tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9021979208143868722024-03-12T18:20:55.630-07:00Wildflower MorningBarbarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11115298443153411556noreply@blogger.comBlogger278125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-17948489678154898942009-01-07T10:20:00.000-08:002009-01-07T10:33:35.208-08:00Dear FriendsDear Friends,<br /><br />I have been resisting telling you this for a long time, but the time has come for me to say good-bye to blogging. I have enjoyed this creative pursuit. The writing and creating is fun. I've enjoyed making friends in blogland. This has been a fun place to share my photos and our visits to interesting places. But God has been pressing on my heart that it is time for me to stop. When I blog, I spend way too much time on the computer, and it keeps me from spending time as I should, with my kids, husband, and with God. I've struggled against the voice of God in my heart to stop blogging, but now want to stop struggling and do the right thing. I'll be copying some of my favorite posts over the next few days, and then I am going to delete my blog. I hate to say good-bye, but I know it is the right thing. For my most faithful readers, if you would like to be my friend in real life, I am open to the exchange of email. Find my email on my blog profile page and send me a personal note, and then we can information so friendship can continue beyond blogging.<br /><br />God bless you all, and thank you for the good time we've had here together. And if someone wants to take over "Wildflowers in Winter" this year, please do, as I won't be able to.<br /><br />Faithfully yours,<br />Elizabeth JoyUnknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-58260055366909792822009-01-05T16:31:00.000-08:002009-01-05T21:13:45.831-08:00An Outfit for My Niece - Butterick 4009<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCrMWP4CTyA1N4_KYz8FSRrdUPIroSml1fD-oqTnlGR3D6yt3ZZAzmwjUzQoFkS8OXq8ZguCnDJEhMbkceYbB0oyeq3W20PlDxbJ-n89Ed6nArIV8_RXFfqyslzTxeceM8v5UgKe9mOdY/s1600-h/brown+gift.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCrMWP4CTyA1N4_KYz8FSRrdUPIroSml1fD-oqTnlGR3D6yt3ZZAzmwjUzQoFkS8OXq8ZguCnDJEhMbkceYbB0oyeq3W20PlDxbJ-n89Ed6nArIV8_RXFfqyslzTxeceM8v5UgKe9mOdY/s400/brown+gift.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287975024983799810" border="0" /></a>So what have I been doing while were were snowed in this Christmas? Making cute things for my niece. She came to visit me this weekend, and this is what was in her package. A complete brown and pink outfit.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijbwPRIjPkQKARBFuLXUDS8bKC8j8UOsdi1l_NdgPrcsPv5mizwnhwPYnVe03dliG8qPqTGWGb-SufOwTzwKsOknrBDV-tYnWWTe9fd5iyu3iHZOG1YTBwPBlnMoBC9QOrkpf7uGLcEO8/s1600-h/brown+dress.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 276px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijbwPRIjPkQKARBFuLXUDS8bKC8j8UOsdi1l_NdgPrcsPv5mizwnhwPYnVe03dliG8qPqTGWGb-SufOwTzwKsOknrBDV-tYnWWTe9fd5iyu3iHZOG1YTBwPBlnMoBC9QOrkpf7uGLcEO8/s400/brown+dress.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287972981185895410" border="0" /></a>I didn't have time to make things like this for my own toddlers, but now their big enough to do things while I sew without getting into trouble.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKI1yJYLdhfQW_8FPNawIGeUPEifrZlGbhsqmpLI9g5Q3vkR8Yv1LxUhZCfOm3dfp1BItun_oIvZlCJqhDM2qAG5R1qO-_HO3tqyOoeIBp2y5RqrazsN3W33Y3Kh8TiEbGuPqyflzU3HI/s1600-h/brown+dress+back.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKI1yJYLdhfQW_8FPNawIGeUPEifrZlGbhsqmpLI9g5Q3vkR8Yv1LxUhZCfOm3dfp1BItun_oIvZlCJqhDM2qAG5R1qO-_HO3tqyOoeIBp2y5RqrazsN3W33Y3Kh8TiEbGuPqyflzU3HI/s400/brown+dress+back.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287972971845943138" border="0" /></a><br />I used Butterick pattern 4009 for both the dress and the coat. The dress went together in a pretty standard way. The sizing turned out accurate for weight and height, though I was a little scared, because there wasn't a bust measurement or a finished size measurement on the pattern.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Xvd7vPMpu5xIMORSxcDw8M9aznSCy5vP6eShQiOZ9pjB-5IyRFNv7dS7blr5yS8dQoJuGtlavPpqeevkKMFB0I96ckdSW4JbqloJf-TaZ_kliwtzdwo7bY9jbELVxI3iP5ZCQeTI6hs/s1600-h/brown+coat.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Xvd7vPMpu5xIMORSxcDw8M9aznSCy5vP6eShQiOZ9pjB-5IyRFNv7dS7blr5yS8dQoJuGtlavPpqeevkKMFB0I96ckdSW4JbqloJf-TaZ_kliwtzdwo7bY9jbELVxI3iP5ZCQeTI6hs/s400/brown+coat.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287972964111723698" border="0" /></a><br />The coat pattern had some problems though. I made view B which has a pleat on the top front, near the shoulders. There is a lining pattern pieces which I cut out as recommended, but it turned out to be the lining for view A. This I didn't discover until the lining was completely sew in and I was getting ready to attach it to the bottom of the hem of the fleece outer layer. It wasn't big enough. What to do? I thought and then hemmed the lining separately from the fleece layer, though it required some sewing gymnastics. I recommend making only View A, unless you are a talented seamstress, and can design a properly sized View B lining, or can figure out on your own to hem them separately. I didn't take photos while I did the work, because I didn't know if my process would even work. Another adjustment I made to the pattern is to make pink cuffs. If I had followed the pattern, they would have been the same color as the rest of the coat. I had to think it out and figure out how to make it work. It wasn't too hard, but the pattern didn't tell me how.<br /><br />I used flannel backed satin for the lining for added warm, and because it was what I had on hand<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMrxI3bHvFCJmWeIBUMDtW49T1uzAp8DLtghctO6KVGuQWsTgjgsXvYDC_QP3JKzaIBB95uhPtotu8FyCBkfNC8ZN3uq8zBANo2GFl7CBl316GvPTnisGMnsFPJEerHUBBNU9hIaQUsxU/s1600-h/brown+purse.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMrxI3bHvFCJmWeIBUMDtW49T1uzAp8DLtghctO6KVGuQWsTgjgsXvYDC_QP3JKzaIBB95uhPtotu8FyCBkfNC8ZN3uq8zBANo2GFl7CBl316GvPTnisGMnsFPJEerHUBBNU9hIaQUsxU/s400/brown+purse.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287973453122911314" border="0" /></a><br />Since I had extra fabric from the jumper, I figured that a little girl would need a purse. I used Simplicity 5638. I sewed two pieces of ribbon together to make a contrasting handle. And I sewed on two little doodads (a clay teddy bear and a pink clay dress) to play with and a big pink button from my button box. Inside there was a little Loving Family doll to play with.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiezTOS8u-3VUJZ-OTBHsn4Yg8FMEreVMVUSzKu9BZDvc1vzzzogHXw1d67p4zoD-zkG2PXbw5fOcGW_iWYWNFyU3EHrJG3RV2UszGR5_g39mm1gc8Qx3nK0BPYjP3vAXblxXgVztMoLA/s1600-h/brown+dressing.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiezTOS8u-3VUJZ-OTBHsn4Yg8FMEreVMVUSzKu9BZDvc1vzzzogHXw1d67p4zoD-zkG2PXbw5fOcGW_iWYWNFyU3EHrJG3RV2UszGR5_g39mm1gc8Qx3nK0BPYjP3vAXblxXgVztMoLA/s400/brown+dressing.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287972976624569346" border="0" /></a>The good news is that it all fits - perfectly!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjayGr6pZ7lzrDYx_nttLa7iKMivYzruilNDd1Z4mrHi-KM3r_wnJGTtv0LjyJZdqpfP4ECpWhno_x3fWtb44p5TyvW9TOAvtxhSS4MbE_qFy5-FL669tzl7pg_CzJLYe0Pgvzp7aL2nLk/s1600-h/brown+ready.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 202px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjayGr6pZ7lzrDYx_nttLa7iKMivYzruilNDd1Z4mrHi-KM3r_wnJGTtv0LjyJZdqpfP4ECpWhno_x3fWtb44p5TyvW9TOAvtxhSS4MbE_qFy5-FL669tzl7pg_CzJLYe0Pgvzp7aL2nLk/s400/brown+ready.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287973452357655634" border="0" /></a>And she'll be ready to go in a jiffy.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8rwysZFBPSZ-08gomYv_w1qH2f0vy8CAlNSB6OCq9SSAzmpmnDl1fFoj-4RdU-QozZazibN2c8mGZgHEALPlqN9iWBEujfbLGW3pSIFS6yQRPv6rTVQ9oqponwyHaqTH7m0krqOf8DgU/s1600-h/brown+inspection.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 202px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8rwysZFBPSZ-08gomYv_w1qH2f0vy8CAlNSB6OCq9SSAzmpmnDl1fFoj-4RdU-QozZazibN2c8mGZgHEALPlqN9iWBEujfbLGW3pSIFS6yQRPv6rTVQ9oqponwyHaqTH7m0krqOf8DgU/s400/brown+inspection.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287972982664291282" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-12273772265015102352009-01-04T16:37:00.000-08:002009-01-04T17:38:30.140-08:00Winter Freezes and Thaws<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx5O5UpqviM5BS20mV47ZSFnX7dKO9o0dpbIUU_FQ50xhOPebV_EVGh0dcPlLbteY8h1XJ0O6eub0UAQJ2WGR4wnDQjZmx_FJKyfsngS0Y-FoyKKmXi5VbIa1ac6QcbNPV85VkOCgbhJ8/s1600-h/Winter1+icicles+drip.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx5O5UpqviM5BS20mV47ZSFnX7dKO9o0dpbIUU_FQ50xhOPebV_EVGh0dcPlLbteY8h1XJ0O6eub0UAQJ2WGR4wnDQjZmx_FJKyfsngS0Y-FoyKKmXi5VbIa1ac6QcbNPV85VkOCgbhJ8/s400/Winter1+icicles+drip.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287604284381832914" border="0" /></a>Two days after Christmas the weather started changing, rather rapidly. A warm Chinook wind started blowing, and the temperature started rising, and everything started melting, fast. Soon the dry creek in the valley was overflowing with water, the ground was saturated, and mud was being tracked in on the carpet. We had warm weather and rain for almost a week.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh34xC-lzg8H_x9lWALonGfEzYLxaRQqmgeXeHf7iFo_LVKAItTD2GjHg4wX7sBlHt-woiXl1mbHoi6VUFi37WL24I7NEmIaXFr_TGXruLbLUPlWvEKvJf78j-hZ1RExtCaMA7xP66zNsE/s1600-h/Winter1+snow+flurry.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh34xC-lzg8H_x9lWALonGfEzYLxaRQqmgeXeHf7iFo_LVKAItTD2GjHg4wX7sBlHt-woiXl1mbHoi6VUFi37WL24I7NEmIaXFr_TGXruLbLUPlWvEKvJf78j-hZ1RExtCaMA7xP66zNsE/s400/Winter1+snow+flurry.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287604304639113618" border="0" /></a>Then, this Friday morning, we woke up to this. We had no idea it was coming. It was just below freezing and snowed hard and fast. Big goose down flakes filled the sky, so we could hardly see the neighbor's house. It was wet and easy to pack, so of course, as soon as Forest Zoo got permission, he was out creating the largest snowman he had ever made.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ6c4PxOkrb9YzKHlgvYDWi4yC3c8dOg7nBq97EUbYG1eS7hPDwkazrx3r8UYeJ_wWUhP_bHbmdQ-McAeTgk8h6v07kDp8Oq87tWHbmDOweP0dCP8t5IMBFcIxBP0n5sMMLVRJle4r9xI/s1600-h/Winter1+king+snowman.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ6c4PxOkrb9YzKHlgvYDWi4yC3c8dOg7nBq97EUbYG1eS7hPDwkazrx3r8UYeJ_wWUhP_bHbmdQ-McAeTgk8h6v07kDp8Oq87tWHbmDOweP0dCP8t5IMBFcIxBP0n5sMMLVRJle4r9xI/s400/Winter1+king+snowman.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287604292461350818" border="0" /></a>He thought he was making a snowman, but I think that he is really THE Snow Man. We all know that this snow is his fault, because he won't stop praying for more and deeper. And we all know that God loves to answer the prayers of little children.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHd-iBGEDj_aJtcMok_UH35ReDWiomrR5rwHHX3h7beaYAS-_VsghHjxRCmkEOIqoWA5jA1934weHHmc5cPQ_jhcPCSOfGm7dNuFb4MXy7pvArCiCBtCatYEOsKRroGu4Zwamd1sP2s8c/s1600-h/Winter1+Snowman+maker.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 382px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHd-iBGEDj_aJtcMok_UH35ReDWiomrR5rwHHX3h7beaYAS-_VsghHjxRCmkEOIqoWA5jA1934weHHmc5cPQ_jhcPCSOfGm7dNuFb4MXy7pvArCiCBtCatYEOsKRroGu4Zwamd1sP2s8c/s400/Winter1+Snowman+maker.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287605826936860370" border="0" /></a>By early afternoon the temperature rose above freezing, the snow stopped falling, and the snowman started melting. By the next morning, his head had fallen off, but the fun memories of the biggest snowman ever remains.