Two years ago they liked it a lot, so all week they have lobbied for a wiener roast at the cottage. I was to invite our friends, all our friends, the ones they met two years ago on our 50Th. So I did. It was Thursday before I called people up to invite them to the wiener roast for noon today, at the cottage. Most folks were delighted to come bringing along their house guests too. It was an easy pleasant day. Those four girls had a good idea.
The girls swam and boated and tubed, along with a 16 year old grandson of Rae. The adults ate and drank and talked and swam and boated too. And they talked some more. By 4:30 everyone was gone so with the help of David and Suzanne and the girls the place was all cleaned up and we were dining in Caledonia, celebrating David and Suzanne's 17Th anniversary, which I of course forgot.
The weather was perfect for the cottage. 75 and sunny and breezy. We just got lucky...again.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Friday, July 30, 2010
July 30, 2010. Western Head, N.S. Mornings.
Mornings are the most relaxing time of the day. We have had ten people living here. One by one people drift down to the kitchen and dining room, talking and drinking coffee or sitting mutely looking out at sea. First Mal gets up out in the Carriage House, makes a cup of tea for Pat then goes for either a run or a bike ride. Next Pat walks for half an hour. By eight they are in the main house kitchen, making coffee and eating breakfast, usually all alone. Soon Ken and I arrive on the scene and eat and talk. Either Allison or Samantha is the first girl downstairs. They sit at the dining room wearing a big fleece jacket trying to get warm, then eventually getting some breakfast. The last girl up is always Abigail.
Suzanne and David amble down, drink a cup of coffee and talk, then take turns riding the bicycle around the loop, as we have only one bicycle. Of course, every time they make the ride they try to make it faster. David eats while Suzanne rides, then he heads out. The girls right now are practicing their knots for the sailing class. They have fed the fish, watched the birds and have generally been mellow. No major activity, certainly no disagreements. Mornings on vacations are special. No schedule, no pressure. Just pure pleasure.
Suzanne and David amble down, drink a cup of coffee and talk, then take turns riding the bicycle around the loop, as we have only one bicycle. Of course, every time they make the ride they try to make it faster. David eats while Suzanne rides, then he heads out. The girls right now are practicing their knots for the sailing class. They have fed the fish, watched the birds and have generally been mellow. No major activity, certainly no disagreements. Mornings on vacations are special. No schedule, no pressure. Just pure pleasure.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
July 28, 2010. Western Head, N.S. Sailing Class.
Four children and and four adults took sailing lessons today, at the Brooklyn Marina. The girls are in the afternoon class each day for two weeks, but today was the first time they were able to get into the boats and sail, due to high gusty winds Monday and Tuesday. This afternoon was thrilling for them and no one capsized, which pleased me. The teacher is a law student at Dalhousie University in Halifax and this is his summer job. He is energetic and knowledgeable and enthusiastic, in other words, everything you want in a teacher. The girls are happy with the program, with just 9 students each session.
He also teaches two classes each week for adults. The drill is to show up and pay your ten dollars and join in the class. Tonight at 6:00 David and Suzanne, Ken and Mal went to the class and they had a blast. Suzanne came home cold as ice but everyone else was fine. Mal wore shorts and a T shirt and felt fine, but he is a Canadian. Eight people were in the class tonight. One boat with two people in the boat tipped over. Our group were very pleased that it was not them. They were feeling grateful. All four arrived home at 9:30 hungry and tired but delighted with their sailing class, which was more of an experience than a lesson. But they all liked it, and they will return tomorrow.
He also teaches two classes each week for adults. The drill is to show up and pay your ten dollars and join in the class. Tonight at 6:00 David and Suzanne, Ken and Mal went to the class and they had a blast. Suzanne came home cold as ice but everyone else was fine. Mal wore shorts and a T shirt and felt fine, but he is a Canadian. Eight people were in the class tonight. One boat with two people in the boat tipped over. Our group were very pleased that it was not them. They were feeling grateful. All four arrived home at 9:30 hungry and tired but delighted with their sailing class, which was more of an experience than a lesson. But they all liked it, and they will return tomorrow.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
July 27, 2010. Western Head, N.S. The Cottage.
The children love it. The cottage has a loft, accessed by a put down set of stairs. Up there are thirty Barby dolls along with clothes and Barby furniture, all purchased for a song at an auction. All four girls love to go up and ask us to pull up the stairs so no one can come up. The first thing we all do when arriving at the cottage is put on our bathing suits and swim. Next up is the boats. The kayaks and canoe got a workout. Then up next was the Barby's. This time they brought a bunch down to the water where they played on the rocks for over an hour.
After their sailing class this afternoon we all went to the cottage, at their request. Dinner was eaten around the fire, followed by more play with Barby dolls. The evening was lovely but finally we drove home, arriving around 9:o'clock. The girls wanted to sleep there but with only one bedroom and one couch we suggested that it might be uncomfortable on the hard floor.
Not everything you do works out well but this little cottage certainly has been a hit with everyone, including us. But especially the children.
After their sailing class this afternoon we all went to the cottage, at their request. Dinner was eaten around the fire, followed by more play with Barby dolls. The evening was lovely but finally we drove home, arriving around 9:o'clock. The girls wanted to sleep there but with only one bedroom and one couch we suggested that it might be uncomfortable on the hard floor.
Not everything you do works out well but this little cottage certainly has been a hit with everyone, including us. But especially the children.
Monday, July 26, 2010
July 26, 2010. Western Head, N.S. Birthday Celebration.
David turned 41 today so we celebrated. Our friends came for dinner, friends who have known him all his life. There is something nice about celebrating with friends you have known so long, certainly it is wonderful for the children getting to know about David when he was a child. So the evening was not dramatic but very pleasant.
The Family arrived very late last night, three hours later than expected. A big storm in New Jersey delayed their departure. Despite the late arrival and the lack of sleep, the girls were a big help over the dinner party. They are seasoned travellers. Abigail arranged the appetizers and set them out on the buffet. While the adults sat and chatted during the cocktail hour, the four girls flew kites quite successfully. It was impressive. They helped me clearing the table and they helped with the general tone of the evening. They are energetic and enthusiastic and a real asset at a social event. Those four girls are growing up very nicely. They loved celebrating their father's birthday, and so did I.
