2u5B5zImBsK6dZdtMNnPFDsPDjGrVJYPC4tuJblxsBLIE8IN99uvWQEKzzrvIXPwmuzywwwsNbd06RObaE62zkj4cSUOaZ_FeL/s320/IMG_5979.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Jeremy and I hiked over to see the lighthouse area that was a block from our back door. The kids did some tidepooling. The water was C-O-L-D. .and all the signs around about the dangers of the Pacific ocean and warning you to never turn your back on it--kinda freaked out this mom!! So we made sure that our hotels all had indoor swimming pools for the kids to enjoy!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh607rwrsObu9Q7-_eTn_QqcSzXKGZiNJJTWrM3E-Zf3EMBKDcCsi08nAmWnj3IZdN4765_fGtThgfxZI61I7wrPunrSv8sqFfatnvMT3hyUBiekc_N-JLQp_Om6GJw39zpeZimegz3Ya0N/s1600/IMG_5984.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh607rwrsObu9Q7-_eTn_QqcSzXKGZiNJJTWrM3E-Zf3EMBKDcCsi08nAmWnj3IZdN4765_fGtThgfxZI61I7wrPunrSv8sqFfatnvMT3hyUBiekc_N-JLQp_Om6GJw39zpeZimegz3Ya0N/s320/IMG_5984.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There were also lots of "pull out" areas along Highway 101 where you could park and hike or park and take in all the breathtaking views!! We stopped A. LOT! Every day!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsCGvOYm-NDzEce6IvsDGK_ZF2VWQqU2ytCZXY3r2DHBLKscuTX4D3E7ZRB0WmtvjKi8kgu3bIeN_8DTKy_fvnDDtUNx-Tki72UaJdQPtdMfRPknsNYnLvDtWNMDnFvpyDnYlvJw1c0mFE/s1600/IMG_5921.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsCGvOYm-NDzEce6IvsDGK_ZF2VWQqU2ytCZXY3r2DHBLKscuTX4D3E7ZRB0WmtvjKi8kgu3bIeN_8DTKy_fvnDDtUNx-Tki72UaJdQPtdMfRPknsNYnLvDtWNMDnFvpyDnYlvJw1c0mFE/s320/IMG_5921.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Tuesday morning we headed south on highway 101 to Redwood Park. We paid our $5 fee to check out the drive through tree and take our pictures with it (this was not it). But we found some equally huge redwoods along the scenic drive!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEibssRfZ9CFjeu98uJW0OaG5y3cZ_xgthw9gSSkvw5Y_98tXqazlWtV0y6Ybq1CJr_EODlIDEGsVdGTKRf6MqQXkRGJ3Nuiwkr4iypOB1wh1YJSdgnYt8FunH_K5V9NxLAX9AGP1tjkBs/s1600/IMG_5925.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEibssRfZ9CFjeu98uJW0OaG5y3cZ_xgthw9gSSkvw5Y_98tXqazlWtV0y6Ybq1CJr_EODlIDEGsVdGTKRf6MqQXkRGJ3Nuiwkr4iypOB1wh1YJSdgnYt8FunH_K5V9NxLAX9AGP1tjkBs/s320/IMG_5925.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We stopped and got lost in the forest (yes, kind of literally)--but the 4 mile hike that we took was so quiet and peaceful and majestic! It was probably one of my favorite memories of the trip. The kids loved it too!! Though Devin didn't turn out to be much of a hiker! The kids all got some great photos while we were at it. .though I bet I got the award for MOST PICTURES TAKEN. Grant gets the award for MOST PICTURES POSTED ON GOOGLE IMAGES--haha!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZrsCqur2fwcwCvoTyCsPDvCXtst9yevuN7veoPeKIwPXsK_4F16BJ-ZLhAFgqCV3zebN_D2oHEN5MkmuCBYQoPkzzNNnRA_ealBBZ9rnC0kQj6NGDwHNPrkj30h0qJZu-FDo0b6TwduP2/s1600/IMG_5952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZrsCqur2fwcwCvoTyCsPDvCXtst9yevuN7veoPeKIwPXsK_4F16BJ-ZLhAFgqCV3zebN_D2oHEN5MkmuCBYQoPkzzNNnRA_ealBBZ9rnC0kQj6NGDwHNPrkj30h0qJZu-FDo0b6TwduP2/s320/IMG_5952.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We had stopped that morning and grabbed stuff for a picnic lunch. .so when we found the beach again near Orick, California. .We stopped for lunch and playing. That was a fun experience! Though it was pretty windy and cool there. .we ate in the back of the suburban. .and it took me quite a while to venture down to the ocean! The waves were much louder there than the they were around Crescent City. .Even after 5 days on the ocean. .we never tired of any aspect of it!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ8PCqqsUBI-0zabMc9nSsLN-auD7iDzOV9wDkXd-OPjOWLf7AyOSb4t-R1j_yR4Sp556Id-osoH3Pkfj80I9RmR7AFge1EWo5hXF9ggrm4uIRmbbx4PYRD1kPt8rjDsDE5iAyTTF5GZnQ/s1600/IMG_5966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ8PCqqsUBI-0zabMc9nSsLN-auD7iDzOV9wDkXd-OPjOWLf7AyOSb4t-R1j_yR4Sp556Id-osoH3Pkfj80I9RmR7AFge1EWo5hXF9ggrm4uIRmbbx4PYRD1kPt8rjDsDE5iAyTTF5GZnQ/s320/IMG_5966.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The last place we went before heading back to Crescent City for our second night there. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Was to Fern Canyon in Humboldt County California.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We waited longer than the guys would have liked to make our turn through the current construction site of their windy, little, narrow dirt roads that drive into the recreation areas and further on in to the area known as Fern Canyon. There were ferns everywhere. .They grow up the entire inch of the vertical walls that surround the small little ravine in the bottom. I've never seen anything like it. .and for a woman who loves everything horticultural-I was pretty excited to get to experience the moments!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiseiAac8D81Wl5apYK3jWODplFEUk0ZNwGRvyNxRV6CCs_DLiSngSs86yhqAQNn-ChZqK1xDP7-2gUH9iI3nB_i8zbE48l2Sg1QPaFl-zdINSgA0jvnDOPGiR46_ITjQtE4sEyyW6fE9HL/s320/IMG_5970.JPG" width="320" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
More hiking and picture taking occurred there!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Which wore this crew out! It was a quiet ride back through the magnificent redwood forest!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm guessing you are tired of seeing and reading. .and we are only through 1/2 of our trip. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So I will be back later this week. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To share some more details and photos!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thanks for stopping by!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-80551993452751311992016-06-07T14:18:00.000-05:002016-06-07T14:18:18.264-05:00Family Update. .<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Quick little update about us. .Mostly I will just caption this smattering of pictures from the last several months!! It has been the craziest 2 months of my entire life with stuff and stuff and more stuff!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I look for things to slow down a lot this summer. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvKC1ozVWrgC4rwMKm5bd-JNnBGnZ0zXRyKmDGGxcBp5XXx57BnoNWUANe1abW21OpRvbQNMG2_efO8ttni89_TbZlZSHqx4NfdXalqS_GYRKrJpLu8RE0oAn1B1iahpCSx0pk_fnFW4ZY/s1600/IMG_5301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvKC1ozVWrgC4rwMKm5bd-JNnBGnZ0zXRyKmDGGxcBp5XXx57BnoNWUANe1abW21OpRvbQNMG2_efO8ttni89_TbZlZSHqx4NfdXalqS_GYRKrJpLu8RE0oAn1B1iahpCSx0pk_fnFW4ZY/s320/IMG_5301.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grant's last year of golf. .He placed 5th in the regional meet. .and got to golf at the State meet. .What an exciting time for him!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir4X8vulNodxmTSUs8maVqzfiOtpG7EWKwcShlR0prH7zHD0n0sYeqekD_E435tqY5qNbV5DQ1EBv-dN-pyQi5-A22K9bz-i9Iasj_ZE5brdnkU2gHxTmqdfwgXmRHiUlK9_WgK0xBj_K7/s1600/IMG_5534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir4X8vulNodxmTSUs8maVqzfiOtpG7EWKwcShlR0prH7zHD0n0sYeqekD_E435tqY5qNbV5DQ1EBv-dN-pyQi5-A22K9bz-i9Iasj_ZE5brdnkU2gHxTmqdfwgXmRHiUlK9_WgK0xBj_K7/s320/IMG_5534.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Tristan (the tallest guy) came back to help me with another 30 hour Famine the first part of May. It was a hectic time to do it. .and we had a small group of kids. .but we raised enough money to feed 11 kiddos for an entire year!! We did some clean up work for one of the ranches that sustained devastating damage in the Anderson Creek Fire back in April. .and I have now seen rats as big as housecats. .almost!! It was a great weekend for all of us!! And a good reminder about how fortunate we are here in the U.S. and how fortunate I am!