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4drmJ_eYHSBjQK03ebPNMKY5jqeDYnBAXllsSmrw8dLRaJHSXrhtljZ6ohRvG72w85BQWb4lJftJcUvz521FIHqTIM2n54id1D9ZU6i6vcobR_v8JBIh-OQKSWUDeFlATwkoOnqeLzYw/s1600-h/Winter1+Snow+glow.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4drmJ_eYHSBjQK03ebPNMKY5jqeDYnBAXllsSmrw8dLRaJHSXrhtljZ6ohRvG72w85BQWb4lJftJcUvz521FIHqTIM2n54id1D9ZU6i6vcobR_v8JBIh-OQKSWUDeFlATwkoOnqeLzYw/s400/Winter1+Snow+glow.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287605823241226642" border="0" /></a><br />Just before dark the clouds above the hills lit up in an unusual display of contrasts.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgakkwWzIsl7sqPZ37f7lPhSXTLuwSFTLVZG1wSNjfW7BrAH0SL5vTzi8snk_TdOX7fJbV-Y9yF7WLr-QDc7YbuCOFehSqlsxO94DVrc-4xHAMnFnS3RlQ-ysHW7vmbUz3jbhVY6ZPkdRo/s1600-h/Winter1+Snow+glow2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 147px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgakkwWzIsl7sqPZ37f7lPhSXTLuwSFTLVZG1wSNjfW7BrAH0SL5vTzi8snk_TdOX7fJbV-Y9yF7WLr-QDc7YbuCOFehSqlsxO94DVrc-4xHAMnFnS3RlQ-ysHW7vmbUz3jbhVY6ZPkdRo/s400/Winter1+Snow+glow2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287605822473582546" border="0" /></a><br />The temperature dropped that night, and we woke up yesterday morning to cold, crunchy stuff on the ground. It stayed cold all day.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHhlrBJ7eCT3gOiuF8jMXnXqpmAuoMS11ZoThlYBsD1PyOBzl1P5zzfTQ3CxGAd6V0Pj_mQWSN_pN8abt7E3Ya3eMsrQ_v4cX-TCZNnje-gZl0Jp0oZh20xM6diYgQOqQQE7TfNesHlGU/s1600-h/Winter1+Snowpink.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 102px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHhlrBJ7eCT3gOiuF8jMXnXqpmAuoMS11ZoThlYBsD1PyOBzl1P5zzfTQ3CxGAd6V0Pj_mQWSN_pN8abt7E3Ya3eMsrQ_v4cX-TCZNnje-gZl0Jp0oZh20xM6diYgQOqQQE7TfNesHlGU/s400/Winter1+Snowpink.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287605827876362130" border="0" /></a>And then the sunset turned the hills pink. What a beautiful ending to a day. How good to know the God who makes such glorious displays for us to enjoy. It isn't just art and creativity, it is a daily gift from a loving and powerful friend who knows what brings me delight.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhi8iuE8mZzs1jlYIfrlmdP0eA_RFzZCL62iPOr30vpxZipenRJo_EeG4o6uUvx1mp643cR84uSq9AvbnjNHqAVI99rYQeCxTINkAXxf9ADF5Kj6Y2jEp-4hoIzuXzonX7O_1O_uF1NJk/s1600-h/Winter1+pinkglow2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhi8iuE8mZzs1jlYIfrlmdP0eA_RFzZCL62iPOr30vpxZipenRJo_EeG4o6uUvx1mp643cR84uSq9AvbnjNHqAVI99rYQeCxTINkAXxf9ADF5Kj6Y2jEp-4hoIzuXzonX7O_1O_uF1NJk/s400/Winter1+pinkglow2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287608754522464994" border="0" /></a><br />"I lift up my eyes to hills. From whence cometh my help? My help cometh from the Lord, the creator of heaven and earth."Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-54513820585178658022008-12-28T11:52:00.000-08:002008-12-28T12:16:28.734-08:00Deep snow 2008<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfE8FYvDCAsDSgS7QIwAdacDAhpwHCMvkBB6m_ehtxlzG4pcPvPQHAUtlntWgzeSd_ZQrBPDkhovhmjJ-9Exf4ECYOmiwTMmbiAimIJYkuJZX1vIDNV7i3-CCRIHct7IWXgA-boP6Bxgg/s1600-h/Snow2+swing+set.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfE8FYvDCAsDSgS7QIwAdacDAhpwHCMvkBB6m_ehtxlzG4pcPvPQHAUtlntWgzeSd_ZQrBPDkhovhmjJ-9Exf4ECYOmiwTMmbiAimIJYkuJZX1vIDNV7i3-CCRIHct7IWXgA-boP6Bxgg/s400/Snow2+swing+set.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284932510033833058" border="0" /></a>So we don't forget just how deep this snow really was, the week before Christmas 2008, I thought I'd better include a few more photos for memories sake, and for those who would care to look at more snow without having to wade through it.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8uQIfO616rB00xAD_cDYVej9Vi2I0yufQg98eMiZ91yHBO4dk7Hujp9GqDLfH5aSildIXQtTGa_kMy355bBAVDSgNHpGcI4qvFrpzEOd5aoJ-AiiF0Ste8rB5Iz1mYl-In1J4SwVS9jE/s1600-h/Snow2+house.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8uQIfO616rB00xAD_cDYVej9Vi2I0yufQg98eMiZ91yHBO4dk7Hujp9GqDLfH5aSildIXQtTGa_kMy355bBAVDSgNHpGcI4qvFrpzEOd5aoJ-AiiF0Ste8rB5Iz1mYl-In1J4SwVS9jE/s400/Snow2+house.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284932501949860082" border="0" /></a><br />I've never seen things so buried under here before.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO4AaCrYgl_5rvJQgko87eJqYI8G338mRIe2Fd8Bv2m5x7_FI7IsntMgkhxrIcXfhVsf5zYvxhi0ILBQJjmLsWaVd1b37SYGRWdO1t2be6KxdTromVU7VWqIx3ugPo_sILZW6ravninOQ/s1600-h/snow2+mailbox.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 298px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO4AaCrYgl_5rvJQgko87eJqYI8G338mRIe2Fd8Bv2m5x7_FI7IsntMgkhxrIcXfhVsf5zYvxhi0ILBQJjmLsWaVd1b37SYGRWdO1t2be6KxdTromVU7VWqIx3ugPo_sILZW6ravninOQ/s400/snow2+mailbox.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284931936639650402" border="0" /></a>I don't know how many times we cleaned off the mailbox. We went four days without mail delivery, before they finally figured out how to get through. The hero of the post office came through on Sunday before Christmas though, and brought us some important packages. It is our first time ever to have Sunday delivery, but no week day delivery.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrkbVgkUVOwliK0i86u2AZStEeNnXLlnKBr0tfwZ8SAfbCv4HE-p_AQ_N4yw6z4rIOpqYkjxp8eFytmIqKA_azmt8ky3UIBCW6UVNnbpk2lc7jNCZaCdsioxusXAPY6befoufFiTE9E5g/s1600-h/Snow2+FZ+flag.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrkbVgkUVOwliK0i86u2AZStEeNnXLlnKBr0tfwZ8SAfbCv4HE-p_AQ_N4yw6z4rIOpqYkjxp8eFytmIqKA_azmt8ky3UIBCW6UVNnbpk2lc7jNCZaCdsioxusXAPY6befoufFiTE9E5g/s400/Snow2+FZ+flag.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284932497835803666" border="0" /></a>With snow shoveled off the driveway, Forest Zoo and Emily Rose set to work at fort building. Forest even rigged himself up a flag. He was ready to bomb anyone who came near. Do you see how big the icicles are in the window? We've never had any there before. We've had too many days of temperatures near zero.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDRsRbwr27Z0P4eWFuxsJiZk0Ez4C96Br6-MI9BTPKaLeNWNJltxuVruwn-L4KAkbcUwTAiPVDK7FWHVX5MKMjq5rMVMfthSN0UQVw8bpqSGLL0_2TRywnwFJQgg8qdrNx2LQHSdkHImY/s1600-h/Snow2+FZ+fort.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDRsRbwr27Z0P4eWFuxsJiZk0Ez4C96Br6-MI9BTPKaLeNWNJltxuVruwn-L4KAkbcUwTAiPVDK7FWHVX5MKMjq5rMVMfthSN0UQVw8bpqSGLL0_2TRywnwFJQgg8qdrNx2LQHSdkHImY/s400/Snow2+FZ+fort.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284932496504194562" border="0" /></a><br />Watch out you ladies and gents, Forest is armed. But don't worry too much. The snow is too dry to pack into balls, and breaks up before it reaches you. You are safe as long as he remains inside his fort, but watch out for mischief if he gets close.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_i2vh20zFl5FaTtKRLDCl6V1uNi320Grd3IUZc5I0tSqDD1zlP611gzrSu9RQde4LzjtL_xM_yeYFKY5ZeRZ6zR9-5FmiRouXiQWprTu3NaQ8RLu3MBHwswQB8m5pPRBxJm5gPgpMHRM/s1600-h/Snow2+ER.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_i2vh20zFl5FaTtKRLDCl6V1uNi320Grd3IUZc5I0tSqDD1zlP611gzrSu9RQde4LzjtL_xM_yeYFKY5ZeRZ6zR9-5FmiRouXiQWprTu3NaQ8RLu3MBHwswQB8m5pPRBxJm5gPgpMHRM/s400/Snow2+ER.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284931953483543490" border="0" /> </a>Emily Rose set up quarters on the opposite side of the driveway, over the flower garden. She made three rooms in her fort, but I think she has no evil intentions. In fact, if the weather allowed, I believe you might be able to stop by for tea.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWQLPUhEA4R7gjGEVUf3VHwr3W_WysPp7G5neMalCHqiItiBh3DKp6iv7eWRFtVV97AOfBBdy78pjUue4O-sMm8muoLEb_6IFil3roPVwF4S6Gyp8BD-ykHNNveZA-WZ17aFmcJ2a_Ns0/s1600-h/Snow2+bird+bush.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWQLPUhEA4R7gjGEVUf3VHwr3W_WysPp7G5neMalCHqiItiBh3DKp6iv7eWRFtVV97AOfBBdy78pjUue4O-sMm8muoLEb_6IFil3roPVwF4S6Gyp8BD-ykHNNveZA-WZ17aFmcJ2a_Ns0/s400/Snow2+bird+bush.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284931948491342386" border="0" /></a>The little birds love this little Weeping Cherry tree. The snow made a bit of a snow fort for them too, as it made a fine cap on top of the tree. The birds could fly inside for shelter from the cold and the cats.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKzFbfkGqo5mCjnXlhLJuZTEv5-IXmk6GzB1tDkfhft7yv8PiYiOou8ekNBpm0Xv-J6hB3orp4qp0ThovHxdbpZVOkXVNObbO1vVRZUh8Lkpa3-Jo2DYxNmxqXgsi3XsXrk327J7x7FLI/s1600-h/Snow2+spruce.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKzFbfkGqo5mCjnXlhLJuZTEv5-IXmk6GzB1tDkfhft7yv8PiYiOou8ekNBpm0Xv-J6hB3orp4qp0ThovHxdbpZVOkXVNObbO1vVRZUh8Lkpa3-Jo2DYxNmxqXgsi3XsXrk327J7x7FLI/s400/Snow2+spruce.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284931945909554818" border="0" /></a><br />I can hardly believe how much snow there is on the Blue Spruce Tree. It is the same tree that was leaning over last January after our big wind storm. We pulled it back up straight with some ropes, gave it some water, and it seems to have survived just fine. We left the ropes there, just in case, though. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYGOL4pNFzA7UgT2vswOoMNB_yTX2qxzC_filjCuOl_uyM1cBPfaw1EcrPw3mIdqbILr7mccuF0W7briDG1K34LPRH-eRbpBgIxy2w-y174vhfqgjuxoMOAt1q6t10Rb3ot6iwnbVSm7k/s1600-h/snow2+spuce+branch.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYGOL4pNFzA7UgT2vswOoMNB_yTX2qxzC_filjCuOl_uyM1cBPfaw1EcrPw3mIdqbILr7mccuF0W7briDG1K34LPRH-eRbpBgIxy2w-y174vhfqgjuxoMOAt1q6t10Rb3ot6iwnbVSm7k/s400/snow2+spuce+branch.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284931951129606850" border="0" /></a>Just look how deep the snow piled up on those branches. It has been really fun to see, and makes the inconvenience of the snow a little less bothersome.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-50975638936444227132008-12-28T11:32:00.001-08:002008-12-28T11:51:18.499-08:00Christmas Day WalkWe took the most scenic route for our walk on Christmas day. It was the easiest snow walking we had had for a while, conditions were at the best and the sun was bright making very nice light. We were able to see quite a few interesting things. Come along and linger with us as some of the sights along the way.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG01aJ4qryVNBREX1IoWLbvgv5xbkjp7j5sPklGJ53O95iicshMs67ERi8J6qMtGuz7_zzlxeWWHMwTg-vGl4T4hmp3GjZHpiDvt0J_rDu-F56dkgVoztefBTHD5xQTWuWCKyGR-IdzUA/s1600-h/Snow3+deer.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG01aJ4qryVNBREX1IoWLbvgv5xbkjp7j5sPklGJ53O95iicshMs67ERi8J6qMtGuz7_zzlxeWWHMwTg-vGl4T4hmp3GjZHpiDvt0J_rDu-F56dkgVoztefBTHD5xQTWuWCKyGR-IdzUA/s400/Snow3+deer.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284926784911190658" border="0" /></a>A mule deer was wandering through some trees a ways from the road.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgAB0GSply8FKLTDIEM8pl2_MbV4XkvvUKRBI27QsbpCNUiVMH32ravvIZBOMlSEYrxoUmDMasSu9V7BQlpt5a63AE8RGnHhcjQipkZkjfNktjl_xIieOykAh07p0KGFyGAwmfOmwkWlI/s1600-h/Snow3+river.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgAB0GSply8FKLTDIEM8pl2_MbV4XkvvUKRBI27QsbpCNUiVMH32ravvIZBOMlSEYrxoUmDMasSu9V7BQlpt5a63AE8RGnHhcjQipkZkjfNktjl_xIieOykAh07p0KGFyGAwmfOmwkWlI/s400/Snow3+river.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284927119338063106" border="0" /></a>The river was moving along nicely, snow piled up along it's banks, and tree branches of many colors along the shore.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN9pUPnnRiZCPU8l43yT9C_5FiiuInIFo7ks62EE9p1FDRzAk-VHP-JZpX4PPWqLaNmZEQfAREh30QYcttbhnHh0MPuJzvHfMBRHQMa18JJRmW9f4T-dvrDbsdMvorHNn7tpQHeQtyW44/s1600-h/Snow3+river+sunlight.