The Family arrived very late last night, three hours later than expected. A big storm in New Jersey delayed their departure. Despite the late arrival and the lack of sleep, the girls were a big help over the dinner party. They are seasoned travellers. Abigail arranged the appetizers and set them out on the buffet. While the adults sat and chatted during the cocktail hour, the four girls flew kites quite successfully. It was impressive. They helped me clearing the table and they helped with the general tone of the evening. They are energetic and enthusiastic and a real asset at a social event. Those four girls are growing up very nicely. They loved celebrating their father's birthday, and so did I.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
July 25, 2010. Western Head. Dwem's.
We call ourselves The Dwem's. Last evening we had dinner together for the first time since last August. We are those brave souls who came to live part time in Western Head, on Gull Bay. The Dickie's, Wu's, Ely's and Mitchell's one by one established themselves in this part of the world and in the same order. Now we enjoy living near each other, all good friends. At first, when we were in residence here, we got together every evening. Now we do not, but we gather regularly either for cocktails or for dinner. Last evening Mary served us a wonderful dinner, to welcome our friends Pat and Mal back to Western Head, and to Gill after a short visit to Toronto for work.
This year we will all be staying here for a longer time, hence the lack of meeting every night. We have the luxury of time on our side. Age has it's rewards. When we all bought and built here, Mary reminded us that what we were going to be doing was to watch each other age and die, something that had happened to her parents in Carmel, Ca. where six families retired and lived in Carmel for six months each year. Over the years they faded away one by one. I suggested actually, this was a good thing, as we could enjoy and support each other as we age and loose function. Certainly as I looked around the table last night the ten years elapse time has taken it's tole and we look different that we did ten or eleven years ago. But we are all active and alert and we still have a good time together. The three other ladies are at the Port Medway Art Show as we speak. And most importantly, we all agreed that we did a good thing, coming to Nova Scotia. We drank a toast to The Dwem's.
This year we will all be staying here for a longer time, hence the lack of meeting every night. We have the luxury of time on our side. Age has it's rewards. When we all bought and built here, Mary reminded us that what we were going to be doing was to watch each other age and die, something that had happened to her parents in Carmel, Ca. where six families retired and lived in Carmel for six months each year. Over the years they faded away one by one. I suggested actually, this was a good thing, as we could enjoy and support each other as we age and loose function. Certainly as I looked around the table last night the ten years elapse time has taken it's tole and we look different that we did ten or eleven years ago. But we are all active and alert and we still have a good time together. The three other ladies are at the Port Medway Art Show as we speak. And most importantly, we all agreed that we did a good thing, coming to Nova Scotia. We drank a toast to The Dwem's.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
July 24, 2010. Western Head, N.S. Anticipation.
It is exciting when folks come to visit. I have been making a list and checking it twice and finally realized that tomorrow they will be arriving. The freezer is full, the bathrooms are stocked with supplies, the bedrooms are ready and the pantry is loaded with food. We are ready. David and Suzanne, Sarah, Abigail, Samantha and Allison will be arriving here to Western Head, Liverpool. They are excited too. They fly from San Antonio to Houston, on to New Jersey and finally to Halifax. Jim will shuttle them to our home where they will be welcomed with open arms. As we drove and have kept a truck here for several years, we have two trucks parked in our driveway. David will drive one of the trucks. Now, after they arrive tomorrow night, we will just relax and enjoy the visit.
David will have his birthday on Monday so our friends will come to dinner to celebrate and to say hello. In the morning the girls will bake a birthday cake for him. In the afternoon all four will take sailing classes at the Brooklyn Marina. They will be cold I am sure. The cottage is all ready for them too. It is so exciting when the folks comes to visit.
David will have his birthday on Monday so our friends will come to dinner to celebrate and to say hello. In the morning the girls will bake a birthday cake for him. In the afternoon all four will take sailing classes at the Brooklyn Marina. They will be cold I am sure. The cottage is all ready for them too. It is so exciting when the folks comes to visit.
Friday, July 23, 2010
July 23, 2010. Western Head, N.S. A Perfect Day.
How many days are there in a life time when the weather is perfect? Probably not so many. Today is one of those days. Just a little breeze by the shore will keep a person from not getting too hot. Today we have that small breeze. The sky is without clouds and bright blue. The sun warms your face. Pat is sitting on the deck in a lounge chair facing the sun and reading her book. Ken and Mal. are working on the project of the day, which is Ken's kayak. All the windows in the house are open. It is indeed a perfect day.
In addition, the rest of the day will be interesting. Lunch will be at home, followed by a drive along the shore to Port Medway, where an art show is being held. Our friend Louise is showing five pieces of fabric art, all of which are sold. She is surprised with the beauty of her work and the fact that people want to buy her art. It is not until she retired that she took her abilities seriously. Before, she just dabbled aith her art and never with fabric art. Now she is very accomplished. She almost always has a line of clothes flapping in the breeze smewhere in her work.
After the art show and a walk around Port Medway we four will dine at the "Best Coast Coffee Cafe", surely one of the worst names for a tiny restaurant. Friday nights these two ladies serve a three course meal, fixed price, fixed meal. No choices. Reservations are required and they are full tonight. Hurrah for them. The place is open from mid June to mid September so at this time of the year they are full of enthusiasm and energy after the long winter.
And to add to the weather and the plan for the day, Jackie is cleaning the house. It is indeed, a perfect day.
In addition, the rest of the day will be interesting. Lunch will be at home, followed by a drive along the shore to Port Medway, where an art show is being held. Our friend Louise is showing five pieces of fabric art, all of which are sold. She is surprised with the beauty of her work and the fact that people want to buy her art. It is not until she retired that she took her abilities seriously. Before, she just dabbled aith her art and never with fabric art. Now she is very accomplished. She almost always has a line of clothes flapping in the breeze smewhere in her work.
After the art show and a walk around Port Medway we four will dine at the "Best Coast Coffee Cafe", surely one of the worst names for a tiny restaurant. Friday nights these two ladies serve a three course meal, fixed price, fixed meal. No choices. Reservations are required and they are full tonight. Hurrah for them. The place is open from mid June to mid September so at this time of the year they are full of enthusiasm and energy after the long winter.
