Mountain living is for me

The National Bird.

2012-02-19T21:08:00.000-08:00

Thy Cross

2012-02-18T18:19:00.000-08:00

Friday the 13th, Jan 2012

2012-01-14T16:27:00.000-08:00

The Day started out bright and beautiful.

The evening was glorious.

Ciscero Bridge

2012-01-03T00:15:00.000-08:00

HAPPY 2012

Last year on Jan 1, we had lots of ice. Not too much snow, just lots of ice. This year we had neither. I drove about 15 miles into the mountains and found enough snow to build this snowman. Notice there is no snow in the background. It was just some in a shaded section of the road.

First snowfall on the Mt.

2011-10-15T22:30:00.000-07:00

Earlier in the week Whitehorse received her first real dusting of snow. Isn't she a bute!

End of Summer Stuff

2011-09-11T20:47:00.000-07:00

We had a very strange summer in the Pacific Northwest. It was unusaully cool, yet dry. The woods are dry as bones and now the heat has set in. Usually by now it's back to about 65-70* during the day and the last 3 days in my little mountain town it has been 100+. It's crazy. So so we have summer flowers continuing to bloom and the leaves are beginning to show their Autumn colors. Oh well. What can ya do. Absolutely nothing, but enjoy.

Love these

First little Zinnia. Can you believe it? It's only about 8" tall as well.

I think this is the deadly nighshade plant. Checking for berries. No children around!

Scarlet Runner Beans still blooming.

Daisies and Lavender.

I love the tall grasses in the ponds this year.

Two merging rivers. The Suiattle (Sue-attle) on the left is merging with the Sauk (Sock). Notice the difference in color. The Suiattle is very silty and it begins way up in the mts.

Here is another view of the merging rivers.

This is below the Sauk river bridge going to Sauk Prairie where I grew up. Someone planted that flag on the log and here is another one stuck in the rocks onthe other side of the bridge.

2011-08-21T19:02:00.000-07:00

They are building a retaining wall on a hill on Highway 530 at Skaglund Hill. The hillside keeps sliding. A couple years ago the road dropprd a few feet and they repaired it and built a bid retaining wall below the road. The plan then was to build one on the upper side. It's been quite a watch everyday driving to and from work. This week they did remove the big crain. So it's al the HUGE round concrete pillars are in.

The one above is the wall, far from finished. They build a road on top of the lower retaining wall and I'm sure when they finish this one, the road will be rerouted. Why would you leave a perfectly good road when you can rip ip up?

GREEN FAMILY REUNION 8.6.2011

2011-08-07T20:42:00.000-07:00

This is a very small portion of my Grandparents' Roy & Maggie Green's family.I want to say this is less than 1/5th. We have a HUGE family. I have 64 ,yes Sixty Four, 1st cousins alone. There was 4 generations repesented. What fun. The youngest member is just over a week old.

Instead of posting tons of pics of unknown people, I decided to do a couple "toe" shots. The one above is my sister in law Dianne and my first cousin Penny's toes.

These are 1st cousin Cindy's toes.

A lot of little dirty barefeet. This one belongs to my great nephew Ethan who is 2-1/2

There is always a fire no matter the weather. It's crazy!

This group of noisy uninvited guest arrived via the steps from the river. There are about 20 steps at least and the just walked up them like humans. They announced their arrival by very loud honks. Pretty little pests.

Whitehorse Mt and the Stillaquamish river.

2011-07-17T23:55:00.000-07:00

This weekend was the 35th annual Bluegrass Festival in Darrington. What a treat!. Every year is beter than the previous one. One grand part of the festival is the children. They are FREE to run around and play on the grass. Children my meet up with some they met last year, and they may be there for the first time and instantly they make friends and are off. A Tie Dye Vendor provides hula hoops for them to use and use they do. They share like no other time. I have never seen children "fight" and "tussle" over anything. They share,run, jump, climb, sit on the grass, roll on the grass and crawl all over the rocks and logs. It is such a great thing to watch.

I have posted some pics of the festival. Various entertainers and the audience. It poured the rain on Fri and Sat. You would not believe how many people attended on Sat even with the torrential rains! Hat, umbrellas, plastic bags and blue tarps were all in order.