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN9pUPnnRiZCPU8l43yT9C_5FiiuInIFo7ks62EE9p1FDRzAk-VHP-JZpX4PPWqLaNmZEQfAREh30QYcttbhnHh0MPuJzvHfMBRHQMa18JJRmW9f4T-dvrDbsdMvorHNn7tpQHeQtyW44/s400/Snow3+river+sunlight.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284926807654500274" border="0" /></a>Sunlight and shadows played together on the river bank.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvwOOtyUhusShR7WtC9FJI7s6qWNG-sYujHpDBKN-MEJN-20QJKArmS4SshOo5EdbbJB0r3rEgExfQyHOGI1CTvyWyfrXR9D_3wdMiKiCs5erTiXVcg5fiCxM-sJQbR2ciprCTKsl0u0Q/s1600-h/Snow3+farmhouse.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvwOOtyUhusShR7WtC9FJI7s6qWNG-sYujHpDBKN-MEJN-20QJKArmS4SshOo5EdbbJB0r3rEgExfQyHOGI1CTvyWyfrXR9D_3wdMiKiCs5erTiXVcg5fiCxM-sJQbR2ciprCTKsl0u0Q/s400/Snow3+farmhouse.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284926804551987922" border="0" /></a><br />A stately tree guarded a welcoming farmhouse that has sheltered farmers and their families for several generations.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggvuprcSDNAeHx295sRzjqcIKlr81snQcP9DqHrSK7J08EON2D-USKlxGPXPtBU3vo-FC_yle7UV925T3vtgtbKGzxzTAjKv45kP7k2RNQkiS1xgKIKD_3gAiugclToLMjwvsvCJvOW50/s1600-h/Snow3+haystack.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggvuprcSDNAeHx295sRzjqcIKlr81snQcP9DqHrSK7J08EON2D-USKlxGPXPtBU3vo-FC_yle7UV925T3vtgtbKGzxzTAjKv45kP7k2RNQkiS1xgKIKD_3gAiugclToLMjwvsvCJvOW50/s400/Snow3+haystack.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284926790322301314" border="0" /></a>By the house rested a white crowned haystack.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr75Akn1TbVRjnqfJVtMwvgssDMrj9hk9S7T9kr35S6ixV4MYsOzBCG6m-LwwEjIaBRkY02aXrbfA052NxiyxVQ6p1tvZmv03nSu1TOULmjLPlGsZDEdu0Kr2AwAy8oKVVi5hYd8QHi-w/s1600-h/Snow3+cows.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr75Akn1TbVRjnqfJVtMwvgssDMrj9hk9S7T9kr35S6ixV4MYsOzBCG6m-LwwEjIaBRkY02aXrbfA052NxiyxVQ6p1tvZmv03nSu1TOULmjLPlGsZDEdu0Kr2AwAy8oKVVi5hYd8QHi-w/s400/Snow3+cows.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284926783711771394" border="0" /></a><br />Cows gathered round their feed didn't seem to mind the cold.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMTcv-s-1NKqHbVe_hyphenhyphenQpRIrDuMYoRpYfSdaKyM00aFE3DozbRK8F8rhMTcGmzo_837NZOrFuF8l9aWgpaf9b2wiX6cJ7sQMHZAxU_Nb6IF1covgKgPdXzg_USHknMEBmdq9l_5jUQxcQ/s1600-h/Snow3+valley.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMTcv-s-1NKqHbVe_hyphenhyphenQpRIrDuMYoRpYfSdaKyM00aFE3DozbRK8F8rhMTcGmzo_837NZOrFuF8l9aWgpaf9b2wiX6cJ7sQMHZAxU_Nb6IF1covgKgPdXzg_USHknMEBmdq9l_5jUQxcQ/s400/Snow3+valley.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284927116173455842" border="0" /></a>We got back home just when the sun was getting low and turned the valley the tiniest bit of pink saying good-night to another lovely winter day.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-7180928983785211802008-12-28T11:12:00.000-08:002008-12-28T11:31:48.020-08:00White Christmas Memories<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgdz2ixB2Pyk7bqrrSXu3P7jpXrOKT9aTPuqYTei64SWZ0s4C3RYUomKKi1O_E826dQ_OwvkmnyP1j5DDS5jsYtEPw83jI7-OPQVlDQrMDSYI5xgmuztJqMoVY59T24RIIakEOE9B6P3Y/s1600-h/Snow3+family.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 283px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgdz2ixB2Pyk7bqrrSXu3P7jpXrOKT9aTPuqYTei64SWZ0s4C3RYUomKKi1O_E826dQ_OwvkmnyP1j5DDS5jsYtEPw83jI7-OPQVlDQrMDSYI5xgmuztJqMoVY59T24RIIakEOE9B6P3Y/s400/Snow3+family.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284922061810369026" border="0" /></a><br />Christmas is over, but the memories are so nice that I thought I'd blog about them so we can hold onto them for years later. This was a Christmas to remember with so much snow on the ground. No one came to visit us over the treacherous roads, and we didn't go anywhere. It was a fun day of family closeness, doing things we enjoy together.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEWAOvg1DoO8mnLKann0ClSJhyojZd3NezCa73_dTZaegOMLffTnht3vCmitmc5LnPi83qQsnl38OHWp5EWUbMUEPFLjsFgVOcstlrmN80k_p6uFYwvQjWY5wPvKkNu2EnYQExg4xycu8/s1600-h/Snow3+christmas+tree.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEWAOvg1DoO8mnLKann0ClSJhyojZd3NezCa73_dTZaegOMLffTnht3vCmitmc5LnPi83qQsnl38OHWp5EWUbMUEPFLjsFgVOcstlrmN80k_p6uFYwvQjWY5wPvKkNu2EnYQExg4xycu8/s400/Snow3+christmas+tree.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284922056731173538" border="0" /></a>The kids saw a friend's yet undecorated Christmas tree. Her kids had been playing with stuffed animals, and had set a couple in the branches. My son thought filling a whole Christmas tree with stuffed animals was the best idea ever. And as I thought about it, I thought it was pretty good too. The decorations were all unbreakable, and could be played with to their hearts content. It made a lovely tree.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimWaHlIpeWKe7chqoueyZeg9P3r2Ds375wsBHkBEzugwoXC4KaRkkioAN9Rj5zEmR6N-f2zc-d0MbQRgP2JjqG8jtFUiSDlInhb8tVDyBd-m46lfznuRN_C3TJzOj-zOHVqoeY7Q4Hfx0/s1600-h/Snow3+gifts.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimWaHlIpeWKe7chqoueyZeg9P3r2Ds375wsBHkBEzugwoXC4KaRkkioAN9Rj5zEmR6N-f2zc-d0MbQRgP2JjqG8jtFUiSDlInhb8tVDyBd-m46lfznuRN_C3TJzOj-zOHVqoeY7Q4Hfx0/s400/Snow3+gifts.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284922068939384402" border="0" /></a>The kids had permission to open their camel packs as soon as they got up, but they didn't want to do it without Mama, so waited until I was up. After breakfast we opened the bigger gifts together. There was a new game in one of the packages, so later on we all gave it a try together, deciding Blockus is a great game.<br /><br />When lunch time came, we weren't hungry yet, so we went out for a walk in the sunshine. I'll show you the photos in my next post.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGiubsy3jbxWkZQIMbFLREKgdUwq-PqlYhFMhEMV4SW_tYjRbx5Cae1WNo1t1W64neu5Snaka9YRyTBiAIcoh8TZzdMWHZf3cefu4iq3rGEbT8Y8WuPcOTPof5vtEB53mEfsjPXglpPGQ/s1600-h/Snow3+road.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGiubsy3jbxWkZQIMbFLREKgdUwq-PqlYhFMhEMV4SW_tYjRbx5Cae1WNo1t1W64neu5Snaka9YRyTBiAIcoh8TZzdMWHZf3cefu4iq3rGEbT8Y8WuPcOTPof5vtEB53mEfsjPXglpPGQ/s400/Snow3+road.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284922074962198610" border="0" /></a><br />The next day there was clouds, some snow, and an ever great accumulation of icicles decorating our eves, but for us this Christmas is one that we will treasure for years to come.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtAbFBV19F0DcfUIu8RoEYkk-Anzfsjf07I3uiIv4y8OyGTEGk-JM2xh9925u4zKcSMkMocze8-IeZ2EdBmNJvFlIET6U070TpzQ6ttKodeNtUPIXrVHAAGPFBPeZBkYB71WG2gYRohlw/s1600-h/Snow3+icicles.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtAbFBV19F0DcfUIu8RoEYkk-Anzfsjf07I3uiIv4y8OyGTEGk-JM2xh9925u4zKcSMkMocze8-IeZ2EdBmNJvFlIET6U070TpzQ6ttKodeNtUPIXrVHAAGPFBPeZBkYB71WG2gYRohlw/s400/Snow3+icicles.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284922072609470834" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-34860313031537349652008-12-27T20:54:00.001-08:002008-12-27T21:15:29.124-08:00More About Barns<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZCwWcZCV6J4SbVtJ37M7t1-pm9JMo5mvlf3CwScWKlGLjQpaRGzPO-8YgmSNEsmmLOenO-ywluRB2kmnYvrelq2_5OkEvDGcYVPENTWewqkLEiQYVvFoSlcY0fjskBWSwcyBDUBQcfX0/s1600-h/Snow3+barn+whitman.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZCwWcZCV6J4SbVtJ37M7t1-pm9JMo5mvlf3CwScWKlGLjQpaRGzPO-8YgmSNEsmmLOenO-ywluRB2kmnYvrelq2_5OkEvDGcYVPENTWewqkLEiQYVvFoSlcY0fjskBWSwcyBDUBQcfX0/s400/Snow3+barn+whitman.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284705009302066610" border="0" /></a><br />I discovered that Ann at "<a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/">Holy Experience</a>" has also written two thoughtful posts about Barns at Christmas. I thought you might like to read them too as she is a thoughtful word crafter with spiritual depth.<br /><a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/2008/12/christmas-barn-in-morning.html"><br />Christmas Barn in the Morning</a><br /><a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/2008/12/christmas-barn-and-new-year-hope.html">Christmas Barn and New Year Hope</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-66974500632640617172008-12-26T16:07:00.000-08:002008-12-26T16:40:47.241-08:00Of Barns, and Babies<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsr6SHdOsmLPck4JoH32oKwOPMXDIODvp5kIZpNajEIyrGMbhfwQnBxVTFRY0X3XWl94vzMgTueDKWbNcjAzmmcbXuHYQHyUlBCGhoZiAAXD3D3CVnZQ-1swodkq75SvIsnnSBFK3-zX4/s1600-h/Snow2+barn+metal+far.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsr6SHdOsmLPck4JoH32oKwOPMXDIODvp5kIZpNajEIyrGMbhfwQnBxVTFRY0X3XWl94vzMgTueDKWbNcjAzmmcbXuHYQHyUlBCGhoZiAAXD3D3CVnZQ-1swodkq75SvIsnnSBFK3-zX4/s400/Snow2+barn+metal+far.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284256999771285122" border="0" /></a>Out of my walks I've been noticing beautiful barns in the snow.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFFjBaepwvqiD5GsiXwKgpmEUD5oU4sRAciSHBgX9aCy822G_vT19h1eqTB4UfVSzfNkDItz4MSAEXC2oEriFUbItFWRa_8UJRa0KlkTTp_nltupf1wtFMzD_DQ2zk7ydV7baJXjmQtZw/s1600-h/Snow2+red+barn.jpg"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK2_HdSbciufNukTvP8YI25E5Xbafo9s8J-v-i8Jbn5cQgI5Eha16DcnoT9AWj6a11JpV_nQ6324BdgnIyvbrYeu06yyvH7yPkFvndHW4a5Az0kf0dACEpJCWuxi26xR-t-xHXIzYAc_c/s1600-h/Snow2+barn+metal1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK2_HdSbciufNukTvP8YI25E5Xbafo9s8J-v-i8Jbn5cQgI5Eha16DcnoT9AWj6a11JpV_nQ6324BdgnIyvbrYeu06yyvH7yPkFvndHW4a5Az0kf0dACEpJCWuxi26xR-t-xHXIzYAc_c/s400/Snow2+barn+metal1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284257004601893906" border="0" /></a>Somehow they are so much more beautiful surrounded by snow then on other days.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL3I7_z-zqV8nkw7mEx6UJBAbfhnktVCAL4BuykwVimvBZ8vtcd-iRcoTdkEC5f0tCj9YhvkMAMMk1R_swoj73_V557obdcKYaEHXf2DVv7U7tO-BvidtYNBXKj7j_VBSk1wDFJvqYlDc/s1600-h/Snow2+wood+barn.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL3I7_z-zqV8nkw7mEx6UJBAbfhnktVCAL4BuykwVimvBZ8vtcd-iRcoTdkEC5f0tCj9YhvkMAMMk1R_swoj73_V557obdcKYaEHXf2DVv7U7tO-BvidtYNBXKj7j_VBSk1wDFJvqYlDc/s400/Snow2+wood+barn.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284256987699810738" border="0" /></a><br />Some barns are still in use, and some are just a symbol of the farming days of the past.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoUK7UGFxHbDmSDWn9DC9i41JSBt4ZZITPgIG4bAf-8tqyxweBxQu6dSRKo9sSfDcMUkqCcaRdJ_niQ3AnAwlUEGHC0nAcppqGZdm2POjns64tcNw1VS71sIVKaJgS1PHD9_3ycU3a3pA/s1600-h/Snow2+Red+barn+mtns.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoUK7UGFxHbDmSDWn9DC9i41JSBt4ZZITPgIG4bAf-8tqyxweBxQu6dSRKo9sSfDcMUkqCcaRdJ_niQ3AnAwlUEGHC0nAcppqGZdm2POjns64tcNw1VS71sIVKaJgS1PHD9_3ycU3a3pA/s400/Snow2+Red+barn+mtns.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284257296097093890" border="0" /> </a>But all remind me of Jesus who gave up the comforts of heaven came to be God with us and be born in a barn. These barns look so clean and tidy right now, but we all know what is in a barn. Living conditions in a barn would be unpleasant, at best. So why did Jesus choose such a lowly place? Most kings are too proud to associate with the most humble people on earth, but not Jesus, the King of the Universe. He comes out of love, to all who will welcome Him. Only the owner of a barn gave Jesus a place to stay 2000 years ago. Only the heavenly knew of his arrival. Only shephards and distant foreigners were listening close enough to know to go search Him out in a smelly, dark barn.