To Aidan, "different" is the new normal!
He is full of life and is always looking for new thrills and adventure.
And last weekend he left a "Hi, Nani," and "Hi, Papi," on our telephone answering machine! How cool is that?
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Hang on to those pants, boy!
I wish I were as skinny as Aidan. Christi bought him a new swimsuit, but he had problems keeping it up. It didn't bother him.
On my Flickr site several contacts have said that this will be great blackmail material when Aidan starts dating in his teen years. Probably so. But I don't think he will be embarrassed.
On my Flickr site several contacts have said that this will be great blackmail material when Aidan starts dating in his teen years. Probably so. But I don't think he will be embarrassed.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Happy Birthday, Jenni!
My sister, Rachel, took this great shot of Aidan, Jenni & Christi last June when we were up at Crystal Lake. Three generations. Imagine that.
Mexican Long-Tongued Bat
Jenni & I were at the Sunglow Ranch, a B&B near the Chiricahua Mountains, last Friday night. During dinner I kept seeing flashes of light out the window. I was wondering if there was something wrong with my glasses. Then I realized it was bats flying past the porch light on their way to a hummingbird feeder. Fortunately I had my tripod along and set it up with my camera and flash. I got dozens of shots, but this was the only keeper. It was a great evening, made even more special by watching the bats.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Electric Slide
Aidan loves to visit "Choo choo train park" in Elberta. It is on the south shore of the Betsie River, across from Frankfort. Their was an old iron foundry on this site and they had a train engine turn table. They've left one section of the track for kids to practice their acrobatic skills, and they've built an nice selection of playground equipment, too. We had such a good time at Crystal Lake over Labor Day weekend.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
I may be slow, but I'm ahead of the photographer!
Christopher, Christi and Jenni were all waiting impatiently for Aidan and me to get to the top of the Sleeping Bear Dune climb. Aidan did a great job climbing by himself. This is one of my favorite places in the world. We hadn't climbed the dune in many, many years, so this was fun to do again.
Friday, September 5, 2008
Leave me alone. Can't you see I'm sleeping?
Lisa's daughter, Rachel, is the mother of Noah, this adorable little boy. We had such a wonderful time up at the cottage over Labor Day weekend. Fortunately for us the weather was hot--the hottest temps for Michigan this summer. We reveled in the great weather. Actually even got fully in Crystal Lake! Imagine that.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
A swing, a glass of wine, a mountain view, and thee
I had made a swing like this in Haiti, and kept the template for the various parts. Jenni has been after me for 4 years to make another one for Arizona, but I don't have the proper power tools--nor do I have the space to make it without leaving a mess all over.
So I asked a friend a church who has a complete woodworking shop attached to his house to make one for us. I gave him the template and he did a fantastic job--the whole thing is made of oak.
Even at 95 degrees it is enjoyable.
So I asked a friend a church who has a complete woodworking shop attached to his house to make one for us. I gave him the template and he did a fantastic job--the whole thing is made of oak.
Even at 95 degrees it is enjoyable.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Pathway to Heaven
This cloud formation was the most unusual I've ever seen. It was fantastic.
I posted this picture on Flickr and it received over 1,200 views in 2 days! It made it for a brief time to the front page of Flickr's Explore page -- a feat of which I am very proud.
I posted this picture on Flickr and it received over 1,200 views in 2 days! It made it for a brief time to the front page of Flickr's Explore page -- a feat of which I am very proud.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Monsoon Magic
The summer rains have been blessing us with sufficient moisture. The valley is turning green to live up to its name. The sunsets have been spectacular also.
Normally in Arizona you don't give too much attention to the weather when planning your day. It is dependably sunny. So yesterday we came home from church, ate lunch and said, "Let's go to the pool." Not.
It was drizzling. So we had to put off the pool for a few hours when it DID get sunny.
Normally in Arizona you don't give too much attention to the weather when planning your day. It is dependably sunny. So yesterday we came home from church, ate lunch and said, "Let's go to the pool." Not.
It was drizzling. So we had to put off the pool for a few hours when it DID get sunny.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
A Boy, His Dog, and the Lake
Aidan and Daisy (Lisa's dog).
Aidan had such a good time on the beach. It's a good place for a boy with so much energy.
He got along with Daisy, too. Daisy kept trying to lick him, which he didn't like. His favorite phrase was, "Daisy, bite." We would tell him, "No, Daisy doesn't bite." And then he would go right back for more.
