April 30, 2012 - Late Lunch

Missing breakfast, no time for a proper lunch, mid-afternoon appointment...
I had to stop off for a Mezza Plate and a Double Jack.

April 29, 2012 - Quiet Sunday

Today was a quiet Sunday with only 10 of us around the house.
I spent time gardening and holding Gabe who reached 10 months today.

It's hard to believe that Strawberries are blooming and will be ready about the time he celebrates his 1st birthday.

April 28, 2012 - Jacquie's Junior Prom

Tonight the Brown back porch was transformed into a quiet dining spot for 2 young ladies and their prom dates.
I was glad to have help from the family with setting the scene & preparing the meal.
I hope the kids are having fun.

April 27, 2012 - Heading Home

I had a peaceful week at Silver Falls State Park.
Finding a special gift in the mail upon arriving home is a welcomed surprise. With the busy, hectic weekend I have ahead of me this arrival is perfect timing.

April 26, 2012 - today at Silver Falls

The weather today was certainly erratic.
Sun, rain, thunder, sun, hail, sun, wind, hail, rain, thunder, more hail, ... Rainbow!

April 25, 2012 - Calypso Orchid

The Calypso Orchid, also known as the fairy slipper, is an elusive plant for many who hunt it. But I got lucky today!

April 24, 2012 - Seeing Nature

I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order. ~John Burroughs

April 23, 2012 - Reunited with Gabe

After a couple nights away, parents, Mike & Aimee, were reunited with Gabe.
I have not forgotten how hard it was to leave one of my kids overnight for the first time. Even with #8 it didn't get easier.
But the 'hard' is what makes reuniting all the better.

April 22, 2012 - Earth Day

Laying on the beach, soaking up the sunshine, listening to the waves crash... It's a great way to appreciate Earth Day

April 21, 2012 - Brewer's Dinner

April 20, 2012 - Portland

Today was a day spent in Portland:
Select a seat for the trailblazers, some shopping, and a late lunch with Caroline.

April 18, 2012 - Evening in Portland

It's a joy to see my kids and grandson before heading to the blazer game.

April 17, 2012 - Communication Award

Tonight I was surprised with an award from the park manager of Silver Falls State Park. He said, "while it's not a Pulitzer prize, the communication award is just as valuable."
I was surprised and honored.

April 15, 2012 - Tornado Weather

Wichita was hit hard with Tornados last night. By the Grace of God my family is all safe. While I do, on occasion, miss a good ole fashioned thunderstorm, I don't miss the dangerous, randomness of where and when a tornado touches ground.

April 14, 2012 - Weeding

Often times ridding my garden of weeds is quite cathartic. Thank God I have lot of weeds because I am in need of therapy.

April 13, 2013 - Lights, Camera, Auction!

Lots of hard work and overtime hours.
But I think most would call it a success.

April 12, 2012 - Resident Geese

We have geese throughout the Marion County Juvenile Department complex. I think these 2 are staying year round.

April 11, 2012 - Tulips

Today I picked up tulips from the Wooden Shoe tulip farm in Woodburn, Oregon.
600 tulips of various colors.
They are awaiting their placement in a vase for Friday night's fundraising event Lights, Camera, Auction!

April 10, 2012 - Hatband

I've been looking for an interesting and unique hatband for my straw cowboy hat for some time. I saw this one in the store and while the oversized sloppy, floppy hat is not quite my style, I think I can recreate the hatband.

April 9, 2012 - 4 Hiking Sticks

Well...
4 found driftwood sticks, some whittling, lots of sanding, 5 new calluses, 4 rubber stoppers, 2 burns (including 1 blister), some leather strips, wooden beads, all mixed with 9 hours of tendered tender loving attention...
And 4 handmade Hiking Sticks are ready for our upcoming fundraising auction!

April 8, 2012 - Easter Pizza