Again whilst on the elliptical this morning I was listening to my Ipod. Yes, there is a jack to plug it into and really great speakers to hear all of my favorite tunes! So the album "Rust Never Sleeps" pops up and away we go!
The song "Thrasher" rolled right in behind "Hey Hey My My" and I began to drift and dream with the imagery of Neil Young's well written lyrics.
I wondered about the meanings behind lines like: "they had given all they had for something new" knowing exactly who 'they' were. I've done it myself. You probably have also... That moment when you trade it all in for something that appears to be better than what you have right now. It seems that there is always a higher price tag for not counting the cost for such trade offs, when in reality, we were better off to stay put. Stay the course. Keep keeping on. We never get ahead by starting over all the time. There always seems to be a catch on these 'too good to be true' deals.
"It was then that I knew I'd had enough, burned my credit card for fuel. Headed out to where the pavement turns to sand. With a one-way ticket to the land of truth and my suitcase in my hand, how I lost my friends I still don't understand." This is the fourth stanza out of eight. (Musical genius!) This verse is where Neil decides that Crosby Stills and Nash are better off without him and vice versa. But I believe it speaks more of a universal truth. I believe the author is saying that when we finally get a taste of what is good and right, and we're tired of the status quo, though it may be lonely, we can walk away knowing we are doing the right thing. Even if it means leaving your coat or your cards and money on the table. Some things are just not worth repeating whether in word or deed. You know. Cut our losses. Move along.
I think in these well-penned lyrics Neil believes that it was best for him to move on down the line. He is trying to impart that life is short and a thrashing comes to us all. And yes, there will be pain. But it is in the pain that we grow and rise to a better understanding of circumstances and people around us. "Down the windy halls of friendship, to the rose clipped by the bullwhip." I don't know about you, but most of my friends today are not those of yesteryear. There are a few wonderfully, faithful ones that hang in there and keep in touch. I am grateful for I know this is rare.
And in the last verse: "But me I'm not stopping there, got my own row left to hoe. Just another line in the field of time. When the thrasher comes I'll be stuck in the sun like the dinosaurs in shrines. But I'll know the time has come to give what's mine." Is this about the maturation process? Or maybe a beginning of the understanding of the rhythms of life and the human experience. Perhaps Young sees his life and death in a brief moment of clarity, knowing that he too will pass away. But in the mean time, with death a long way off (if we are blessed,) each of us has our own race to run. Each of us has a contribution to make. A positive one or a negative one by our words and actions each day.
So what'll it be? You gonna hang around lost in rock formations, becoming park bench mutations on the sidewalks and in the stations, waiting, waiting... or are you going to agree to the Great Grand Canyon rescue episode. Will you raise up your hands for help/surrender? You can decide how your story will go. Just say yes to God's design and saddle up for the grand adventure. (A rescue plan is in the works, I promise!)
Hey hey, my my!
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Thursday, February 21, 2013
deeper well...
In my reading today whilst on the elliptical, I realized I have not been dipping into the deeper well that has been offered to me--that has been offered to all of us. I have spent a lion's share of winter complaining about the weather. Something I cannot change. I have been dwelling on the loss of loved ones. Something I cannot change. I have been been very self centered and focused on what I want, what I think, what I feel. I'm sad. I'm sick. I'm hungry. I'm tired. I'm, me, me, me... my, my, my. Bob Seger put it in a song when he sang how he was 'tired of his own voice.' NOW THIS IS SOMETHING I CAN CHANGE!
The negativity has to cease!
A question came to my attention this morning: "What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?"
If you know me, you know I am a big fan/follower of Jesus Christ and enjoy reading His Bible. I especially love the stories about the un-named women in the Bible. John 4 tells of a woman at a well. She is a broken soul in need of refreshing. Little did she know she would encounter God when she showed up in the heat of that day to dip from Jacob's well. Jesus gave her his take on water, wells and eternal life. He did not look down his nose at her for her past failures or her negative outlook on life. He did not give up on her as she steered clear of religion, worship and church people during the course of their conversation. He was so focused on her well being.... just like Jesus to put everything else aside to take care of that one lost sheep.
That day, that unknown woman forever deemed "the Samaritan woman at the well," was given a deeper well to draw from. She was given a new perspective. She went away with a whole new point of view! She went away with resources and wisdom to live out the rest of her days.
My memory is short. I forget so easily how much I am loved by God, my family and friends. I forget that spring has not forgotten to come... it's just not time yet. I forget that it's not all about me. I forget that I too have wisdom and a deeper well to draw from when the going gets tough.{A spring of water welling up to eternal life.} I forget to look up. I forget to look out. I forget to do a simple, kind deed for someone else to help me forget about myself for awhile. Forgive me and thank you 'book on elliptical' for the reminder.
God is still holy and good. Even when we forget.
What would I attempt to do if I knew I could not fail?
Have less fear of the unknown.
Love more. Speak sweeter words.
Go to cooking school in Italy and commandeer a local restaurant!
Ride the most amazing little horse and cut cows on her.
Finish all those books I've started writing.
Laugh even louder than I already do... maybe just longer.
See more of my family.
Believe.
The negativity has to cease!
A question came to my attention this morning: "What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?"
If you know me, you know I am a big fan/follower of Jesus Christ and enjoy reading His Bible. I especially love the stories about the un-named women in the Bible. John 4 tells of a woman at a well. She is a broken soul in need of refreshing. Little did she know she would encounter God when she showed up in the heat of that day to dip from Jacob's well. Jesus gave her his take on water, wells and eternal life. He did not look down his nose at her for her past failures or her negative outlook on life. He did not give up on her as she steered clear of religion, worship and church people during the course of their conversation. He was so focused on her well being.... just like Jesus to put everything else aside to take care of that one lost sheep.
That day, that unknown woman forever deemed "the Samaritan woman at the well," was given a deeper well to draw from. She was given a new perspective. She went away with a whole new point of view! She went away with resources and wisdom to live out the rest of her days.
My memory is short. I forget so easily how much I am loved by God, my family and friends. I forget that spring has not forgotten to come... it's just not time yet. I forget that it's not all about me. I forget that I too have wisdom and a deeper well to draw from when the going gets tough.{A spring of water welling up to eternal life.} I forget to look up. I forget to look out. I forget to do a simple, kind deed for someone else to help me forget about myself for awhile. Forgive me and thank you 'book on elliptical' for the reminder.
