Trees, Pumpkins, and Cookies...

We have finally been able to plant some trees in our back yard! Part of what took so long after the lawn had grown up a bit was that we couldn't decide, or agree on what to put in the ground. We both knew we wanted a maple of some sort, Jeff wanted an evergreen, I wanted something that would provide shade.

A few weeks ago Jeff said he was bringing me home a surprise. Turned out it was our very first tree! Well, not the first on the property...we have a cottonwood in the front yard, but that was landscaped when we bought the house. My delight quickly turned to disappointment when I saw what he brought home. I specifically had requested no juniper trees. They're pretty, but very messy. Guess what was brought home. Well, it IS the evergreen he so badly wanted. A compromise, to be sure. A few days later it found a home in the ground out back. Now I just want to see it thrive. I'm attached.

Last week we saw Walmart, of all places, had Brandywine Maple trees for ridiculously low prices. Since we had no idea what those were, we came home and did a bit of research. What we learned made it appear this was the tree we had been looking for! We went back the next day and picked up two of these little trees.

We immediately set to work digging and chipping the holes. First was the one in the Northwest corner of the yard, set just so that it will provide shade, pleasant appearance, and comfort without blocking our wonderful view of Pikes Peak. It was a pain to get the hole done. Remember the shale I spoke of when we put the yard in? It's still there (of course). We learned our lesson with the lilacs this spring. We bought a tamping rod just to get those in the ground. It was used again. Eventually we had ourselves a hole that was big enough, both in diameter and depth, we made up a beautiful mixture of fertile soil, filled the hole a bit, placed the tree, watered, and filled the rest of the soil in. The little tree was then staked in place and topped with mulch. One down, one to go.

Through all of this, Luke was having a ball with the wheelbarrow. He was filthy, I think he may have cracked a bone in the dog's foot when the whole thing, boy and all, fell over and landed on Red (he's fine, don't worry), and he brought in a ton of dirt in his pull up, but he was happy.

Jeff started on hole number two, but decided it would be faster to call a friend and borrow his tractor. The tractor has a backhoe. Strong, quick to work, and would definitely break through the shale.

Or so we thought.

The backhoe hit a shelf...or a giant boulder, we aren't sure. Whatever it may be, there was just no breaking through! The hole was deep enough that it wouldn't be a big problem....except we needed to know where the edges are so the roots could make a way around. If the roots just splayed on top of this thing, the gusty winds that prevail here would cause our beloved little tree to fall over when it got bigger. We can't have that! Still, we couldn't find the edge of this rock, and it was quickly getting dark. We called it a night.

4 days later Jeff rented a jackhammer. Talk about quick work!! Just a small amount of time and he broke through the 2 1/2 foot thick rock to the clay below. Dance for joy!! We now had our hole complete and started the work of mixing soil again. Does anyone out there have any idea how long it takes to fill a hole that's close to 5-feet deep using one wheelbarrow? Oh my! But, we got it done. Our tree was placed, staked, watered, has our outline for another flower bed around it, was mulched, and is standing proud in our yard.

So, we now have three trees gracing the Northern side of the property. It is beautiful, even in its incomplete stage. If there is any doubt, just remember that less than 6 months ago it was still a fenced-in piece of desert with some junk from previous owners littered about.

I did, however, have to be goofy. Luke has a little front-loader tractor toy, and a big yellow dump truck. I saw the two sitting on the lawn, looked at the hole, and couldn't resist taking pictures of our little Bingham Canyon. I did that twice. I doubt those who don't have ties to the Salt Lake Valley will understand the joke, but I thought it dorkishly clever.

The pumpkins? Well, they are the first out of my garden. I have one more that is juuust about ready to come in, but could still use a few more days on the vine. I don't really know why I felt the need to show the first 4 off to the world, but here they are.

Tonight there are only 3 sitting on the counter. The fourth has found itself made into pumpkin chocolate chip cookies. A special treat for our Labor Day cookout with the next door neighbors.