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm so glad that God has allowed me to be able to bless others in this tiny way with my money and my time!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJxDHP8evumOqvX03KSED0nHazSccuIN4Ten5OZxadeKKriE3tUNFjEk-uVgC0F07vCJCVSW0MU-4k6mPhCPwbtrG367NxJOzKUV07uUrQ0fWFZkSOnJH7DcFwPRQmGnDTUmvP5P5IlUaM/s1600/IMG_5612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJxDHP8evumOqvX03KSED0nHazSccuIN4Ten5OZxadeKKriE3tUNFjEk-uVgC0F07vCJCVSW0MU-4k6mPhCPwbtrG367NxJOzKUV07uUrQ0fWFZkSOnJH7DcFwPRQmGnDTUmvP5P5IlUaM/s320/IMG_5612.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Tristan graduated from North Central Kansas Technical College early May with a certificate in carpentry. He will go to Topeka in August and do a year specializing in cabinetry and millwork. He is working full time with our carpenter friend for the summer and living at home with me for the last time ever!! God willing, anyway!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEC-uVuwjm5I8OCA20G3IEPQdL-JlZwpbscoBoH6R_CfoNTAHzZvpWVhYmwr6iLRQ1m2PWZQr_2mZm_H9p4fSquY4VySuzheZjK_7Hu8ksJuPzRF_yKOZxWygiclgJjYeP5F3uLqL3r0fc/s1600/IMG_5630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEC-uVuwjm5I8OCA20G3IEPQdL-JlZwpbscoBoH6R_CfoNTAHzZvpWVhYmwr6iLRQ1m2PWZQr_2mZm_H9p4fSquY4VySuzheZjK_7Hu8ksJuPzRF_yKOZxWygiclgJjYeP5F3uLqL3r0fc/s320/IMG_5630.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Miss Cami finished 2nd grade. This is her leg of the relay during their mini track meet. She is at 4-H camp this week. .she called at 10:10 last night sniffling!! It's the first time in many years that I haven't gone to camp with the kids as their nurse. .but in a post to come. .you'll read about the fact that we spent 10 days touring Oregon. .and when I don't work. .I don't get paid. .and neither does my guy!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So unfortunately--I had to stay home. .and she had to miss her mama!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHo0I3vFM6sKZHZRJkkxGYOI414YSecP0c_FSelCKMi1hIxbJbZUdjl5dFPwEC4f6yu_9htQYRPgu6suy_VedVjMH2nadh5rYP8r3_GUtOThEpGBk29PwcFq_G4BoqBvrZtyqQHb0wkmFy/s1600/IMG_5441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHo0I3vFM6sKZHZRJkkxGYOI414YSecP0c_FSelCKMi1hIxbJbZUdjl5dFPwEC4f6yu_9htQYRPgu6suy_VedVjMH2nadh5rYP8r3_GUtOThEpGBk29PwcFq_G4BoqBvrZtyqQHb0wkmFy/s320/IMG_5441.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Devin will now be a big 8th grader. .and then on to high school! A one year respite from all things high school will be appreciated. .though I will still work with the youth group--so I guess not completely away from high school and all the craziness! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpbZwuZtMzIcy_njcwooM2l15RW595XUfKqLMk9HH77KVTT53v0I9qfcpeSbocFLubgazaHBIPkkA5JuNHZYtsZKzDKwGNACluhrWQeQ4kCfT45un3GaiGnoaOKjUHCH2ljYhRC98loV5Y/s1600/IMG_5402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpbZwuZtMzIcy_njcwooM2l15RW595XUfKqLMk9HH77KVTT53v0I9qfcpeSbocFLubgazaHBIPkkA5JuNHZYtsZKzDKwGNACluhrWQeQ4kCfT45un3GaiGnoaOKjUHCH2ljYhRC98loV5Y/s320/IMG_5402.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He finished track. .throwing discus and shot. .and even ran in a 4X200 relay! He also played in a brass ensemble with 3 young ladies at our district contest and received a 1 rating. He's been to tractor safety. .and ready to help with wheat harvest in the next couple weeks! He is also at 4-H camp this week. .and gets to go to a church camp later in July! He will be mowing granddad's yard and working full time in his dad's shop doing the grunt labor! He loves it!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihmTQhUPhBBk5UqODG0dQ9KquLf6ZF54bn3bzMEbmgV0SAM4xdccZIFTG-Sdl9yDpsDV4Vjdvgfm4LRUrhedyk9g4Fg9PGkiwyVj3LXl9OGDpzupZU_lGoAk-DeLipwhxhw4PiBiFHDiBH/s1600/IMG_5645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihmTQhUPhBBk5UqODG0dQ9KquLf6ZF54bn3bzMEbmgV0SAM4xdccZIFTG-Sdl9yDpsDV4Vjdvgfm4LRUrhedyk9g4Fg9PGkiwyVj3LXl9OGDpzupZU_lGoAk-DeLipwhxhw4PiBiFHDiBH/s320/IMG_5645.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Two years in a row we launched a kid out of the house. Grant graduated in May. .and will study diesel mechanics next year in Topeka! He is excited to be done. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9amGJHhbhIyxIfIpQStUPXISzF2e20et5FSZu-ETuJj1A5BO32OKRauuf8IJxemdWt47ileQV2xupaCndh3R8o0PJcCi6NFN8zhJnSgQ4mAqpEJagxnhpGI4xuJVxZVf-mtQVx2sYYxBM/s1600/IMG_5712.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9amGJHhbhIyxIfIpQStUPXISzF2e20et5FSZu-ETuJj1A5BO32OKRauuf8IJxemdWt47ileQV2xupaCndh3R8o0PJcCi6NFN8zhJnSgQ4mAqpEJagxnhpGI4xuJVxZVf-mtQVx2sYYxBM/s320/IMG_5712.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And we are too! It will be super crazy to send them both out of the house in August!! We have sure depended on those two big boys for a lot of stuff!! We'll miss their personalities. .and their labor!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKayRiDgKNUIYM45biO_-a0IVcW4qNXHdKOeXWLL2LqFulN5KJFJnmT8f7w1tp15njSig_1M2uScv6DYirMXo_eyPHyPO76W_n-DZi68v5znJarrk9VF1Px7Adp2QohR3XtZAmMSPOavb9/s1600/IMG_5375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKayRiDgKNUIYM45biO_-a0IVcW4qNXHdKOeXWLL2LqFulN5KJFJnmT8f7w1tp15njSig_1M2uScv6DYirMXo_eyPHyPO76W_n-DZi68v5znJarrk9VF1Px7Adp2QohR3XtZAmMSPOavb9/s320/IMG_5375.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grant and Makenzie headed to the prom. She will also be attending college in Topeka next year. They have been dating for nearly 2 years now. Seems like they are headed in a direction!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpaxhiqvoUWz94A9GZsEhc40f2gK8SJ65peJsS3mkd6kxuENZFLiKFUTZ_b3DrSeWcyLpKaqumeN4aevkTzA7yF4WYBWk9GqgflnCreeAHpfpzdJ5jScbC2vQ9_n5-TwCxANSOJYI5k2XU/s1600/IMG_5326.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpaxhiqvoUWz94A9GZsEhc40f2gK8SJ65peJsS3mkd6kxuENZFLiKFUTZ_b3DrSeWcyLpKaqumeN4aevkTzA7yF4WYBWk9GqgflnCreeAHpfpzdJ5jScbC2vQ9_n5-TwCxANSOJYI5k2XU/s320/IMG_5326.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We took the opportunity to go on one big family vacation. Jeremy had been a little disgruntled the last couple years because it has rained so many days of our lake vacations. .so when he said "I think we just won't even go back for a week next year" THIS girl jumped and convinced him that we needed to head for Oregon to visit my aunt and uncle. He agreed. .and as I studied the potential for the trip, I was able to talk him into an entire 10 days to see the best of what Oregon has to offer. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And I can now tell you firsthand--Oregon has a LOT of awesome adventures to partake of! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I took about 1000 pictures (Literally) and look forward to posting some of those soon and logging our trip online!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thanks for dropping by. .and come back soon!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-8230707988603244922016-05-12T23:32:00.000-05:002016-05-12T23:32:56.010-05:00April Showers--May Flowers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp_hfM7AkxOPqjNmTubp6oRANeGcF_pFlHro8cx06eyNvmCKLfqF197HKSCsbxTcF3m883Pbln3P2jBWZWBqVYoBY5oEfMux1vRdBWA1ksYtaK-5flc4Nx0DTy8OKKDDbIvkm0mkr7ibOH/s1600/IMG_5588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp_hfM7AkxOPqjNmTubp6oRANeGcF_pFlHro8cx06eyNvmCKLfqF197HKSCsbxTcF3m883Pbln3P2jBWZWBqVYoBY5oEfMux1vRdBWA1ksYtaK-5flc4Nx0DTy8OKKDDbIvkm0mkr7ibOH/s320/IMG_5588.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I don't have any time to write with the schedule we are keeping right now. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But everything has been so beautiful with the 7 inches of rain we have had in the last month--</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That I just had to snap a few pictures tonight to look back on later!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Above is a view of the front side of my memory garden.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Jupiter's beard (pink), Cardonna salvia (dark purple) and Napeta's low catmint (lavender) The porcupine grass in the background is already nice and tall!!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimDKA_LZje985V38m2KnVhk_dADKfHN285reRDMdMcqM_vklxp9Ts7nXYUXMKlO4bBZ-BbhQEIxAOut78V4fd3bvZ-dpE4ouCZJA2n69c028Qpb4glw4rkkaynmEX5b9chE2EydH2ikLwv/s1600/IMG_5589.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimDKA_LZje985V38m2KnVhk_dADKfHN285reRDMdMcqM_vklxp9Ts7nXYUXMKlO4bBZ-BbhQEIxAOut78V4fd3bvZ-dpE4ouCZJA2n69c028Qpb4glw4rkkaynmEX5b9chE2EydH2ikLwv/s320/IMG_5589.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The chives and culinary sage are in full bloom too! Other herbs growing nicely are the tarragon, oregano, lavender, bronzeleaf fennel, basil, lemon balm and dill!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9EhG9cWJUXtG7LHgbx0B3IpPJPMyAiFhukRvrsCUnks67r2ClpVkjYTw-UrPwYkIfD77dzSqhuFqoX-D0lDXvfIOVyosYVq2X2dEufvs7r0B8DaKq3649MzwiMo3NeNxZxMnwKqBH8JUn/s1600/IMG_5590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9EhG9cWJUXtG7LHgbx0B3IpPJPMyAiFhukRvrsCUnks67r2ClpVkjYTw-UrPwYkIfD77dzSqhuFqoX-D0lDXvfIOVyosYVq2X2dEufvs7r0B8DaKq3649MzwiMo3NeNxZxMnwKqBH8JUn/s320/IMG_5590.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
AWWW tomatoes!! In a quick lookover, I found a handful on several different plants. These happen to be Lemon Boy. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZhinAt0ZsdfAuQxnrzZR9PxiSdx4wBX4mfD2t2Tmx5Y8o1j4yVO-g-p3-mENJWcu9r3dF4977br3q-ie0pg5Zo7PEkKgqnBAY9fbkGSdwYgvnMgr-qBpBIgvyXgYfIAY9KiWUr5DupFXO/s1600/IMG_5591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZhinAt0ZsdfAuQxnrzZR9PxiSdx4wBX4mfD2t2Tmx5Y8o1j4yVO-g-p3-mENJWcu9r3dF4977br3q-ie0pg5Zo7PEkKgqnBAY9fbkGSdwYgvnMgr-qBpBIgvyXgYfIAY9KiWUr5DupFXO/s320/IMG_5591.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The last wall of water that hasn't collapsed due to leaks. Amazingly--it also sports THE tallest tomato plant now!! That extra heat has made the difference I think!! I will take the wall down as soon as I have a minute! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn5Su5lxb9YcoJHTRAIM1zKIWRKCSMkhTya6Gh4Lv6G0Yz9PWovIEBMC9INIq_NoiOkxwksJTewFJ38ZeyxNkXED8PCkyPlAk78u2BHfBO7h-wSv0dmDJMvCO5XI0mqPyMfFBVV-BwPCeg/s1600/IMG_5592.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn5Su5lxb9YcoJHTRAIM1zKIWRKCSMkhTya6Gh4Lv6G0Yz9PWovIEBMC9INIq_NoiOkxwksJTewFJ38ZeyxNkXED8PCkyPlAk78u2BHfBO7h-wSv0dmDJMvCO5XI0mqPyMfFBVV-BwPCeg/s320/IMG_5592.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Amethyst Falls Wisteria--planted 4 years ago--one of the plants I bought after my dad died. It is 1/2 way up the trellis this year. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVBsi242-DaDrGI6V-3Uzfyk3MGFdnIE5VOdcsIYcSamit__qskiZLhaBe6nvm8tvxUB0eyvg235ZbRQy4i6cwoCGsGz40UXDYArb0EMLBjKRjPjfmtSdj5wy1t0foJKB8DpPiP9TTdTwO/s1600/IMG_5593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVBsi242-DaDrGI6V-3Uzfyk3MGFdnIE5VOdcsIYcSamit__qskiZLhaBe6nvm8tvxUB0eyvg235ZbRQy4i6cwoCGsGz40UXDYArb0EMLBjKRjPjfmtSdj5wy1t0foJKB8DpPiP9TTdTwO/s320/IMG_5593.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I can't wait till these gorgeous droopy blooms are hanging from the top of the support!! I just love them!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim4z0OpEc5kSjw8EXBLhc6NJIozG8dX4mnNSr4NDdLvfkFM6KwAWA-Wpetbd3g5HTbz_ZjfkWs16uS6GOV2xLazcWp03MjaretHMhKwe1LHyOxmnXoAn00qr_sXStR0qW8Q17lwy7RXl4U/s1600/IMG_5594.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim4z0OpEc5kSjw8EXBLhc6NJIozG8dX4mnNSr4NDdLvfkFM6KwAWA-Wpetbd3g5HTbz_ZjfkWs16uS6GOV2xLazcWp03MjaretHMhKwe1LHyOxmnXoAn00qr_sXStR0qW8Q17lwy7RXl4U/s320/IMG_5594.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Raspberries anyone?? My new little $7 plants are going to net almost that much in fruit this year! It was a no-name variety I picked up at Walmart because I love raspberries. .and the plants looked so great!! Now--to get them--before the winged creatures do! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-JjlB7oRKoldiFAVopZSfE_lNcA6GdchIMQuybBXkcgc5YsfvpvCR-VLqtPxHl0Zjrmy1n6q5FiT9MRfK-NzmMhjOuFJMz-c7nGoLXv8ADi72YbVqFaT1bTmdDGo-mytQxww_Z14KRxnU/s1600/IMG_5595.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-JjlB7oRKoldiFAVopZSfE_lNcA6GdchIMQuybBXkcgc5YsfvpvCR-VLqtPxHl0Zjrmy1n6q5FiT9MRfK-NzmMhjOuFJMz-c7nGoLXv8ADi72YbVqFaT1bTmdDGo-mytQxww_Z14KRxnU/s320/IMG_5595.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Looks like we will have a blackberry crop too!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgswLroZWqs36aiGynb0i6NExreVL1rOnstXE0waCqrAzEX9JV3f2BCZgGq588O7v6zIS6t7WeT5aYOpNT3oWhiKtv02sTPjYSYC20KAm4tY-_yUqceuo_jK7lMDp1QpezcAG3maO0ejEyA/s1600/IMG_5596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgswLroZWqs36aiGynb0i6NExreVL1rOnstXE0waCqrAzEX9JV3f2BCZgGq588O7v6zIS6t7WeT5aYOpNT3oWhiKtv02sTPjYSYC20KAm4tY-_yUqceuo_jK7lMDp1QpezcAG3maO0ejEyA/s320/IMG_5596.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's my bush--I need to make a stronger support and stake it up a bit I think---but the plant is loaded with buds! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD7ihfCDWnXctJCB1sJdxSNukP6yI2UzS5aRxXpMTDyxMROk_A84Ptgw4ao5iyfnj7UNZXAVjuFbVHiKBUqp70sGVo4YPguyc9NfMHfbU5bFkpsbANLVyOTI5JGkQ3mL6hKSJIGtQM4lBW/s1600/IMG_5597.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD7ihfCDWnXctJCB1sJdxSNukP6yI2UzS5aRxXpMTDyxMROk_A84Ptgw4ao5iyfnj7UNZXAVjuFbVHiKBUqp70sGVo4YPguyc9NfMHfbU5bFkpsbANLVyOTI5JGkQ3mL6hKSJIGtQM4lBW/s320/IMG_5597.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The rhubarb makes such a pretty plant! I think I can harvest some stalks soon. .Might make a batch of rhubarb punch! Yum! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNaosZJYCC_s6nGR455ytA4rzVNAWa-xUHMpHJtdw8HCCtG7ng7FtAi9CQw_oH3v0zLbDwWyNDJxLfSiHN4VObzXOxCfTG8uud6Td76E_-K7Vm_DG8DUfZrBRdeTP6X5ruzmpS1aD0zwnB/s1600/IMG_5598.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNaosZJYCC_s6nGR455ytA4rzVNAWa-xUHMpHJtdw8HCCtG7ng7FtAi9CQw_oH3v0zLbDwWyNDJxLfSiHN4VObzXOxCfTG8uud6Td76E_-K7Vm_DG8DUfZrBRdeTP6X5ruzmpS1aD0zwnB/s320/IMG_5598.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's the back side of the memory garden (You can see the same grass in the background) There is a small sea of miniature hollyhocks. The picture doesn't do the blooms justice! There is also not much ground exposed now--many of the plantings have finally spread and grown together! That will certainly help the weed population!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr5zD2SScuNOEQqMc8UTkcHVE76al5prWgikd0eIDhpw4z-cSYgpsl_7zynGuT_LS3Bsd09rZSEsal2naXdP-xqEhOkINAgBB8txp99SHMb3jrRVzjjKtQK8K23nW1hHNBMIVGK7w4p0eS/s1600/IMG_5599.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr5zD2SScuNOEQqMc8UTkcHVE76al5prWgikd0eIDhpw4z-cSYgpsl_7zynGuT_LS3Bsd09rZSEsal2naXdP-xqEhOkINAgBB8txp99SHMb3jrRVzjjKtQK8K23nW1hHNBMIVGK7w4p0eS/s320/IMG_5599.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love larkspur! And there is a great stand of it in different shades of purple, pink and white. I haven't seen any hummingbirds in it yet--but maybe one will happen by! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7UdKPfzEPjTHKuyYA-os-ECKhrVLin8RCT-eMSkcM7VgxCOInJhuZv1kGmTQpwWFgoUt_P2-JBvYdl5JXrCHMLkpyl0RiDvKmGyfJyP3wCfh6OI9DxdcpePrU297WXqYDeUrFOVvvyxvJ/s1600/IMG_5600.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7UdKPfzEPjTHKuyYA-os-ECKhrVLin8RCT-eMSkcM7VgxCOInJhuZv1kGmTQpwWFgoUt_P2-JBvYdl5JXrCHMLkpyl0RiDvKmGyfJyP3wCfh6OI9DxdcpePrU297WXqYDeUrFOVvvyxvJ/s320/IMG_5600.