This year a new band named "Deadwood Revival" played. They were incredibly talented and high energy young people. Then Country Current was there once again. They are a bluegrass band in the Navy Band system. They are amazing! I enjoyed these two bands far more than the headliner bands from Nashville.

Enjoy the pictures and imagine the clean air, clean fun (no smoking or drinking on the grounds), children running all around, people of all ages enjoying the same event and it's all held in the most beautiful ampitheater in the nation!

It's a come as you are and sleep where you can kind of festival.

Can't remember these guys, think they had something to do with The Andy Giffith show.??

T'was a not so abnormal rainy weekend.

And the sun did shine. This is one of my favorite pictures from the weekend.

This group was amazing. "Deadwood Revival" The were on stage both Sat and Sun. I'm excited just found out they are going to be in a Arlington, about 30 miles from me (the town in which I work) on the 25th of Aug for their concert in the park. Yippee and it's free!!!

Canadian, American and WA state flags

Where they twins or great friends?

Love this hat.

Larry Stephenson and Paul Shuler having a chat.

"Polecat ?"Can't remember their whole name. They were prety good. From Idaho

A portion of the spectators

The Shuler Family Band from Arizona

"Country Current" the US Navy bluegrass band. They're a real crowd pleaser., The dress whites don't hurt any either.

Father and Son arm in arm during "Country Current" singing "I'm Proud to Be an American"

Children are so free at the festival. They play so hard.

Experimented with camera settings. Didn't realize the filter would pick up he not so green grass. Was going for the yellow of the Hula Hoop while extracting the other colors. Poor child looks sickly. She played with the Hula Hoop for quite some time.

Barefoot, rubber boots and little girl shoes. Ya gotta love it!

Just some pictures

2011-06-08T22:35:00.000-07:00

My all time favorite flower.

Whitehorse Mt from my side yard.

Who needs a car when you have a lawn mower?

Finch and Lupine

Gigantic pink tulips.

A fun shot.

2011-05-17T22:57:00.000-07:00

Evergreen trees, Flowering cherry tree, big white clouds and bright blue sky. Could one ask for anything more?

Why does everyone think this is a pesty little wildflower? I love em.

My little garden area. Newly planted cukes and zucchini plants need protection for a while. Just never know with the weather this Sping if it's going to freeze at night. The green plant in the first box is Oregano. Boy it's gone nuts this year. I need tomatoes, and onions to make some good spaghetti sauce.

2011-05-10T20:55:00.000-07:00

Poor little fella. Was in my garage when I got home and I didn't see him. There he was, seemingly stuck with this crazy woman with a black machine that flashed a light. I stepped away after pic on right for fear of giving him a heart attack. He then came to his senses and flew out the garage door rather than trying to break out though the window. You could see his little heart beating in his chest. So I made it quick with the camera and stepped aside just in time. He might have impaled me with him beek!

Celebrating Death????

2011-05-04T21:26:00.000-07:00

I was saddened at the site of Americans celebrating in the streets, following the death of Osama Bin Laden. Although personally proud our troops where able to find him, and take him out, I don't see much difference between Americans celebrating a death, by waiving flags, and blowing car horns in the streets, and the similar public displays we witnessed, in parts of the Islamic world, following the destruction of the Twin Towers on 9/11. The killing of a human being is never something to celebrate, for it simply demonstrates how far we all are, from what God intended us to be, created, as we are, in His image and likeness. People like Osama Bin Laden, and Adolf Hitler, however evil, should be pitied. Furthermore, Our Lord Jesus Christ commanded us to love our enemies. Rejoicing over the death of someone, even someone as evil as Bin Laden, is not consistent with our Christian Faith, and the teachings of Christ, the Prince of Peace.

"Gradually it was disclosed to me that the line separating good and evil passes not through states, nor between classes, nor between political parties either, but right through every human heart, and through all human hearts." Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn

The events taking place in our world should be a call for all of us to take a closer look at ourselves, and seek transformation of our own hearts, with the help of God's Holy Spirit. Saint Seraphim of Sarov tells us that, if we acquire a peaceful heart, a thousand around us will be saved. Let us not rejoice when someone as evil as Bin Laden is taken down, but ask God to remove the same evil from our own hearts, and grieve over the fact that one more person, a brother, has fallen under the influence of the devil.