God is still holy and good. Even when we forget.
What would I attempt to do if I knew I could not fail?
Have less fear of the unknown.
Love more. Speak sweeter words.
Go to cooking school in Italy and commandeer a local restaurant!
Ride the most amazing little horse and cut cows on her.
Finish all those books I've started writing.
Laugh even louder than I already do... maybe just longer.
See more of my family.
Believe.
Friday, February 15, 2013
One Day at a Time
Every day now, the countryman will remind you, is another day toward spring. If it is bright and sunny, it is a bonus day to weigh against the winter averages. If it is raw and blustery, full of snow or sleet or torturing wind, it is one more day of winter endured. Either way, it moves us another step toward April.
The days themselves are changing. When the year turned, the sun was in the sky only a little more than nine hours. In mid-February it will be there, visible or not, an hour and a half longer. And the night hours of darkness are losing their grip on the numbing cold. Until the middle of February, the nights will have been losing about two minutes of darkness each day, but after this period they will lose almost three.
Don't go looking for spring just down the road. All you will find is March. The vernal equinox now is just weeks ahead, true; but spring isn't a date on a calendar, and it isn't an astronomical calculation set down in an almanac. Spring is a new sprout, an unfolding leaf, a blossom and a bee. It is brooks chattering across the meadows and peepers shrilling in the bog lands in the dusk.
But first, winter must pass. And winter, whether it lifts your heart or tries your soul, still passes one day at a time.
--Editorial in New York Times
I clipped this from a Reader's Digest a few years back when it seemed winter in Red Lodge would never end. Now, back in Powell, it still seems like winter will never end. I am beginning to wonder if the winter in my heart will ever end... I can see signs of spring approaching to end this grief. Winds will blow and change everything once again. Whether winds of chilling, or winds of warming, oh my how the wind doth blow!
But first, winter must pass. And winter, whether it lifts your heart or tries your soul, still passes one day at a time.
We will get by. Thanks be to God who gives us added strength and moments of peace and clarity.
Remembering warmer days...
The days themselves are changing. When the year turned, the sun was in the sky only a little more than nine hours. In mid-February it will be there, visible or not, an hour and a half longer. And the night hours of darkness are losing their grip on the numbing cold. Until the middle of February, the nights will have been losing about two minutes of darkness each day, but after this period they will lose almost three.
Don't go looking for spring just down the road. All you will find is March. The vernal equinox now is just weeks ahead, true; but spring isn't a date on a calendar, and it isn't an astronomical calculation set down in an almanac. Spring is a new sprout, an unfolding leaf, a blossom and a bee. It is brooks chattering across the meadows and peepers shrilling in the bog lands in the dusk.
But first, winter must pass. And winter, whether it lifts your heart or tries your soul, still passes one day at a time.
--Editorial in New York Times
I clipped this from a Reader's Digest a few years back when it seemed winter in Red Lodge would never end. Now, back in Powell, it still seems like winter will never end. I am beginning to wonder if the winter in my heart will ever end... I can see signs of spring approaching to end this grief. Winds will blow and change everything once again. Whether winds of chilling, or winds of warming, oh my how the wind doth blow!
But first, winter must pass. And winter, whether it lifts your heart or tries your soul, still passes one day at a time.
We will get by. Thanks be to God who gives us added strength and moments of peace and clarity.
Remembering warmer days...
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Live Inside This Day
Just listening to Zac Brown perusing my online accounts.
Zac is singing: "Don't let this moment pass, live inside this day."
That's easier said than done.
Some days are a diamond and some days are a stone. Going on about the 25th day of it being a stone... Tired of living this way! Gotta find a way to change this up. I'm praying.
Been reading this book for a few days.
The author Brett states: "God is in each of us, in the midst of every tragedy and problem. It's up to us to call forth our greatest light and love and be the miracle, right here, right now."
OK. And when the miracle doesn't match our definition of a miracle? Then what?
Then GOD.
How's that for circular reasoning? (As long as He is at the center!) Just saying.
He is sovereign. He is just. He is merciful. He is forgiving. He is good.
His will be done today.
And I will try to live inside this day.
(the key word here is live.)
... but that is a topic for another day!
I took this pict up the North Fork, Cody, WY last summer. The promise of better things to come.
Zac is singing: "Don't let this moment pass, live inside this day."
That's easier said than done.
Some days are a diamond and some days are a stone. Going on about the 25th day of it being a stone... Tired of living this way! Gotta find a way to change this up. I'm praying.
Been reading this book for a few days.
The author Brett states: "God is in each of us, in the midst of every tragedy and problem. It's up to us to call forth our greatest light and love and be the miracle, right here, right now."
OK. And when the miracle doesn't match our definition of a miracle? Then what?
Then GOD.
How's that for circular reasoning? (As long as He is at the center!) Just saying.
He is sovereign. He is just. He is merciful. He is forgiving. He is good.
His will be done today.
And I will try to live inside this day.
(the key word here is live.)
... but that is a topic for another day!
I took this pict up the North Fork, Cody, WY last summer. The promise of better things to come.
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
A Grief Re-Observed...
Many of you know that we hold the works of C.S. Lewis in high regard at our house. He wrote a book about grief when his wife died from cancer. I tried to read it on the plane home after losing my sister to cancer almost two years ago.
His writings go too deep for my comprehension most of the time, and at that time I could barely finish a paragraph without putting down the book and wandering off in my thoughts. Today I read it again, this time from cover to cover in less than an hour.
In Lewis' book, entitled "A Grief Observed", he expounds on how grief is "like a bomber circling round and dropping its bombs each time the circle brings it overhead."
My mother and I revisited our grief again yesterday. It's not like you really want to keep going there. My father told her not to dwell on it, but how do we know that it is not dwelling on us? Like the circling bomber, another explosion of fresh grief just drops out of nowhere.
It was good however, to go together to that 'sacred place' and have another look from this distance. The pain does not seem to dim, but my understanding does seem brighter. Lewis describes our life and our building of this life as house of cards. He goes on to say that "God has not been trying to experiment on my faith or love in order to find out their quality. He knew it already. It was I who didn't. In this trial He makes us occupy the dock, the witness box, and the bench all at once. He always knew that my temple was a house of cards. His only way of making me realize this fact was to knock it down."
