Dark Days of Winter

So, winter started off as a really snowy season this year. December brought many snowflakes. Here's a picture of what my back yard looked like in the depths of the snow. Much of it has since melted off after a period of rain/sleet/ice and slightly warmer days. To tell you the truth, I like the fresh snow better than what's currently out there. The temperature has also been drifting back toward the zero mark this week. But, more snow is predicted for Monday (that also means it will be up in the 20's)...I'm hoping for at least a couple of inches to cover up the dirty views that are now all around.

Waxing Moon

After the fireworks I headed home to check on my dog, Zeb. He wasn't too happy with the firecrackers and other small explosions around the neighborhood. I let him out and was stuck by the brightness of the moon. After being so cloudy earlier in the day, it was a clear, cool night. Here's the waxing moon on July 4th, it'll be a big full moon in a few days (July 7th).

4th of July Celebration with Friends

The day started out cloudy and rainy. Not any massive thunder storms, just a consistent rainfall. I was wondering if it would clear up in time for the much anticipated trip to Sonic to watch fireworks with my good friends Cris and Paul.

I spent the majority of the day just lounging and not doing anything constructive. I checked my e-mail and played on the computer while watching a show on the History channel about the Revolutionary War and creation of our country. It's amazing that the United States actually came into existence. There were so many obstacles in the way of the birth of our nation...including the lack of cooperation between the individual states.

By early evening the sky had cleared and it looked good for seeing the display. I was able capture a few photos of the festivities. I was only using a small digital camera, but, was able to get a few decent pictures of the explosives!


Happy Birthday, America...and here's to another 233 years!!!

Happy Father's Day

Here's to having a great weekend for all those fathers out there. I'm going to be going to see my dad, Doug, on Saturday to celebrate. Mom and I are taking him out to a local place to have ribs and the fixin's. A treat not only for him, but for us as well...what a bonus. Besides, what do you buy a man that has everything he needs, and gets himself what he wants?

Duchess of wonder

Miss you every day!

Lovely Breakfast

This was a wonderful breakfast...fresh blackberries, blueberries and strawberries in plain greek yogurt. Yummmmm!

Jewelry Show

This past Saturday I spent at the Bead Haven in Cedar Rapids, IA at a trunk show, featuring handcrafted jewelry and beads. I had a great time helping my friend, Cris, sell her silver jewelry. She has been making lovely pieces for several years. Through Cris I've met many fun, creative people: Cindi, Julie, Melissa, Jan, Rebecca and Jeannie to name a few. Cindi owns the bead store and has featured local artists by hosting frequent open houses and trunk shows. The boys, Paul and Rick, joined us later for supper at a local pizza restaurant. In all, I had a wonderful day...it's hard not to with this group of friends!