<br /><br />Often my heart has been as filthy as a barn, stuffed with selfishness and sin, with all the resulting woundedness and brokeness. Jesus, would you really be born there? You ask to come in? Yes, I gladly welcome you in and give you full control. Bring your peace-be-still to the chaos that swarms therein. Clean, remove, cover and whiten all that is impure. I'll have no other gods before you. There is room in the barn in my heart for you.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-18242537685741417882008-12-26T15:46:00.000-08:002008-12-26T16:06:44.979-08:00Squirrelin' Round in the Snow<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUCEky75h6B79iFSUxAxf8pWFI2AqSSSKl-KUAUV_DtRre-zh9hfjpMd2fngJM79pZ28UOu9-JFP4qq1a27nRJEA_fTZU_eerZWrtLBLCbllL_wxD7a0cIbFHihUFPIeH8DOM7EUK3C5o/s1600-h/Snow2+Squirel2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 289px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUCEky75h6B79iFSUxAxf8pWFI2AqSSSKl-KUAUV_DtRre-zh9hfjpMd2fngJM79pZ28UOu9-JFP4qq1a27nRJEA_fTZU_eerZWrtLBLCbllL_wxD7a0cIbFHihUFPIeH8DOM7EUK3C5o/s400/Snow2+Squirel2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284253531048012066" border="0" /></a>Down the road from our house the squirrels are busy finding tasty treats to nibble on in the neighbor's trees. They are as cute as can be in the snow and picture perfect.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-RzlyOaPMKETx33b7YD6F79BMJEx35zYchumTNelLop0t4wxfsp1xlPNjp3oXhG8NcV7yXh1tH1ri3PoGFFqwisIxLfVV9RwAtfo5Ln6OUz6JwE0nUQvjMBniKFbYH04I6uPTAeL7IVk/s1600-h/Snow2+squirel1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 296px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-RzlyOaPMKETx33b7YD6F79BMJEx35zYchumTNelLop0t4wxfsp1xlPNjp3oXhG8NcV7yXh1tH1ri3PoGFFqwisIxLfVV9RwAtfo5Ln6OUz6JwE0nUQvjMBniKFbYH04I6uPTAeL7IVk/s400/Snow2+squirel1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284253192798152594" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-721339501082338822008-12-26T13:21:00.000-08:002008-12-26T13:34:49.618-08:00Snow Birds<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2XDxLHko7PdCzkjeihz5xYvSAbM4rT8lQAe1rL3pheUt8kK6x4s1KC97xKhG3adTQCXFYN8qoUDBZR5mNId6ieaK-mOGsW9I0sa2_wk4dkx6UVzs3bQu6_HYMPQ6Bt2Wq4odEqQfHFOo/s1600-h/snowbird+sparrow.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 293px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2XDxLHko7PdCzkjeihz5xYvSAbM4rT8lQAe1rL3pheUt8kK6x4s1KC97xKhG3adTQCXFYN8qoUDBZR5mNId6ieaK-mOGsW9I0sa2_wk4dkx6UVzs3bQu6_HYMPQ6Bt2Wq4odEqQfHFOo/s400/snowbird+sparrow.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284212725219323698" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:78%;">White Crown Sparrow in the Snow<br /><br /></span></span></div>Where do the little birds go when the snow comes? To our feeders of course. We have three feeders well stocked with black sunflower seeds for all the feathered friends who would care to dine. <br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-sgmvuUfRsHB6ZAE_YyDkmCescmha7A4j4A0fPenYFETudIcdbML3FPj-1zWQGl1dD63o4Es7VRHns4aY1aMBHg0idJJ_zFps8C-HeHByU0-Ss42OU0aupALPEX67dF5s01G8NBcKSQY/s1600-h/snowbird+junco.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-sgmvuUfRsHB6ZAE_YyDkmCescmha7A4j4A0fPenYFETudIcdbML3FPj-1zWQGl1dD63o4Es7VRHns4aY1aMBHg0idJJ_zFps8C-HeHByU0-Ss42OU0aupALPEX67dF5s01G8NBcKSQY/s400/snowbird+junco.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284212724837634434" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">Oregon Junco trying to stay warm<br /><br /></span></div>We have one feeder mounted right outside a window, near the front door. The little birds were scared of this one at first, and for good reason, because it is easier for the cats to get to, and further from sheltering bushes. But they can fly and the cats can't, so they soon learned it was a great place to get food. And we get to watch juncos, sparrows of several species, and finches enjoy a meal.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit0iF11d7T5cbnWmEJgryCcKKEnuJmyBMaB0x7Qwq41dOqqFuG6R6qx20-qV0vzAe1xilOtA8uEM6H-npr1jTIe1NlLpRuufD4SnrhsKf5w2vWXUfbnAC7bTj2j9ULAZ9JsFHen6FrNL4/s1600-h/snowbird+feeder.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit0iF11d7T5cbnWmEJgryCcKKEnuJmyBMaB0x7Qwq41dOqqFuG6R6qx20-qV0vzAe1xilOtA8uEM6H-npr1jTIe1NlLpRuufD4SnrhsKf5w2vWXUfbnAC7bTj2j9ULAZ9JsFHen6FrNL4/s400/snowbird+feeder.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284212724718107266" border="0" /></a>Our oldest feeder hangs out by our big maple trees, and is the favorite of the ground feeders. They crowd in there together and eat their fill, knocking down seed for those who don't care for sky view dining. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOuMPhIOTOzsfoCG0lCBgj8JATE3syCOlS0Uss8TTMkevLqCVkjQ1v9CuXCijAG7OGvVTo8pCpBBWRP_aZftCqW2fAlgQ8ur4q3xjsiXd5j75AIomFLy6DVIg6d3mhMYTH7BsvAfT3U2o/s1600-h/Snowbird+crowd.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 260px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOuMPhIOTOzsfoCG0lCBgj8JATE3syCOlS0Uss8TTMkevLqCVkjQ1v9CuXCijAG7OGvVTo8pCpBBWRP_aZftCqW2fAlgQ8ur4q3xjsiXd5j75AIomFLy6DVIg6d3mhMYTH7BsvAfT3U2o/s400/Snowbird+crowd.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284212715383469314" border="0" /></a>They eat as quickly as they can until someone gives a warning, then all at once they take off flying.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhymgFdVfKYitIg0pwSvpVaR4tTa14aJjjSCmOn7w4mzqsSeNs4GQfEe-IAtqFLOo-mabpZLHDGgdNLmY5qX2C6_6vIUrBEo71oa9LK6cKBExw8D2e2aDeWWvzPgq48W10fRsLA3i64_xU/s1600-h/snowbird+eating.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 264px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhymgFdVfKYitIg0pwSvpVaR4tTa14aJjjSCmOn7w4mzqsSeNs4GQfEe-IAtqFLOo-mabpZLHDGgdNLmY5qX2C6_6vIUrBEo71oa9LK6cKBExw8D2e2aDeWWvzPgq48W10fRsLA3i64_xU/s400/snowbird+eating.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284212717008809922" border="0" /></a>As the cold lingers longer, more of the bigger birds, and shyer birds come in. I haven't caught them on photograph yet, but we have seen flickers, and morning doves now out eating with the little birds. A big hawk came and sat in the tree for a while, but thankfully he didn't stay long, or the little birds would have been in great danger. Some starlings came through, but I think there is still plenty to eat in apple orchards and valley vineyards, so they didn't remain to pester the little birds.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-958620867149433062008-12-21T13:18:00.000-08:002008-12-21T13:22:50.625-08:00Goofy Kids in the Snow<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIuiFhyphenhyphenKrFSrgs7kqUyRhU1w3u8cFZmzKoGwQbTXK1bdzdij-yu254vSGhFzBFeZ6pT7IsA_V1bqnuiMu4fyYsdHGUoCAP8AWVCcB76CedMDxB8DftzfZppl8FgDrw9ScVCgFF3H_zgbA/s1600-h/snow1+fz+fence+king.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIuiFhyphenhyphenKrFSrgs7kqUyRhU1w3u8cFZmzKoGwQbTXK1bdzdij-yu254vSGhFzBFeZ6pT7IsA_V1bqnuiMu4fyYsdHGUoCAP8AWVCcB76CedMDxB8DftzfZppl8FgDrw9ScVCgFF3H_zgbA/s400/snow1+fz+fence+king.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282356290604752194" border="0" /></a>Most adults in the area are growing weary of snow and more snow, but not these two kids. They are outside every day having as much fun as possible. Right now, outside there is fort building happening. The snow is too powdery to pack into snowballs, but never mind, it is still all good fun.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMA0xq3dtXWavUQzHBk5nGNjX9j4Eo1W_oyDlY4NlzmiRdocrtBbYkIAEF9pBM2TB1zDVPR4MfpSKcuEdeHUPHBwyiyLtAhofyNq96zhm9sSn-KypIUd1etSrjnqVDIvTrAb-fQcCkuHs/s1600-h/snow1+er.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMA0xq3dtXWavUQzHBk5nGNjX9j4Eo1W_oyDlY4NlzmiRdocrtBbYkIAEF9pBM2TB1zDVPR4MfpSKcuEdeHUPHBwyiyLtAhofyNq96zhm9sSn-KypIUd1etSrjnqVDIvTrAb-fQcCkuHs/s400/snow1+er.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282356288844098802" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-15349444885112278322008-12-21T12:41:00.000-08:002008-12-21T14:51:18.650-08:00An Afternoon's Adventure in the Snow<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh2YmjaqYK8ahV8V6N7v7fFPfza_6No_BeCzwbVBZgDLT45WeukgW5cnBXba5Rs_nUNBe5E7N87FxzdRpj9SVdzYnTrp-JtePo9gQ4FvT_OHmsA3TcpP9Gzn3a1jIYzWN8R6m_PCV_YrY/s1600-h/snow+1+happy+faces.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh2YmjaqYK8ahV8V6N7v7fFPfza_6No_BeCzwbVBZgDLT45WeukgW5cnBXba5Rs_nUNBe5E7N87FxzdRpj9SVdzYnTrp-JtePo9gQ4FvT_OHmsA3TcpP9Gzn3a1jIYzWN8R6m_PCV_YrY/s400/snow+1+happy+faces.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282350151102305570" border="0" /></a>Yesterday afternoon some friends came over for lunch followed by a walk in the snow. It was cold, and almost dark when we arrived at one of our favorite walking spots. No one else was there, but we could see that someone had been there before us, and left footsteps for us to follow in the snow. It was hard work, but good exercise which warmed us as it grew darker.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjzgZ-0RgyRe3NnhNhpOz__I1f5oq0azZpyx-yWeMDrNXlst_TwQl0B8dav5UfS233vj5einto8-4snQyoqfKNn9lBvuxl7dXTxqZmLzR1Xv7F0ytxOSEa_1dYvAedKa35_uUc2XtQMLI/s1600-h/snow1+whitman+walk.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjzgZ-0RgyRe3NnhNhpOz__I1f5oq0azZpyx-yWeMDrNXlst_TwQl0B8dav5UfS233vj5einto8-4snQyoqfKNn9lBvuxl7dXTxqZmLzR1Xv7F0ytxOSEa_1dYvAedKa35_uUc2XtQMLI/s400/snow1+whitman+walk.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282349978289694050" border="0" /></a>The scenes were breathtaking which ever way we looked.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOtsSwU8-2diIaaA5U67Ec-wQ2uN4Cr3no2bCpfLTK1qYcP5HdpUbDE6SWzfPf1JfYb-1sP0hB-Z8XFXsyLB021emk0kYdrV5tWSViAl1IADInpVQc8nYh-Ir692D61HB9WsO0FWNrW2s/s1600-h/snow1+tree+sky.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOtsSwU8-2diIaaA5U67Ec-wQ2uN4Cr3no2bCpfLTK1qYcP5HdpUbDE6SWzfPf1JfYb-1sP0hB-Z8XFXsyLB021emk0kYdrV5tWSViAl1IADInpVQc8nYh-Ir692D61HB9WsO0FWNrW2s/s400/snow1+tree+sky.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282349979199286866" border="0" /></a>The morning had been clear and sparkling, but as evening approached so did the edge of the storm front which brought today's fresh layer of snow. We could see a bit of sunset color before clouds and darkness completely filled the sky.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjViLh9KCERfScFZaJAGdMyD5TEQWToVepJ0aGpMs1jj7NgZGhIr8EgG7uY6L_qtsMqTyVjT2u5GX3VqkK-bpAy2ClApp-lXhgvfl0pWcgpFEoikYVnz0uoxph1bZUMJwHYlaYhHRrynqQ/s1600-h/snow1+snow+weeds.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjViLh9KCERfScFZaJAGdMyD5TEQWToVepJ0aGpMs1jj7NgZGhIr8EgG7uY6L_qtsMqTyVjT2u5GX3VqkK-bpAy2ClApp-lXhgvfl0pWcgpFEoikYVnz0uoxph1bZUMJwHYlaYhHRrynqQ/s400/snow1+snow+weeds.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282349975370198946" border="0" /></a>Little plants held onto their snow collection carefully.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdkUbJtf5c5CIKDoXncAFJXA2kW6raUPngg6cv2l-mUY9Y7xQneFWSmycXc52A1A5IrHRVvqAqOk7kRFDLFwnUV8k_RZutq6ZFjlgE9_tqUsSz5HoWjjqTNKlJI6-N2nm9pHQXxdbFpSE/s1600-h/snow1+queen+ann%27s+crown.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdkUbJtf5c5CIKDoXncAFJXA2kW6raUPngg6cv2l-mUY9Y7xQneFWSmycXc52A1A5IrHRVvqAqOk7kRFDLFwnUV8k_RZutq6ZFjlgE9_tqUsSz5HoWjjqTNKlJI6-N2nm9pHQXxdbFpSE/s400/snow1+queen+ann%27s+crown.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282349964405100818" border="0" /></a>Snow collected on the Queen Ann's Lace like a regal hair style from the 1960's.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMKMqrou-y1YCOyMZYmwbkuIKLDBofssRguo98g7ZbaFC3XJpMjnO-vFs_sfo-lxXDdX-qI_8QnQ8VhLrArHkwmMWAGxz67gz7_v1dBdp3IMmcGU-uLsEWfdKkbqhad-PLwP34sdufqkA/s1600-h/snow1+fence.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMKMqrou-y1YCOyMZYmwbkuIKLDBofssRguo98g7ZbaFC3XJpMjnO-vFs_sfo-lxXDdX-qI_8QnQ8VhLrArHkwmMWAGxz67gz7_v1dBdp3IMmcGU-uLsEWfdKkbqhad-PLwP34sdufqkA/s400/snow1+fence.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282349300622374738" border="0" /></a>Snow stunted fence lines contrasted againt a winter blanket of white.