I do know that God is good, but He isn't safe. He will cause pain and use pain to grow us up into Him. I don't exactly like this plan, but then my finite wisdom is no match for God. Lewis says there is nothing we can do with suffering except to suffer it. He poses the question: "Who still thinks there is some device (if only he could find it) which will make pain not to be pain. It doesn't really matter whether you grip the arm of the dentist's chair or let your hands lie in your lap. The drill drills on." (Nurse Child says this is not helpful!!) I am glad I am not alone in these larger than life issues.
Someday this will all make sense. Till then we wait the best we can. Loving one another, comforting one another with what we have been comforted, and doing the daily tasks at hand to the best of our ability.
I love you, family. All is well. Carry on.
His writings go too deep for my comprehension most of the time, and at that time I could barely finish a paragraph without putting down the book and wandering off in my thoughts. Today I read it again, this time from cover to cover in less than an hour.
In Lewis' book, entitled "A Grief Observed", he expounds on how grief is "like a bomber circling round and dropping its bombs each time the circle brings it overhead."
My mother and I revisited our grief again yesterday. It's not like you really want to keep going there. My father told her not to dwell on it, but how do we know that it is not dwelling on us? Like the circling bomber, another explosion of fresh grief just drops out of nowhere.
It was good however, to go together to that 'sacred place' and have another look from this distance. The pain does not seem to dim, but my understanding does seem brighter. Lewis describes our life and our building of this life as house of cards. He goes on to say that "God has not been trying to experiment on my faith or love in order to find out their quality. He knew it already. It was I who didn't. In this trial He makes us occupy the dock, the witness box, and the bench all at once. He always knew that my temple was a house of cards. His only way of making me realize this fact was to knock it down."
I do know that God is good, but He isn't safe. He will cause pain and use pain to grow us up into Him. I don't exactly like this plan, but then my finite wisdom is no match for God. Lewis says there is nothing we can do with suffering except to suffer it. He poses the question: "Who still thinks there is some device (if only he could find it) which will make pain not to be pain. It doesn't really matter whether you grip the arm of the dentist's chair or let your hands lie in your lap. The drill drills on." (Nurse Child says this is not helpful!!) I am glad I am not alone in these larger than life issues.
Someday this will all make sense. Till then we wait the best we can. Loving one another, comforting one another with what we have been comforted, and doing the daily tasks at hand to the best of our ability.
I love you, family. All is well. Carry on.
Monday, January 7, 2013
Humble
Took Addy to a team sorting practice on Saturday. It was fun to meet new people and get her out of her pen for a day. Winter seems exceptionally cold this year. It was thirty five degrees there--approximately 30 degrees warmer than at our house!
Needless to say, we were sadly inept at the whole process. Addy has only been near cows on the open range and not in a small herd of steers cramped in an indoor arena with forty other horse/rider pairs milling around, and a sound system blaring in her ears. Don't get me wrong, I'm not making excuses. But, I have only sorted cattle once and on a borrowed horse.
I couldn't even get Addy to approach the cattle without running through my legs to get away from them. It would seem that when they faced her directly, she was horrified. Maybe I was horrified and the feeling transfered to her!(ok... I was horrified!) At any rate, my new girlfriend there had to forfeit her ride/money (twice) and go into the herd with me just to get Addy anywhere near those smelly, furry monsters. By the last time we entered the herd, my mare actually put her head down, laid her ears back and moved in behind a steer we had cut out.
The gal I went to the event with warmed up together amidst the mob, but politely backed down when the time came to sign up to participate. She said she thought better of it being so uncomfortable with the crowd. This was not so for yours truly! I marched right up to that table, gave my name and handed the clerk my $20. "Pair me up with anyone," I announced. I am a firm believer in the saying "Strangers are only friends we haven't met yet!"
On the ride home it dawned on me how much of a greenhorn I must have appeared to the regulars there that day. Good thing you really only have to do that once. Next time, (heck yes, I'm going back!) I won't be the new kid with the green horse. Addy is a quick study and so is her master. This is such a fun sport.
A good dose of humility goes a long, long way. At least now I know what to practice on those cold winter days here at home, outside-- against the elements. I need some steers. "Oh Construction Man..."
Needless to say, we were sadly inept at the whole process. Addy has only been near cows on the open range and not in a small herd of steers cramped in an indoor arena with forty other horse/rider pairs milling around, and a sound system blaring in her ears. Don't get me wrong, I'm not making excuses. But, I have only sorted cattle once and on a borrowed horse.
I couldn't even get Addy to approach the cattle without running through my legs to get away from them. It would seem that when they faced her directly, she was horrified. Maybe I was horrified and the feeling transfered to her!(ok... I was horrified!) At any rate, my new girlfriend there had to forfeit her ride/money (twice) and go into the herd with me just to get Addy anywhere near those smelly, furry monsters. By the last time we entered the herd, my mare actually put her head down, laid her ears back and moved in behind a steer we had cut out.
The gal I went to the event with warmed up together amidst the mob, but politely backed down when the time came to sign up to participate. She said she thought better of it being so uncomfortable with the crowd. This was not so for yours truly! I marched right up to that table, gave my name and handed the clerk my $20. "Pair me up with anyone," I announced. I am a firm believer in the saying "Strangers are only friends we haven't met yet!"
On the ride home it dawned on me how much of a greenhorn I must have appeared to the regulars there that day. Good thing you really only have to do that once. Next time, (heck yes, I'm going back!) I won't be the new kid with the green horse. Addy is a quick study and so is her master. This is such a fun sport.
A good dose of humility goes a long, long way. At least now I know what to practice on those cold winter days here at home, outside-- against the elements. I need some steers. "Oh Construction Man..."
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Happy New Year!
January 2, 2013.... SWEET!
Nothing like a clean slate; a new morning; a new week; new mercies and compassions that fail not from the Lord!
What will this year bring?
I rode Addy yesterday after her three week break. Been so darned cold up here in Wyoming and all the kids were home for the Christmas season. This mom's time was filled with many preparations, chores and love!
Even though it was only 14 degrees I saddled her up and took a spin. She came back strong remembering my hands and legs and even letting Nurse Child walk her about. Such a great little horse. :)
What will this year bring?
God's will to be done in our lives is the best that we can hope for.
We stand at a cross roads today with Construction Man finished in North Dakota, and he and his brother wrapping up their business together. (They both want to do something different.)
We have checked out various properties from Washington to Minnesota; even locally, on Heart Mountain.
I can't wait to see what the next adventure will be.
My prayer is for my family to remain healthy and also to be able to spend a lot more time with my brother and my mom and dad.