And to add to the weather and the plan for the day, Jackie is cleaning the house. It is indeed, a perfect day.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
July 22, 2010. Western Head, N.S. Spontineity.
The unexpected is often the best. This evening Pat came from the Carriage House with a full complement of appetizers. Cheese, pate and crackers. It was a lovely surprise. Normally we do not serve food before dinner, except nuts. I called Wendy and Claussen who just arrived this afternoon to join us on the deck for wine and appetizers. The evening was lovely so we enjoyed hearing all about P.E.I. while we wined and snacked on the delicious food. They left and we prepared a simple but delicious dinner of steak and new potatoes from the garden.
Mal had set the table which included a dessert spoon. Pat asked him if he knew something that she did not know because we were having no dessert. He responded by saying "you just never know what will turn up". Dinner was over by 8:30 and we four were still sitting at the table discussing the fine meal when a knock came at the door. It was Mary McD. bringing the rest of an apple cake that she served at dinner for Walt's cousin Marsh. We devoured the cake along with ice cream while Walt and Mary chatted with us. Such perfect timing. It made Mal look like a genius, preparing us for dessert. The timing was perfect and totally unplanned.
The spontaneous life is wonderful.
Mal had set the table which included a dessert spoon. Pat asked him if he knew something that she did not know because we were having no dessert. He responded by saying "you just never know what will turn up". Dinner was over by 8:30 and we four were still sitting at the table discussing the fine meal when a knock came at the door. It was Mary McD. bringing the rest of an apple cake that she served at dinner for Walt's cousin Marsh. We devoured the cake along with ice cream while Walt and Mary chatted with us. Such perfect timing. It made Mal look like a genius, preparing us for dessert. The timing was perfect and totally unplanned.
The spontaneous life is wonderful.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
July 21, 2010. Western Head, N.S. Bel Canto.
Ann Patchett wrote the book 'Bel Canto' and it is a wonderful book. I bought the book along with a big pile of other books at a charity auction. My friend Mary spied the pile and spotted Bel Canto and asked to read it. I was busy reading other books so I lent the book to her. She returned it to me last week and I read it immediately. I have enjoyed the writing and the plot. It is a good read. Such few words to describe the feelings of the characters. Just a hint rather than whole descriptions of actions and feelings. It is a wonderful book.
The weather here in Western Head has made reading difficult. The air is cool while the sun is bright so being outside is imperative, thus leaving little time to read. But now I have finished the book and will not start another while I keep these characters in my mind. A good book gives so much pleasure lasting long after the book is finished the reading.
The weather here in Western Head has made reading difficult. The air is cool while the sun is bright so being outside is imperative, thus leaving little time to read. But now I have finished the book and will not start another while I keep these characters in my mind. A good book gives so much pleasure lasting long after the book is finished the reading.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
July 20, 2010. Western Head, N.S. Fog Burn.
Both Ken and I have sunburns on our faces. Now Ken is not supposed to get a sunburn because he has that very light skin prone to skin cancer and I am too old to get my skin all red. But we forgot. When we were on the ferry the sun never shone a minute but the air was bright so we kept our sunglasses on the whole time when we were out on the deck. One would think that we could figure it out, that if there was so much sunlight to wear sunglasses that perhaps we could get a sunburn. But no. It never dawned on us until the next morning when we saw our racoon eyes and red cheeks. Now we call it fog burn.
It is easy when the weather is hot to stay out of the sun, but when the air is cool and the sun is not even shining we are not careful with the sun. Now we know better. Today at the cottage the day was lovely so we sat on the deck beside the water enjoying the cool breeze. Again we forgot to get out of the sun. Will we never learn?
It is easy when the weather is hot to stay out of the sun, but when the air is cool and the sun is not even shining we are not careful with the sun. Now we know better. Today at the cottage the day was lovely so we sat on the deck beside the water enjoying the cool breeze. Again we forgot to get out of the sun. Will we never learn?
Monday, July 19, 2010
July 19, 2010. Western Head, N.S. Coyote.
It was a magnificent beast, standing in the middle of our front lawn, looking at sea. At first I thought it was a dog but the configuration was not quite right so on closer look I decided it was a coyote. I was in the kitchen so I called Ken and told Mel and Pat. He loped onto the field so we went up the outside stairs to get a better look. We watched him for ten minutes as he hunted for his dinner, pouncing on something moving in the tall grass. He looked young which was why he was in full view in our front yard.
Just at dinner Vinal mentioned that the coyotes are getting brave and fearless and acting in unusual ways. Cats and dogs have been disappearing and many folks have noticed coyotes in full view. In the past they were always well hidden. Now we have our own coyote living in the field beside the house. It is very exciting.
Just at dinner Vinal mentioned that the coyotes are getting brave and fearless and acting in unusual ways. Cats and dogs have been disappearing and many folks have noticed coyotes in full view. In the past they were always well hidden. Now we have our own coyote living in the field beside the house. It is very exciting.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
July 19, 2010. Western Head, N.S. Hettie and Elbert.
They do it once a year and yesterday was the day. The cocktail party is always fun, also worthwhile, since they invite people we do not know so we get to meet new folks. The first year we attended, ten years ago, I arrived wearing shorts and a T shirt, and I was very under-dressed although I wore my best pair of shorts. Now I know better so I wore my best jeans and a see thru white top over a turquoise silk tank top and I was respectable but casual. Hettie and Elbert live in the green house right around the end of our bay. Their house sits on solid rock, high up over the sea. In high seas or after a big storm their home sits on an island. It is a summer cottage, which is a good thing because they only stay here in the summer along with their daughter Pember, who is now in graduate school. Through the year they live on Long Island, N.Y.
Last evening was a perfect evening for a party. The weather was sunny and the breeze was cool. In town the heat was fierce, almost 85 degrees F. and everyone who came to the party from town, were thrilled to feel the cool breeze at Western Head. A large fire was lit in the living room and all the windows were open so it was perfect. Such a luxury to have a good fire in July. All our friends were there along with some new ones so I always enjoy meeting new people thus making for a lovely party, the first of the summer season 2010. Both Hettie and Elbert are enthusiastic hosts and it is always a pleasure to attend their party but I must say, many times we have not attended because we had not arrived in town. This time we were here, and attended and enjoyed. Hats off to Hettie and Elbert.