Aidan had such a good time on the beach. It's a good place for a boy with so much energy.
He got along with Daisy, too. Daisy kept trying to lick him, which he didn't like. His favorite phrase was, "Daisy, bite." We would tell him, "No, Daisy doesn't bite." And then he would go right back for more.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Getting a feel for the tiller
Christi called last night and said she is keeping her full-time job at Metro Hospital in GR. She'll be working Friday, Saturday and Sunday shifts. Then she can be in Traverse City Monday-Thursday. Chris will come to GR on the weekends. This means a bit of traveling, but they will be together, he will gain experience in his job, she will keep her seniority at the hospital, and Aidan will need way less day care. I think it is a good solution.
Isn't he cute sitting in the sailboat?
Isn't he cute sitting in the sailboat?
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Chewing Weed
Actually, Aidan loved sucking on weeds. He kept one going for the whole walk.
It's just that here he had be fussing about something, so I stuck the weed in his mouth, then took this picture. I think it's adorable.
It was so much fun to spend time with him. Christi is doing a fantastic job of channeling his energy. He is also starting to spend more time on one task or activity. He played with a new "Thomas" train set for 30 minutes one afternoon. He also played for the longest time on the beach with his shovel, rake and sand pail.
It's just that here he had be fussing about something, so I stuck the weed in his mouth, then took this picture. I think it's adorable.
It was so much fun to spend time with him. Christi is doing a fantastic job of channeling his energy. He is also starting to spend more time on one task or activity. He played with a new "Thomas" train set for 30 minutes one afternoon. He also played for the longest time on the beach with his shovel, rake and sand pail.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Daisy, give Aidan a kiss
We're up at Cyrstal Lake enjoying the Michigan temperatures. We were in the 70s today, while Tucson was 106!
We're totally enjoying watch Aidan. He loves Daisy, Lisa's dog. He actually went swimming in the lake this afternoon, although I thought it was too cold.
We're totally enjoying watch Aidan. He loves Daisy, Lisa's dog. He actually went swimming in the lake this afternoon, although I thought it was too cold.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Southwest Coral Bean Flower
We're packing tonight to go up to Crystal Lake. Looking forward to a week of being at the cottage. It's going to be fun to see Aidan, Christi and Chris again. Aidan actually said a couple of words to me on the telephone last weekend! It's fun to see him grow and develop.
This is a great time to get out of Arizona. We'll be above 105 for the next few days. I always say that it doesn't get hot till 105. Well, it's hot now.
We'll be back in time for the start of the summer thunderstorm season. Can't wait to get some lighting photos.
I'll be posting more from Crystal Lake in the next few days, so check back often.
This is a great time to get out of Arizona. We'll be above 105 for the next few days. I always say that it doesn't get hot till 105. Well, it's hot now.
We'll be back in time for the start of the summer thunderstorm season. Can't wait to get some lighting photos.
I'll be posting more from Crystal Lake in the next few days, so check back often.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Gangsta Vicki
On Deborah's Flickr stream.
Isn't she adorable. Look at that smile!
This is just too good not to share.
Isn't she adorable. Look at that smile!
This is just too good not to share.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Thinking Biblically about Politics
Here is Panda striking a favorite pose. He is so glad to have Jenni home.
It has been quite funny, really. I've had a rule for years: No cats on the bed. But from the beginning I couldn't get Panda to obey. I tried every trick I knew but he persisted in climbing over us at night to stake out his favorite sleeping place. But I didn't give up either. Through the years we've come to an understanding and a truce. The new rule is: No cat on my side of the bed. And he respects it.
However, he gets sad when Jenni isn't there to sleep with. (Even when she is gone he doesn't violate my side of the bed.) So now he is happy once again.
It has been quite funny, really. I've had a rule for years: No cats on the bed. But from the beginning I couldn't get Panda to obey. I tried every trick I knew but he persisted in climbing over us at night to stake out his favorite sleeping place. But I didn't give up either. Through the years we've come to an understanding and a truce. The new rule is: No cat on my side of the bed. And he respects it.
However, he gets sad when Jenni isn't there to sleep with. (Even when she is gone he doesn't violate my side of the bed.) So now he is happy once again.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Guayacan Blossom Solitary on a Branch
Like this flower, I've been basically alone for the past 2 weeks. Jenni comes home late tonight. It will feel good to get back into some kind of more normal routine. I've spent too much solitary time on the computer during her absence. No reading. Only a little walking with the dog. Definitely no sitting out on the back patio talking!