I have been blessed. I have a loving husband, great daughters, wonderful parents, a sweet little bro, good inlaws, a warm house, nourishing food, health, fun filled friends, a horse and saddle, a guitar to make music, a wild ass dog--HANK, and a big, BIG GOD who loves us all very much.
I know He has the plan for the new year. For this I am grateful, cause if I was in charge things would certainly go awry.
I gotta go. There are dishes in the sink, laundry on the floor, unmade beds-- all denoting that we have eaten well, worn clothes, and slept peacefully/comfortably!
It's already shaping up to be a great 2013.
Father and daughters...
my anniversary/ Christmas present!
Nothing like a clean slate; a new morning; a new week; new mercies and compassions that fail not from the Lord!
What will this year bring?
I rode Addy yesterday after her three week break. Been so darned cold up here in Wyoming and all the kids were home for the Christmas season. This mom's time was filled with many preparations, chores and love!
Even though it was only 14 degrees I saddled her up and took a spin. She came back strong remembering my hands and legs and even letting Nurse Child walk her about. Such a great little horse. :)
What will this year bring?
God's will to be done in our lives is the best that we can hope for.
We stand at a cross roads today with Construction Man finished in North Dakota, and he and his brother wrapping up their business together. (They both want to do something different.)
We have checked out various properties from Washington to Minnesota; even locally, on Heart Mountain.
I can't wait to see what the next adventure will be.
My prayer is for my family to remain healthy and also to be able to spend a lot more time with my brother and my mom and dad.
I have been blessed. I have a loving husband, great daughters, wonderful parents, a sweet little bro, good inlaws, a warm house, nourishing food, health, fun filled friends, a horse and saddle, a guitar to make music, a wild ass dog--HANK, and a big, BIG GOD who loves us all very much.
I know He has the plan for the new year. For this I am grateful, cause if I was in charge things would certainly go awry.
I gotta go. There are dishes in the sink, laundry on the floor, unmade beds-- all denoting that we have eaten well, worn clothes, and slept peacefully/comfortably!
It's already shaping up to be a great 2013.
Father and daughters...
my anniversary/ Christmas present!
Friday, December 14, 2012
Change of Scenery
The wintery weather has brought her temperature inversions and a sparkly showing of hoarfrost. We got about an inch or so of snow and not much wind, so the flakes landed perfectly on all things exposed! Such a beautiful sight to wake up to the other morning.
A welcomed guest by the Whitlock Christmas tree this year. We decided to put every ornament we owned on the tree. The Beautician helped me that day as we opened every box of decorations and reminisced about she and her sisters's childhoods.
Gotta love Wyoming. Over 300 days of sun each year. The temps can be well below zero and the sun still shines bright, warming rays.
God's decor for the holiday season. Oh how He loves you and me!
Hello Friday!
I worked at the pregnancy resource center yesterday. The folks of the community have done a great job supporting such a needed place to help young women in need.
Today we continue on the trimming journey. Construction Man is going great guns getting the detail work finished. We still have a ways to go but it's looking lovely.
I am glad to see that Friday has arrived in all her glory! We are having some friends over for dinner tonight. Not sure what I'll cook... need to peruse my cookbooks and find something yummy for a cold wintery night.
I'm looking forward to the visit.
I'll let you know how it all turns out!
Have a great day and enjoy the Christmas season. :)
Today we continue on the trimming journey. Construction Man is going great guns getting the detail work finished. We still have a ways to go but it's looking lovely.
I am glad to see that Friday has arrived in all her glory! We are having some friends over for dinner tonight. Not sure what I'll cook... need to peruse my cookbooks and find something yummy for a cold wintery night.
I'm looking forward to the visit.
I'll let you know how it all turns out!
Have a great day and enjoy the Christmas season. :)
Sunday, December 9, 2012
Sunday Morning Coming Down
You know the song. That old tune by Kris Kristofferson which Johnny did so well. I am listening to it right now and my playlist of tunes with the word "Sunday" in the title.
There's Maroon 5 with 'Sunday Morning', Keith Urban with 'Rainin' on Sunday'... (should be snowin' on Sunday!) Yes, it's snowing here; and I am up very early.
Woke up feeling a bit lonely. You see, I should be on a trip to Vegas right now. I should be waking up at my little brother's house, visiting and laughing, heading down to my mom and dad's next. Oh well. Circumstances did not permit a trip at this time.
I had to be mucho mature about making this decision cause I just wanted to go and see people I love and drink a beer with my friend down at the RiRa pub at the Mandalay Bay. (Obviously having a hard time letting it go. So disappointed.)
But today is Sunday. The first day of the week. A day of rest and hopeful planning for the next several days. There is much preparation for The Theologian and her hubby to come for their Christmas visit. Also, Nurse Child turns twenty next Sunday! Yep. No more teenagers at our house...
Construction Man is staining trim boards and I have been trying to tape off and paint the trim in and around the bathroom. Still finishing up the remodel from last May. Oh my! We are making a little headway coming down the homestretch. So many details.
Hank and Addy are enjoying and enduring the colder temps and snow flurries. Hank has so much fur he is just fine racing around the yard reclaiming it from the cat all day long. Addy is cozy in her fur coat as well turning her hind end and tucking her head right after her green breakfast of champions. She lays down every morning for her nap. So spoiled...
Another Sunday morning. There really is nothing wrong. Just feeling a bit lonely for some family lovin'! Just a few people missing this holiday season. :( We'll get by.
Johnny
Keith
Adam
There's Maroon 5 with 'Sunday Morning', Keith Urban with 'Rainin' on Sunday'... (should be snowin' on Sunday!) Yes, it's snowing here; and I am up very early.
Woke up feeling a bit lonely. You see, I should be on a trip to Vegas right now. I should be waking up at my little brother's house, visiting and laughing, heading down to my mom and dad's next. Oh well. Circumstances did not permit a trip at this time.
I had to be mucho mature about making this decision cause I just wanted to go and see people I love and drink a beer with my friend down at the RiRa pub at the Mandalay Bay. (Obviously having a hard time letting it go. So disappointed.)
But today is Sunday. The first day of the week. A day of rest and hopeful planning for the next several days. There is much preparation for The Theologian and her hubby to come for their Christmas visit. Also, Nurse Child turns twenty next Sunday! Yep. No more teenagers at our house...