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Common milkweed--it's a host plant for monarchs! This variety was started by seed given to me by a friend. .The plants spread by runners--thus it is EVERYWHERE! And usually, I don't see it bloom so nicely! I leave most of it--but it sure has taken over a patch!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivrj-jtM_AoUJqWKElP1JeI96c8qp7My43fYIXoZb7rhQtkUcqPqxmfhQ4KQtpoUarqCPnduC_JQRN0Yj9AccQ-1RZwDJsHbcRbw2VV3p8uIV77mYN4ZROKMXF4nKhPDW-f_BF9aut1FLR/s1600/IMG_5601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivrj-jtM_AoUJqWKElP1JeI96c8qp7My43fYIXoZb7rhQtkUcqPqxmfhQ4KQtpoUarqCPnduC_JQRN0Yj9AccQ-1RZwDJsHbcRbw2VV3p8uIV77mYN4ZROKMXF4nKhPDW-f_BF9aut1FLR/s320/IMG_5601.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The red hot pokers are getting ready to bloom. The foliage is nice--but the flowers, so far, have not impressed me--These are the best ones yet--but they haven't generally bloomed for very long at all--so I will be anxious to see how long it blooms this summer! If they don't last more than a few days--I'm not a fan! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE5UFgzACpZmZo6pWyT_5qjeSSS30OXHs5OtjOnt5blybtMQlaN3koXVQSpCfp6l1SDXA6S7UJDQeK6tCTezekSnUK9qh0gi-3d5Y71SLTzvS26klmRUYbgrnJPitZfGHNv41pQhpGSAy9/s1600/IMG_5602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE5UFgzACpZmZo6pWyT_5qjeSSS30OXHs5OtjOnt5blybtMQlaN3koXVQSpCfp6l1SDXA6S7UJDQeK6tCTezekSnUK9qh0gi-3d5Y71SLTzvS26klmRUYbgrnJPitZfGHNv41pQhpGSAy9/s320/IMG_5602.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Little close up of the larkspur!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1MW4JxKpHZHprLP_JDqyJH9csaP8TWIzrseMn9I1kKqfU2ibtrKqfutYzFj6JLX_EyFlFebxH4O1500pjOlxia5yvtwRngQja5UQCOPZ9U7K7SG4r3JBu03JLvqIfx3ianqX8gwQnMRNF/s1600/IMG_5603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1MW4JxKpHZHprLP_JDqyJH9csaP8TWIzrseMn9I1kKqfU2ibtrKqfutYzFj6JLX_EyFlFebxH4O1500pjOlxia5yvtwRngQja5UQCOPZ9U7K7SG4r3JBu03JLvqIfx3ianqX8gwQnMRNF/s320/IMG_5603.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Larkspur in the back and a red salvia in the front. It has been a good plant--hardy--long bloom time. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaBpjxWpHVUg8Gzu80ar-blecO_YESg2-oDQ9R_-LumNFFaYtSXpZ4C71lNHe7EA1I2Rr9QIhqX-DnEslFe0HOBQjtw5UgeNNeGCgOvVFBahW3GYxoczZX5XF1ftFK1IxoCMsYtNrxSQGg/s1600/IMG_5604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaBpjxWpHVUg8Gzu80ar-blecO_YESg2-oDQ9R_-LumNFFaYtSXpZ4C71lNHe7EA1I2Rr9QIhqX-DnEslFe0HOBQjtw5UgeNNeGCgOvVFBahW3GYxoczZX5XF1ftFK1IxoCMsYtNrxSQGg/s320/IMG_5604.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
3 knock out roses in bloom--they were memorials for two of my grandparents who died within a month of each other. They make a bold statement when you drive in! You can see some of the pond plants in the background--it's looking good this year too!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ndjXSdv0Frh2htJmykspMNfZH5n44VsJZcPUQ8cwuzY72qQV13U8xe4UeLze9x1uCGV32CbEXSu7UIo9evHGmtWgF59miuT7w1D3eLv-HGju503mTGHazrmNVnYdLflvCNLqdxfdqai0/s1600/IMG_5605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ndjXSdv0Frh2htJmykspMNfZH5n44VsJZcPUQ8cwuzY72qQV13U8xe4UeLze9x1uCGV32CbEXSu7UIo9evHGmtWgF59miuT7w1D3eLv-HGju503mTGHazrmNVnYdLflvCNLqdxfdqai0/s320/IMG_5605.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Honeysuckle bush!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The thick scent was heavy in the air tonight as Cami and I played baseball nearby! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Probably one of my favorite seasonal scents! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCHckRzDm0L_ai8JBT7vBbZW2FwyYSikyw9azjzgDZ9etKZI7FLJPXKeOgeU7UBOyQ_TV8nzvGUcaMPGzJRP10DMBQFeXTdq44u7U5gb6ewHQg65LsrvAG0zTuIR8GMPOC7JIriJ6mmeZl/s1600/IMG_5606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCHckRzDm0L_ai8JBT7vBbZW2FwyYSikyw9azjzgDZ9etKZI7FLJPXKeOgeU7UBOyQ_TV8nzvGUcaMPGzJRP10DMBQFeXTdq44u7U5gb6ewHQg65LsrvAG0zTuIR8GMPOC7JIriJ6mmeZl/s320/IMG_5606.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A closeup of the hundreds of blooms! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWfjuVwcpi2vuvGi9IJU5FV6DBPEPzsHhDlQZvNoZUkvY8j2h-WQjV6uIPyq9EzZGRGf0xrkanGuAYpXCbDG7hGkkhXYlduLxlRqQR_S06Ng2hab5D9Jv0M-hrnsmfKnTIxT2A1BrwynPf/s1600/IMG_5607.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWfjuVwcpi2vuvGi9IJU5FV6DBPEPzsHhDlQZvNoZUkvY8j2h-WQjV6uIPyq9EzZGRGf0xrkanGuAYpXCbDG7hGkkhXYlduLxlRqQR_S06Ng2hab5D9Jv0M-hrnsmfKnTIxT2A1BrwynPf/s320/IMG_5607.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A front porch garden that is finally looking like something! For years it has been bare bones--too hot with a south wind. I have come up with (by trial and error--mostly error) things that will grow there! And this spring it is in full bloom--looking lovely!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I continue puttering around the yard a few minutes here and there-I feel like the gardens that I have labored over for 18 years--are starting to look like they have looked in my head for years!! And I am so thankful for that!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hopefully soon I can update on the people that live around here. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But not tonight!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Have a blessed weekend!!</div>
<br />Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-59568681758440834492016-04-28T07:00:00.000-05:002016-04-28T22:22:20.059-05:00More than gold. .<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitmZnrnJjiZRulOpXUwRj5EhxzXHMxizak6FJ0fHtdBLB3PKEIaKREiPyDMrmSXA1GHClCEiVjOuqmJxlIlURhsLVaC0Ycrh_dSBxnprcLTnT-cENJ1zVTZeTdPVAMG1SOh-UG8j2IHQ4r/s1600/IMG_5307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitmZnrnJjiZRulOpXUwRj5EhxzXHMxizak6FJ0fHtdBLB3PKEIaKREiPyDMrmSXA1GHClCEiVjOuqmJxlIlURhsLVaC0Ycrh_dSBxnprcLTnT-cENJ1zVTZeTdPVAMG1SOh-UG8j2IHQ4r/s400/IMG_5307.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The honest reflections of an eight year old. .</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I just love that girl!!</div>
Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-47595199807376113612016-04-23T22:28:00.000-05:002016-04-23T22:28:06.781-05:00Planting of the Veggies!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hey, Hey!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We have had one little frost since like the first of March. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And I am having a hard time believing that it is still only April!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So I have been chomping at the bit to get stuff planted!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We enjoyed 4.75 inches of rain last weekend. .Prom day, of course!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But everyone was so glad to see the rains after the week full of the worst fires in Kansas history right in our neighborhood here. .that NO. ONE. CARED!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My tomatoes have been in the wall of waters for about 2 weeks now. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And I decided I needed to get the rest of them planted.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The pictures aren't great at all. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Boring, pretty much. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But I needed to map the beds so I can remember which plants are what.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My biggest issue at the end of the summer. .is that I have no earthly idea what plants are where anymore. .Because I can't easily find my little tiny labels!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And I'm too hurried and lazy to look for them!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I hope this works much better for me!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkLPaQuW2rFOhjfVcRagKhrgQUhEzxfyLMFyzAVd_Uh7XueRsVvur8dIkME7GOiI4MjmyOmrbuJOp-NtDoyDMp9MHDts23HtHncF4EZoU60LE8ZqvDro5rYz3ijsVDbQhOEWzOztnmRLb7/s1600/IMG_5458.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkLPaQuW2rFOhjfVcRagKhrgQUhEzxfyLMFyzAVd_Uh7XueRsVvur8dIkME7GOiI4MjmyOmrbuJOp-NtDoyDMp9MHDts23HtHncF4EZoU60LE8ZqvDro5rYz3ijsVDbQhOEWzOztnmRLb7/s320/IMG_5458.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