Lantana & petunias
I've been home alone again for the past two days. Some friends came over last night and made adjustments to my computer monitor. Color calibration. What a difference it made. My colors are much more vibrant and brighter.
Last Friday we had a power spike and I thought I'd lost my monitor. It wouldn't display a light at all on the controls. I was prepared to go up to Tucson to purchase a new one. My co-worker suggested I borrow an extra one from the church for the weekend. After I hooked up the borrowed one I decided to plug the fried one in to see if it would react--and it did!
I was excited to buy a new monitor (the old was was a bottom-of-the-line type). If it truly were dead, then I could justify a new, better one. But since it resurrected itself, I couldn't spend the money. So when this friend said he had calibration software and equipment, I asked him to help.
I'm thrilled with the results. And I saved myself $200+.
Last Friday we had a power spike and I thought I'd lost my monitor. It wouldn't display a light at all on the controls. I was prepared to go up to Tucson to purchase a new one. My co-worker suggested I borrow an extra one from the church for the weekend. After I hooked up the borrowed one I decided to plug the fried one in to see if it would react--and it did!
I was excited to buy a new monitor (the old was was a bottom-of-the-line type). If it truly were dead, then I could justify a new, better one. But since it resurrected itself, I couldn't spend the money. So when this friend said he had calibration software and equipment, I asked him to help.
I'm thrilled with the results. And I saved myself $200+.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Arizona Spiny Lizard
Jenni came home yesterday! But leaves again tomorrow. :-(
I went to the Desert Museum yesterday. Had a wonderful time alone--wandering at my own pace, looking for interesting things to take pictures of. It is absolutely amazing how when you slow down and take time to look around you can see so much more.
While I was watching this lizard there were probably 25 other people who walked by me--in a hurry to get to lunch probably--and never saw this lizard.
Some the flowers I saw were on trees overhead--missed by most people. And then there are the insects. You have to stop and look at the flowers closely to see the bugs inside.
We're about to go (Sunday late afternoon) up to Madera Canyon and have a picnic and watch the sun go down. Should be fun.
I went to the Desert Museum yesterday. Had a wonderful time alone--wandering at my own pace, looking for interesting things to take pictures of. It is absolutely amazing how when you slow down and take time to look around you can see so much more.
While I was watching this lizard there were probably 25 other people who walked by me--in a hurry to get to lunch probably--and never saw this lizard.
Some the flowers I saw were on trees overhead--missed by most people. And then there are the insects. You have to stop and look at the flowers closely to see the bugs inside.
We're about to go (Sunday late afternoon) up to Madera Canyon and have a picnic and watch the sun go down. Should be fun.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Alligator Juniper Bark
Jenni came home for 20 hours--enough time to do laundry and repack for her next trip. Today she's in Atlanta. She returns home tomorrow, then heads out on Monday for Minneapolis. I don't think she has any more trips until we go to Michigan!
She offered to go out to a restaurant for my birthday dinner (Wednesday night--not tonight), but I decided to cook a top-notch steak on the grill and eat at home. The good news is that we ate it Wed., I had another helping of the left overs on Thurs., and will finish it tonight. Pretty good idea on my part, huh? Birthday dinner three nights in a row.
This picture is from last Saturday while hiking with Carlos in Madera Canyon. Don't you just love the textures of this bark? I do.
She offered to go out to a restaurant for my birthday dinner (Wednesday night--not tonight), but I decided to cook a top-notch steak on the grill and eat at home. The good news is that we ate it Wed., I had another helping of the left overs on Thurs., and will finish it tonight. Pretty good idea on my part, huh? Birthday dinner three nights in a row.
This picture is from last Saturday while hiking with Carlos in Madera Canyon. Don't you just love the textures of this bark? I do.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Why am I the only one saluting?
I'm standing, looking for Jenni to come home!
She's been in Louisville for a week. She comes home tonight, then leaves again for somewhere else tomorrow (I don't remember where).
She suggested we go out for dinner tonight in honor of my birthday Friday, but I don't think she really wants to eat at a restaurant after been out all week. Sooooo...... I'm grilling a nice rib eye steak and will fix a lovely salad. I also hope to buy asparagus and make a hollandaise sauce. I'll enjoy all that much more than going to a restaurant and dealing with surly waiters.