Construction Man is staining trim boards and I have been trying to tape off and paint the trim in and around the bathroom. Still finishing up the remodel from last May. Oh my! We are making a little headway coming down the homestretch. So many details.
Hank and Addy are enjoying and enduring the colder temps and snow flurries. Hank has so much fur he is just fine racing around the yard reclaiming it from the cat all day long. Addy is cozy in her fur coat as well turning her hind end and tucking her head right after her green breakfast of champions. She lays down every morning for her nap. So spoiled...
Another Sunday morning. There really is nothing wrong. Just feeling a bit lonely for some family lovin'! Just a few people missing this holiday season. :( We'll get by.
Johnny
Keith
Adam
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
MOPS Moms and peace...
I spoke this morning at our local chapter of MOPS. That's 'mother's of preschoolers.' What a great group of young ladies and their babies!!
I spoke on having peace this holiday season and forever! We can seek peace and pursue it. Of course, this not going to be easy. But we can do it with a little effort. I simply encouraged these sweet gals to give themselves a break. Be a little more gentle to themselves, be kinder to themselves, cut themselves some slack, and forgive themselves for those thing they've been carrying around for awhile.
Also, to be thankful for what we already have, where we are at and who we are presently. This is a good start to opening up that treasure of peace that only God can provide.
Sounds like some words of wisdom, no? Now, if I can only apply it to myself!!
Find a quiet place today and understand peace. :)
I spoke on having peace this holiday season and forever! We can seek peace and pursue it. Of course, this not going to be easy. But we can do it with a little effort. I simply encouraged these sweet gals to give themselves a break. Be a little more gentle to themselves, be kinder to themselves, cut themselves some slack, and forgive themselves for those thing they've been carrying around for awhile.
Also, to be thankful for what we already have, where we are at and who we are presently. This is a good start to opening up that treasure of peace that only God can provide.
Sounds like some words of wisdom, no? Now, if I can only apply it to myself!!
Find a quiet place today and understand peace. :)
Saturday, November 24, 2012
Saturday...
So, today is Saturday? Really? It feels like Tuesday or Wednesday. Probably cause Thanksgiving seemed like Sunday with so much family over for dinner.
We had upwards of thirty people before it was all said and done. We deep fried one turkey and baked the other one. Everyone contributed to the meal and a good dinner was had by all. Nobody went hungry...
The kids watched movies, wrestled, played 'capture the flag' outdoors, and the adults sampled many red wines, pies and tasty tarts. Not to mention a few different kinds of Alaskan Ale and the old standby Corona. We played Euchre and basically did a lot of talking and laughing. Much needed laugher I'm sure. Many times I wiped the tears from my eyes for laughing so hard!
I can't even imagine how big the space would have to be if both of our families all came to Thanksgiving dinner! Now that would be a wonderful party. :)
Anywho... I need to make my way to the post office and pick up a package. They quit at noon today. Construction Man has many chores lined up for us all to begin staining trim, organizing the shop, (yes, we just did this, but we have three garages!) and getting on with the next big project of installing the bath tub in our upstairs bedroom. It is up there, but needs plumbed and tiled. Oh my... he's a busy guy.
All is well.
Stay warm and tell someone how much they are loved today! People matter more than we think.
We had upwards of thirty people before it was all said and done. We deep fried one turkey and baked the other one. Everyone contributed to the meal and a good dinner was had by all. Nobody went hungry...
The kids watched movies, wrestled, played 'capture the flag' outdoors, and the adults sampled many red wines, pies and tasty tarts. Not to mention a few different kinds of Alaskan Ale and the old standby Corona. We played Euchre and basically did a lot of talking and laughing. Much needed laugher I'm sure. Many times I wiped the tears from my eyes for laughing so hard!
I can't even imagine how big the space would have to be if both of our families all came to Thanksgiving dinner! Now that would be a wonderful party. :)
Anywho... I need to make my way to the post office and pick up a package. They quit at noon today. Construction Man has many chores lined up for us all to begin staining trim, organizing the shop, (yes, we just did this, but we have three garages!) and getting on with the next big project of installing the bath tub in our upstairs bedroom. It is up there, but needs plumbed and tiled. Oh my... he's a busy guy.
All is well.
Stay warm and tell someone how much they are loved today! People matter more than we think.
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Happy Thanksgiving and Happy BIrthday to Me!!
This is a pict of my beautiful flowers my Dad and Mom sent for my bday today!! Aren't they just lovely?
Yep. Today I am fifty one years of age. I made it through being fifty. I must admit that I've had a 'failblog' with 365daysof50 the last few weeks with all the happenings around here.
I was the facilities coordinator for our local pregnancy resource center. We had a huge banquet last Thursday night with 224 people in attendance. Lots of financial support was given and the keynote speaker was the sweetest little gal. She had quite a message of hope and life.
Construction Man has been going to town on the finish work of the home renovations. We did have to replace the dishwasher. Lots of trim, porch lights, cleaning out garages and sorting... again! Does it never end? Guess I have to stop bringing stuff home!
Then to top it all off, the weather has been very warm; and a cowgirl must ride her horse while fall breezes pile up golden, leafy drifts. Addy tromps so gingerly through the cracklings. I had her shoes pulled and her feet trimmed up real nice. She has been such a trooper this past summer. As I have noted all she has learned, I am looking to myself and the growth I have incurred this past year as well.
In many things I have had to decide to "grow up" and move forward as opposed to kicking and screaming, and reverting to childhood reactions! Yes, we do get to choose which direction we will be taking.
Don't worry. My first inclination is to take ahold of that bit, bow my neck and run my own direction. But wisdom reminds me of how that worked out in the past. So, my new strategy is to actually stop, think, pray, wait and move more meticulously/cautiously than before. See--I can be taught!
I really need to go and get ready for the day, but I want to tell you one more short story.
While rummaging this morning for a table cloth to cover the card table, two brand new dish towels fell out at my feet. They were a gift from my sister for my birthday two years ago. Funny, I was just complaining that I needed some new dish towels yesterday. And the sweetest thing is that they are flour sack, (my favorite!) and they are covered with printed chickens of all kinds. I didn't cry. I just thanked God for the gift, knowing the lovely hands that sent them in the first place.
I am thankful for sweet memories and the promise of seeing our loved ones again someday real soon.
I love you, my family. Have a great day. Eat lots of food, be glad and enjoy the love and relationships we all share. I think of each of you so fondly and am a very blessed woman. This much I am sure of.