3 raised beds on the east side of the house.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In the front one. .Bed #1</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
on the north side starting front of picture to the back. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Beefmaster tomato</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Super Banana Supreme pepper</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Celebrity tomato</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Gypsy sweet pepper.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On the south side is, ,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Green bell pepper</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Snow White cherry heirloom tomato</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Valencia orange pepper</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Jetsetter tomato </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Bed #3 which you can see directly behind bed #1 in the top picture. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
has 3 rows of clemson spineless okra.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqTv6FaBOjwtbbG1cNfP5TjFPogka_XDOr5W07ZUbwIyGDVbanR7FJq0fNP2t8Vo8uxNdIItDpMiFqlAE-exkigpLmhD5zV4wBlszWb9I1Uk6mj8qZ_9b7bBLgb2932mGrbqFroQMVcRNt/s1600/IMG_5459.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqTv6FaBOjwtbbG1cNfP5TjFPogka_XDOr5W07ZUbwIyGDVbanR7FJq0fNP2t8Vo8uxNdIItDpMiFqlAE-exkigpLmhD5zV4wBlszWb9I1Uk6mj8qZ_9b7bBLgb2932mGrbqFroQMVcRNt/s320/IMG_5459.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Bed #2. .the northernmost raised bed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Only 4 tomato plants at this point. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
north side is a big boy tomato</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Big beef tomato</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
south side is a Lemon boy tomato</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
1 renegade potato plant from last year</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and a Jubilee heirloom tomato.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiihA6Dgrho-tFuAQI-YDObJJR7tf4hGaoqpwaDxl7c50buqetCHR2cz8Uw90gZwsFsxrW9V9caYvEiuBwhJdxueaKDskddstEw4imMIqCdwfRdgrLsmt1kgHv2sRh0c0LGrLNnbk0DsCcb/s1600/IMG_5460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiihA6Dgrho-tFuAQI-YDObJJR7tf4hGaoqpwaDxl7c50buqetCHR2cz8Uw90gZwsFsxrW9V9caYvEiuBwhJdxueaKDskddstEw4imMIqCdwfRdgrLsmt1kgHv2sRh0c0LGrLNnbk0DsCcb/s320/IMG_5460.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Bed #4 in the front.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
on the east side are two mucho nacho Jalapeno plants.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
6 sweet banana pepper plants (with a garlic plant in there too)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On the south side of the bed are 5 short rows of beets, another garlic plant, and a tiny basil plant.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In between the raised beds are where I opted to plant a couple bulbs of garlic last winter. .like in January. .Oops!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Bed #5 has Straight Eight cucumbers on the north side and National pickling cucumbers on the south side. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To the right of the photo (not very easy to see) is a huge tarragon plant that I never use because I don't know how. .some sage, chives, oregano, lemon balm, and a bronzeleaf fennel plant that I never got around to harvesting. It not only overwintered. .but I found 3 small plants coming up from seed in other areas! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I guess I will try to figure out how to use it. .It is sure is pretty. .and gourmet-ish!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIOp1qxVpNi5ZaFL8C5sQ9c_Xo2_wwQNYIHNmCL4ngU5b9Jr6nVG4R2vjRI8vSMG6n2wlmV-aGfCw0rsb88C0RlayyXYPqDX7dYxKMvKQVjXImgjPhmytxaarHcCueXB2SUx-pqlDMMZnX/s1600/IMG_5463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIOp1qxVpNi5ZaFL8C5sQ9c_Xo2_wwQNYIHNmCL4ngU5b9Jr6nVG4R2vjRI8vSMG6n2wlmV-aGfCw0rsb88C0RlayyXYPqDX7dYxKMvKQVjXImgjPhmytxaarHcCueXB2SUx-pqlDMMZnX/s320/IMG_5463.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I planted 4 tomatoes in the memory garden. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I should repost some of the early pictures of this space. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It has been the best changing garden in my career!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It may be hard for you to determine that there are 4 tomato cages in this photo. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I can tell that. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In the cage closest to left front of the photo is a Parks Whopper tomato.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The one directly to the south is a Cherokee Purple tomato.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The farthest south near the Atlas Cedar is a Salsa Roma tomato. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And there is one right near the pedestal birdhouse which is a Juliet grape tomato. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUa_67j8k2JSZFOnS5AnzbeipOt7akjQMD6oUH97-Se1bLiDdIlprBbLhvw_sdtm9woUo-dAVCGln8tDxw0O7KSEbWkfv2ZTDTKXy0uOe1saYprAjoIkA4WS7HlsJw-gW7qECJzt19NeZO/s1600/IMG_5461.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUa_67j8k2JSZFOnS5AnzbeipOt7akjQMD6oUH97-Se1bLiDdIlprBbLhvw_sdtm9woUo-dAVCGln8tDxw0O7KSEbWkfv2ZTDTKXy0uOe1saYprAjoIkA4WS7HlsJw-gW7qECJzt19NeZO/s320/IMG_5461.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Remember how I mentioned that Jeremy is becoming a gardener as well??<br />He had been so focused last summer on hooking his drip system up to water his tiny cedar trees. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That my Valentine rhubarb plant got more water than it has seen in it's lifetime. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We hooked the drippers to take care of the rhubarb and a couple blackberry bushes as well as the tiny trees. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So the rhubarb is happy, happy, happy!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And so will be the gardener the day she gets a pie from this critter!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdDO1OZnVHVSl9eQP6Y7C9cKZXNiY52ScfZ-ceQSCgiTKEB5T-8fpA_nq5b7abq2iQX3El9C9IoArjEEBrTgttmYEoO1I8Q2yND96y_IxKyCZK6nvWa_IUdQzDM58IRkc4DZC7iSSL7WAE/s1600/IMG_5462.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdDO1OZnVHVSl9eQP6Y7C9cKZXNiY52ScfZ-ceQSCgiTKEB5T-8fpA_nq5b7abq2iQX3El9C9IoArjEEBrTgttmYEoO1I8Q2yND96y_IxKyCZK6nvWa_IUdQzDM58IRkc4DZC7iSSL7WAE/s320/IMG_5462.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Again. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
being stewarded by a too-busy gardener. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I thought all my asparagus plants died.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They have never taken off. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
probably because of neglect.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