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy15yBIhMsiCA7lK23Hu4kmqXoVqxsbyijfRSo0hVugXKu73JU78ekVC7VzcxbXM4puR11oryAL5rWHcbDSb3j_ZYSvcFkKvFoSixG6T3g4qLnjS95Wu-ToUL66gjGWPYBQVfrKNMAmrU/s1600-h/snow1+snowman+red.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy15yBIhMsiCA7lK23Hu4kmqXoVqxsbyijfRSo0hVugXKu73JU78ekVC7VzcxbXM4puR11oryAL5rWHcbDSb3j_ZYSvcFkKvFoSixG6T3g4qLnjS95Wu-ToUL66gjGWPYBQVfrKNMAmrU/s400/snow1+snowman+red.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282349975420266802" border="0" /></a>A lone man in red parka wades along his own path.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqz2GRHkL1WuXGP11oVSprYp3UfS9N59IKpmygT8CJc31L-1dsGSFoiq7OgAau1XE_r4F1boMT_yla939bhKBHqqiG8ZNeIZYZ7ZhIPL53tONPbo32YqkWHV2jtroeSBDlf7i2cSKyzxU/s1600-h/snow1+monument.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqz2GRHkL1WuXGP11oVSprYp3UfS9N59IKpmygT8CJc31L-1dsGSFoiq7OgAau1XE_r4F1boMT_yla939bhKBHqqiG8ZNeIZYZ7ZhIPL53tONPbo32YqkWHV2jtroeSBDlf7i2cSKyzxU/s400/snow1+monument.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282349312783961362" border="0" /></a>The pond was frozen and covered so that you could not tell that it was there, except for the Cattails which braved winter cold to point upward to the hilltop monument honoring pioneers who had once lived in this area and lived through winter cold without modern heaters or insulated walls. They were hardy and courageous, but unfortunately did not survive the natives displeasure of the white man's diseases.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-61859378715665206252008-12-21T12:26:00.000-08:002008-12-21T17:04:35.349-08:00Let It SnowThursday morning we woke up to snowflakes falling from the sky - big snowflakes. We started with about 5 inches of snow on the ground, left over from the weekend. By around 10 a.m. the 12 inch ruler stuck in the snow was registered around 10 inches. The snow was really dumping on us.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1HnKMmaTdTOrzR3FrR-J2rR4N9w6f3ouO2D9CCZf3Ejc05vXIE25CXipnXoigBIscxAo7rlC9kyE3ZJegeuPwrSE6P10Y6z6vP6CZD8J2SPx2B7oTZ4-kM6mmPUdlb-bkdtZF5UPAyZo/s1600-h/Snow+10+in.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1HnKMmaTdTOrzR3FrR-J2rR4N9w6f3ouO2D9CCZf3Ejc05vXIE25CXipnXoigBIscxAo7rlC9kyE3ZJegeuPwrSE6P10Y6z6vP6CZD8J2SPx2B7oTZ4-kM6mmPUdlb-bkdtZF5UPAyZo/s400/Snow+10+in.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282343484710513778" border="0" /></a> It seemed like it wasn't very long at all until this was all we could see of the ruler.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI5H9GV1yt_0ZKruc2_vnORRYTyO6xmkT1Ait2kfF7-r3nz0Equmn4iEG5g9Qs5PJIaP2i-dLWHC9k3Ji2UbkBhh7QBp4Ly4QewLereQNPplGENVtfJiUuzzLMtY3cSFJFFAQvbI1UeKw/s1600-h/Snow+ruler+top.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI5H9GV1yt_0ZKruc2_vnORRYTyO6xmkT1Ait2kfF7-r3nz0Equmn4iEG5g9Qs5PJIaP2i-dLWHC9k3Ji2UbkBhh7QBp4Ly4QewLereQNPplGENVtfJiUuzzLMtY3cSFJFFAQvbI1UeKw/s400/Snow+ruler+top.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282343470211969362" border="0" /></a>Soon the ruler was completely covered. It was time for a new measure. I sent the kids out to find something something we could mark on to make a taller "ruler". They came up with this old piece of PVC pipe.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZdkZl4UPx18xRFlTsfztrH45SiZIFCf8QCmqWcCqpCmDGipI2bwrx6QNqO849A4go59rfubliVuaTJYkeaduQy5w6dkpj9jyPG8zDXLR7Jl3D0U8bSth6shIl_FGn-XhFaIR9wwBuAgo/s1600-h/Snow+new+measure.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZdkZl4UPx18xRFlTsfztrH45SiZIFCf8QCmqWcCqpCmDGipI2bwrx6QNqO849A4go59rfubliVuaTJYkeaduQy5w6dkpj9jyPG8zDXLR7Jl3D0U8bSth6shIl_FGn-XhFaIR9wwBuAgo/s400/Snow+new+measure.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282343461626452866" border="0" /></a><br />The snow kept falling until sometime in the afternoon and stopped at about 14 inches deep. And that is where it stayed until last night when it started falling again. Right now we have about 16 inches, and it doesn't look like it is going to stop anytime soon. The weather forecast says that we probably won't have any thawing taking place until next Sunday. I haven't lived here long enough to know if we've ever had snow this deep, or lasting this long. It is pretty impressive.<br /><br />We were going to go to a retirement home and sing this afternoon, but that was canceled, so we don't have to go anywhere. We are going to stay cozy at home. And I am going to get to work on some Christmas presents. I've got something cute to make for my littlest niece.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-54725481741375287152008-12-16T18:48:00.001-08:002008-12-16T19:03:51.455-08:00Camel Packs<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQnjZsqPxNSesXSmbiStPc4hg34eO3Z_NIjtfCqprFJZnaMqNpDI17kTZh4wuo1a_sVCCNKVRmCFdEFw94cr5OSfX9gxzKeVDOZbCJ1Xzq7NN0I2dMojpsWGnD_KRrY4ypfuC7v_IzmVkr/s1600/camel+pack+dog.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 799px; height: 1203px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQnjZsqPxNSesXSmbiStPc4hg34eO3Z_NIjtfCqprFJZnaMqNpDI17kTZh4wuo1a_sVCCNKVRmCFdEFw94cr5OSfX9gxzKeVDOZbCJ1Xzq7NN0I2dMojpsWGnD_KRrY4ypfuC7v_IzmVkr/s1600/camel+pack+dog.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />I thought I'd mention what we do instead of Christmas stocking in case I have some new readers lurking around in need of some good ideas this year.<br /><br />You can read what I wrote about them last Christmas <a href="http://joyinthemorninglight.blogspot.com/2007/12/sew-crafty-friday-camel-packs.html">here</a> and <a href="http://joyinthemorninglight.blogspot.com/2007/12/update-on-camel-packs.html">here</a>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-21265132171711484262008-12-16T18:21:00.001-08:002008-12-16T19:05:33.222-08:00Walk on a Winter Morn<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-LJdsJJCWcq1N0cTldko218kgpaLDSWwyaMKygHpCgYNfvQ0Gm4GS3_nlnZNF00tPKwlfA9xjhJT_Whj3WA5bwvQ6rtb-ly1SbPFN0w2wygGiuLaMuhk0xJVoy4FsBPmetOKYsaJHv4k/s1600-h/snow+temp.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-LJdsJJCWcq1N0cTldko218kgpaLDSWwyaMKygHpCgYNfvQ0Gm4GS3_nlnZNF00tPKwlfA9xjhJT_Whj3WA5bwvQ6rtb-ly1SbPFN0w2wygGiuLaMuhk0xJVoy4FsBPmetOKYsaJHv4k/s400/snow+temp.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280580523976391538" border="0" /></a>This is the first morning it hasn't snowed since it started on Saturday. People up in the mountains have a couple feet of snow. We might have 5 inches. The kids have been playing and enjoying the snow enough for all of us. And I even found something good about the snow. I really love it's beauty. This morning it was about 1 degree just before the sun rose for a crisp and sparkling blue day. After morning worship I decided that I needed to get outside to enjoy the snow it the best light of the day. We bundled up in warm layers and set out to discover the delights of the season.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcKo2-Z8oFMTLDVzroZix-nDGX59nym9bypqROeCy0sOzfjPq0vvdDnhBTaNpCZEJTiH2gF3fna0FTHiO-CGF4VKJGKSkIR_OMxhjYl0gnjpTOhxi4C0b_URUudksfb-J7np04bKIR96Y/s1600-h/Snow+cat+tracks.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcKo2-Z8oFMTLDVzroZix-nDGX59nym9bypqROeCy0sOzfjPq0vvdDnhBTaNpCZEJTiH2gF3fna0FTHiO-CGF4VKJGKSkIR_OMxhjYl0gnjpTOhxi4C0b_URUudksfb-J7np04bKIR96Y/s400/Snow+cat+tracks.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280579974663745490" border="0" /></a>The cats had been out before us making tracks in the glittery whiteness. We followed the tracks through the garden, and then out to the road. Come enjoy with us some of what we saw along the way.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvIeE-UtG0dN6Qw6iAwtv76W0CPBfB1BHdD5k_nh95GTrjVdEeKRWHoHsAtoU1yUSHKHzNmszFn6tX6haMz1-WGGDDnLwLHIB6ufSMGojT_YUbMPA_6y2YxLe3hDIUJ5Tvs-ipDcuS-ZM/s1600-h/Snow+road.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvIeE-UtG0dN6Qw6iAwtv76W0CPBfB1BHdD5k_nh95GTrjVdEeKRWHoHsAtoU1yUSHKHzNmszFn6tX6haMz1-WGGDDnLwLHIB6ufSMGojT_YUbMPA_6y2YxLe3hDIUJ5Tvs-ipDcuS-ZM/s400/Snow+road.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280580521394646818" border="0" /></a><br />The Sumac tree is one of the most festive in the yard, each red clump of seeds dressed in a soft white coat.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEianVA0fP78eFkctOroR0l9rRRQiC0sJP6CRJ09Jj07iRKbwvzEqe__pPdd-0XExcAGaREY6g_DtLSdVswvIDQ8EXxiYKtQbWNBE96uwIfwrtRC4Ux9xJ_lyYzE9lmNBPmOj8_Gz3EUa-Y/s1600-h/Snow+sumac.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEianVA0fP78eFkctOroR0l9rRRQiC0sJP6CRJ09Jj07iRKbwvzEqe__pPdd-0XExcAGaREY6g_DtLSdVswvIDQ8EXxiYKtQbWNBE96uwIfwrtRC4Ux9xJ_lyYzE9lmNBPmOj8_Gz3EUa-Y/s400/Snow+sumac.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280580525413159122" border="0" /></a>Pine boughs nestled together in a snowy white quilt.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ARf5yT_FznrjUinuK0tqtMK971T5NPG3xJD61RXcNNrRBH1p4GlDSs92kcgwKaoTD3E9V54kNjspafAT9r-8ubddKtxh8Q-2tzAlR8Zuj47YIKVZeylb8mBzjtL3DAuUg-9a1RfHOyc/s1600-h/Snow+pine.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ARf5yT_FznrjUinuK0tqtMK971T5NPG3xJD61RXcNNrRBH1p4GlDSs92kcgwKaoTD3E9V54kNjspafAT9r-8ubddKtxh8Q-2tzAlR8Zuj47YIKVZeylb8mBzjtL3DAuUg-9a1RfHOyc/s400/Snow+pine.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280580516620232146" border="0" /></a>The neighbor's albino yard moose was the best looking I'd ever seen him. I can almost imagine him sticking his head in and searching for a mouthful of tastiness.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrts4XtCa0PGAbuVG9jC2BTKdl3COFfv8K0hrYUpf1kn9jc18a3WsIhy2jcb-B12X3cgltuMuXDd6OHD1keS8r_BlKfNaCULEisP9u3NTmfVSS3dLF1EVcWEkFAFc_4CHVQQPeoSUytb8/s1600-h/Snow+moose.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrts4XtCa0PGAbuVG9jC2BTKdl3COFfv8K0hrYUpf1kn9jc18a3WsIhy2jcb-B12X3cgltuMuXDd6OHD1keS8r_BlKfNaCULEisP9u3NTmfVSS3dLF1EVcWEkFAFc_4CHVQQPeoSUytb8/s400/Snow+moose.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280579985608277154" border="0" /></a>Grasses attired in winter white caplets seemed ready for a caroling throughout the neighborhood<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWeGmKjVStMDYe-L-80koVpC5CRMGyazwwXE7hwDnswOd-nWVzQV6rPLZ1XT7Ff7nrXcXLDuBr1j4kkqEZq4JRtWmJxEmrYCwQm-abtgyEOH0qNDATyJP1lvtmE0T5bVvH5ljH5Iv5Wbc/s1600-h/Snow+grass.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWeGmKjVStMDYe-L-80koVpC5CRMGyazwwXE7hwDnswOd-nWVzQV6rPLZ1XT7Ff7nrXcXLDuBr1j4kkqEZq4JRtWmJxEmrYCwQm-abtgyEOH0qNDATyJP1lvtmE0T5bVvH5ljH5Iv5Wbc/s400/Snow+grass.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280579975251632498" border="0" /></a>Even though the temperatures bit at our scarf wrapped noses, everything seemed so fresh and alive. The air was so clean smelling and invigorating. We walked briskly from scene to scene and soon our blood was pumping warm. What a wonderful walk on a winter morn.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibDPWkl2MpNh0rF63o7dErKebojQSZCoa6EGfaJyx14h_WL_sNw1dg_uIwbHVzv4ZzQ0HD0ECwHh-BVueYsSPR_u3qoYbIFykt7hYdxSiP3o38B4Qvl5-6el2uVJ3Wbk3VfX4oVsJjRKA/s1600-h/Snow+bush.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibDPWkl2MpNh0rF63o7dErKebojQSZCoa6EGfaJyx14h_WL_sNw1dg_uIwbHVzv4ZzQ0HD0ECwHh-BVueYsSPR_u3qoYbIFykt7hYdxSiP3o38B4Qvl5-6el2uVJ3Wbk3VfX4oVsJjRKA/s400/Snow+bush.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280579972698471266" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-74096005956194629922008-12-16T17:40:00.000-08:002008-12-16T18:09:32.581-08:00Walnut-Raisin Cake<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQWkO9jLvvH-X33TrExOGJ1cEp98LcHAcSAHmH45S201mCFUumemjrAfQP9cwXUiPTWuGRGNKE8iaea0CGOilf2opAZekQ_XZC5hd6sObzCmucGV5MxqZ0M9a1SOmj8fBBmLaGgK-nM4/s1600-h/snow+bow.