Abbot TryphonSee more

by: All-Merciful Saviour Orthodox Christian Monastery

2011-04-25T19:26:00.000-07:00

Easter Morning in my back yard. If it were not for the daffodils blooming it would still look like Winter and to be honest it wasn't much warmer than a Winter day. However, the Holy Friday and Holy Saturday were both beautiful and warm, over 60*! Amazing how fast the temps can change in WA.

This is our newest family member. Selena Madison Green. Born April 10, 2011, 7lb8oz. The best dark hair ever seen on a baby. She looks most like her Gramma Gillette's family who are is originally from Mexico. So cute and snuggly. A very calm and peaceful baby.

Dani on the run as usual. She has a cold and was coughing a lot, but nearly always remembered to cough into her elbow. She was so exhauseted by the end of the day. Ethan was a hoot this year. He is 28 months now

and ALL BOY!! It's fun to watch the three kids play together. Ethan is now able to really play with the girls rather than along side or independently of them. He yells their names (as I said, "ALL BOY") whenever they are in a different area.

Mia will be 6 this next week. She is still playing well with the little ones, but already you can begin to see her "pulling away" a bit. She loves playing with them, but at 6 her interests and abilities are different. She is a very good big cousin and sister. She has tried for a couple years to hang by herself in this tree and she has finally managed to do so. I think her Papaw and Gramma are going to need a bigger climbing tree soon.

2011-04-23T21:29:00.000-07:00

This is Spring in Arlington. A couple years ago they had plywood lifesize cows everywhere. Then there were bigger than life fish, followed by snowmen and women and now ducks. It's a lot of fun watching them go up around the town.

Flowering Current Bush.

Something gardeners and lawn care people don't like to see in the Spring. But one must admit the dandelions are pretty.

Sun shining on tulips.

Such a beautiful day and the tulips glowed in the sun.

Sweet little garden shed in Oso.

Wouldn't be Spring nor Easter without the wild Trillium.

Is it really April 21st???

2011-04-21T18:29:00.000-07:00

This was taken this morning about 6:30ish.Not a welcome sight. But fortunately Spring snow melts almost as soon as the sun rises. We in the Pacific Northwest are sooo ready for days without precipatation of any sort and temps above 55*f.

A little late winter, a little spring and a whole lot of beauty.

2011-04-07T21:08:00.000-07:00

Poor little daffodils on the morning of April 6, 2011

Can you imagine having this in your back yard? It really can be for someone. The house is for sale.

For the life of me, i can never remember the name of this plant. If I ever remember while at a nursery, I'm going to buy a few.

The garden shed on the property. See the waterfall in the back.

The waterfal makes this creek running alomg side the house. I am so jealous! I want it in my side yard.

Cherry blossoms

I like this picture of that plant I can't remember!!

Afternoon daffodils look much happier and warmer than the morning ones.

I have set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth. When I bring clouds over the earth and the bow is seen in the clouds, I will remember my covenant that is between me and you and every living creature of all flesh. And the waters shall never again become a flood to destroy all flesh.When the bow is in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is on the earth.” Genesis 9:13-16

Birds of a Feather

2011-04-02T17:18:00.000-07:00

Red Tail Hawk

Red Winged Blackbird

Canada Goose

Believe he's an Oregon Junco

Trumpeter Swan

Red Headed Sapsucker

House Finch

Black Crowned Night Heron??

Rufous-Sided Towhee

Mr and Mrs Mallard

2011-03-26T21:45:00.000-07:00

Water drop on new lupine leaves

New lupine leaves and crocus.

2011-03-19T22:47:00.000-07:00

The daffodils are trying real hard to break out.
I took all the mulching leaves off today and they seemed to stretch toward the sun as well as relax their leaves.

Metal Detecting

2011-03-18T21:53:00.000-07:00

Metal Detecting Partner Donna and I

Tools of the trade

Just a little dirty

2011-03-17T23:18:00.000-07:00

The Old Number 6 at NewHalem

2011-03-05T14:33:00.000-08:00

A very creative neighbor. This snowman is over 18' tall. His buttons are made of big black garbage bags, his mouth a rope, his scarf also garbage bags and his hat a tire innertube for the rim and a big black garbage bag stuffed for the top. His eyes are real lights that are lit. It's amazing.
We had over 4' of snow accumulative, 3' on the ground at once. So it there definetly as plenty of snow.It's a week later and we still have a foot of snow but it's rapidly melting in a 50* sunny day.