Last evening was a perfect evening for a party. The weather was sunny and the breeze was cool. In town the heat was fierce, almost 85 degrees F. and everyone who came to the party from town, were thrilled to feel the cool breeze at Western Head. A large fire was lit in the living room and all the windows were open so it was perfect. Such a luxury to have a good fire in July. All our friends were there along with some new ones so I always enjoy meeting new people thus making for a lovely party, the first of the summer season 2010. Both Hettie and Elbert are enthusiastic hosts and it is always a pleasure to attend their party but I must say, many times we have not attended because we had not arrived in town. This time we were here, and attended and enjoyed. Hats off to Hettie and Elbert.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
July 18, 2010. Western Head, N.S. The Flying Houses.
All the way across the Bay of Fundy we saw fog. The ferry ride was pleasant but not a thing to see due to the fog. Fog in every direction, even up. We knew we were getting near to Digby because the ship's whistle blew one long blast. And the fog horn blew almost all the time. But still no sight of land, until a little girl called out to her parents "look at the houses flying past in the air". We all looked at this magical view. What we were looking at was white houses up high on the hill, seen through the dense fog, so it looked like the houses were racing past us, just like The Wizard of Oz, except these houses were upright. It took a few seconds to register on your brain because all you could see was the white of the house and the fog with no background of trees or roads.
It was a piece of magic. The husband was the first one to realize what was happening and he raced with his camera to catch the vision, but I bet he missed it. The rest of us merely smiled in wonder and were grateful for the child's call.
It was a piece of magic. The husband was the first one to realize what was happening and he raced with his camera to catch the vision, but I bet he missed it. The rest of us merely smiled in wonder and were grateful for the child's call.
Friday, July 16, 2010
July 17, 2010. Western Head, N.S. Home Again.
This time we arrived from Digby, having taken the ferry from St. John. We have often wanted to take that ferry but until now it was not convenient. Today we did it. Unfortunately the fog was dense so you could see nothing at all except fog from the moment we left St. John harbor till we arrived in Digby. That was a shame because I know from the pictures that both harbors are picturesque. The sea was still as glass all the way over which was a blessing. The Acadian Queen is the name of the boat and it was full. The ferry is old with lots of painting needing to be done but it was comfortable both inside and out. Ken and I stayed outside all the way, walking from the stern to the bow with many stops along the way.
Loading all those cars, trucks and tractor trailers is not an easy task. I was impressed with the efficiency of the staff. From Digby we drove over to Highway 8 and then quickly to our home by the shore. The air is warm and the air is clean and everything in the house seems to be working. Gill is here and Mary and Cliff too. Soon our company will arrive and our summer will begin in earnest. This is a lovely spot to spend the summer.
Loading all those cars, trucks and tractor trailers is not an easy task. I was impressed with the efficiency of the staff. From Digby we drove over to Highway 8 and then quickly to our home by the shore. The air is warm and the air is clean and everything in the house seems to be working. Gill is here and Mary and Cliff too. Soon our company will arrive and our summer will begin in earnest. This is a lovely spot to spend the summer.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
July 15, 2010. St. John, N.B. Homeport.
Many folks have told me that St. John, New Brunswick, Canada, has a city without charm but they are wrong. At least one thing here is beautiful, and that is 'Homeport', an historic bed and breakfast. I had read that St. John is the oldest city in Canada and I always wanted to stop and visit, but for some reason or another we have always driven right past the city, waved goodbye and promised we would return. Now we are here and pleased to be here. We are staying in a home built in 1846. Two identical homes were built by brothers who were also ship builders. To go to work they just had to walk down the hill to the shipbuilding docks. Our hosts bought one of the two homes in 1998 when it was a wreck. Karen and Gary restored the old house and opened it as a small bed and breakfast. Four years later the adjacent home became available, separated only by 35 feet of grass.
Being brave, they bought it, restored it, and then connected the two homes with a lovely dining room and bar. Now they have ten rooms for rent out, of various sizes and shapes, and together they look after the place. Fortunately Gary is handy because these old homes are always in need or repair. The place is beautifully furnished, all furniture acquired at estate sales. Our suite over-looks the harbor so we are watching the fog pour in as we speak. Normally Ken does not like to stay at a Bed and Breakfast. At breakfast he really does not like to talk. But we drove past the place and here we are, in this gorgeous old home over-looking St. John harbor. I am loving the furniture and the location and the St. John books of pictures left in the suite. Clearly, this old city is worth a look.
Being brave, they bought it, restored it, and then connected the two homes with a lovely dining room and bar. Now they have ten rooms for rent out, of various sizes and shapes, and together they look after the place. Fortunately Gary is handy because these old homes are always in need or repair. The place is beautifully furnished, all furniture acquired at estate sales. Our suite over-looks the harbor so we are watching the fog pour in as we speak. Normally Ken does not like to stay at a Bed and Breakfast. At breakfast he really does not like to talk. But we drove past the place and here we are, in this gorgeous old home over-looking St. John harbor. I am loving the furniture and the location and the St. John books of pictures left in the suite. Clearly, this old city is worth a look.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
July 14, 2010. Westford, Mass. Travelling.
Every year I get older and every year I take more stuff with me when we travel. This morning we left the apartment to drive to Nova Scotia. My backpack was stuffed. Just the essentials load me down. Today in my pack I have nine bottles of eye drops, all different. I must have medications for morning and evening so I carry two daily boxes of medications. I bring my computer and the IPad along with the IPod shuffle and of course my Kindle. The chargers for each is also along for the ride. Add in my nightshirt and new T shirt and underwear and my pack is full.
Fortunately we bring no fancy clothes or make up and jewelry so we look rather odd. Tonight we dined in a lovely restaurant with me in white socks and sneakers, skirt and T shirt. I was happy although if I continue to add essential stuff for these trips I may have to buy a bigger backpack, but I don't think so. I will just carry my purse on my shoulder rather than inside my pack.
Fortunately we bring no fancy clothes or make up and jewelry so we look rather odd. Tonight we dined in a lovely restaurant with me in white socks and sneakers, skirt and T shirt. I was happy although if I continue to add essential stuff for these trips I may have to buy a bigger backpack, but I don't think so. I will just carry my purse on my shoulder rather than inside my pack.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
July 13, 2010. Chevy Chase, Md. My Car Again.