She's been in Louisville for a week. She comes home tonight, then leaves again for somewhere else tomorrow (I don't remember where).
She suggested we go out for dinner tonight in honor of my birthday Friday, but I don't think she really wants to eat at a restaurant after been out all week. Sooooo...... I'm grilling a nice rib eye steak and will fix a lovely salad. I also hope to buy asparagus and make a hollandaise sauce. I'll enjoy all that much more than going to a restaurant and dealing with surly waiters.
Monday, June 2, 2008
Vicki loving the music
Jenni was in Louisville, but I went with Karl's family to Tucson Sunday evening for a Pops concert in the park. Vicki was groovin' to the music. Here's her typical happy pose.
Our summer is finally beginning--nearly 100 today. Sure feels good. Got a nice bike ride in yesterday in the late morning. It's funny, but I feel more like exercising when it's hot than when it's cool. I think it's because I hate putting on extra clothes.
Our summer is finally beginning--nearly 100 today. Sure feels good. Got a nice bike ride in yesterday in the late morning. It's funny, but I feel more like exercising when it's hot than when it's cool. I think it's because I hate putting on extra clothes.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Relaxing in the garden with a cat
Memorial Day we went to the Tumacacori Mission. This is in the courtyard garden. Had a beautiful morning there.
Jenni is in Louisville this week. I'm sure she wishes she were back here in Arizona.
Tomorrow I'm taking Carlos (and Mica) up to Madera Canyon for a little morning hike. Should be interesting.
I got a new swimsuit. For the last 6 months I've been saying, "I've got to get a new suit," each time we went to the pool. But did I order one? No. So finally went online to Land's End and ordered one. Very satisfying.
Jenni is in Louisville this week. I'm sure she wishes she were back here in Arizona.
Tomorrow I'm taking Carlos (and Mica) up to Madera Canyon for a little morning hike. Should be interesting.
I got a new swimsuit. For the last 6 months I've been saying, "I've got to get a new suit," each time we went to the pool. But did I order one? No. So finally went online to Land's End and ordered one. Very satisfying.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Go ahead, tell me I'm cute
At the concert in Reid Park last Sunday I saw this cute Chihuahua.
Many people brings their dogs, but we forgot to take Mica.
I'm hoping to go to the concert again on Sunday with Karl's family (Jenni is in Louisville), so maybe I will remember to take Mica this time. She would enjoy it, I think. I know she would be well-behaved.
Many people brings their dogs, but we forgot to take Mica.
I'm hoping to go to the concert again on Sunday with Karl's family (Jenni is in Louisville), so maybe I will remember to take Mica this time. She would enjoy it, I think. I know she would be well-behaved.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Pomegranate flowers
We spent Memorial Day morning at the Tumacacori Mission. This flower is on a pomegranate tree in the courtyard garden. It was so peaceful. We enjoyed sitting for awhile in the shade of this tree. I'll be posting more photos of the mission over the next several days on my Flickr site.
The Tumacacori mission was founded in the late 1600s. I can't imagine living in this desert 300 years ago. I give both the O'ohdam and the Spanish credit for hardiness!
The Tumacacori mission was founded in the late 1600s. I can't imagine living in this desert 300 years ago. I give both the O'ohdam and the Spanish credit for hardiness!
Monday, May 26, 2008
Tucson Pops Orchestra in Reid Park
Sunday night we went to Tucson for a concert in the park. Lovely evening outdoors. The music is quite good, too. It's fun to watch all the different people. Combined with a picnic on the lawn in advance of the concert makes a very enjoyable evening.
This concert was the "Memorial Day" concert. At one point they play all the "Service Songs," that is, the Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard and Air Force Hymns. The ask all the veterans to stand. It's a very nice tribute to those who helped maintain our freedom.
This concert was the "Memorial Day" concert. At one point they play all the "Service Songs," that is, the Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard and Air Force Hymns. The ask all the veterans to stand. It's a very nice tribute to those who helped maintain our freedom.
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Bookend for May 24 #2
Saturday evening.
Most of my day was spent fixing the water softener. On Friday it was discharging water down the drain (something it should do when it recycles) all day. It was running in the morning when I went to work (strange, I thought), and was still running when I came home from work (a problem, I thought).
When I put the water softener in 3 years ago I didn't install a bypass valve system (it was supposed to come with one, but didn't). Now, after fussing with the controls to no success, I had no way to shut it off without shutting water off to the whole house.