SOO. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I bought 14 more roots and planted them a couple weeks ago. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And Jeremy added a dripper hose to them. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And today whilst rummaging around this back area. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I found all of the 4 plants that I knew had survived of the first 10 I planted 4-5 years ago now.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yay us!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We love them grilled. .or roasted. .or wrapped in prosciutto and goat cheese!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKjA-BYLege2pfr9yAg9J3gaW37pyApwuwn9zZyKzd6BxoS4oda3hrZ-nt9gEQmD750XHfZARyqRTw6kupYROc3hfifyw0eGw3ASq9skBrbyIwmkVDrR0favp-c7eTkYn2qnhGoO3KiIF8/s1600/IMG_5464.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKjA-BYLege2pfr9yAg9J3gaW37pyApwuwn9zZyKzd6BxoS4oda3hrZ-nt9gEQmD750XHfZARyqRTw6kupYROc3hfifyw0eGw3ASq9skBrbyIwmkVDrR0favp-c7eTkYn2qnhGoO3KiIF8/s320/IMG_5464.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A tiny little columbine that survived it's first year in my garden!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The shady and moist narrow garden on the north side of the house may be a winner! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg97HU2yg-A3DuiEh0i_PqD8Z7dxNYzAAS8T4N9BKlpbHDWb0qxmXa4kRps52oOjvd0DKrlwghNs8C17d03QVBdGfJrddfBwgAE1Xunpew-XCYEVVx-VN0v9EKvMmdDlIsh-1sjMxM-l8HP/s1600/IMG_5465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg97HU2yg-A3DuiEh0i_PqD8Z7dxNYzAAS8T4N9BKlpbHDWb0qxmXa4kRps52oOjvd0DKrlwghNs8C17d03QVBdGfJrddfBwgAE1Xunpew-XCYEVVx-VN0v9EKvMmdDlIsh-1sjMxM-l8HP/s320/IMG_5465.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Feeling cocky because ONE had survived. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I bought a few more at Lowes a few weekends ago. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When I caught them on a flash sale for $3.00 apiece!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Behind it is a hosta that is supposed to be 5 feet tall. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's been pretty pathetic these first few years. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But it may be settled in and ready to go now!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgADxpWjY2yWk5uC2WSeufclzwVWRv-V2S712Rav-UceS2WkQdOBRh1137a6IgyL6IROR8LdCTZub1xZyc8MbD6uP_KyoQ5VR43Zf4PrXWH2EpYObNPAxeJJvEgUs-K9B-dl92EVfK_jAS4/s1600/IMG_5466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgADxpWjY2yWk5uC2WSeufclzwVWRv-V2S712Rav-UceS2WkQdOBRh1137a6IgyL6IROR8LdCTZub1xZyc8MbD6uP_KyoQ5VR43Zf4PrXWH2EpYObNPAxeJJvEgUs-K9B-dl92EVfK_jAS4/s320/IMG_5466.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We have decided to add some privacy to our west deck. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Something that we SHOULD have done about. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Um. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
16 years ago!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But I was afraid that we would tear up all the plants. .<br />So I dug up this clematis from his little spot there.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He won't die. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But he didn't thrive there either. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am hoping that this area on the north side will be a little better. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Not as intense sun. .but hopefully enough sun that he will perform. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLuTxiIEeRPSmibP0zRglWN_HuxxhA-caSsG-ldkkdwnCFv9baNIniQEvNMm96j4q3EayWqu0MxurGnRjQnv5yrCx0-fqD2NEFUSFk0rzF7rqRFykG1iYo7tmyqrAGu5tnRG3mKZHYyv_E/s1600/IMG_5467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLuTxiIEeRPSmibP0zRglWN_HuxxhA-caSsG-ldkkdwnCFv9baNIniQEvNMm96j4q3EayWqu0MxurGnRjQnv5yrCx0-fqD2NEFUSFk0rzF7rqRFykG1iYo7tmyqrAGu5tnRG3mKZHYyv_E/s320/IMG_5467.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is the north side of that deck!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am LOVING IT!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We had some reclaimed church windows. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In my head plans. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I knew that I wanted slats to partially see through. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And I also know that I don't do perfection. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Instead, I prefer complete randomness. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That way no one can judge my lack of measuring and precision!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think this fits the bill!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Jeremy, as usual, couldn't picture it in his head. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But was pleased with it too!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The west side is almost done. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Complete with change of slat direction and different heights on window placement too.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hopefully by next weekend, it will be all finished up!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In the rock planter we made several years back. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There is a clump of maiden grass on the left and a Karl Forester grass on the right, closest to the deck. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A darker colored sedum clump that you can see..</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
along with a hardy little dianthus plant loaded with cherry red buds. A few hen and chicks are loving their life there too--a swap from Gardener on Sherlock's house. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw0boVlj4gVoZ2f1G1zlRjqDqnrQUZDmSTaoZ9TCfZvZmTkwx6IW2Vp5-Vz5jIQe9ZqEYhcKzL33xwwyixeZ4GrIEssGF_eT3qVHvK93QPewYKznwO5h-ipxduuiLRajOShUIBdhVmIBGD/s1600/IMG_5468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw0boVlj4gVoZ2f1G1zlRjqDqnrQUZDmSTaoZ9TCfZvZmTkwx6IW2Vp5-Vz5jIQe9ZqEYhcKzL33xwwyixeZ4GrIEssGF_eT3qVHvK93QPewYKznwO5h-ipxduuiLRajOShUIBdhVmIBGD/s320/IMG_5468.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is the biggest pain in my butt site. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The west side of the house. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hot. .windy. .nothing likes it here!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Climbing on the deck rail is an orange honeysuckle bush. .nearly ready to bloom.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I ordered some little starts from High Country Gardens. .and am hoping that they will be up for the challenge. Rock garden goes in after this if the plants are a no-go!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The green grassy clumps are actually old hyacinth foliage and some Magic Lily foliage.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5HVmmjLZ6ug6_ambjm2ciGxqkQp0rVhai-6-qmLD-HOocmwPXbevXR9aYGNWunWXA9Q7MAE588hNVE-WzahcIr1pR986sqZ06yJd3TIxWaDonFGrrthykFIGZzx7cHqXzyGU5pse8u5_V/s1600/IMG_5469.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5HVmmjLZ6ug6_ambjm2ciGxqkQp0rVhai-6-qmLD-HOocmwPXbevXR9aYGNWunWXA9Q7MAE588hNVE-WzahcIr1pR986sqZ06yJd3TIxWaDonFGrrthykFIGZzx7cHqXzyGU5pse8u5_V/s320/IMG_5469.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I don't have a lot of curb appeal. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But my little front flower bed is finally looking fuller.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The same day I got the columbines. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They were also having a flash sale on these salvia plants!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