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQWkO9jLvvH-X33TrExOGJ1cEp98LcHAcSAHmH45S201mCFUumemjrAfQP9cwXUiPTWuGRGNKE8iaea0CGOilf2opAZekQ_XZC5hd6sObzCmucGV5MxqZ0M9a1SOmj8fBBmLaGgK-nM4/s400/snow+bow.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280571925160889506" border="0" /></a><br />It is the time of year of parties and dinners and holiday indulging of fatty and sugary "treats". I was invited to a paryt a couple days ago and asked to bring a salad and a dessert. The salad was no problem. I enjoy making and eating salad every day. And if I take the salad, I make it really good, so I know that even if there is nothing else to eat, I can fill up on a really good salad. The dessert was the problem. I don't eat classic holiday deserst very often, and if I took something I do eat, would anyone else want to even eat it?<br /><br />About an hour before it was time to leave for the party, I knew what to make. This desert is so easy, and yet nutritious and delicious, you won't believe it. I didn't the first time I ate some at a birthday party for a little friend I know. Her family is also gluten and dairy intolerant vegans and I knew it was "safe" for me to eat, but I couldn't believe that it was so simple and tasty.<br /><br />I made it and pressed it into a heart shaped dish and garnished it with sets of cranberries and parsley, arranged to resemble holly. I had it made in 10 - 15 minutes and into the refrigerator to chill almost as long as it recommends. At the party people repeatedly cornered me and asked me for the recipe. This is a must try recipe if you are looking for a simple and nutritious dessert.<br /><br /><span><span style="font-size:85%;">Walnut-Raisin Cake<br />From Raw Food Made Easy for 1 or 2 People by Jennifer Cornbleet<br /><br />2 cups raw walnuts, unsoaked<br />2 cups raisins, unsoaked<br /><br />Place the walnuts and raisins in a food processor fitted with the S<br />blade and process until the mixture sticks together. Transfer to a<br />serving place and form into a little cake. Frost the top and sides<br />with orange glaze.<br /><br />Chill for at least 1 hour. Decorate the cake with fresh raspberries<br />or other berries before serving. Covered with plastic wrap, Walnut-<br />Raisin Cake will keep for five days in the refrigerator or two weeks<br />in the freezer. Serve chilled or at room temperature.<br /><br />Orange Glaze<br /><br />1/2 cup fresh squeezed orange juice (about 1 - 2 oranges juiced)<br />1/2 cup pitted medjool dates, soaked<br /><br />Place the dates, and orange juice in a strong blender or food<br />processor, and process until smooth. Stop occasionally to scrape<br />down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula. Stored in a sealed<br />container in the refrigerator, the glaze will keep for five days.<br /><br /></span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-20849477907579392092008-12-11T14:58:00.000-08:002008-12-11T15:29:35.343-08:00Light Dawning<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhELyQ6ydCzSeVTaRgTmdMt3L9B55ewU93C_vL-BoDzaZaHPiKkeGy5hPJnD1GN0Iw4VvuzV7unVrP8nmaFzY_T6sRmWW5P9lnGr2FGBsgBA0jpjPcE_l3eTauDBDCSNS8fTBi7y3K0mJQ/s1600-h/light+and+grapes.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhELyQ6ydCzSeVTaRgTmdMt3L9B55ewU93C_vL-BoDzaZaHPiKkeGy5hPJnD1GN0Iw4VvuzV7unVrP8nmaFzY_T6sRmWW5P9lnGr2FGBsgBA0jpjPcE_l3eTauDBDCSNS8fTBi7y3K0mJQ/s400/light+and+grapes.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5278670984303428994" border="0" /></a><br />I'm fascinated with light and color. Two days ago I was out walking near sunset and there were little cotton ball clouds up in the sky. Between each one there was a bit of deep blue sky. As the sunset show started orange and red started to light up the sky and then it hit the cotton ball clouds and set them aflame. It was as if their closest edges really were on fire. It felt like a burning bush moment. The kids and I had to be still and know that the face of our Creator still can be seen in the face His creation, even after all these years of sin's destruction.<br /><br />Last week God's light came shining in through my window at sunrise, and I was there at the right moment to see it. As I stepped into the kitchen for the first time that morning, a purple etched vase caught that light and the light caught my attention. I had to stand gazing at the light as if I'd never seen it before. There was something special about it this morning.<br /><br />God's light is always shining on the world. Just like the rain, He gives us light's warmth and color even though we have done nothing to deserve it. He sends it down on the good and the bad, because His love is not based on our goodness or our badness, it is based on His unending love for everyone on earth. Oh, if we would just let Him rescue us, just as He rescues the lost sheep in His gospel parable. He longs to cultivate the hard soil of our hearts, and cause the seed of love to grow and flourish in the place of rock hard selfishness. He shines His light on us so we can see the truth about ourself, that we really do need saving, that even with all our trying, and pretending.<br /><br />I'm thankful for that light. It draws me back to Him, helps me feel my need for His transformation, brought about by His Spirit. And then His light is all I can see. I loose sight of my self, and He becomes much more important that me. His Spirit causes fruit to grow, the good fruit of His good character. I die to self and let His light shine through me. My heart fills with joy. And others get to savor the precious light of Jesus too. And the light of His character is even more beautiful then when the sunrise shines through purple vases.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-43576124053962942042008-12-07T20:23:00.000-08:002008-12-09T11:28:11.038-08:00Meet Addy, My Singer Treadle Sewing MachineIn the summer I mentioned that I purchased a treadle sewing machine and cabinet. I really liked the cabinet, but didn't like the machine so much. It is what is known as a Singer W9.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBRZHCI3tJG6AUmC6d-UZ3a6yus20hSuCb_6jUg8p6Yh0yj6hsqt6NuAnCYGUTnIHFGei3ySkcmewDPTmILLOakK-YZ3nGVAhfOabsYDQY7oCAM1bwxENNqtMyjXpXmKlejRO-O403qjE/s1600-h/Sewing+Singer+W9.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBRZHCI3tJG6AUmC6d-UZ3a6yus20hSuCb_6jUg8p6Yh0yj6hsqt6NuAnCYGUTnIHFGei3ySkcmewDPTmILLOakK-YZ3nGVAhfOabsYDQY7oCAM1bwxENNqtMyjXpXmKlejRO-O403qjE/s400/Sewing+Singer+W9.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277539318965632418" border="0" /></a>W9's were originally made by Wheeler and Wilson, but Singer bought them out sometime around the early 1920's. Some W9's say Wheeler and Wilson, and some say Singer, as mine does. I was going to clean the machine up and try using it once I got a new belt for it, but then I discovered that the needles are not standard, and cost around $5 a piece and bobbins go for even more! That might be ok for a display piece machine, but I wanted to use mine. I really like the idea of things that work without electricity, and I enjoy making my own clothes and quilting.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwoe7FV7nBssiNIW65kqlOCAokUlOlHcJedrrQa0vX5NVByFZqMPAFV0iVQjZGD658-aPm0IPpqpZzRFEqJgwCnyDTmHi4z3Rd0t-4i7_09Sr9MF1NVrtI-UWDf6spuyqcWR1rq66Zchk/s1600-h/sewing+singer+15-90.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwoe7FV7nBssiNIW65kqlOCAokUlOlHcJedrrQa0vX5NVByFZqMPAFV0iVQjZGD658-aPm0IPpqpZzRFEqJgwCnyDTmHi4z3Rd0t-4i7_09Sr9MF1NVrtI-UWDf6spuyqcWR1rq66Zchk/s400/sewing+singer+15-90.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277539295294747042" border="0" /></a><br />The first Singer I purchased was discovered at a garage sale. It is an electric 15-90 machine that runs great and cost $35. It was made in 1951 which is also the cenntenial year for Singer, so it has a special oval commemorative oval on the right hand side of the machine. It has only a plain green carrying case, but I like the machine very much.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJehIG7fWNGzYdorU1EE5EW_6ZLmou6ss_oKTK_SgLo1cY9zgg7YW3xzFHHIFcvtXcuayLeHUJ-n8qF61rzkSQvYiEvg-CZVr734rWm2G1DeZIl8dUl99P2dmxGpfth833ENvcB9si0Ys/s1600-h/Singer+66+kittens.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJehIG7fWNGzYdorU1EE5EW_6ZLmou6ss_oKTK_SgLo1cY9zgg7YW3xzFHHIFcvtXcuayLeHUJ-n8qF61rzkSQvYiEvg-CZVr734rWm2G1DeZIl8dUl99P2dmxGpfth833ENvcB9si0Ys/s400/Singer+66+kittens.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277544051388428994" border="0" /></a><br />Last spring I had found another electric Singer sewing machine from 1951 at a different garage sale, but this one is a class 66. They only wanted $5 for it, but it was missing a few parts, and I wasn't even sure it worked, but my son was sure we should get it, and since it wasn't a large risk, I did. Once at home I was able to use the power cord from my first electric machine to see that it did seem to work just fine.<br /><br />I had started a quilt on the first electric Singer I had purchased and was really enjoying using it, but I really wanted a treadle. I had read online about people converting treadle machines to electric machines years ago, so could it be possible to convert one back to treadle. Another web search told me that it was possible, but I needed to find a machine that had the same kind of hinges as my treadle cabinet. Once again it was my son who helped me figure out that the $5 Singer would fit! My husband got involved helping me with some of the mechanics of the transfer. I got a few needed parts on the web, and from our local sewing machine shop. My husband helped me get the belt to fit, and then wonder of wonders, I had a working treadle machine!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3q9t32C1WmNVEh2ERAyuWchoRCyOY2gqyZDhIgVBCjoL0u-NgtGC4_IUbwKXSAS-AG-uvBmIsZkdYEO-GArcTCqp5d27axMsDVTXXNwoQpVUtoNCcMS8CO_w0JHSIoHDpkW6YGswSG-g/s1600-h/Sewing+Singer+66.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3q9t32C1WmNVEh2ERAyuWchoRCyOY2gqyZDhIgVBCjoL0u-NgtGC4_IUbwKXSAS-AG-uvBmIsZkdYEO-GArcTCqp5d27axMsDVTXXNwoQpVUtoNCcMS8CO_w0JHSIoHDpkW6YGswSG-g/s400/Sewing+Singer+66.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277539304509949874" border="0" /></a><br />My son was absolutely fascinated with the whole process, and couldn't keep his hands and feet off the machine once we had it going. He started sewing lines on scraps as fast as I would allow him. I hadn't planned on teaching him to use a sewing machine yet, but he was clearly ready. I asked him if he would like to learn how to treadle for his birthday, if that would be a good birthday present, and he exploded in exuberant yeses!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju6Dgz7RT9KzSTQaphbQSdlnauBtiCvtp4oO3nkQp9zS9OdyVlYgHtJNFgEFYWw1_y8_n4c7D5rC2SQyFk3cWgafaAPsZAT5eEd0xryouAUPW9t8V8R10UWHh21pfil5d8Vh26ZRYiR4E/s1600-h/Sewing+young+treadler.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju6Dgz7RT9KzSTQaphbQSdlnauBtiCvtp4oO3nkQp9zS9OdyVlYgHtJNFgEFYWw1_y8_n4c7D5rC2SQyFk3cWgafaAPsZAT5eEd0xryouAUPW9t8V8R10UWHh21pfil5d8Vh26ZRYiR4E/s400/Sewing+young+treadler.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277545450254362466" border="0" /></a>I got out some 4 inch squares I had sorted out for a quilt someday. Each square was different. I sat my son down at the machine and gave him a few instructions and he was ready to go. He stitched and I trimmed and pressed. There was no stopping him, except when I unsewed crooked stitching and had him try again. He really was able to keep seams pretty straight and close to 1/4 inch most of the time. He chose some bright blue fabric for the sashing, and then sewed his 4 patch blocks into rows. We tried to have him sew the long rows together with sashing, but it was a bit too hard for him to keep even seams on the long stretch. So I stitched those for him, and will soon add some bigger borders for him so he can use his first quilt on his own bed.