So Saturday morning I set out to put in a series of valves that would let me bypass the water softener. The repair guy I called was very nice, but said he couldn't get to us until next Thursday. I needed to get this thing bypassed.
I went to the hardware store, bought the requisite valves and tees, cut the pipe, installed all the stuff, went to Karl's house and borrowed his torch for soldering. Then I soldered it all up.
The problem was, this was all 1" copper pipe which I have rarely soldered. I didn't heat each joint evenly. Some parts of the joints I overheated, driving the flux out. The result was that when I turned the water on, thinking everything was well-soldered, I was treated to a shower--with virtually every joint leaking.
So I called Karl and groveled. He graciously came to my rescue. It took too of us to unsolder all the joints, properly clean them, put it all together, and then let Karl do the honors of applying the proper heat for a professional job.
Thanks, Karl!
So after this I made a fire in the chiminea and we enjoyed watching the mountains change color. Very relaxing.
Most of my day was spent fixing the water softener. On Friday it was discharging water down the drain (something it should do when it recycles) all day. It was running in the morning when I went to work (strange, I thought), and was still running when I came home from work (a problem, I thought).
When I put the water softener in 3 years ago I didn't install a bypass valve system (it was supposed to come with one, but didn't). Now, after fussing with the controls to no success, I had no way to shut it off without shutting water off to the whole house.
So Saturday morning I set out to put in a series of valves that would let me bypass the water softener. The repair guy I called was very nice, but said he couldn't get to us until next Thursday. I needed to get this thing bypassed.
I went to the hardware store, bought the requisite valves and tees, cut the pipe, installed all the stuff, went to Karl's house and borrowed his torch for soldering. Then I soldered it all up.
The problem was, this was all 1" copper pipe which I have rarely soldered. I didn't heat each joint evenly. Some parts of the joints I overheated, driving the flux out. The result was that when I turned the water on, thinking everything was well-soldered, I was treated to a shower--with virtually every joint leaking.
So I called Karl and groveled. He graciously came to my rescue. It took too of us to unsolder all the joints, properly clean them, put it all together, and then let Karl do the honors of applying the proper heat for a professional job.
Thanks, Karl!
So after this I made a fire in the chiminea and we enjoyed watching the mountains change color. Very relaxing.
Friday, May 23, 2008
Human pyramid
Rachel has joined Flickr! She has posted quite a few fun shot. This one is from last summer at the Conference Grounds.
I can't believe that it was more than 40 years ago that I spent time on this beach. It must have been about 1965, before I started working at Ludema's, that I got to spend a whole summer at the beach. Transistor radios (not tubes) meant you could carry a radio down to the beach. We could pick up WOKY from Milwaukee. The played the Beatles, Herman's Hermits, the Byrds, the Supremes, Peter and Gordon, .......... Those were the days.
I can't believe that it was more than 40 years ago that I spent time on this beach. It must have been about 1965, before I started working at Ludema's, that I got to spend a whole summer at the beach. Transistor radios (not tubes) meant you could carry a radio down to the beach. We could pick up WOKY from Milwaukee. The played the Beatles, Herman's Hermits, the Byrds, the Supremes, Peter and Gordon, .......... Those were the days.
What it is I don't know
Seen at the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum last Saturday. It was in the hummingbird house. Pretty cool, huh? Even looks like a little hummingbird.
We're happy to have had 0.2" rain last night. Today is only going to be a high of 70, after hitting 100 earlier in the week. Strange weather.
Looking forward to a long weekend with Memorial Day. No specific plans.
We're happy to have had 0.2" rain last night. Today is only going to be a high of 70, after hitting 100 earlier in the week. Strange weather.
Looking forward to a long weekend with Memorial Day. No specific plans.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Obliging Smile and Desert Rose
Here is Kervens at the Desert Museum on Saturday. We took him along for a brief hike in Saguaro West National Park, then had lunch at the Desert Museum. He really was interested in the plants along the trail. He found these cool bean seeds that we could wear as rings. We spotted dozens of lizards. And in the hummingbird house, Kervens was the best at spotting the tiny nests.
Bean Pod As Ring
We took a short hike Saturday in Saguaro West National Park. Kervens came along with us. He was on the constant lookout for interesting things along the trail. He found this bush that had flowered, produced seeds, and had left the dried up seed pods that had curled. He collected a bunch and gave us rings. If you go to my Flickr page you can see photos of the bush.