Lastly, and not in the subject line, I couldn't resist snapping a picture of one of my cantaloupes. This plant wasn't even supposed to be there! I bought a cantaloupe early this spring, while snow was still on the ground. It managed to collapse in and mold itself in 2 whopping days. I threw it out to where my big flower bed in the back yard is now in an effort to add some nutrients to the soil as the snow melted. After I finished bordering in the bed and had a good start on plants there, a little cantaloupe plant popped up. It has now nearly taken over the bed, and I needed the lattice to keep the vines off the lawn. I never knew a fruit of this type could, or would, grow while hanging. Silly thing...but it's also currently the biggest one being produced. For some stupid reason, though, it entertains me.

So there you have it. It's a bit of a boring entry, but at least it's something. From here on, I sit and watch Gustav approach the Louisiana coastline and deal with the massive anxiety over my little boy starting daycare on Tuesday.....

School Days....

Okay, everyone needs to bear with me. I started school on Monday. While that particular class should mostly be a cakewalk for me, it is still time consuming. Add in the fact I start 4 more classes on Tuesday, I still have my wonderful 2-year old who deserves SOME time with his momma, a house to try to keep up with, and the ever-present piles of laundry.....I think it's fair to massive amounts of hair pulling.

The point being that I will take moments to pop in and write about some mundane moment, but I won't be around as much as I had been. That won't happen until around Thanksgiving. All in an attempt to someday be called Nurse Kratchet. What a scary thought....

Are you ready?

This will be short because I should be doing homework, but I had to take a moment to ask this question.

I also realize it is early, but the changes are already taking place. Are you ready for winter?

Yes, I know some of you are probably scratching your heads and wondering if I've flipped my lid. Those are the ones living in Texas, Florida....places that are still very much feeling summer. The rest of us living in Colorado, Utah, even Virginia are very much starting our winter preparations. Not even September, and we're starting to winterize our homes, yards, and vehicles. It is amazing.

There are those who are still wondering, so let me explain.

It was about 2 weeks ago that I noticed the ponies were already starting to shed their summer coats. I don't mean a hair here and there, I mean I was pulling out hair like they hadn't been groomed in months! That was the first clue. Driving home that day was also when I first spotted a surprising amount of trees in the area starting to change color. Crazy!

Granted, this was also just before the hefty cold front that dropped up to 6 inches of snow in the mountains came through, but it was a clue. The air has had a hint of fall in it, and my body was saying "get the mulch, get the winter kit into the car, get the blankets on the bed, and get the down comforter cleaned now." Knowing that it was still just the middle of August, I ignored those calls.

Now I am starting to clamor. The Aspen (Quakies) are really getting yellow....at a mile in elevation (for those unaware, Denver is a mile high at 5280 ft, Pueblo is just behind at 5273 ft. It's prettier there and they get more snow, but all other weather is exactly the same...temps included). I noticed yesterday that my cottonwood is yellowing up at the top, and there are now countless trees in the neighborhood changing to whatever color they're supposed to. The apple trees are shedding fruit...that normally doesn't happen around here until late September! I even already have 5 pumpkins that are ripe! The air no longer has that hint, it has the distinct feel and smell of fall. I haven't taken a decent look at the mountains, but I'm sure they're spotted with gold now.

According to my brother, who is lucky to live in Virginia, the trees there are also turning at a very fast clip. They are also seeing, feeling, and smelling other differences. I haven't asked about woolly worms, though...

What does all of this mean? Winter is coming early, it is going to be VERY cold, and it is planning on being wicked. At least at the early onset. Given that this weekend is the unofficial "End of Summer," I felt it was appropriate to talk about this. Even the meteorologists have stated that snow will be early, and it will be abundant. So, are you ready?

I'm not, but I'm ready to start the preparations. Albeit, begrudgingly.....

Bosque County Deputy of the Year....