Can never have enough pictures of this beautiful mtn.

It's melting quickly. Water running over the side of this roof. The snow is hanging on for all it's worth..

Even a shadow butterfly gives hope of Spring.

Beautiful Days in the Mts and a trip to Seattle for niece Laura and my birthdays.

2011-02-27T20:24:00.000-08:00

Winter has arrived in our mountain hamlet. Over 3' of snow in about 3 days. Beautiful.

This is a view I get to see every night driving back into the mountains from work.

Whitehorse Mt through the grids of the new Sauk River Bridge.

Whitehorse Mt in late afternoon.

Mt Pugh basking in the evening sun.

I love this little Catholic Church in Darrington.

That would be my driveway!

Snow and ice from a metal roof.

This guy is content no matter the weather.

A couple friends said this should be a puzzle picture.

Tiny Episcopal Church across the street from the Catholic Church.

My house.

Lovely red barn.

Carved stump along the highway.

2011-02-27T18:57:00.000-08:00

February 25, 2011 turned out to be a very blue skied, sunny and cold day. Did not get above freezing.

My view each day. I am so blessed to have Whitehorse Mt smiling each day.

The Gum Wall on Post Alley at the Seattle Pike Place Market

Top left to right: Laura and Dani, Me and Dani, Ethan
Bottom left to right. Gramma Dianne with Ethan and Mia, Laura and Tracy having a dickens of a time getting Ethan's car seat unbuckled and out of the car.

What gives

2011-01-27T23:04:00.000-08:00

I can't figure out why there is a huge blank space between the post of Jan 27 and the earlier one. Anyone else have a clue?

2011-01-15T16:02:00.000-08:00

It has been several months since posting anything on my blog. I've been busy working, posting of Facebook (an unfortunate waste of time actually), traveling around the mountain roads and doing some metal detecting along the way.

Seems every weekend since Aug I have been out in the woods somewhere. Sometimes just driving around, walking some trails, exploring a river bed, an old campsite or admiring a new bridge.

We had a spell of cold weather the beginning of the year. Waterfalls turned to icefalls all over. Amazing ice formations along streams and under bridges where logs have landed since the flood just before Christmas.

I have found some fun tresures. Pieces of the bridge over the river to my childhood home. The bridge was built in 1933 and a new one opened in 2008. Been fun walking under the new one and finding bits and pieces. I have found some interesting bottles and a very adorable very rusty old child's toy truck or car. It's hard to tell exactly which.

The following is from New Years Day 2011. It was an absolutely beautiful day. Cold and clear blue sky with bright golden sun. A perfect day for exploring.

Whitehorse basking in the rising sun.

New Year's Day 2011

Traveling down the icy road

Bridge over a CreekIce crystals on the frozen groundCocklebur with ice

Ice fallA bubbling ice bowl

Interesting iceciclesA lonely icecicle on the branchBeautiful ending to a beautiful day

2010-10-03T18:39:00.000-07:00

Spent sometime in the woods Oct 2. Beautiful sunny day.

Walked by a stream, slipped and one foot ended up wet, so

decided not to be so careful and just put both feet in the water.

Suprisingly it was chilly but not freezing. It was actually rather refreshing.

Then there is the rose bush that blooms when it takes a notion.

It will bloom at the beginning of summer

and then not do a thing but look dead for weeks and all of a sudden it blooms again. Rather nice!

Happy Birthday Dad, Memory Eternal

2010-09-08T19:39:00.001-07:00

My Dad's birthday was August 28. This is a picture from his 80th birthday in 2009 along with the plaque the boys put on the mtn top along with his ashes.

Prairie Mtn from Dad's house on Sauk Prairie. He loved this mtn view.

Highest point on Prairie Mtn where the "boys" put Dad's ashes in a wonderful cleft in a rock and put the plaque in place with cement.

Ryan and Jason on Prairie Mtn with newly placed plaque.