We also spent a couple of hours at the Desert Museum, where the highlight was seeing baby hummingbirds in a nest.
We also spent a couple of hours at the Desert Museum, where the highlight was seeing baby hummingbirds in a nest.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Doing my best Yoda impression
After cleaning the house this morning, we're off to the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum. Will also do a little hiking in the Saguaro West National Park. It's a beautiful day. So far this year we haven't had any hot (for us) weather, although it is supposed to hit next week. So well take advantage of being outdoors today.
I'm hoping to get some photos of hummingbirds at the Desert Museum. I remember last year during May there were several hummingbirds sitting on nests. With my new camera I should be able to get a closeup shot without being too close physically. We'll see.
I'm hoping to get some photos of hummingbirds at the Desert Museum. I remember last year during May there were several hummingbirds sitting on nests. With my new camera I should be able to get a closeup shot without being too close physically. We'll see.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Rose Hip
Sometimes one can find beauty even after the initial bloom fades. It's all in the way we observe things around us. This is something I'm learning by watching photographs of other people around the world. Of course, most take pictures of flowers and birds and children and lovely buildings and majestic mountains. But others take pictures of things that we don't normally look at--buildings falling down, faded flowers, old people, and fallen petals. It is fun to try to capture the non-obvious and try to make it interesting.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
#5 Left the Nest
The first of the owl chicks left the nest today. She was at the front door of the church this morning. Later she moved up into a juniper tree next to the front entrance. The other two moved further away from the nest, but still on the planter ledge. The mother was keeping a sharp eye out for them, however.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Keeping Watch
It is so fun in the evening to be greeted by Mica and Panda. Often about 5 o'clock is when they decide to play together. They run and chase and tumble. I've tried to get pictures of them playing, but I usually just get blurs. So here they are all still and tranquil.
I like this shot because in the midst of all life's busyness and hectic scheduling we should, at times, just take some time to sit and observe. It pays, also, to be able to sit with a good friend.
I like this shot because in the midst of all life's busyness and hectic scheduling we should, at times, just take some time to sit and observe. It pays, also, to be able to sit with a good friend.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Look out! Those are sharp
Do you ever feel like this? Knowing you've got to rest but the only place to sit is prickers and thorns? That is what it's been like for me the last couple of days--too much to do, and none of it pleasurable. The work at the church has continued to pile up and I've had such a hard time concentrating and being very productive. I'd like to turn my back on the whole thing.
I've just had a co-worker stop by my office to ask about progress on a new brochure--which I haven't started on. I guess I've put it off long enough. Back to sit on the prickers.
I've just had a co-worker stop by my office to ask about progress on a new brochure--which I haven't started on. I guess I've put it off long enough. Back to sit on the prickers.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Do you see the zebra hiding here?
Last Saturday we went to visit friends in Apache Junction (outside of Phoenix). They are returning to Colorado this week, so we wanted to see them one more time this year. We went to their pool for a couple of hours in the afternoon. They played water volleyball with their neighborhood regulars--we were invited to play but declined. We just lazed about in the other pool and I took photos! This one is interesting because of the shadows.
Last night we went to an outdoor concert of the Tucson Pops Orchestra. It's sort of like Ravinia in Chicago where everyone comes early, sets out blankets with a spread of food, has a wonderful picnic, then hears outstanding music. They do these concerts during May and early June--it's warm enough at night, but not yet really hot. For example, it was 90 degrees when we got there at 5:30, but 72 when we left at 9:00.
Last night we went to an outdoor concert of the Tucson Pops Orchestra. It's sort of like Ravinia in Chicago where everyone comes early, sets out blankets with a spread of food, has a wonderful picnic, then hears outstanding music. They do these concerts during May and early June--it's warm enough at night, but not yet really hot. For example, it was 90 degrees when we got there at 5:30, but 72 when we left at 9:00.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Baptism of New Tilley Hat
Saturday we went up to Apache Junction (outside of Phoenix) to visit friends from Colorado who also have a home in Arizona. They are leaving next week to return to Colorado, so this was our last chance to see them before they are gone. We had a great day visiting them--we spent hours just sitting on their back patio watching the birds at the feeder and ducks swimming in the pond. I'll upload more photos over the next few days. We also spent some time this afternoon at the pool.
Jenni bought a new hat and wore it for the first time. She wanted a stylish hat--I wanted her to get one with plenty of sun protection. This one offers both.