It is definitely a design flaw. On a hot day, if the windows are kept closed and the sun is shining on the car, the rear view mirror falls off the windshield, to which it is attached. If I forget to keep a window open a bit, upon my return, the rear view mirror is dangling from the top of the car and swings around whenever I turn a corner. Of course, I also can not see out the mirror. I have trained myself to open the windows just a bit on those hot summer days of Washington. At least eight times since I have owned the car I have been required to stick the mirror back in place, or rather, have the mirror stuck back in place. I have learned that they do it better than I do.
This morning, I sat down on the drivers seat to discover I was sitting in a puddle of water. I did not even know it rained last night but just a little bit of open window allowed just enough rain water to pool on my seat. I just continued on to work, hoping that my wet seat would dry in the heat and it did. By ten o'clock I had a dry seat but it did look odd. The passenger seat was dry as a bone while my seat was wet. I keep a rag handy in the car if I know that it had rained, but this morning early I just jumped into the car without thinking about a thing. But I figured that at least it was only water!!
This morning, I sat down on the drivers seat to discover I was sitting in a puddle of water. I did not even know it rained last night but just a little bit of open window allowed just enough rain water to pool on my seat. I just continued on to work, hoping that my wet seat would dry in the heat and it did. By ten o'clock I had a dry seat but it did look odd. The passenger seat was dry as a bone while my seat was wet. I keep a rag handy in the car if I know that it had rained, but this morning early I just jumped into the car without thinking about a thing. But I figured that at least it was only water!!
Monday, July 12, 2010
July 12, 2010. Chevy Chase, Md. Nova Scotia.
Our friends Wendy and Claussen are driving to Nova Scotia later this week, and so are we. It is such an exciting thought that we had dinner together last evening at their home. In addition we watched a good bit of the World Cup in their newly done lower level room complete with a new 52 inch TV, all very elegant and comfortable. The afternoon and evening was fun and relaxing. Claussen prepared the meal by purchasing pre-cooked ribs that he just had to heat in the oven. Clever and tasty too. Cole slaw and potato salad completed the meal. My contribution was blueberry pie from The Belle Grove restaurant near the farm.
We compared routes and places to stay on the road. They travel with three dogs so they are limited by what motels allow pets. We intend to mosey along, probably taking three days to get there. They will be tourist and visit Prince Edward Island for a couple of days before arriving at their home in Western Head. When asked, we told them all about the place, finally admitting that we had not been there since 1962. It is exciting that all four families will soon be together again in Nova Scotia. Last summer was the last time we had seen each other together so the anticipation is great. In fact, it is party central with a wine tasting party every evening, rotating from one home to the next. Soon we will all be on the road heading north for clean warm air and no one hundred degree days in sight. We are so fortunate.
We compared routes and places to stay on the road. They travel with three dogs so they are limited by what motels allow pets. We intend to mosey along, probably taking three days to get there. They will be tourist and visit Prince Edward Island for a couple of days before arriving at their home in Western Head. When asked, we told them all about the place, finally admitting that we had not been there since 1962. It is exciting that all four families will soon be together again in Nova Scotia. Last summer was the last time we had seen each other together so the anticipation is great. In fact, it is party central with a wine tasting party every evening, rotating from one home to the next. Soon we will all be on the road heading north for clean warm air and no one hundred degree days in sight. We are so fortunate.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
July 11, 2010. Artemas, Pa. The Farm.
One aspect of life at the farm is the contact with lots of people who are not like us. Most folks we know graduated from College, live in lovely safe neighborhoods and have responsible important jobs. At least to them they have important positions.
Yesterday I had a conversation with Brian dealing with this farm. He loves our farm and he loves the cattle. Unfortunately he never went to College but has worked all his life slaving away to get money from the sales of beans and potatoes. His term. Being very polite, he hesitated to raise the issue, but he wanted to know our long term plans for the farm. His thinking was that with Andrew's move to Mississippi and our cash flow diminished due to our age, that we might begin to think about selling the farm. He would love to be able to buy it. It was brave of him to bring it up and I was pleased to talk about it with him. When we get too old to come here we would love to have him own the place so that is pleasing to us. The problem is the money part. By now the place is very valuable.
Now we must put our brains together to find a reasonable method of carrying this out. He knows three things for sure. 1. His income comes in small but steady pieces, never in one big lump sum. 2. He wants to acquire the property. 3. He thinks that if we plan ahead and allow him to pay us a small amount each month that goes toward down payment, perhaps he can transfer title to him, pay us the remaining dollars for the property and allow us and our family to have use of the Hill House for as long as we wish. It actually is a pretty good plan.
First thing we must do is talk to the boys, then make a plan that will work for both Tammy and Brian and Ken and me. This is an interesting proposition.
Yesterday I had a conversation with Brian dealing with this farm. He loves our farm and he loves the cattle. Unfortunately he never went to College but has worked all his life slaving away to get money from the sales of beans and potatoes. His term. Being very polite, he hesitated to raise the issue, but he wanted to know our long term plans for the farm. His thinking was that with Andrew's move to Mississippi and our cash flow diminished due to our age, that we might begin to think about selling the farm. He would love to be able to buy it. It was brave of him to bring it up and I was pleased to talk about it with him. When we get too old to come here we would love to have him own the place so that is pleasing to us. The problem is the money part. By now the place is very valuable.
Now we must put our brains together to find a reasonable method of carrying this out. He knows three things for sure. 1. His income comes in small but steady pieces, never in one big lump sum. 2. He wants to acquire the property. 3. He thinks that if we plan ahead and allow him to pay us a small amount each month that goes toward down payment, perhaps he can transfer title to him, pay us the remaining dollars for the property and allow us and our family to have use of the Hill House for as long as we wish. It actually is a pretty good plan.
First thing we must do is talk to the boys, then make a plan that will work for both Tammy and Brian and Ken and me. This is an interesting proposition.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
July 10, 2010. Artemas, Pa. Progress.
The new hay barn is already half full and looks spectacular. Ken and I watched as Brian put the big round bales into the barn, just neat as a pin, using a Bobcat with arms to grab the bales then stack them three tiers high. Very nifty. Tomorrow will finish the job and the new barn will be full. It made me wonder why we didn't build a bigger barn.