Cousin Wayne and Steve on Prairie Mtn. What an awesome tribute to my Dad. It was his wish to go there.

A simple story about that. Dad, Steve and I were building me a woodshed about 7 years ago. It was a cool crisp Autumn morning. Sun was just about to rise over Gold Hill and we were drinking coffee waiting for the cement truck to arrive.

Somehow the conversation turned to dying. Dad stated that he had given away his cemetary plot and had decided he was going to be cremated and his ashes put up on Prairie Mtn. (This was a difficult thing for me to swallow as I do not believe in cremation.) At any rate, Dad continued to say what he wanted. Steve, in his normal voice said, "Dad, can you take a raincheck on this one. I'm kind of busy for the next few months."

Well, he had about 7 years to make good on that raincheck. Steve did a fabulous job granting Dad his wish.

God bless you Dad, I love and miss you. May your memory be eternal.

2010 Roy & Maggie Green Family Reunion

2010-08-08T16:52:00.000-07:00

Just a small portion of the family. I believe there were more in attendance this year than ever. It was sad not to have Dad there.

Ethan won the drawing for boys. He and his Dad are going to have lots of fun with the two little remote control 4 wheel drive trucks.

Mia loves Ethan and is such a good protector. She is so gentle with him.

What can one say about little miss Dani. She is so hilarious and adorable.

A couple weeks ago I was pushing her and Mia on the tire swing at my brother's, their papaw's, and out of the blue Dani said with a sad look on her face, "Happy's died". Happy is what she called my Dad. So cute.

2 years ago, Dad received this chair for being the oldest person in attendance at the reunion. He never used it. This year we decided to give it to Neil who is now the oldest of Roy & Maggie's family. It was a bittersweet moment. That's my brother Steve.

North Fork Sauk Falls

2010-06-13T19:48:00.000-07:00

NORTH FORK SAUK FALLS. Turn the volumn down. This is a roaring waterfall on a cheap camera. NOISEY!

2010-06-12T19:07:00.000-07:00

3rd raised garden bed constructed, filled and planted. It has mixed lettuce, 2 types of 2 radishes and kholrabi. 83* today so they have a warm beginning.

The other beds in the background have: right bed-cabbage, swiss chard, cilantro and italian oregano. The one on the right has 3 tomato plants and 6 beans plant, all seem to be thriving.

I want to make 2 3x3 beds and plant squash in one and cukes in another. Then I need to plant 3 types of beans. So I better get it going by next weekend or nothing will mature in time. Should have done it all at least 2 weeks ago. But I'm always late!

I also want to do one more 3x6 bed and plant potatoes. Next year it will be bodacious cause they will all be completed and I'll just have to plant, add some good organic fertalizer and I'll be through. This building the beds and getting the dirt in them and planting is time consuming. Should have taken a few days vacation just build the beds.

2010-05-30T12:06:00.000-07:00

Sure wish these flowers would bloom all summer. Such intensity of color and a buzz with bees.

2010-05-30T11:50:00.000-07:00

New deck at my Dad's house. My brother did a great job. Wish I could get one built at my house. Hummmm. More like a small raised patio out back.

Cousins

2010-05-21T18:55:00.001-07:00

Chris, Emery, Wayne and Arnold building Aunt Eula's new bathroom.

Mountain Man (William) and Wayne.

Karen

Sweet Taylor, Softball Queen

Regina, her daughter Taylor and litle guy Dawson

Amanda, her fiance Jim and his son Cambell

Elaine, Courtney, Melissa and Tracy

Little Pippa Jo

North Carolina April 2010

2010-05-21T18:27:00.000-07:00

Aunt Eula Great Aunt Nora on the right and her sister "Easter" on the left. Aunt Nora was married to my Great Uncle Joe Green

Aunt Jheri

2010-05-21T18:06:00.000-07:00

Aunt Jheri will be 65 on June 2. She has been battling cancer(s) for nearly 10 years now. Unfortunately, there is not more treatment. She has cancer in her bones and liver. It's a matter of time now. Hospice is there now.
My Aunt Pauline has moved into an appartment right next to Jheri in Morganton, North Carolina. Please pray for Jheri's daughter Paula. She has 2 little boys, Alex and Will who are the main joy in Aunt Jheri's life.