Jenni bought a new hat and wore it for the first time. She wanted a stylish hat--I wanted her to get one with plenty of sun protection. This one offers both.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
King of all Cholla Blossoms
Jenni finished her jury duty today. Hung jury. Quite frustrating to have to spend nearly 3 whole days and then have the whole thing dismissed. At least it's behind her and tomorrow she can try to get back into some kind of "normalcy."
We are enjoying our weather. Earlier this week we actually had 0.1" of rain at our house. During the afternoon one of my co-workers said, "It's raining, at least on this side of the church." Sure enough, the line of showers passed on one side of the church with enough moisture to wet the pavement, while everything on the other side of the church stayed bone dry.
We're going up to Apache Junction (near Phoenix) on Saturday to visit friends from Colorado who have spent the winter in Arizona. They are returning to Colorado next week.
We are enjoying our weather. Earlier this week we actually had 0.1" of rain at our house. During the afternoon one of my co-workers said, "It's raining, at least on this side of the church." Sure enough, the line of showers passed on one side of the church with enough moisture to wet the pavement, while everything on the other side of the church stayed bone dry.
We're going up to Apache Junction (near Phoenix) on Saturday to visit friends from Colorado who have spent the winter in Arizona. They are returning to Colorado next week.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
You cock and eye at me, I'll cock an eye at you ...
Jenni was called to jury duty for Pima County yesterday, and got selected to be on a trial. So off she went this morning, expecting that the trial would be over quickly. Bottom line: she has to return tomorrow. The jury has been given the case, but they couldn't agree on a verdict.
This is not a good time for her to be missing days at work (now 3 days). There is a lot going on, particularly planning for their June oral exams.
To top it off, she had a trustees meeting at church tonight, so couldn't even catch up on work emails from home.
Basically, I just feel like this little owl chick--kind of dopey.
This is not a good time for her to be missing days at work (now 3 days). There is a lot going on, particularly planning for their June oral exams.
To top it off, she had a trustees meeting at church tonight, so couldn't even catch up on work emails from home.
Basically, I just feel like this little owl chick--kind of dopey.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Raiders of the Lost Bird Seed
I bought a new bird feeder a couple of weeks ago. Last summer I quit feeding the birds because they would empty the feeder in a single day. It was taking a lot of time to fill and it was getting expensive.
I thought my problem was that the feeding holes in the feeder were too big, allowing the birds to indiscriminately throw seed out.
So I went up to a wild bird supply store in Tucson. When I told him my problem he immediately said, "white winged doves."
"What?" I said. It turns out that white winged doves sit on a feeder and just go crazy throwing seed around, wasting it on the ground. The answer was to get a "hood" for my feeder that slides down the tube and rests about inches above the perches. The small birds can sit and eat to their hearts' content, but the doves are too big to perch there.
It has worked like a charm. Some seed does still fall the to ground, and the doves come around and eat it up. Everybody is happy, including me.
I thought my problem was that the feeding holes in the feeder were too big, allowing the birds to indiscriminately throw seed out.
So I went up to a wild bird supply store in Tucson. When I told him my problem he immediately said, "white winged doves."
"What?" I said. It turns out that white winged doves sit on a feeder and just go crazy throwing seed around, wasting it on the ground. The answer was to get a "hood" for my feeder that slides down the tube and rests about inches above the perches. The small birds can sit and eat to their hearts' content, but the doves are too big to perch there.
It has worked like a charm. Some seed does still fall the to ground, and the doves come around and eat it up. Everybody is happy, including me.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
ABR MOC General Content Committee
Last night we had dinner with a committee from Jenni's work at the Hacienda del Sol. This is an old Tucson resort and restaurant up in the foothills of the Santa Catalina mountains to the north of Tucson. We had a lovely meal (I had quail) and very enjoyable company and conversation.
I was glad that I took my camera along. There is a beautiful cactus garden as you enter the complex. The evening sun was getting low and that made for some good photos. I'll be posting these over the next few days.
I was glad that I took my camera along. There is a beautiful cactus garden as you enter the complex. The evening sun was getting low and that made for some good photos. I'll be posting these over the next few days.
Saturday, May 3, 2008
(NOT REAL) Quail in a bird bath
This morning I took a walk around the neighborhood with my camera slung around my neck. Over the next few days you'll be seeing several of my favorite shots from this escapade. I'm sure all of these items have particular meaning to the owners, but I'm not sure I would be putting them out in my front yard!