Talk about a whirlwind trip! We found out about 3 weeks ago that my sweet Father-in-law was chosen as the Bosque County Sheriff's Deputy of the Year. What a wonderful honor! But it gets better. The Texas Rangers baseball team honors the police and fire personnel from all over the state at a game each year. Terry was among those this season. Well, we had to be there for that, of course!! It's a huge, huge deal!! We really wanted to be there to share in such a great moment. So, Thursday morning we packed up the 4Runner and made the 12 1/2 hour drive. A trip we'll repeat in the morning as we head home.

Luke is such a wonderful traveler. He got a little cranky at one point, but calmed right down after a quick rest stop. He's done quite a bit of traveling with us, so he's seasoned at 2, but it's just a nice thing to know that he does so well with minimal effort on our part. We, on the other hand, were more than ready to be done with the driving.

Friday morning saw us clamoring out to get my dear, retired jumper so she could pack my boy around for a little bit. I'll tell the story about that in another post, but Luke and Dusty were both fantastic.

The ride over, we came in and showered. Now, one has to realize that showering during August in Texas is....pointless. But we did it, got ready real quick, hopped in the car, and headed for Ranger Stadium in Arlington. The stadium is right across the way from the new Cowboys Stadium, which is still under construction. Holy cow! That thing is HUGE!!! Of course, we had to park in the spot nearest to that thing, and the longest walk from the ball field. That's fine, the exercise was nice.

We made a stop to see about getting Luke a jersey with Josh Hamilton's name on it. Nope. Sorry, I can't spend $50 for a toddler jersey! But we did get to play a moment in the mister fans. Then it was on up to find our seats. It wasn't difficult, there was a contingent of about 40 people, about half being family, made things obvious.

I mention the people because it was us, Jeff's parents (duh), Jeff's brother, my father-in-law's mother (Great-grandma Flory), siblings that still live in the area, nieces, nephews, brother- and sister-in law, and further extended family as well as friends from church and his incredible teaching career. We took up quite a big area of one section. And we were loud.

Terry, of course, was somewhere in the bowels of the stadium waiting for his turn to take the field. The names of the personnel being honored were scrolled on the jumbotron, and let me tell you that the entire stadium was well aware when Terry's name scrolled through! Right about that point is when the 50 firefighters and police were marched onto the field. Cheers abound!

Terry was the last to appear from the tunnel, and we were very loud again. Each person was given a commemorative baseball and a handshake from the State Representative in attendance. Then it was announced that 5 of those honored were the ones on hand a short time ago when a fan had an emergency. They saved her life.

I just noticed "my" hat on his belt!

After this it was announced that Terry was among 3 of the personnel chosen to throw out the first pitch. The only lefty! He proudly strutted to the pitcher's mound, had to shave some distance for some unknown reason, and threw a great pitch to his catcher. We cheered and cheered!

Not sure how we missed the pitch

Terry and the others made their way back to the lineup, turned toward the flag while we enjoyed the playing of the National Anthem, sung by yet another cop, and the proudly marched the entire group off the field. He looked up at his cheering section, where I'm happy to say his one and only grandchild was being held up by me so Grandpa could see him waving and clapping (I'm being serious!), smiled, waved, and puffed his chest out.

Waving at Luke

He came shortly after to sit with us. He had surgery for an injury the day before, so didn't stay too long, but was so happy about his night. We stayed, along with most of our group, for the duration of the game. Luke had a ball, we had a ball, and we all melted. The Rangers unfortunately lost to the Indians, but it was a tough battle and we know they tried. Our drive back to Iredell was an adventure, but a pleasant one, especially with Jeff's brother joining us. We'll laugh for a long time over that drive! We had great dreams, and we are so happy we could make this unexpected trip.

Clapping away!
Great-Grandma Flory, Terry's mom
You can see we've melted

Terry said today that it was his fairy-tale night. He's just completely blown away. He should be! This is an INCREDIBLE honor! We are so very, very proud of him. It certainly is something I think the rest of the world should know about. Bosque County has an amazing man looking out for it.

Congratulations, Deputy Flory! You are one-of-a-kind, and we love you!