I was able to go visit them in April and am so thankful that I did. I went to mourn/remember/connect with Dad's family and tromp the hills he tromped. It was wonderful. It was difficult to come back home. I enjoyed them so much. I knew it would be my last visit with Aunt Jheri. But there is some hope that she will still be with us in August when I am returning for the east coast family reunion.

2010-01-20T20:56:00.000-08:00

I have thought for several years now how hard it was going to be when my Dad passed away. Over the last year my brother and I both knew this could be our last year with him. He did all those things you hear about people doing when they have some sort of 6th sense about their mortality.

Dad had to go to North Carolina in the spring of '09. He wanted to go to all the old haunts. He went to see if he could find where his infant brother was buried on the hill behind the house they were living in that winter so long ago. It was a bad winter, freezing and the roads were bad. Everett was born along with his twin brother Earl. Two weeks after their birth, Everett died and they buried him on the hill near a big tree. So sad. So normal for those depression years in the mountains of NC.

Dad bought a new video camera and had it recording a lot. It was so emotional in some scenes as he relived those childhood days. He narrated all videos.

Last winter when we had the enormous snowfall, Dad came and opened my attic door to let the heat go up and melt some snow from the roof. My house was freezing, but the attic was nice. I coud have slept up there! He laughed when I told him I didn't want to pay a high propane bill. He said, 'better to pay extra for propane than pay when your roof caves in'. Guess he was right there. Huh, why would I even have questioned him. He was always right! But, he had called me several times wanting me to call him "immediately" when I got home from work. I saved those messages. Then I was thinking I would want to hear his voice later.

Dad was a very amazing man. Was pulled out of school, literally his Dad went and got him out of school during the first weeks of his 2nd grade year, and he had to go to work. From then till he was 17 his paychecks went to support the large family. He was born in 1929 so we know the years times were bad.

He basically taught himself to read and write. He was always a bit embarrassed at his writing skills, but I loved his writing. I wish I had kept some. Why, I'd just cry more.

The sadness is overwhelming. It has been one month and one day since he had the stroke. It feels like forever ago, yet yesterday. My heart cries everyday. My eyes leak every day also. I can't help it. It just happens.

I hear it gets better, I guess it's just too soon.

My Daddy is Gone

2009-12-31T18:45:00.000-08:00

My Dad died on Monday Dec 28 at 8:15 pm. It was the most heartbreaking moment ever.My brother Steve and his wife Dianne and I were there. I was holding his hand. He went peacefully and quietly.
He had suffered a massive stroke on the 19th. We brought him home on the 22nd to his Litte House on the Prairie. He had many visitors and visited as best he could with all of them.
One evening his two brothers and a sister were all there visiting. We got to talking geneology and none of us could remember who one person one. Dad had not talked a lot for a while, but he chimed in saying "That was Mama's sister". He actually seemed a little perturbed that we did not know.
We had 9 wonderful days. I was able to take leave from work which was a blessing in itself.
The Memorial Service will be Friday Jan 8. I can't imagine how difficult that will be.
This morning before going out to the house I stopped at the grocery store. To my suprise as I walked past the deli section tears filled my eyes. Dad went there every morning for coffee and a sausage biscuit. It caught me completely off guard.

I will miss our fishing trips to Davis Lake, miss his chats about the mountains and Obama. I will miss his giant hands and his twinkling blue eyes.

May God grant you rest Dad. I love you!

2009-12-27T22:54:00.000-08:00

My Dad in his truck. Summer Family reunion.

Dad at his 80th birthday party 8/28/09

Static Electricity Grabs Dani's Hair!!!

2009-12-19T17:14:00.001-08:00

My great niece Dani after playing on the sofa in her house. So fun her Mom was able to grab the camera at the right time.

2009-12-19T16:55:00.000-08:00

We had a very cold spell a week or so back. It was 2*f several morning and got to about 15*f
during the day time. Sun was shining brightly every day. Between the brightness of the sun and the beauty of the ice, the week was a sight to behold.

This was just fun picture of the leaves in the woods covered with ice crystals.

Not a single snow flake here---100% ice. This is Dan's Creek near my childhood home. Dozens of kids learned to swim in this waterway.