It's a gorgeous day today. I'm off to the bike store to get a new tube for Jenni's bike. Between the two of us we get flat tires about every two months. I put some super thick tubes in Jenni's bike last time. Seems nothing is impervious to all the sharp sticky things we have on our roads around here.
It's a gorgeous day today. I'm off to the bike store to get a new tube for Jenni's bike. Between the two of us we get flat tires about every two months. I put some super thick tubes in Jenni's bike last time. Seems nothing is impervious to all the sharp sticky things we have on our roads around here.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Xerox
Well, the technician came after lunch today (Friday). Of course I had to print the bulletins for Sunday. We had called Xerox for service yesterday when it went down. Our technician said he would come Thursday afternoon or Friday morning. When he didn't come yesterday I called again this morning. When you call Xerox you have the privilege of talking to someone in Pakistan or somewhere like it. I emphasized the necessity of getting it fixed post haste. When the technician called again, he said he would come around 1 p.m. I explained that I needed him sooner than that. We compromised. He came at 12:15. It took him about an hour to take the sides off and do a thorough cleaning.
You see, the machine quit running because it said there was a paper jam in area #1. Of course, there was no paper visible in area #1 so I couldn't remove it. Impasse.
The technician removed about a ton of paper dust from the insides. This is actually the first time this level of cleaning has been done in 3 years. You see, a sensor was covered in paper dust, making the machine think there was a paper jam. Very simple.
Yes, I got the bulletins printed and folded and even left on time at 4:00 p.m. All in all, a good day.
You see, the machine quit running because it said there was a paper jam in area #1. Of course, there was no paper visible in area #1 so I couldn't remove it. Impasse.
The technician removed about a ton of paper dust from the insides. This is actually the first time this level of cleaning has been done in 3 years. You see, a sensor was covered in paper dust, making the machine think there was a paper jam. Very simple.
Yes, I got the bulletins printed and folded and even left on time at 4:00 p.m. All in all, a good day.
Thistle Budding
This photo is from our hike last Saturday. There were hundreds of thistles all along the path. I sort of feel like this guy on the right--all bristly and spikey.
Today, Friday, I've got a ton of work to finish before the weekend--the Sunday bulletin, a program for an organ concert Sunday night, brochures for a women's retreat, a summer "education offering" brochure, and probably a few things I'm forgetting.
And now our Xerox is broken! Talk about frustration. I'm stymied. We called yesterday and were told a technician would be out in the afternoon or this morning. Now, my morning is almost gone and still no repair guy. This could get interesting. Stay tuned.
Today, Friday, I've got a ton of work to finish before the weekend--the Sunday bulletin, a program for an organ concert Sunday night, brochures for a women's retreat, a summer "education offering" brochure, and probably a few things I'm forgetting.
And now our Xerox is broken! Talk about frustration. I'm stymied. We called yesterday and were told a technician would be out in the afternoon or this morning. Now, my morning is almost gone and still no repair guy. This could get interesting. Stay tuned.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Cha-cha-cha-cholla
This time of year sees all kinds of cactus blooming. I love cholla. They come in many colors. This one is particularly beautiful.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
I've got to work on being stealthy
Here is one of the baby owls at the Valley Presbyterian Church. Cute, isn't he? I've really been having fun taking photos of these three owl babies. It is starting to get easier because they are getting bigger and more expressive--they do more interesting things. In a few days they'll be jumping up on the window ledge exercising their wings.
My boss, the pastor of the church, retired as of today. He and his wife took Jenni & me out for dinner in Tucson tonight. Went to a great Italian restaurant. This made for a long day and I'm ready for bed.
My boss, the pastor of the church, retired as of today. He and his wife took Jenni & me out for dinner in Tucson tonight. Went to a great Italian restaurant. This made for a long day and I'm ready for bed.
Old things pass away, behold all things become new
Another picture from our hike last Saturday. Because I was out of breath for the whole hike and had to take my time, I saw many interesting things close up. This leafy plant, growing in the shade of an oak tree, is just starting to put up new growth. Last year's leaves are decomposing--only the tougher membranes are left. We'll take little bits of green any way we can get it.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Kenny B and the Tropical Owls
It really was funny--in person. Only one of the other staff members had any sense of rhythm . Fortunately we had a pianist who was very good and who could keep the beat no matter what noise the rest of us were making.
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