FINALLY!!!

Finally! Shawn Johnson gets her due! Don't get me wrong, the emotional ball of sap that I am, I bawled my eyes out when Nastia Liuken won the all-around gold the other night. I couldn't have been more proud for her. But through the remainder of the competition series, Shawn was losing out.

Again, those two silver and one bronze medals Shawn gathered are nothing to sneeze at. But it was painfully obvious this 4 foot 9 inch powerhouse was being punished for being built muscular instead of gracefully long. How else does one explain near perfection being bumped to below those who had hugely obvious faults in their routines? Trust me, the friends and acquaintances I have throughout the world are just as puzzled over this weeks results in gymnastics.

But tonight? Tonight was golden! Well, really it was this morning for us and LAST night for Shawn, but we'll go with the televised date. It was the individual apparatus of the beam. When I was a gymnast a million years ago, I loved this apparatus. I just thoroughly sucked. But I still appreciate the skill and athleticism involved.

Both Shawn and Nastia saw the open door due to the big mistakes of those who were before them. Both did multiple routines in warm up. Shawn had difficulty, Nastia had no problem. Rattle the nerves! Actually, you could see the fatigue on poor Shawn's face. She worried me a bit.

Silly me, I need not have worried! Shawn hit her routine dead on! One little step in her dismount, but she soared to the lead! Envision the fist pumps as I struggled to not wake the entire house.

Then came Nastia. I kept thinking "wow, she's doing such a beautiful job. Dang...I don't want her to mess up, she's so good, but it's Shawn's turn." Indeed, Nastia did not mess up. She hit her routine and was the graceful beauty she always is. Oh, the nerves! It was hard to wait for her score. When it was posted and Shawn remained in the gold position, I nearly lost it. It's about danged time!

I didn't have the kleenex near me, but I should have. When Shawn's parents were shown, and her mom broke down, so did I. Aren't I a dork?

But it was so incredible to see Shawn finally get the reward she has so deserved. She calls herself a daredevil with a big smile. She certainly has herself pegged! That great, albeit big smile was glorious to see in conjunction to this medal winning performance. A tight check during the playing of the Star Spangled Banner, then the smile was back in force.

Congratulations, Shawn! It is about time those judges gave you what you've deserved for a long time!

Show Jumping Team Gold!!!!

I am dancing for joy right now! Our American Show Jumping team has done it! They showed the world, and they won the gold!

Germany is usually the powerhouse in this arena, and they came in as the clear favorites. As fate would have it, they had a terrible time. The horses weren't jumping clear, the team captain's horse refused, and they just struggled. Not what was expected, and certainly not what they wanted after last Olympics.

You see, in Athens the Germans won the gold. The U.S. took the silver. Shortly after the Games concluded, a German horse came up positive on a drug test after a prescription liniment had been used, but too close to competition(note to self: never use Surpass if within 6 weeks of competition). Therefore, the gold was stripped away and given to our team. While it was great, it was also bittersweet.

This year our team had something to prove. They wanted the world to know we deserved the win, that we truly have fantastic animals and great riders. Guess what? Our team showed it!

It wasn't easy. The Canadian team was hot on our heels. In fact, a jump off took place because the two teams were dead even in points! Both teams knew they had to be fast, and they had to be clean. Neither team disappointed.

McClain & Sapphire
Laura & Cedric
Will & Carlsson vom Dach

Beezie & Authentic
Unfortunately for our great neighbors to the North, they only had 3 horses on their team. The 4th was injured before competition and withdrew. Our team had all 4 horses. That meant we could drop a score if needed. Canada needed all three scores. Their third rider, Jill Henselwood and Special Ed, dropped a rail. Our third rider, Will Simpson, went clear, leaving our anchor rider, Beezie Madden, with no need to do her round. The medals had been decided!

Let me say that I am also thrilled for Canada. This is their first medal EVER in this event! It is especially poignant since Ian Miller finally received the Olympic Medal he has deserved for oh-so-long. He's been a favorite of mine since I was a young girl, back in the days of Big Ben. So, while I celebrate with my American team, I am also very, very happy for the Canadians.