Ahhhh! North Fork Sauk Falls. Absolutely beautiful in any season. This deep freeze created an unbelievable world of ice. I was so amazed.

Just a little distance from town. I spent an afternoon just driving around to see the ice formations on trees, in the fields and the waters.

2009-11-22T20:04:00.000-08:00

Nov 21, 09: First snowfall of the 09-10 winter in Darrington. Guess what I did for a couple hours? Yep, I walked my favorite trail again. The sounds this day were:
RAIN DROPS
MELTING SNOW FALLING OFF TREE BRANCHES
QUIET RIVER WATER
AN EAGLE SCREACHING yee-ka-ka-ka-ka-ka

This picture was more than I bargained for. The orange streak is the tree trunk. The moss was incredible. I love moss and mushrooms.

Not as clear as I would have liked. Excuse: gloves-no picture. no gloves-frozen fingers

These guys aren't giving up.

I met myself coming and going.

2009-11-12T22:38:00.000-08:00

Please don't let us have a repeat of last winter. Weather folks talking snow in the area for the weekend. Sure hope they are wrong.

2009-11-01T17:11:00.000-08:00

I took a little hike along the Old Sauk Trail near Darrington, WA yesterday. It's a lovely trail walking through old growth timber along the Sauk river. It was absolutely pouring the rain and did not let up for one second. Fortunately, the forest canapy keeps the pelting rain off. But you get hit by huge drops once in a while.

It's an easy walk about 3 miles round trip. Yesterday the only sounds were my feet squishing along the rain drenched trail, the rain drops hitting the decaying folage, the Sauk river running high and an occasional bird.

There are several varities of mushrooms which grow along the trail. It is the only place around close where I know Indian Pipes grow in the early summer. These little button shaped mushrooms were everywhere.

"Solitary trees, if they grow at all, grow strong."- Winston Churchill

"Two roads diverged into the wood, and I, I took the one less traveled and that has made all the difference" Robert Frost.

2009-10-25T19:56:00.000-07:00

My little mountain town is very colorful in the Autumn. Below are a few examples. Enjoy

Darrington has the prettiest mudhole around!

2009-10-25T19:24:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite spots near Darrington. It's the ruins of the Old Forson Mill. Years ago it was a very active mill (before my time), sending logs down the valley by train . The picture of the bridge is the remnents of the railroad bridge.
There is a great swimming hole in the summer which becomes a great fishing hole in the winter.

Looks like an ancient ruin in a jungle.

The water flowing from the mill pond to the river.

Another wall of the old Mill.

Leaves and moss cover the old bridge. I want to walk across this bridge and as far on the old railroad grade as possible. I'm thinking it will take you all the way to Darrington, which is about 6 miles or so. I'm not sure if the old bridges are there which cross the river closer to town. Only one way to find out!!

Fire Pit Complete--for now

2009-08-30T18:24:00.000-07:00

The fire pit is completed for this summer. Have a few ideas which I'll think about over the winter. I have other projects in the yard that I want to work on also.

Phase 4

2009-08-21T21:36:00.000-07:00

Just the frame left to complete and it's ready for cement. What a job! It's been fun and exhausting. But it's going to be completed soon. A friend loaned me his cement mixer so that will make life a whole lot easier. I was dreading the wheelbarrow by wheelbarrow mixing and pouring.

Phase 3 Fire Pit

2009-08-13T11:15:00.001-07:00

Here is phase 3 of the fire pit. I had the bricks and decided there needed to be some contrast between the cottage stones in the ring and the forthcoming cement. So I placed them around the ring. I have to level them all up and then the area is ready for cement. I have a few mexican tiles that I have no other use for so am trying to figure how to incorporate them also. It's been a fun project, lots of work, can't wait to be finished and the burn ban to be lifted.

2009-08-08T16:43:00.000-07:00

Picture #1 the grapes look almost ripe. Flash made them look so. Picture #2 is more realistic as to the color. Taken without a flash. Using just a cheap digital camera.

There are tons of grapes this year. I think I will have plenty as well as the birds. I'll never use them all. Have to give some away. One can only make so much jelly. Gotta find out how to make some wine.
All in a (couple) days work. I've competely dug out around the fire pit and will pour cement. I still need to finish the framing and make sure it's all level. I hauled at least a dozen loads of sod as well as dirt away. Our dirt is actually sand, so it's pretty easy to work with.
Top picture is from edge of yard looking back toward the house. Bottom picture is from house side looking to edge. There is a huge area behind the trees that is wild. It's mine so I could dump the sod and sand back there.