Sunday, November 4, 2012
Upon Returning Home
Needless to say, my feet hit the ground running upon my returning home. Bills to pay, meals to prepare, laundry to catch up on, people needing my attention, stalls and kennels to be cleaned, and just the general upkeep of self and surroundings!
We did have one very special happening though... The Beautician turned twenty two on the second and brought a friend to her birthday dinner. We were graced by their presence as we dined on her favorite dish of pork scaloppine. We laughed a lot, hugged a lot, ate a lot and then she was off again to go out with friends for the evening.
What to say, Taylor? We love you so very much and are cheering for you the loudest to complete your schooling and move ahead with your life and career. You are so beautiful and so determined to do things your way! May you find your dreams and desires right in line with what God has planned for your life. :) Many times the words "free spirit" have been used to to describe you by those who adore you. And this is what you are. I pray you soar high above the troubles of this life and encourage others to do the same. You are our sweet Tatorbug and we love you dearly. Thanks for the smiles that you bring.
Construction Man will be home this week for good! Hooray!! We have many decisions to make before the end of the year is up. I just love that man and have the utmost belief in his decision making processes. Together we are unstoppable!! Hurry home, honey!
My trip was unbelievable. My family is so sweet and supportive of me. For this I am truly grateful. Our nephew's wedding was lovely, tender and at times difficult as another one of our precious babies grows up to do adult things.... marriage is not an easy row to hoe!
The EAGALA class in Payson was grueling, insightful, and will take much time to process. I'm sure you will hear more as the days unfurl. Again, I will reiterate: horses are an amazing gift from God. What sense of peace, love and community they contribute to our lives. I am sure my horsey friends will concur-- not to mention the mental health professionals who use them in their equine assisted therapy programs.
Anywho... all is well and today I will have been home for a week already. Thanksgiving fast approaches as the trees turn loose of seasons past. Temps will drop, rain will turn to snow and autumn breezes will whip up into winter frenzies. This too shall pass and 2013 will nose her way into all of our lives if we're blessed enough for her to do so.
Relax and enjoy your Sunday. We are going to do just that here on Rd. 8 in Northwest Wyoming.
The Beautician in all her glory! Love you, Tates!
We did have one very special happening though... The Beautician turned twenty two on the second and brought a friend to her birthday dinner. We were graced by their presence as we dined on her favorite dish of pork scaloppine. We laughed a lot, hugged a lot, ate a lot and then she was off again to go out with friends for the evening.
What to say, Taylor? We love you so very much and are cheering for you the loudest to complete your schooling and move ahead with your life and career. You are so beautiful and so determined to do things your way! May you find your dreams and desires right in line with what God has planned for your life. :) Many times the words "free spirit" have been used to to describe you by those who adore you. And this is what you are. I pray you soar high above the troubles of this life and encourage others to do the same. You are our sweet Tatorbug and we love you dearly. Thanks for the smiles that you bring.
Construction Man will be home this week for good! Hooray!! We have many decisions to make before the end of the year is up. I just love that man and have the utmost belief in his decision making processes. Together we are unstoppable!! Hurry home, honey!
My trip was unbelievable. My family is so sweet and supportive of me. For this I am truly grateful. Our nephew's wedding was lovely, tender and at times difficult as another one of our precious babies grows up to do adult things.... marriage is not an easy row to hoe!
The EAGALA class in Payson was grueling, insightful, and will take much time to process. I'm sure you will hear more as the days unfurl. Again, I will reiterate: horses are an amazing gift from God. What sense of peace, love and community they contribute to our lives. I am sure my horsey friends will concur-- not to mention the mental health professionals who use them in their equine assisted therapy programs.
Anywho... all is well and today I will have been home for a week already. Thanksgiving fast approaches as the trees turn loose of seasons past. Temps will drop, rain will turn to snow and autumn breezes will whip up into winter frenzies. This too shall pass and 2013 will nose her way into all of our lives if we're blessed enough for her to do so.
Relax and enjoy your Sunday. We are going to do just that here on Rd. 8 in Northwest Wyoming.
The Beautician in all her glory! Love you, Tates!
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Lots of changes... again!
Construction Man made it back again from Williston. They have to go one more time before the snow flies.
We will attend my nephew's wedding in Utah this weekend and enjoy my family for a short time. I am very excited for this!
Then, I will attend a class in a neighboring town for a few days through EAGALA. This stands for Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association.
I would eventually like to develop a program in our community that involved women and children in this very process designed for growth, learning, and healing from emotional issues... maybe even developmentally delayed kids, etc. Horses do so much for people in so many areas of our lives. They are a great gift from God!
As I near my fifty first birthday and read back over this blog I am filled with joy at the thought of my fiftieth year of life being so full and hopeful. I have come a long way in so many areas of my life and I am grateful for the people who have cheered me on in this endeavor as well as all the other goals I have achieved in 365 days.
Will I continue to blog? We'll see! :) It is a great way to keep in touch with family spread so far and wide across the continent.
I'll let you know how the class goes and my future plans for college, my returning husband's exciting plans for our future and that of my children.
Have a good week.
my own creation...
We will attend my nephew's wedding in Utah this weekend and enjoy my family for a short time. I am very excited for this!
Then, I will attend a class in a neighboring town for a few days through EAGALA. This stands for Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association.
I would eventually like to develop a program in our community that involved women and children in this very process designed for growth, learning, and healing from emotional issues... maybe even developmentally delayed kids, etc. Horses do so much for people in so many areas of our lives. They are a great gift from God!
As I near my fifty first birthday and read back over this blog I am filled with joy at the thought of my fiftieth year of life being so full and hopeful. I have come a long way in so many areas of my life and I am grateful for the people who have cheered me on in this endeavor as well as all the other goals I have achieved in 365 days.
Will I continue to blog? We'll see! :) It is a great way to keep in touch with family spread so far and wide across the continent.
I'll let you know how the class goes and my future plans for college, my returning husband's exciting plans for our future and that of my children.
Have a good week.
my own creation...
Saturday, October 6, 2012
Happy Birthday, Mom!
Today is my mom's birthday. I am here in Northwest Wyoming where the weather has turned to cold, and she is there in the desert of Nevada where the weather is just becoming comfortably less warm. I long to be there hugging her...
I am happy for my parents to live in their beautiful home, peacefully retired after lifelong service to their children/family! Having said all that, I realize now that my parents never stopped serving their children. They still love each of us with such deep and lasting love. They are amazing examples of how a parent does love their children. Thank you, Dad and Mom.