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqDMf7rmreA3hLRtP_fiq-78YFq7zaFjLHRCwN_3EecNmjvMPPORrkXBR8vM-yCxg-wZBgNHG38ZXnItP0Zcbkdqdduqw0JUPQp_CPzny__46duc_AiQzy-cZ-0brPyi5JHPa5ULwM9xs/s1600-h/Sewing+Singer+66+-+2.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqDMf7rmreA3hLRtP_fiq-78YFq7zaFjLHRCwN_3EecNmjvMPPORrkXBR8vM-yCxg-wZBgNHG38ZXnItP0Zcbkdqdduqw0JUPQp_CPzny__46duc_AiQzy-cZ-0brPyi5JHPa5ULwM9xs/s400/Sewing+Singer+66+-+2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277539309523407554" border="0" /></a><br />I've been trying to give my treadle a name. I thought her name was Mildred, after my great grandma who owned the first treadle I ever laid my eyes on. But the name just didn't seem to fit, so I tried Adwila, her middle name, which I seemed to fit a little less then perfect. Then my daughter shortened it for me, and it fits. My treadle's full name is the beautifully old fashioned name, Mildred Adwila, but we are going to call her Addy for short.<br /><br />I haven't been able to do much of my own sewing yet on Addy, but I'm making plans and expect to make something wonderfully fun and old fashioned real soon.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-63456195313066148052008-11-24T16:00:00.000-08:002008-11-24T16:11:38.202-08:00Muffins for an Autumn EveningI know it looks like I've totally abandoned this blog. Maybe I have, but then again, maybe not. And in case you are wondering, I'm healthy and happy, and filling my days and evenings with so many interesting activities that I have decided that blogging is a lesser priority.<br /><br />I made some gluten free and dairy free, healthful Pumpkin Muffins this past weekend that some of my readers may wish to make this week of Thankfulness-to-God-and-Grateful-Giving. The original recipe came from the Vegan-and-Gluten-Free Yahoo group. I adapted the recipe and changed the amounts quite a bit to suit my needs. If I know who invented the original recipe, I would love to give credit to them because it was a really successful foundation to my batch of pumpkin muffins. They were served at a cozy evening soup supper to a group of 8, and then quickly made up again the following evening for a group of 12. I'd share a photograph, but the muffins were all eaten, and I won't be able to get more ingredients until tomorrow.<br /><br />Pumpkin Muffins<br /><br /><br />Puree, in a blender, the following ingredients until smooth and creamy:<br /><br /><br /> 1/4 cup soy milk or rice milk or water<br /> one 15 oz (425 g) can pumpkin<br /> 1/3 cup oil<br /> 1/3 cup honey<br /> 1 tsp nutmeg<br /> 1 tsp cinnamon<br /> 1/4 tsp salt<br /><br /><br />In a large bowl, combine and mix together:<br /><br /><br /> 2 cups of gluten free flour (I used 1 c. oat flour made from gluten free oats ground in the blender, 1/2 c. corn flour, 2 TBSP garbonzo/fava flour in a 1/2 cup measure, fill the rest of the way with sorghum flour. Use something else if you don’t have any of these.)<br /> 1/2 cup flaxseed (linseed) meal (grind whole flax seeds in a blender)<br /> 1 tsp baking soda (bicarbonate of soda)<br /> 1 tsp GF baking powder<br /> 1/3 cup raisins (sultanas)<br /> 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans<br /><br /><br />Make a "well" in the dry ingredients. Add the pumpkin mixture to the flour<br />mixture and blend until moistened. Spoon into a greased muffin pan. I found I could mound the dough up a little higher then the edge of the muffin cup, and they didn’t run away.<br /><br />Bake at 350 F (175 C) for 25 - 30 minutes.<br /><br /><br />Makes 12 muffins.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-1532335773497777572008-07-18T06:47:00.000-07:002008-07-18T07:03:00.248-07:00Goings OnIf you don't hear from me for a while, assume I'm out doing something fun with the kids, or sewing or photographing wildflowers. There are just too many great things to do in the summer.<br /><br />Lately I've:<br /><br />- picked, with the help of my family, 130 pounds of blueberries. I like to freeze them, and then make smoothies, blueberry sauce for waffles, or let the kids pour rice milk on them when they are frozen. The rice milk freezes around them and makes a cold summer Popsicle substitute. <br /><br />- My best Thai girlfriend visited America. Another friend paid her way. She was in Portland for three days, my daughter and I made a quick trip to Portland to visit her. She is special because she helped me have such a nice time when I lived in Thailand around 15 years ago. I named my daughter after her.<br /><br />- While in Portland I bought a Singer treadle machine. It is a W9, made somewhere between 1905 and 1920. It is in a beautiful 7 drawer cabinet, that reminds me of the one my great grandma had. I am considering naming the machine after my great grandma, but I'm not sure if Mildred is a fitting name. I don't have her running yet. She needs a new belt installed.<br /><br />- My son came down with the Coxsackie virus and has been a very sick boy for over a week, so I've been spending a lot of time nursing him. It seems to me he got a worse case then most. It is usually only found in children under age 4, and he is age 8.<br /><br />We have tons of plans for the weeks ahead. I'll write if I can, but don't count on it.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-59483939026208421252008-07-14T07:20:00.000-07:002008-12-09T08:05:13.928-08:00Walk around Lost Lake<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDa6E9P7NtrT4T-L9Y4OEq3dPEHqjONz4OPwXwmP-iI3ZFVjZQEMEr9-wQp3AIho6as_PeT6ObE3OEOnGlF5GhJNYHoqI4B-39YRVNc_zO_-cym8o3MQlKazuXFRkrEn4_VRk6el_fphY/s1600-h/July+4+wf+trillium+close.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDa6E9P7NtrT4T-L9Y4OEq3dPEHqjONz4OPwXwmP-iI3ZFVjZQEMEr9-wQp3AIho6as_PeT6ObE3OEOnGlF5GhJNYHoqI4B-39YRVNc_zO_-cym8o3MQlKazuXFRkrEn4_VRk6el_fphY/s400/July+4+wf+trillium+close.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222934190190837618" border="0" /></a>Views of snowy Mt. Hood are the most famous feature of Lost Lake, but because of misty clouds we didn't get to see it this time. Pacific Rhododendrons are probably the second most famous item at this little lake, but Trilliums would be a close third. We found them on every walk we took from our campsite, blooming in lovely parts of three.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ6XOP8Xx5PCmE1lPsGUASo0kKs7emdShGYl11BZOBX-wUK43Ze5dfPqqIslHah13dNLh6D1mjRXtaele9b6GVts3WQA0sH4MduGVLYiuy2z9uS9rS9CNXBzJN-Gagtklj9A2L-tg4kuw/s1600-h/July+4+fallen+log.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ6XOP8Xx5PCmE1lPsGUASo0kKs7emdShGYl11BZOBX-wUK43Ze5dfPqqIslHah13dNLh6D1mjRXtaele9b6GVts3WQA0sH4MduGVLYiuy2z9uS9rS9CNXBzJN-Gagtklj9A2L-tg4kuw/s400/July+4+fallen+log.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222932522148050178" border="0" /></a>The trail around the lake is around 3 miles long. Since you didn't get to come with us, I thought I'd show you some of the things you missed.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6uFjLWjjMIZUD44XdY47mzsOuXtnb55tYZzIE4-8llVdEe9gGZsgXnH0Fp-evmFJsIbfoglycAzVYyIFbQHsoeid4AjA0uwzjc6Plg6zUHj91-LiDAKtCvQZRkD36hvUVG7lUz_xrYq0/s1600-h/july+4+wf+vine+maple.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6uFjLWjjMIZUD44XdY47mzsOuXtnb55tYZzIE4-8llVdEe9gGZsgXnH0Fp-evmFJsIbfoglycAzVYyIFbQHsoeid4AjA0uwzjc6Plg6zUHj91-LiDAKtCvQZRkD36hvUVG7lUz_xrYq0/s400/july+4+wf+vine+maple.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222932503009843730" border="0" /></a>Vine maples heavy with drops of mist.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvGDlxTGLCzyRyzefKQKVjnj8q3Pew4IMVEVWIC9tL7smAdYo7Z4IqxqgwUxykTTd4xumzqj3elwvdHeyA4x0eGeg7oWZCdLeKMxN-3KPWLn3leZDJgPZqsAoqodhRREGFDpYpta7weXc/s1600-h/July+4+fallen+log+toy.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvGDlxTGLCzyRyzefKQKVjnj8q3Pew4IMVEVWIC9tL7smAdYo7Z4IqxqgwUxykTTd4xumzqj3elwvdHeyA4x0eGeg7oWZCdLeKMxN-3KPWLn3leZDJgPZqsAoqodhRREGFDpYpta7weXc/s400/July+4+fallen+log+toy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222932514071545458" border="0" /></a><br />We found a fallen tree that had a good amount of bounce to it. Each of the kids had a good ride. And yes, just as I snapped this picture a white dog came shooting up the trail out of no where just so he could get he could get his picture taken too. He almost looks like part of the snow bank, if you're not paying attention.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvGDlxTGLCzyRyzefKQKVjnj8q3Pew4IMVEVWIC9tL7smAdYo7Z4IqxqgwUxykTTd4xumzqj3elwvdHeyA4x0eGeg7oWZCdLeKMxN-3KPWLn3leZDJgPZqsAoqodhRREGFDpYpta7weXc/s1600-h/July+4+fallen+log+toy.jpg"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5aGrAOlD3ZfGrOFZpw9kP1vshW9EaazapsEqOkSEUmBstbps53ZQ1qw9HnY6ihYC48LVRer1jjPCZ2P4JLiTUSQsVo4Jh6snP2FI7CeIZOhm-6B0ih93UUVDZaQXj433-chpHk3zsuWw/s1600-h/July+7+wf+penstemon+bee.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5aGrAOlD3ZfGrOFZpw9kP1vshW9EaazapsEqOkSEUmBstbps53ZQ1qw9HnY6ihYC48LVRer1jjPCZ2P4JLiTUSQsVo4Jh6snP2FI7CeIZOhm-6B0ih93UUVDZaQXj433-chpHk3zsuWw/s400/July+7+wf+penstemon+bee.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222876486787683874" border="0" /></a>A bee squeezing into a Penstemon blossom.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeDFCZCzZzgRnzWkxkIq72T1erwPklaGgjfXwTz70VJyc0yFrHl4juPjFeW9jRuRlbl7fLZzMuuOs93m5NltuGCBZitZpsPln3yHoNwJ-vNEvmfKKRwEP-oozJPDsGc1TbDOWh3XdoCGc/s1600-h/July+7+woodpecker.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeDFCZCzZzgRnzWkxkIq72T1erwPklaGgjfXwTz70VJyc0yFrHl4juPjFeW9jRuRlbl7fLZzMuuOs93m5NltuGCBZitZpsPln3yHoNwJ-vNEvmfKKRwEP-oozJPDsGc1TbDOWh3XdoCGc/s400/July+7+woodpecker.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222876490661390386" border="0" /></a>A Red-breasted Sapsucker landed on the stump for us to view.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeYbInMHWZkS47O5qEXj4fbNOmXIMoA3Z5KKvukuSHFTksRkVd9m9UhgIlxwnprS0RV_DDeOQf636VQYB-KNmhCm06YWFPgi4Hq_OYkNzQPF6i4mj7Gw04GU6WIHqCLHYXKUjot1W5FSY/s1600-h/July+4+wf+tiger+lily.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeYbInMHWZkS47O5qEXj4fbNOmXIMoA3Z5KKvukuSHFTksRkVd9m9UhgIlxwnprS0RV_DDeOQf636VQYB-KNmhCm06YWFPgi4Hq_OYkNzQPF6i4mj7Gw04GU6WIHqCLHYXKUjot1W5FSY/s400/July+4+wf+tiger+lily.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222876039397064850" border="0" /></a>Tiger lilies placidly bounced on their stems in sunny spots along the way.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqh1sTs3Zeox6PTAXn9rRMgO7UblOrTmnR52QS3KezIELtx44Kbk4cVJYl1VLSfQ5YB3XKCFtd1xInU1irR6EFOQ4QjgbKpgGxvocqBtpKNKSVExgD7qn1EFPAFPGIXwhxJQAPFE5WOrI/s1600-h/July+4+wf+twin+flower.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqh1sTs3Zeox6PTAXn9rRMgO7UblOrTmnR52QS3KezIELtx44Kbk4cVJYl1VLSfQ5YB3XKCFtd1xInU1irR6EFOQ4QjgbKpgGxvocqBtpKNKSVExgD7qn1EFPAFPGIXwhxJQAPFE5WOrI/s400/July+4+wf+twin+flower.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222876040595668386" border="0" /></a>Twin flowers tiny bells carpet the shadowed forest floor.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAge8kiRyIeyM9dUS5aE6bugSQMMeHbBzlUoAna8VKGk1tKV7Mh5N_COoY63-wD46sj2-wfqmROFarBLnOY29jISXR9neYzxKdLg-pCVcxhn9ZJyEHuRW5Nf_qGzc7wLQvHXFAuLKOgq0/s1600-h/July+4+wf+vanilla+leaf.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAge8kiRyIeyM9dUS5aE6bugSQMMeHbBzlUoAna8VKGk1tKV7Mh5N_COoY63-wD46sj2-wfqmROFarBLnOY29jISXR9neYzxKdLg-pCVcxhn9ZJyEHuRW5Nf_qGzc7wLQvHXFAuLKOgq0/s400/July+4+wf+vanilla+leaf.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222876044233116194" border="0" /></a>Vanilla Leaf rests in deep shade with it's vanilla scented foliage and floral crown.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDTKIJVvaY9QP8wxhxL-LaAsjAKnhtRpoEXXtxkAvgmogJmxcdget6mPO6CjbG4mdQ9b-qaOfrkE2zIn5Efth47JtRcUcPyTDbM7HCIQuwymyLCcC6Nmb3n3SHqqBLy7L6UOyK4vwSo30/s1600-h/July+4+wf+bleeding+heart.