Today a very nice young couple signed a lease on the rental house. They will take possession in September. The house looks great with the new flooring and carpet and counter top. They are thrilled. I was so pleased for them that I wondered why I don't return to my life as a real estate agent and help buyers own their own home for the first time. He is a roofer by trade and is young and energetic and quiet so I hope they are good tenants. Certainly, I liked them both.
Progress has been made and that is pleasing to me. Tonight Sarah who lives right beside the rental house came to join us to drink a glass of wine and sit by the fire. We chattered for a long time, which was the first time we have said more than three or sentences to each other. This is another bit of progress here at the farm, to get to know our neighbors better. Soon I will be smug with all this progress.
Today a very nice young couple signed a lease on the rental house. They will take possession in September. The house looks great with the new flooring and carpet and counter top. They are thrilled. I was so pleased for them that I wondered why I don't return to my life as a real estate agent and help buyers own their own home for the first time. He is a roofer by trade and is young and energetic and quiet so I hope they are good tenants. Certainly, I liked them both.
Progress has been made and that is pleasing to me. Tonight Sarah who lives right beside the rental house came to join us to drink a glass of wine and sit by the fire. We chattered for a long time, which was the first time we have said more than three or sentences to each other. This is another bit of progress here at the farm, to get to know our neighbors better. Soon I will be smug with all this progress.
Friday, July 9, 2010
July 9, 2010. Artemas, Pa. Rain.
Finally, the rains has come to the farm. Blessed rain. The haying season has been excellent and all the hay is either in the barn or still sitting in the fields in big round bales. Now it is time for the rain to fall, and fall it did. Right now it has been raining for about an hour and it appears it will rain all night. I certainly hope so. The creek has not been running for over a month and the grasses are all brown, so we need rain and lots of it. The sound of rain falling on the roof is just delightful and will certainly please the farmers.
Our new hay barn is finished too. Six sturdy young men installed the barn last Monday and Tuesday. It must have been incredibly hot installing the metal roof. That is yet another job I am pleased not to do. The new barn is right opposite the pond beside the road where fifty hay bales were left out last winter for use by the cattle. Alan asked us to put up the small barn so we did. He will cut the pine trees on our land and have the logs cut into boards for the sides, leaving the wood wet so the boards will shrink, thus providing air to circulate. We have a good system here on the farm. We help them and they help us so everyone benefits.
We do have a problem though. We will not be here for the Fair when we normally bid and purchase cattle from the children. But our travels will take us to Nova Scotia. In addition, between the new barn and the upgrades to the rental house, our well of money has run dry. Tomorrow we must give them the bad news. It is too bad to be poor!!
Our new hay barn is finished too. Six sturdy young men installed the barn last Monday and Tuesday. It must have been incredibly hot installing the metal roof. That is yet another job I am pleased not to do. The new barn is right opposite the pond beside the road where fifty hay bales were left out last winter for use by the cattle. Alan asked us to put up the small barn so we did. He will cut the pine trees on our land and have the logs cut into boards for the sides, leaving the wood wet so the boards will shrink, thus providing air to circulate. We have a good system here on the farm. We help them and they help us so everyone benefits.
We do have a problem though. We will not be here for the Fair when we normally bid and purchase cattle from the children. But our travels will take us to Nova Scotia. In addition, between the new barn and the upgrades to the rental house, our well of money has run dry. Tomorrow we must give them the bad news. It is too bad to be poor!!
Thursday, July 8, 2010
July 8, 2010. Chevy Chase, Md. Eyes.
For the first time in over sixty years I can see clearly without the aid of eyeglasses. I can see the trees across the street , even the individual leaves, right when I get out of bed. For all those many years, the first thing I did after waking up was putt on my glasses. Now I can even read the time, even though the clock is on Ken's side. But of course, every problem solved brings another issue to address and that is close up vision. Keeping reading glasses close to me will be a necessity. Already at work I use Sara Lou's reading glasses from her desk and another pair on my own desk and of course a pair at home. My fancy new lens does allow me to read without reading glasses and now that my both eyes see well, perhaps I will rid myself of this appendage but I'm not holding my breath.
Every procedure is a little different, irritating in each own way. Today I was left feeling nauseated but after I slept for an hour and ate lunch, my strong stomach has returned to normal and now I am merely grateful for my vision. Do not talk to be about the good old days. I want the technology of today for eye surgery. It is a modern miracle. You can even say that I am perfect, at least as it pertains to my eyes!!
Every procedure is a little different, irritating in each own way. Today I was left feeling nauseated but after I slept for an hour and ate lunch, my strong stomach has returned to normal and now I am merely grateful for my vision. Do not talk to be about the good old days. I want the technology of today for eye surgery. It is a modern miracle. You can even say that I am perfect, at least as it pertains to my eyes!!
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
July 7, 2010. Chevy Chase, Md. Bad Things.
It is so irritating when bad things happen to perfectly nice people. When I returned from Mississippi I found that Susan fell and broke her pelvis. She was taking her son's dog for a walk. The dog jerked her arm, she fell and ended up stretched out on a driveway unable to get up. Her son and grandson had just left to drive to the west coast, just about one year after his wife died. So here is Susan watching after the dog and now she is unable to stand. Fortunately her cell phone summoned help. Now she is healing and after a few more weeks will be fine.
Then I was upset to be told that the husband of the very nice folks we dined with last Friday has been diagnosed with Altzheimer's disease. On the way home on Friday evening Ken remarked that Judd was having trouble with his memory and mental functions, but that it was not readily evident. But I was informed yesterday that indeed, two years ago he had been told the bad news. What a blow to the family, especially the wife. The next ten years will be very difficult for everyone involved. I feel so badly for them both.
We must remember to count our blessings every day!!
Then I was upset to be told that the husband of the very nice folks we dined with last Friday has been diagnosed with Altzheimer's disease. On the way home on Friday evening Ken remarked that Judd was having trouble with his memory and mental functions, but that it was not readily evident. But I was informed yesterday that indeed, two years ago he had been told the bad news. What a blow to the family, especially the wife. The next ten years will be very difficult for everyone involved. I feel so badly for them both.