SCORE! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIdY2Iyqh9xMiQxa0rv-zaSriKAt9dqi6CshWPbblTE1z2kxqXfbYoR306oKyv2hxJoIouiyubKz3TfNFXBI7Qi-q_1RGWN9pLBDoAHyvh0KU2VwhOgNOl3ez3KGbo-dT3yZjiOBPAPz0n/s1600/IMG_5470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIdY2Iyqh9xMiQxa0rv-zaSriKAt9dqi6CshWPbblTE1z2kxqXfbYoR306oKyv2hxJoIouiyubKz3TfNFXBI7Qi-q_1RGWN9pLBDoAHyvh0KU2VwhOgNOl3ez3KGbo-dT3yZjiOBPAPz0n/s320/IMG_5470.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I added some along the pond. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Where I have the same issue of too much heat. .and too much sun!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I put a couple little gallardia plants in there today. .and some more plants from HCG down to the driveway. .filling in among the existing--but sparse plantings!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The green hedge looking thing in the back. .are 3 spirea bushes I dug from my MIL's border years and years ago. .I noticed a smattering of blooms on the north side of them today. .Can't wait to see them in full bloom! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT3reu01dFVVztEWIQiXIJDIm3zlQ6rf-1YxZ3UjHdqizIFJnp23mteprYuGH3qui7nwUrP3yOvzomG1MpxwAWEHAVNH3icge2liV6BptPSBPEyQ5p50bze_VNyyhEKW8ZiTM0jXmeXKzX/s1600/IMG_5471.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT3reu01dFVVztEWIQiXIJDIm3zlQ6rf-1YxZ3UjHdqizIFJnp23mteprYuGH3qui7nwUrP3yOvzomG1MpxwAWEHAVNH3icge2liV6BptPSBPEyQ5p50bze_VNyyhEKW8ZiTM0jXmeXKzX/s320/IMG_5471.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Little water irises blooming.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My pump died this winter. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And in delaying the purchase of a new one. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Both of my big Koi died!! They grow super fast. .So I will have to get some more at Petsmart this summer! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5l_QTSqllE5auEh2ZA7IqNZZy2opZNUfQ0kskUo8dP4kWON0aQeLG6aTa-ddTul7r8HNXalWfCStiEaN8IyZ_YNZv2CNmUZRfks2ryGTv-Jx_OLvxbeHQ6Izd64TvmEvv8RKf6mLECiFf/s1600/IMG_5472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5l_QTSqllE5auEh2ZA7IqNZZy2opZNUfQ0kskUo8dP4kWON0aQeLG6aTa-ddTul7r8HNXalWfCStiEaN8IyZ_YNZv2CNmUZRfks2ryGTv-Jx_OLvxbeHQ6Izd64TvmEvv8RKf6mLECiFf/s320/IMG_5472.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My friend Pat got a bunch of hybrid iris starts from a gardening buddy out west. .And several years ago, she shared some with me. .This is the first time it was big enough to bloom. .LOVE IT!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXDE6YZnBCMaRIBjc9-Xgai57wyrFNWVTtgXq8ryJGVOJ9OS5eB_gfSdl2Ex6Iu-Uyard2V-Z9rkvH0QN-KW5KU5e2vOfbJ-Mz0Rtx3EVBn-tctLcqA9IUCno-2QTUC6nSJE8X4T7XlZ-h/s1600/IMG_5473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXDE6YZnBCMaRIBjc9-Xgai57wyrFNWVTtgXq8ryJGVOJ9OS5eB_gfSdl2Ex6Iu-Uyard2V-Z9rkvH0QN-KW5KU5e2vOfbJ-Mz0Rtx3EVBn-tctLcqA9IUCno-2QTUC6nSJE8X4T7XlZ-h/s320/IMG_5473.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Well. . </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That's all for the garden diary today!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thanks for tagging along during our very busy day!!</div>
Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6293021585820584668.post-48652136687076073972016-04-11T14:31:00.003-05:002016-04-11T14:31:55.478-05:00Spring Planting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX57b6vtuIoXaBqhFH2wCmS0H7uTYCCA9pe-mkObqgpShyphenhyphenKm1AsA2PD3EzhkdQNCv5eaDNyiN2LmndF2ephHXPU_0cYiLjKH89-FIPjUy52MBg0ACMykwBaOBq8QK8wvkvgOiPmeWnTOrV/s1600/IMG_5283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX57b6vtuIoXaBqhFH2wCmS0H7uTYCCA9pe-mkObqgpShyphenhyphenKm1AsA2PD3EzhkdQNCv5eaDNyiN2LmndF2ephHXPU_0cYiLjKH89-FIPjUy52MBg0ACMykwBaOBq8QK8wvkvgOiPmeWnTOrV/s320/IMG_5283.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We are so glad it is spring around here!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We are continuing to try and steward our little section of the world. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And in the past. .<br />I have tried to keep a notebook to keep track of what gets planted where. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So I thought that I might try and do a better job of that online. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On the little blog I already own. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That is full of all sorts of stuff!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvXAxntubRgDOKXKHnJ6KDp6LmanOellOIfDWbDLtQ1hfg7zzEnNssOnxotoJJppej6lsLZmZgpWXacDt4NZfR_ckKtloJ99quFhyphenhyphen2e47MisUQLeE2PlZfHxyH-7ZqjVpfFjfuufqqeMRG/s1600/IMG_5297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvXAxntubRgDOKXKHnJ6KDp6LmanOellOIfDWbDLtQ1hfg7zzEnNssOnxotoJJppej6lsLZmZgpWXacDt4NZfR_ckKtloJ99quFhyphenhyphen2e47MisUQLeE2PlZfHxyH-7ZqjVpfFjfuufqqeMRG/s320/IMG_5297.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our homestead is at least 103 year old. The only thing that was growing here when we moved in 18 years ago. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Was a tree row (in the area with these two young cedar trees), a smattering of big, old, ugly cedar trees in the yard, some elm trees that broke limbs with every wind storm, 1 lilac bush, and a small handful of red tulips. UG!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But looking at the bright side. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was a clean slate for the gardener!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivd8IIlg96m0dAq49LZDbLGdlAdgslb3b0GG1cNhP8gMEssf5lNqB43dcQ8RLw1LDKlcXzvCozEDZEbv-7t3h0RtcW9YrxG8GGKp9U9NMrFF81O6lZGHlHfu2YHhc8cPwnqp7GeW_NXOx9/s1600/IMG_5296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivd8IIlg96m0dAq49LZDbLGdlAdgslb3b0GG1cNhP8gMEssf5lNqB43dcQ8RLw1LDKlcXzvCozEDZEbv-7t3h0RtcW9YrxG8GGKp9U9NMrFF81O6lZGHlHfu2YHhc8cPwnqp7GeW_NXOx9/s320/IMG_5296.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
With the exceptionally bad drought over the last 5 years. .and the age of the cedar row. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Most of the trees died. .It was a mature wind row. .and we didn't realize the extent of the benefits until my husband cut them A.L.L down 3-4 years ago. Before he cut them. .he had gotten seedling cedars from the local extension office and planted them. .running a little water line to them--but neither of us did a very good job at checking the line or turning it on. So many of them died. .and the ones that have survived haven't thrived. The ones closest to the hydrant are growing well. .as you can see. .and we look forward to the wind break from them soon!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPidNolk6Hu67fGE7UUPJGERm4x_LccIDBGFXPWRzMZTr1LCLU7tMGL8BTtv-z0Bn-ul1R_x7HnNVTmWYEWKoGsuMLViiRUDEk8Tg6qogcL2XH2uQO4mGfnEdC9-MOEJf9CyUI1mBzIlw9/s1600/IMG_5286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPidNolk6Hu67fGE7UUPJGERm4x_LccIDBGFXPWRzMZTr1LCLU7tMGL8BTtv-z0Bn-ul1R_x7HnNVTmWYEWKoGsuMLViiRUDEk8Tg6qogcL2XH2uQO4mGfnEdC9-MOEJf9CyUI1mBzIlw9/s320/IMG_5286.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We (I say "we" loosely. .it was mostly not me!) planted a row of lacebark elm trees to the north side of our house. .in between a couple of rows of the new cedar trees. Those have been in for 2 summers now. .and they are growing fast and well!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Jeremy is starting to grow the heart of a gardener. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And he decided that he would like a small orchard out near the tree row. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpX0-pi6oB8KvnJajsDHbK4G5JuAHQ4_n-ZuzY7NYZCNrWFrYbwHLkiOm1GJn4FrIfEusllLrmCB3wYHERaItBzzjGHxrpTbQ1BAKOvCyi6Bu2RtNeta1-8LGxSaaPBdiIPgL3hzRxOPtA/s1600/IMG_5289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpX0-pi6oB8KvnJajsDHbK4G5JuAHQ4_n-ZuzY7NYZCNrWFrYbwHLkiOm1GJn4FrIfEusllLrmCB3wYHERaItBzzjGHxrpTbQ1BAKOvCyi6Bu2RtNeta1-8LGxSaaPBdiIPgL3hzRxOPtA/s320/IMG_5289.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So this weekend. .we ran to Wichita and went to my new favorite nursery there. .<br />Hillside nursery. .on south Hillside.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We bought 5 fruit trees (only because Cami insisted on a peach tree)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And yesterday in the beautiful spring weather (even without much wind!!) we finished the water line and planting of the trees.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Starting from the north and heading toward the house we planted. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One Golden delicious apple</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One Honeycrisp apple</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One Stella sweet cherry</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One Montmorency cherry</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and then to the east of that row, we planted one Red Haven peach tree. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvsu9GORZh_evedBArDnyAiac5CoDOjrCJeb2xVABgD9gBtlJS2igSPECyWsN4bVyJRKSYqgW5k_n0q1WWZNA0kyD8nwI8r0R6n-sGUZGeJ5BaWK0Oj2gddGBKTYVveCzbm0d_l56d3_6a/s1600/IMG_5291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvsu9GORZh_evedBArDnyAiac5CoDOjrCJeb2xVABgD9gBtlJS2igSPECyWsN4bVyJRKSYqgW5k_n0q1WWZNA0kyD8nwI8r0R6n-sGUZGeJ5BaWK0Oj2gddGBKTYVveCzbm0d_l56d3_6a/s320/IMG_5291.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The root stock on these bare root trees found in their cellar was phenomenal!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And the apple trees were left with a nice branch structure too!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The peach tree was blooming. .and somewhere online I read that their little tiny tree had like 5 peaches the year they planted the twig. .and 180 peaches the next year. How lucky!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi95QaQMPdU9Ziqq2AqzITWYCnpLkmKXdzuIED1JsgR5RjZbcVfTPCXzRj593DumNhL-AsSTcnjESAJcw9vSuO6WWG03C_viy5IEr6-VkZk1Ty9M_7c8t3AemFaCJ33yu17dwSRWIk5DnNj/s1600/IMG_5305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi95QaQMPdU9Ziqq2AqzITWYCnpLkmKXdzuIED1JsgR5RjZbcVfTPCXzRj593DumNhL-AsSTcnjESAJcw9vSuO6WWG03C_viy5IEr6-VkZk1Ty9M_7c8t3AemFaCJ33yu17dwSRWIk5DnNj/s320/IMG_5305.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
At Lowes I had found these purple leaf sand cherry bushes. I put two of them right on the south edge of the pond. .I have had trouble finding stuff that would grow there. .it's HOT. .the plants that I have had there look too much like WEEDS when they aren't blooming (which was most of the summer). .and I couldn't deal with that view out the window as we ate dinner every night!! These bushes claimed they were ideally suited for ARID DRY conditions. .(Like ours has become over the last few years) So I put them in. .and will hope for the best!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbtJldWK2bFDEF1w6ebZw0w1aIkPGxVYkcJc56fNGJdkZ3QcaLBqkdLtKQza2O0Y_t0EDC3Ec_1_lfDmLlvqiEAgTWKiyH0w4EByrFTe7FNGmwWHCAkBEniGzXEzchA6S6m1fSemCMeE1o/s1600/IMG_5306.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbtJldWK2bFDEF1w6ebZw0w1aIkPGxVYkcJc56fNGJdkZ3QcaLBqkdLtKQza2O0Y_t0EDC3Ec_1_lfDmLlvqiEAgTWKiyH0w4EByrFTe7FNGmwWHCAkBEniGzXEzchA6S6m1fSemCMeE1o/s320/IMG_5306.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I also came across $.99-1.99 tomato and pepper plants last week in Oklahoma. .So I dug these old wall of waters out of my basement (I seriously can't remember how many years it has been since I used them. .bet it's close to 10!!) There is a frost advisory on for tonight. .but I would not be surprised if this is the last cold night. At least the tubes will protect the little plants from the wind. .and we are hoping for good deep root systems before it gets HOT! Their are 3 varieties of yellow tomatoes (my favorite) and the other 5 are varied reds. The pepper plants will come inside tonight and go into the garden in a few more days. I think they might get along well in the gaps of these raised beds. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-iM4O6x7Vcdi9MHI9sFGCGHvaJrRfeTYrrEDCct_8N9j9swvP-ffS6o3q4-iAt2XHAhYd6xiidpk3-f2mWbF-0fwjioez7LM1r1yamAheXI-wTxu8k-JZBwBv-8zzl07u09aLw_P2R_tC/s1600/IMG_5298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-iM4O6x7Vcdi9MHI9sFGCGHvaJrRfeTYrrEDCct_8N9j9swvP-ffS6o3q4-iAt2XHAhYd6xiidpk3-f2mWbF-0fwjioez7LM1r1yamAheXI-wTxu8k-JZBwBv-8zzl07u09aLw_P2R_tC/s320/IMG_5298.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The green house hasn't had any seedlings started in two winters now. But it does a nice job of overwintering my growing succulent collection. .and this little stray larkspur! Those will be replanted into pots on the west deck. .where less hardy plants wilt quickly due to the sun! The succulents add a nice flavor. .and I don't have to water the pots EVERY DAY. .something that has been impossible for me in this season of my life!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRKlJYsdM5hDu9n5b-5CdzYMHbhqCVJiduqzLLUawb6rWIwY_hEBdkct3jTWPQqO8eDonRjbrJ8bKfyY2DdOFl4vjDLuQnC3VsV4-HTZ-7GN_6svPHqJhu2REy9PLcrHEUGyMm0Mlv7i3e/s1600/IMG_5301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRKlJYsdM5hDu9n5b-5CdzYMHbhqCVJiduqzLLUawb6rWIwY_hEBdkct3jTWPQqO8eDonRjbrJ8bKfyY2DdOFl4vjDLuQnC3VsV4-HTZ-7GN_6svPHqJhu2REy9PLcrHEUGyMm0Mlv7i3e/s320/IMG_5301.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This sitting spot has become the family favorite. Devin and I cleaned up the water feature to the right of Jeremy in the picture. .and it has been running for a week now. .LOVE the sounds. .especially when the windows are open and I can hear it in the house!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Q7C5A0uO0SMlCjt3FHiOE_qyO8iCHRzvfG58Vpvu4-ifJAcO5JkebLriuljXHK71YpStMVKhWwyarHGUynwd6el1z9dFDPfF_1RJ6M0Y8hASgdKg0C_nal-91TTAdf_WObo5tuGbKDDm/s1600/IMG_5302.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Q7C5A0uO0SMlCjt3FHiOE_qyO8iCHRzvfG58Vpvu4-ifJAcO5JkebLriuljXHK71YpStMVKhWwyarHGUynwd6el1z9dFDPfF_1RJ6M0Y8hASgdKg0C_nal-91TTAdf_WObo5tuGbKDDm/s320/IMG_5302.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These guys blessed me a ton. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Because they all helped out with the planting and water line running. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And Devin will learn to be the chief water man this summer!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Whether he likes it or not!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have a few more things that we planted that I didn't snap photos of. .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But hope to do so soon! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQIv1781JwQ9PHVjqLmJuog6uoup0vj9lAIjz9piExtvYX3hTHHLuwYiro0WKVoGhaSsu6BMFv1yMxc8mZ1ZY6-kl68uUYC819SxXBx8eS2KuxY2ygALj-TshQRpMllxYCxOANRhfOoZPA/s1600/IMG_5299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQIv1781JwQ9PHVjqLmJuog6uoup0vj9lAIjz9piExtvYX3hTHHLuwYiro0WKVoGhaSsu6BMFv1yMxc8mZ1ZY6-kl68uUYC819SxXBx8eS2KuxY2ygALj-TshQRpMllxYCxOANRhfOoZPA/s320/IMG_5299.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hope you are finding some time to STOP. .and smell the lilacs!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Have a great week!!</div>
Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10476707833109337386noreply@blogger.com8