Oh, Mom! How does a daughter convey her love in a paragraph of simple words. I don't believe I possess the capabilities nor mastery of the English language to do our love enough justice!
I shall start with 'thank you.' Thank you to God for placing me in your care. How you lovingly and dutifully fed me, clothed me, bathed me, taught me, encouraged me and exampled to me a good mother so that your grand daughters could benefit as well. A mother's legacy of love handed down. God knew you would rise to this honorable calling of motherhood with the nobility of the fiercest of warriors. After all, what mother, like a grizzly sow, would not fight anyone or anything that might come between she and her cub? And this is how you defend your children. We have always known that we were loved with a fierce love! Thank you.
The word tenderness comes to my mind. I've watched you navigate some very rough waters over the years, and I recognize that face of utter concern when situations are at their most serious. I have watched you love my siblings through very difficult times and that only reinforces the fact that you are there for me in the same capacity. Thank you.
Your hugs, words of wisdom and encouragement carry great weight in my decision making. You have always said that I could do anything I put my mind to. Thank you for that. I still believe you and therefore I will continue to try!
I've watched you love my dad with complete forgiveness and strength that I am not sure even you know you possess. You have more "try" than anyone I have ever met. An unsurpassed determination to make things right... Therefore, I try harder to make this world a better place as far as it is concerned with me. Thank you.
You are Fancy Nancy! You are gorgeous, with impeccable taste in hair, make-up and clothing. I always tell the story of how each day, at the time dad would be coming home from work you would fix up a bit, no matter what chore you were in the middle of (and there were many!), to greet him at the door looking lovely.
Not to mention your taste in music! And this also a gift you passed on to your children! We all love music because you used to put Johnny Rivers, Tom Jones, Barbara Streisand, and Bob Seger on the stereo and we would dance around the living room (and shout off the deck!) You are an amazing singer.
As you can see, Mom, you have filled my life with life. I can't even begin to tell of all you have done for me, inside and out. I just know that I love you and need you. We will be together soon for the joyous occasion of your grandson's wedding. I can hardly wait to hug you.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY. I love you.
Your old car
Me and Addy
Family lovin'
I am happy for my parents to live in their beautiful home, peacefully retired after lifelong service to their children/family! Having said all that, I realize now that my parents never stopped serving their children. They still love each of us with such deep and lasting love. They are amazing examples of how a parent does love their children. Thank you, Dad and Mom.
Oh, Mom! How does a daughter convey her love in a paragraph of simple words. I don't believe I possess the capabilities nor mastery of the English language to do our love enough justice!
I shall start with 'thank you.' Thank you to God for placing me in your care. How you lovingly and dutifully fed me, clothed me, bathed me, taught me, encouraged me and exampled to me a good mother so that your grand daughters could benefit as well. A mother's legacy of love handed down. God knew you would rise to this honorable calling of motherhood with the nobility of the fiercest of warriors. After all, what mother, like a grizzly sow, would not fight anyone or anything that might come between she and her cub? And this is how you defend your children. We have always known that we were loved with a fierce love! Thank you.
The word tenderness comes to my mind. I've watched you navigate some very rough waters over the years, and I recognize that face of utter concern when situations are at their most serious. I have watched you love my siblings through very difficult times and that only reinforces the fact that you are there for me in the same capacity. Thank you.
Your hugs, words of wisdom and encouragement carry great weight in my decision making. You have always said that I could do anything I put my mind to. Thank you for that. I still believe you and therefore I will continue to try!
I've watched you love my dad with complete forgiveness and strength that I am not sure even you know you possess. You have more "try" than anyone I have ever met. An unsurpassed determination to make things right... Therefore, I try harder to make this world a better place as far as it is concerned with me. Thank you.
You are Fancy Nancy! You are gorgeous, with impeccable taste in hair, make-up and clothing. I always tell the story of how each day, at the time dad would be coming home from work you would fix up a bit, no matter what chore you were in the middle of (and there were many!), to greet him at the door looking lovely.
Not to mention your taste in music! And this also a gift you passed on to your children! We all love music because you used to put Johnny Rivers, Tom Jones, Barbara Streisand, and Bob Seger on the stereo and we would dance around the living room (and shout off the deck!) You are an amazing singer.
As you can see, Mom, you have filled my life with life. I can't even begin to tell of all you have done for me, inside and out. I just know that I love you and need you. We will be together soon for the joyous occasion of your grandson's wedding. I can hardly wait to hug you.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY. I love you.
Your old car
Me and Addy
Family lovin'
Friday, September 28, 2012
The Red Door
I've been painting my front door and side lights. We are very excited to be closing in on the renovations. Not to mention the joy of less watering with the cooling temps and harvest near completion.
I have freed close to fifty pumpkins from their vine entanglement. :) They seem glad to have found a home adorning my entry way. I know it makes me smile!
However, Hank has taken a liking to dried corn on the cob. I was saving it for my chickens but he shreds every ear he can get his paws on. He will be a year old on the twenty fifth of October. So much for corn decor. Maybe he will grow up soon...
Two Nurse Children... engagement picts.
I have freed close to fifty pumpkins from their vine entanglement. :) They seem glad to have found a home adorning my entry way. I know it makes me smile!
However, Hank has taken a liking to dried corn on the cob. I was saving it for my chickens but he shreds every ear he can get his paws on. He will be a year old on the twenty fifth of October. So much for corn decor. Maybe he will grow up soon...
Two Nurse Children... engagement picts.
Saturday, September 22, 2012
Happy Birthday, Theologian! (For Yesterday...)
See! See how busy I have become this past week. I did not forget to wish my oldest child happy birthday, but failed to blog about this remarkable little lady!
Oh, forgive me sweet child. You must know I love you more than my own life. :)
Where does a mother's loving thoughts begin with that oldest daughter. The one she has known the longest out of all her children! The one that kept her company in those earlier years when the dad was out of town earning a living for his little family. The one who knows every word to every early Garth Brooks tune. The one who could read before she could read! The one who understands more than even she understands that she understands.
Is it hard being you, Theologian? Gifts given by God that will not reveal themselves before their time has come. Patience!
You have blessed this family more than words can say. You have loved us all so well with your perfect smile and infectious laughter. You giggle at just the right time, always. You never fail to please... another one of your best traits. You try so hard in every task and I've never seen you quit, unless forced to do so! This determination runs deeper than the strongest of currents. I am just sure you're going to need someday, somehow.