Sweden took the bronze. Bravo Zulu for their efforts, as well! Another team receiving their first ever medal in this event!

But a huge congratulations is in order for McClain Ward and Sapphire, Laura Kraut and the incredible green bean who grew up during this competition, Cedric, Olympic rookie Will Simpson and Carlsson vom Dach, and my all-time favorite Beezie Madden with the beautiful Authentic! You guys rock!

left to right:

McClain Ward, Beezie Madden, Laura Kraut, Will Simpson

Oh, and as a side-note: Beezie had a bat land on her the other night after a schooling ride. As ooged out as she was by it, she was also assured that bats are considered good luck in Chinese lore. I think it's safe to say it was proven true!

8 For 8....Congratulations, Michael!!

I'm sure by now that everyone in the world is well aware of the great feat Michael Phelps just managed. He is now recognized as the greatest swimmer in the world, winning 8 gold medals in one Olympic Games. He totals 16 medals, 14 of which are gold. Wow....just wow.

His journey in Beijing is over, and I'm sure he's glad to be done. There are a few things that will stand out in his quest for me:

First and foremost, his mother's unwavering support and tears of joy. I've always been a sap, but since becoming a parent...oh boy. I see another parent with this kind of reaction and just grab the Kleenex. It is so cool to see her not miss any moment, and to be just full of pride. And let's not forget his sisters, too!

Second, the 4x100 Free relay. The way the team came back (as in Jason Lezak) and won. I shot up and yelled, scared the cat, and made Luke laugh. What a race, and what a great thing to shut down the talk from the French team.

Lastly, the 100m Butterfly from last night. Oh. My. Goodness!!! I don't think I've EVER seen a race so close....in any sport! Literally a fingernail. It's one that doesn't get old to watch, either.

Just last weekend when Jeff made me a 14'er widow (I'm still a little torqued that I had to stay home, but such is life), he told his hiking buddy about how amazing Michael is. The buddy isn't a big sports or TV watcher, despite being the most athletic and active person we know. I'm anxious to hear the reaction he has to this news!

It's almost a disappointment that we won't be seeing Michael Phelps compete in these Games any longer. Some are a little happy, however, because it means getting to bed before midnight will again be possible (others of us are hopelessly addicted to the Games....always have been, always will be).

Thank you, Michael, for giving us such great, great ride. Thank you for being such a great representative for our country. Thank you for persevering as an athlete. Thank you for the excitement.

And congratulations. You deserve this like nobody else...

Just A Couple of Fun Shots...

These were all taken today, within about 2 hours time. The filly is now a month old and full of vinegar. She loves people, is extremely smart and brave, and is losing her baby coat. It's amazing how much white is already mixed in her coat! She also loves Luke, insisting on chasing him around when she's in. He has no qualms about pointing at her or pushing her away with a very hearty "NO!" Does anyone think she cares? Nope, it's an invite to start a new game of tag. I've decided I need to attempt grabbing video of it, it's that cute."why are you out there?"
"please come play, Luke!"

hugs for me

This is the best and most cuddly stallion in the world, Lotus. I love him. He's been sick lately and looks horrible, but he's feeling better and was bright enough for a picture today. The angle is funny, but I was standing on the rail because when I was on the ground he was trying to eat my phone. Poor guy, as soon as I put my phone away I pulled his mane and forelock. He wasn't amused (despite his hugs when I finished).

Reaching for the phone
watching his baby girl

The rest is a welcome surprise for us! Exactly one inch of rain absolutely poured from the sky, accompanied by quite a large amount of hail. The hail ranged in size from dime-sized to golf ball. I'm so glad the latter was very, very soft! It's amazing, really, that the damage was so minimal that I wouldn't even consider calling it "damage." Only one plant suffered.

The white streaks are hail
1" on the dot!

Yes, yes, it is rather silly, but it was still a fun day.....