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDTKIJVvaY9QP8wxhxL-LaAsjAKnhtRpoEXXtxkAvgmogJmxcdget6mPO6CjbG4mdQ9b-qaOfrkE2zIn5Efth47JtRcUcPyTDbM7HCIQuwymyLCcC6Nmb3n3SHqqBLy7L6UOyK4vwSo30/s400/July+4+wf+bleeding+heart.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222875392476905042" border="0" /></a>Wild Bleeding hearts shyly show their hearts above their finely disected leaves.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH_nKiVW7_Yi_kPHJ_yGBlTZHrLHqRhjaBpoWJVLPbTR3sH8LQdOZbuxBi29CvqFWDBlDUn-ECDBdNDhITzb1aaWojWRl7YmYrIq_LgDYx9nu1PmLd9UFJRi5Qwb18B7GF4fLNIpaT6oc/s1600-h/July+4+wf+fern.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH_nKiVW7_Yi_kPHJ_yGBlTZHrLHqRhjaBpoWJVLPbTR3sH8LQdOZbuxBi29CvqFWDBlDUn-ECDBdNDhITzb1aaWojWRl7YmYrIq_LgDYx9nu1PmLd9UFJRi5Qwb18B7GF4fLNIpaT6oc/s400/July+4+wf+fern.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222875390958421890" border="0" /></a>Mist covered fern frond unrolls as a moment of light finds it's way between clouds.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqAB6xLUWzPcN_c36Wsf4mIyV-3erkhtTDHKpQS5aWIrleN0P11F7PGbMQs8HXqhPaHaDksUq5ko4GJWwzSqTq3A4kfPFceO4f0JmVZiGxOhhUPNT4cExNvMbjeX-H9Ya2cc7XcEbY0aM/s1600-h/July+4+wf++Huckleberry+dew.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqAB6xLUWzPcN_c36Wsf4mIyV-3erkhtTDHKpQS5aWIrleN0P11F7PGbMQs8HXqhPaHaDksUq5ko4GJWwzSqTq3A4kfPFceO4f0JmVZiGxOhhUPNT4cExNvMbjeX-H9Ya2cc7XcEbY0aM/s400/July+4+wf++Huckleberry+dew.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222875396438960146" border="0" /></a>Droplets sparkle on a huckleberry leaf.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQeIokeSsNxvn36DULcaDWKT8Qa12XnSKTH8caHMI0IExiBktW8uVKkU-WUkPfffuZ8Tt7udgoa3TurOYqoIM7YR086XJPuXsp4frs1lCEP_5urv28qTe8Pph7aP4UseIdVCd_V-S81k/s1600-h/July+4+wf+lupine.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQeIokeSsNxvn36DULcaDWKT8Qa12XnSKTH8caHMI0IExiBktW8uVKkU-WUkPfffuZ8Tt7udgoa3TurOYqoIM7YR086XJPuXsp4frs1lCEP_5urv28qTe8Pph7aP4UseIdVCd_V-S81k/s400/July+4+wf+lupine.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222875403223310482" border="0" /></a>The watercolors of lupine buds rest the eye.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjztZ0YPfyHrS3bdLv8EkI74eW-__AfHGRs028pBm4ch6vtp2BzlwopgW1BMHOZ7b-E30S0DhjDmglpF0qbJqFQEJ1bN7Pk-suhQ56wvJL9fvR0ayOzONlYZ97Be7sTNsFNdNAFnAxvju4/s1600-h/July+4+wf+skunkcabbage.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjztZ0YPfyHrS3bdLv8EkI74eW-__AfHGRs028pBm4ch6vtp2BzlwopgW1BMHOZ7b-E30S0DhjDmglpF0qbJqFQEJ1bN7Pk-suhQ56wvJL9fvR0ayOzONlYZ97Be7sTNsFNdNAFnAxvju4/s400/July+4+wf+skunkcabbage.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222875406990196258" border="0" /></a><br />Skunk cabbage, known for it's famous oder, rises at great odds out of melting snow banks and swampy puddles.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitQbn9GbrSloeacZNsN57h-SdskDMcEU8OTznBH0l3GX2XCf7UNxWFj7989PIcuSMXwDuIEfHop6YrUo7NV2L4qDkCR3NlV959rsdBRIpwCvwvYXV8irUATA8MXWHIiYhBebGiudEEMNY/s1600-h/July+4+wf+avalanche+lily.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitQbn9GbrSloeacZNsN57h-SdskDMcEU8OTznBH0l3GX2XCf7UNxWFj7989PIcuSMXwDuIEfHop6YrUo7NV2L4qDkCR3NlV959rsdBRIpwCvwvYXV8irUATA8MXWHIiYhBebGiudEEMNY/s400/July+4+wf+avalanche+lily.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222932497180578130" border="0" /></a>Avalanche lilies grow in warming soils just after snow melt. Droplets cling to the petals as to an umbrella. Stamens stay dry and ready for visits from searching bees. A small insect rests on top in between showers.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-54999251160150082782008-07-13T19:46:00.000-07:002008-12-09T08:05:14.968-08:00Bunchberry Dogwood - Cornus unalaschkensis<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn5kUFwdfJVikAK3NQezHj5suD71hY1Vk8vkTed2faOxWyGbwU-PvwA8zCRbPyyvBht7MOQkH9XIPRTZV-RhS7KP6KSmHB5VpiA5CTa7HZjmemDxiiXZErgfZ8N11uVCyXh6iEg0PiaRU/s1600-h/July+4+wf+bunch+berry.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn5kUFwdfJVikAK3NQezHj5suD71hY1Vk8vkTed2faOxWyGbwU-PvwA8zCRbPyyvBht7MOQkH9XIPRTZV-RhS7KP6KSmHB5VpiA5CTa7HZjmemDxiiXZErgfZ8N11uVCyXh6iEg0PiaRU/s400/July+4+wf+bunch+berry.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222696023010929490" border="0" /></a>You are probably familiar with Dogwood trees, but have you met their smaller cousin, Bunchberry Dogwood? The white petal-like sepals look similar in both plants and both are from the genis cornus.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_d1twCKynXtLnueHsGzePx7IFK8hB5XYeddGZxteFgtedsq0FxAKA3H5Urx1TFvAWqBwYaWgeFHFo1Irihyphenhyphentz9mU2MFLSKE9_C78EGgwm3ginjdEFL3WbPO1uMtLpaAiL2Sm5OojCYSY/s1600-h/July+4+wf+bunch+berry+close.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_d1twCKynXtLnueHsGzePx7IFK8hB5XYeddGZxteFgtedsq0FxAKA3H5Urx1TFvAWqBwYaWgeFHFo1Irihyphenhyphentz9mU2MFLSKE9_C78EGgwm3ginjdEFL3WbPO1uMtLpaAiL2Sm5OojCYSY/s400/July+4+wf+bunch+berry+close.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222696028176538850" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;"></span>The bunchberry dogwood, <span style="font-style: italic;">Cornus unalaschkensis</span> the lives on the west coast is similar to and often confused with the east coast bunchberry, <span style="font-style: italic;">Cornus canadensis</span>. The have four petal-like bracts with small flowers in the center. The fruit is a bunch of red berries, each with 1 pit. They like to grow in the deep duff of moist forests of the mountains. They spread by trailing or ascending stems from rhizomes. Their leaves turn red in winter.<br /><br />These bunchberry dogwoods were growing by the trail at Lost Lake, Mt. Hood, Oregon, and were photographed July 4.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-60862086344275415632008-07-12T16:55:00.000-07:002008-12-09T08:05:15.166-08:00Calypso Orchid<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRGw_K1fuoiMQSRdoJcJn6DSMqwrULjkZSDwU-atr9LFf5_7zprp-jCFhD3OhRB-IWVb3DWjZUd_UqWiiSj5DZfqRmfmBG8bgigdHyRloVntc8dMNTxC_FFKfuICy47RGfutrWOB2RQIg/s1600-h/July+4+wf+calypso.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRGw_K1fuoiMQSRdoJcJn6DSMqwrULjkZSDwU-atr9LFf5_7zprp-jCFhD3OhRB-IWVb3DWjZUd_UqWiiSj5DZfqRmfmBG8bgigdHyRloVntc8dMNTxC_FFKfuICy47RGfutrWOB2RQIg/s400/July+4+wf+calypso.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222280574849327666" border="0" /></a> There is a lovely cluster of Calypso Orchids by the Lost Lake trail that I'm sure most people walk on by. But those who keep their eyes open will discover a little cove of wildflower treasure.<br /><br />I learned that Calypso Orchids are really fragile. When someone even gently picks a flower the tender rootlets attached to the underground corm are broken and the Western Fairyslipper usually dies. This most beautiful of orchids is not endangered, but it needs a special combination of shade, moisture and soil difficult to find out of an old growth forest. It gets some nourishment from it's single leaf, but also has a partnership with fungus to get nourishment from the roots of trees. <a href="http://www.wanativeorchids.com/Calypso%20bulbosa/index.html">Washington Native Orchid web page</a> has more about these magenta jewels of forest.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-84371796057611268912008-07-12T16:39:00.000-07:002008-12-09T08:05:15.305-08:00Western White Anemone<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV8vjIfTXRKVztA3wr7RceSnLlLOH177XmP5gGvINrUSrj1gulkCZ6xa6QAgnIXhyphenhyphenZWcz99YWn9dPOGTDnPNbeO27fNuSTYYtcc4YtMo7CAO9SUqf-zAFZc7KiNabDwlebPgfmOg75wlo/s1600-h/July+4+wf+anemonie.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV8vjIfTXRKVztA3wr7RceSnLlLOH177XmP5gGvINrUSrj1gulkCZ6xa6QAgnIXhyphenhyphenZWcz99YWn9dPOGTDnPNbeO27fNuSTYYtcc4YtMo7CAO9SUqf-zAFZc7KiNabDwlebPgfmOg75wlo/s400/July+4+wf+anemonie.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222276788201965522" border="0" /></a>Western White Anemone Anemone deltoidea grows on the west side of Oregon and Washington, south of the Olympic peninsula down to Northern California. It can also be found in the Wallowa mountains in northeast Oregon. Three toothed leaves circle the lower stem below the single white flower made up of 5 petal-like sepals. <br /><br />The Oregon anemone Anemone oregana grows in mostly the same area, but it has five blue petal-like sepals, and leaves divided into three parts.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-902197920814386872.post-53306999194824460292008-07-12T16:13:00.000-07:002008-12-09T08:05:15.855-08:00Northern Green Bog-Orchid or Rein-Orchid<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6BXBhwF9VL5LDZWEEh97qm1s3eWhpGZzF5JuxBsGYlRxkNaBPfX-8HwmdqA1DquAkx5RnVYJuGPYq_KlRZ1_AMkwYeISqCCKe9IAVgBvqKBLNUTIHrMm_s1xAR51CCvInkye5ANz7BjQ/s1600-h/July+4+wf+green+orchid.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6BXBhwF9VL5LDZWEEh97qm1s3eWhpGZzF5JuxBsGYlRxkNaBPfX-8HwmdqA1DquAkx5RnVYJuGPYq_KlRZ1_AMkwYeISqCCKe9IAVgBvqKBLNUTIHrMm_s1xAR51CCvInkye5ANz7BjQ/s400/July+4+wf+green+orchid.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222270184927813090" border="0" /></a>I don't know if you have ever noticed green or white flowered orchids growing in wet areas before. There is quite a variety of them in Oregon and Washington. They don't look like much from a distance. They blend in well with the other foliage. But really, they are worth another look.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0QlTvCnmRzrmweP1u6pm9M2wKRGvtPmbSphArYOLiNpcjNTjvODM2p5wYcZFoXYT3toGGqyUFmNihqJXzQLSWFT-MPmWQV16snl02rInOI2a3S5DKayehjzefcXBG2z_4A6kpqyAzwsM/s1600-h/July+4+wf+green+orchid+close.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0QlTvCnmRzrmweP1u6pm9M2wKRGvtPmbSphArYOLiNpcjNTjvODM2p5wYcZFoXYT3toGGqyUFmNihqJXzQLSWFT-MPmWQV16snl02rInOI2a3S5DKayehjzefcXBG2z_4A6kpqyAzwsM/s400/July+4+wf+green+orchid+close.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222270182907974978" border="0" /></a>There are fascinating little details to note which help to distinguish it from another species. I've had quite a time examining the details of my photos trying to come up with an identification today. I have four wildflower guides sharing my recliner and a laptop computer on my lap. Using all four books and the guide at the <a href="http://www.wanativeorchids.com/Platanthera/index.html">Washington Native Orchids website</a>, I have concluded that my best hunch is that we found a Northern Green Bog Orchid, <span style="font-style: italic;">Platanthera hyperborea or Platanthera Aquilanis (Habenaria Hyperborea)</span>. It seems they have been changing the names of these orchids quite a bit. The older books have the genius as <span style="font-style: italic;">Habenaria</span> and the new ones have <span style="font-style: italic;">Platanthera</span>, but with two different species names also. <span style="font-style: italic;">Platanthera</span> is Latin for" flat anthers." The common name 'rein-orchid' comes from the Lain <span style="font-style: italic;">habenas</span>, 'a strap' or 'a rein,' and refers to the shape of the lip and spur. The species name <span style="font-style: italic;">hyperbore</span>a means 'beyond the north' and refers to this species occurrence in above the Arctic Circle.<br /><br />This orchid has lance shaped leaves going up it's stem. It has 25 to 45 flowers that are greenish-yellow to whitish-green. The upper two petals and sepal work together to from a hood covering the top of the flower. The lower lip is longer then the spur that is behind the flower. Two sepals point out to the side. They can grow up to 23" tall and generally bloom sometime between July and August, depending on location and elevation.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1