The tears choke my throat, as I miss you terribly and long to hug your neck! I know this road you are on right now doesn't make a whole lot of sense. But, in due time you will see why.
How do I convey how much I love you?
I don't know. But I do. We all love you... a huge cloud of witnesses cheering you on. Run the race well, daughter. It's gonna be worth it.
Happy Birthday, Austin Claire Whitlock Hackworth.
love,
mom
This year's party would have been even better!! :)
Oh, forgive me sweet child. You must know I love you more than my own life. :)
Where does a mother's loving thoughts begin with that oldest daughter. The one she has known the longest out of all her children! The one that kept her company in those earlier years when the dad was out of town earning a living for his little family. The one who knows every word to every early Garth Brooks tune. The one who could read before she could read! The one who understands more than even she understands that she understands.
Is it hard being you, Theologian? Gifts given by God that will not reveal themselves before their time has come. Patience!
You have blessed this family more than words can say. You have loved us all so well with your perfect smile and infectious laughter. You giggle at just the right time, always. You never fail to please... another one of your best traits. You try so hard in every task and I've never seen you quit, unless forced to do so! This determination runs deeper than the strongest of currents. I am just sure you're going to need someday, somehow.
The tears choke my throat, as I miss you terribly and long to hug your neck! I know this road you are on right now doesn't make a whole lot of sense. But, in due time you will see why.
How do I convey how much I love you?
I don't know. But I do. We all love you... a huge cloud of witnesses cheering you on. Run the race well, daughter. It's gonna be worth it.
Happy Birthday, Austin Claire Whitlock Hackworth.
love,
mom
This year's party would have been even better!! :)
time passing...
Oh how the days, like waves upon the ocean, roll by. Like memories, forward and back I play the scenes in my head; rewinding the tape over and over. He said, she said... Undulating, sometimes pulling me downward to despair; sometimes pulling me to the surface for a breath.
Wedding venues? Really? Is it time to let another of my precious babies go into their life of womanhood? Of wifely duties, home care and children of their own. Seasons of life; cycles in every lifetime. The human experience in which all mankind shares. 'Nothing new under the sun' is how King Solomon describes it.
Construction Man has been home since Monday evening. It is so joyful at the start and becomes cloudier as the week progresses. Emotions flare in preparation for his departure once again. I hate this! You'd think after all these years we would be better at good byes. NOT!
He accomplished a good many tasks toward completion of the renovated kitchen this go'round. His handcrafted, concrete countertops are installed with the open, stainless steel shelving in place, full of plain white porcelain dishes and stainless bowls.
The exterior walls are sheeted and receiving their white paint today. No more TYVEK plastic glaring at front door guests.
I am planning for the fall decor at the front door as well. So many pumpkins have matured in the garden out the back gate. I can't wait to get my hands on them and create some MarthaStewartesque scenes!
Enjoy the last notes of summer. September has opened and is already beginning her descent into October. Where does the time go? I ask myself this question often.
Oh, and call your mother if you can. Sorry, Mom! I got carried away with all the wifely duties this week. :)
Tell someone how special they are and that you love them.
It's all gonna be worth it.
Go Martha!
Northern Michigan
Nurse Child and Fiance
Wedding venues? Really? Is it time to let another of my precious babies go into their life of womanhood? Of wifely duties, home care and children of their own. Seasons of life; cycles in every lifetime. The human experience in which all mankind shares. 'Nothing new under the sun' is how King Solomon describes it.
Construction Man has been home since Monday evening. It is so joyful at the start and becomes cloudier as the week progresses. Emotions flare in preparation for his departure once again. I hate this! You'd think after all these years we would be better at good byes. NOT!
He accomplished a good many tasks toward completion of the renovated kitchen this go'round. His handcrafted, concrete countertops are installed with the open, stainless steel shelving in place, full of plain white porcelain dishes and stainless bowls.
The exterior walls are sheeted and receiving their white paint today. No more TYVEK plastic glaring at front door guests.
I am planning for the fall decor at the front door as well. So many pumpkins have matured in the garden out the back gate. I can't wait to get my hands on them and create some MarthaStewartesque scenes!
Enjoy the last notes of summer. September has opened and is already beginning her descent into October. Where does the time go? I ask myself this question often.
Oh, and call your mother if you can. Sorry, Mom! I got carried away with all the wifely duties this week. :)
Tell someone how special they are and that you love them.
It's all gonna be worth it.
Go Martha!
Northern Michigan
Nurse Child and Fiance
Monday, September 17, 2012
Saving the Vineyard
I spent the other night in my friend Baerbell's vineyard. We were rescuing the beautiful clusters of red and white grapes from the robins that were hungrily attacking; methodically stripping the vines of their luscious fruits. Tomorrow she harvests. I have to go to "Chopped" and will not be able to attend the party. DANG!! I have looked forward to this moment since June.
But I am thankful to have been able to relieve her of her vineyard vigil for one night as she returned to her bed in the house for some rest. My friend, her husband and myself slept in our bedrolls right next to the vines only to arise in the morning to find that the robins had doubled their efforts and called all their friends to join in the robbery!
We managed to scare them off time and time again with the shot gun blasts, but robins are not easily swayed. Who knew? We eventually wrapped all the bunches with netting in the hope of preserving them for Tuesday morning.
I can hardly wait to taste the wine. She will transport the grapes to Billings to a vintner there.
Oh the time in watering a pruning has she invested. I only spent six hours one afternoon early on in the season helping with this process and feel like those shiny black and creamy orbs are my babies too!
I will never look at a robin the same way again!
But I am thankful to have been able to relieve her of her vineyard vigil for one night as she returned to her bed in the house for some rest. My friend, her husband and myself slept in our bedrolls right next to the vines only to arise in the morning to find that the robins had doubled their efforts and called all their friends to join in the robbery!
We managed to scare them off time and time again with the shot gun blasts, but robins are not easily swayed. Who knew? We eventually wrapped all the bunches with netting in the hope of preserving them for Tuesday morning.
I can hardly wait to taste the wine. She will transport the grapes to Billings to a vintner there.
Oh the time in watering a pruning has she invested. I only spent six hours one afternoon early on in the season helping with this process and feel like those shiny black and creamy orbs are my babies too!
I will never look at a robin the same way again!
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