We must remember to count our blessings every day!!
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
July 6, 2010. Chevy Chase, Md. The World Cup.
It is definitely exciting, tracking the World Cup. Those countries that were expected to win or at least play in the final game lost and went home. Brazil is gone. Argentina is gone. Only one team from Africa got out of the first round. The US was expected to get to the quarter finals at least. Now we are back to the old days, where teams from Europe will compete in the final games for the championship. Spain will play Germany tomorrow in one semi-final game. It is my guess Germany will win. I have been wrong before.
I just like to see the highlights of the games and the goals. Watching the whole game is painful. I want them to enlarge the goal and allow for more substitutions. The players seem to play half the time just kicking the ball around keeping the ball away from the opposite team. Every so often an attack is launched with perhaps a shot on goal, then it is back to just kicking the ball around, all to rest the players for the next offensive. I love the whole spectacle of the World Cup but I hate to watch the games. Fortunately we have no TV at the farm or in Mississippi so I have been fortunate to see only the highlights of the games. Today at work Damian on his TV had the game and for fifteen minutes we watched three goals scored. I loved being in the right place at the right time.
I just like to see the highlights of the games and the goals. Watching the whole game is painful. I want them to enlarge the goal and allow for more substitutions. The players seem to play half the time just kicking the ball around keeping the ball away from the opposite team. Every so often an attack is launched with perhaps a shot on goal, then it is back to just kicking the ball around, all to rest the players for the next offensive. I love the whole spectacle of the World Cup but I hate to watch the games. Fortunately we have no TV at the farm or in Mississippi so I have been fortunate to see only the highlights of the games. Today at work Damian on his TV had the game and for fifteen minutes we watched three goals scored. I loved being in the right place at the right time.
Monday, July 5, 2010
July 5, 2010. Chevy Chase, Md. A Farmer's Wife.
It takes a special kind of person to be a farmer's wife. I suspect it is essential to be born into a farming family in order to be a successful wife of a farmer. Look at Tammy, married to Bryan, the farmer son of our good friends the farmers Alan and Helen. Tammy's parents are farmers so she knows all about life on the farm. She seems very happy with her role and certainly energetically carries out her duties. And what a lot of duties there are.
She is the Mother of five , ages five to fifteen. She milks one hundred cows every morning and evening. She prepares lunch and dinner for the men every day, a different number of men depending on the tasks of the day. She organizes and tends a large garden, and twice a week takes her produce to the Farmer's Market in Cumberland. She is an excellent baker and keeps the restaurant in Clearville, 'Mike's Place' supplied with pies, amounting to twenty pies a week. She cleans our two houses. All vegetables not sold or consumed she will can or freeze. She helps whever Bryan or Alan need an extra hand on the farm. For instance, Tammy helped load the bales on the elevator both Sunday and Monday.
In addition to her work at the farm she attends every game played by any of their children and as the children are strong and are used to taking directions all four older children are highly prized on their school teams. She does it all with not a care in the world. If you were to ask her if she liked her job she will tell you a definite "Yes". What she enjoys about being the wife of a farmer is the variety in her life. She is always needed and she is always in charge, definitely a winning combination for her. But her hours are long and much of the work is tiring but she would not trade her job for anyone. I am amazed with her competence and enthusiasm. Certainly I would have made a rotten Farmer's Wife!!
She is the Mother of five , ages five to fifteen. She milks one hundred cows every morning and evening. She prepares lunch and dinner for the men every day, a different number of men depending on the tasks of the day. She organizes and tends a large garden, and twice a week takes her produce to the Farmer's Market in Cumberland. She is an excellent baker and keeps the restaurant in Clearville, 'Mike's Place' supplied with pies, amounting to twenty pies a week. She cleans our two houses. All vegetables not sold or consumed she will can or freeze. She helps whever Bryan or Alan need an extra hand on the farm. For instance, Tammy helped load the bales on the elevator both Sunday and Monday.
In addition to her work at the farm she attends every game played by any of their children and as the children are strong and are used to taking directions all four older children are highly prized on their school teams. She does it all with not a care in the world. If you were to ask her if she liked her job she will tell you a definite "Yes". What she enjoys about being the wife of a farmer is the variety in her life. She is always needed and she is always in charge, definitely a winning combination for her. But her hours are long and much of the work is tiring but she would not trade her job for anyone. I am amazed with her competence and enthusiasm. Certainly I would have made a rotten Farmer's Wife!!
Sunday, July 4, 2010
July 4, 2010. Artemas, Pa. Making Hay.
It is wonderful to watch and smell but it is very hot hard work. The Spring season was kind with lots of rain and sunshine, so the hay fields are ripe and ready to harvest. Many big machines later, the barn is full. What is most impressive though is the hard work. The whole system requires many people and many machines. First the hay is cut by the tractor and left on the field in rows. Next the baler comes along pulled by yet another tractor and makes up the bales of hay, the ones that look like shredded wheat. They are stacked in our big barn. The baler pitches each bale into the wagon.
Soon someone drives an empty wagon out to the field and returns with the full wagon, ready to put up into the barn. Now although an elevator lifts the bales to the top of the barn, someone strong must lift the bale out of the wagon while someone else places the bale on the conveyor belt/elevator. Yet another strong person or two works at the top of the barn to pile the bales into neat piles. It is hard, hot and heavy work.
Andrew offered to help one year and within ten minutes his hands were blistered and burst followed by blood and gore. Then he put on gloves. Of course, all the other folks worked without gloves as to them the bales were not heavy or hard. But tonight, after harvesting 1500 bales today all the members of the Jay family were weary. The work looks so rewarding but I am happy that I am watching not working.
Soon someone drives an empty wagon out to the field and returns with the full wagon, ready to put up into the barn. Now although an elevator lifts the bales to the top of the barn, someone strong must lift the bale out of the wagon while someone else places the bale on the conveyor belt/elevator. Yet another strong person or two works at the top of the barn to pile the bales into neat piles. It is hard, hot and heavy work.
Andrew offered to help one year and within ten minutes his hands were blistered and burst followed by blood and gore. Then he put on gloves. Of course, all the other folks worked without gloves as to them the bales were not heavy or hard. But tonight, after harvesting 1500 bales today all the members of the Jay family were weary. The work looks so rewarding but I am happy that I am watching not working.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
July 3, 2010. Artemas, Pa. The Alleycat.
