I spent the 4th of July holiday working in the yard. We’ve recently had some new cement work done, including adding a small patio in the front yard. All of the sidewalks and steps were completed at the beginning of last week; just in time to have a couple of yards of dirt delivered so we could being filling in the areas next to the new walks. The summer day grew hotter as I hauled the wheelbarrow full of dirt back and forth and back and forth. Not only did the pile of dirt dwindle, but I was able to spend time reflecting on all the liberties and freedoms we enjoy in the United States. Our country’s founding fathers could not have envisioned the daily lives we lead in 2013. How fortunate I am be able to enjoy a holiday for our Independence Day, to work in the yard, and to make this small space a better place.
Photography
Pink peonies
Our summer has finally arrived, and with it the peonies have burst into bloom. I’m fortunate to have three peonies in the yard; one white one that was purchased here in Minnesota and is known to be hardy for our cold winters, and two pink peonies that I transplanted from my parents’ home in Kansas. It took those two plants a couple of years to establish themselves, but they appear to be thriving now. A week ago we had a huge wind and rain storm that moved through, causing major damage to trees, fences, and plants. I was worried that the peonies, which has been pummeled by the storm, would not bloom. But they have burst forth with the brightest of colors, and the best scent around. Just having them in the house or seeing them in the yard brings a smile to my face and an acknowledgment that summer has arrived.
Sunset on the lake
We were lucky to have family from Kansas visiting us in Minnesota this past weekend. Knowing that they are all avid fishermen we decided to share some of the wonderful lake fishing we have in our state of 10,000+ lakes. Yesterday started with some (successful) Northern Pike fishing on a small lake near the Twin Cities. Then we headed north for an evening launch on Mille Lacs Lake. After a day of clouds and overcast skies and even a few raindrops, we were hopeful our trip on the big lake would not be rained out. As luck would have it, the clouds parted and we enjoyed some sun, blue skies, and a wonderful sunset over the lake. As luck would not have it, our fishing success was somewhat limited; one perch, and a couple of walleye that were too big to keep. But we did keep the experience of a shared night of fun, laughter, a beautiful sunset, and the camaraderie of family and friends. Thanks to them all for a memorable weekend!
Thanks to my father
Happy Father’s Day to my dad. I’m so fortunate that he’s been one of my biggest supporters throughout my life. This photo from 1960 brings back memories of love, caring, adventures, and great times. He was the one that built a great playhouse for me, complete with French doors. And he was the one that bought the old upright piano that I first took lessons on, and even took the time to strip all the paint off and refinish it. Dad took me ice skating, developed my love of the outdoors through camping and fishing, took me canoeing, and even bought me a horse when I was a young teenager. My dad persevered with me trying to overcome my barrier to math story problems; for hours he kept his patience and worked with me until finally the light bulb went off in my head. So many experiences I’ve had, and so many lessons I’ve learned from Dad, and continue to do so even today. Happy Father’s Day, Dad – and thanks for helping to shape me into the woman I am today!
Prairie smoke
There is a revival of interest in native plantings here in Minnesota; people are choosing to replace annuals in their gardens with plants that are native to the area, thereby requiring less maintenance. About eight years ago I was in a prairie area in northeastern Oregon and was mesmerized by an unusual plant. I remember photographing the long feathery plumes that seemed to blow in the breeze. Now I find that Prairie smoke is a native wildflower to Minnesota. It is actually in the rose family, blooming in mid to late spring, and is found in the dry, gravelly prairies. I noticed this plant at a sale of native landscaping plants here in the Twin Cities. With a bit of backlighting, the plumes took on a beautiful glow, accenting their delicateness and their “smokey” appearance.
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