It is a highlight of the weekend at the farm, a visit to the Alley Cat for ice-cream. The place is a shack at the corner of The Road Kill Cafe. It has a deck in front and chairs and tables under cover while you eat. I think it is the best ice cream in the world. Certainly it is the cheapest. At least once every weekend we get ice cream there because we really must support her.
Cathy owns and runs the place, all by herself. She stays open from mid May to mid October. She and Al lived together just above the Lebanon church which is close to Gary's place, so Al and Cathy built the little shack together and named it the Alley Cat after Al and Cathy. Soon they separated but Cathy owns it and runs it and is a valuable asset to the community. We always meet friends doing the same thing as us and in fact Cathy tells us who has been that day. I know without being told by Gary that they had ice cream both yesterday and today!!
I would love to see her cash flow. Cathy is very pretty or at least she was very pretty when she was young. She has a daughter who is almost thirty, so Cathy is not really young, but she keeps herself very well. She is married to Barry, a long time friend of Alan. When they married two years ago, Cathy wanted to go to Nova Scotia for their honeymoon, but Barry said no. Instead they went to Virginia Beach.
I think Cathy was very ambitious, but married and had children prior to obtaining any education. She still dreams about travelling to Nova Scotia or San Francisco. Instead she serves ice cream in Artemas, in the shack beside The Road Kill Cafe. She is sweet to everyone and enthusiastic too. But she always asks longingly about our travel, where we went and what we saw. I am more than happy to oblige and eat her ice cream.
Cathy owns and runs the place, all by herself. She stays open from mid May to mid October. She and Al lived together just above the Lebanon church which is close to Gary's place, so Al and Cathy built the little shack together and named it the Alley Cat after Al and Cathy. Soon they separated but Cathy owns it and runs it and is a valuable asset to the community. We always meet friends doing the same thing as us and in fact Cathy tells us who has been that day. I know without being told by Gary that they had ice cream both yesterday and today!!
I would love to see her cash flow. Cathy is very pretty or at least she was very pretty when she was young. She has a daughter who is almost thirty, so Cathy is not really young, but she keeps herself very well. She is married to Barry, a long time friend of Alan. When they married two years ago, Cathy wanted to go to Nova Scotia for their honeymoon, but Barry said no. Instead they went to Virginia Beach.
I think Cathy was very ambitious, but married and had children prior to obtaining any education. She still dreams about travelling to Nova Scotia or San Francisco. Instead she serves ice cream in Artemas, in the shack beside The Road Kill Cafe. She is sweet to everyone and enthusiastic too. But she always asks longingly about our travel, where we went and what we saw. I am more than happy to oblige and eat her ice cream.
July 2, 2010. Artemas, Pa. Visiting Relatives.
Gary and Diana, at their country place, are entertaining relatives from Texas, three generations of relatives. Gary's cousin and her husband, one son and daughter-in-law and three grandchildren, all staying in their house so Gary and Diana and Jeff and Tim are staying in our old farm house to sleep, similar to our routine in Nova Scotia when our homes overflow with guests. Fortunately for us, we were invited for dinner last evening at their home. It was a lovely evening.
Three generations of one family is always interesting especially when the weather is wonderful and the wine is flowing. In addition the food was delicious, smoked salmon with the trimmings for an appetizer and barbecued brisket, potatoes and squash for dinner. But the best part was the people. The parents live in Denton, Texas and are very familiar with the Hill Country. He is retired and they love to travel, along with their three dogs, especially in the US, so we swapped many stories. Their son and his family live in New Jersey with their children and dog. Together we had eight adults, five children and five dogs. Everyone behaved themselves very well, except for the adults, but it was an interesting and lively bunch. When the children went to bed we eight adults dined on the deck, watching the sunset and eating and drinking and talking. We took to discussing how we met and finally connected, beginning with the two families, then each of the two couples. The Denton folks camped on their honeymoon for one month, where the wife had never camped before. She wrote thank-you notes in the tent by the light of the lantern. It was great fun.
One aspect of a successful party is the inclusion of new people, especially when the new people are lively and interested in life. Last evening we had it in spades. I am so pleased to have met this family and soon I bet they come to Nova Scotia.
Three generations of one family is always interesting especially when the weather is wonderful and the wine is flowing. In addition the food was delicious, smoked salmon with the trimmings for an appetizer and barbecued brisket, potatoes and squash for dinner. But the best part was the people. The parents live in Denton, Texas and are very familiar with the Hill Country. He is retired and they love to travel, along with their three dogs, especially in the US, so we swapped many stories. Their son and his family live in New Jersey with their children and dog. Together we had eight adults, five children and five dogs. Everyone behaved themselves very well, except for the adults, but it was an interesting and lively bunch. When the children went to bed we eight adults dined on the deck, watching the sunset and eating and drinking and talking. We took to discussing how we met and finally connected, beginning with the two families, then each of the two couples. The Denton folks camped on their honeymoon for one month, where the wife had never camped before. She wrote thank-you notes in the tent by the light of the lantern. It was great fun.
One aspect of a successful party is the inclusion of new people, especially when the new people are lively and interested in life. Last evening we had it in spades. I am so pleased to have met this family and soon I bet they come to Nova Scotia.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
July 1, 2010. Chevy Chase, Md. Beach Party.
Think sun and sand and beach and think party. Now think an office beach party on our back parking lot complete with hamburgers, hot dogs and fried chicken and think fun. It is a wonder how much fun we can have pretending on the beach. This year we had a big wading pool for the children but the County had a water moratorium so we could not fill the pool, but the children had a great time anyway. Of course we served beer and sodas and water and Margareta's. Chips and pickles too. It was a lovely party.
We were celebrating Canada Day too although most folks were not aware of it. But I told them who also sang with me a rousing rendition of Oh Canada. It turns out the hockey fans knew all the words!! The weather was beautiful at seventy five degrees and sunny. Some days everything goes right.
We were celebrating Canada Day too although most folks were not aware of it. But I told them who also sang with me a rousing rendition of Oh Canada. It turns out the hockey fans knew all the words!! The weather was beautiful at seventy five degrees and sunny. Some days everything goes right.
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