I'll borrow a cement mixer and mix everything and pour. I can't see paying a cement truck an astronomical amount when I can do the work myself. Gotta ask my best neighbor for advice on finishing up.

Think I need a hot soak.

HOT AUGUST MOON

2009-08-05T21:54:00.001-07:00

It's not the best picture, taken with a cheap little digital camera. But it certainly shows the color.

This was taken 8/5/09 as the moon was just rising over Gold Hill. There is a pretty substantial forest fire on the east side of the hill and the smoke has made from some beautiful moons the last couple evenings. And of course the more full it becomes, the prettier it gets.

Same evening about 10 minutes from first one. Just high enough to be above the smoke.

It's hasn't flipped it's lid, just a tree branch.

Building a Dam

2009-08-01T23:15:00.000-07:00

Building a dam is pretty hard work when you are only 3,2,4 & 5 years old. That's the ages of these little girls in order from top to bottom. The little boy at the very top is 8. The girls were playing in very cold Segelson Creek. A pretty good sized little hole for them. Then along came the older boy on the left and they all worked on the dam. Those little girls never stopped for a minute until their leader told them it was finished.

2009-07-31T15:45:00.001-07:00

As most of you know it's been a bit hot in W.Washington. My little mountain hamlet was beginning to feel like a huge hell. 111.7* one day, two days of 105*, one at 104* and now it's 91*. It has not been below 90* here for well over a week. But hey, it is really better than 9' of snow!!

The above picture is taken from the famous "Fortson Hole" swimming place. It's a wonderful spot on the north fork of the Stillaquamish river accessable off Hwy 530 or Swede Haven Road. To those is swim in the Stilly in Arlington and think it's cold at first, try swimming in the water that is close to the headwaters. But surprisingly it's not so bad.The hole is deep enough for the teenages (and a very couple brave younger kids) to jump off a tree limb from a fallen tree. There is no huge hidden rapid so it's really nice. The tree is still growing into the bank. The picture was taken around 8pm on the 111.7* day.

I absolutley loved being in that water. I have such great memories of swimming all day in the Stillaquamish river or Dan's Creek. I went across to the other shore and a little boy was standing with his swimming trunks hanging a little lower than perhaps they should have been. The following short conversation took place.

Me "A little cold huh"

Boy "Ya, but you get used to it"

Me " Probably but maybe I'm just a little old for it"

Boy with a very serious look " Well, ya!" with that voice inflection that says "you should know that"

Note to self: Never talk to that boy again.

Inspite of that conversation it was a wonderful swim. Cooled me off so well that I had no trouble going to sleep, with 3 fans in my room and an a/c unit blowing in the living room!

Tomorrow is the Roy & Maggie Green family reunions.

Here is a picture of the one and only time the entire family of parents and siblings were together.

By the time the younger ones were born the older were already married and the family was split between the mountains of Washington State and the mountains of North Carolina. They had 15 children, one set of twins of which one died at age 2 weeks. It will be a fun day swimming in the river and reconnecting with cousins from afar!

2009-07-06T20:32:00.000-07:00

Blooming Evening Primroses. Finally got it to load! Isn't that the coolest thing. I love it. I wish I could get it from the time the leaves begine to peel back, but that takes forever! Once that happens it's still a slow process to get to this point. So I decided to share just the finale'. Sorry for the noise, not sure what caused that. Enjoy!

Whitby,England

2009-07-05T17:35:00.000-07:00

I am feeling a bit lonesome for the little city by the sea, home of my patron saint Hilda. I haven't been in 6 years and that's way too long. I want to climb the 199 stairs to the top of the Abby Mount, gaze around at the sea and the tops of the town buildings. Walk across the bridge and stop into the little "chip shop" and get the best fish and chips ever. Fish caught the very day cooked. So tastey with lots of vinegar on the chips and some mushy peas on top. Will admit Imost often leave off the peas.

St Hilda established the dual monastery in the 600's. There was actually 2 monasteries, one for women and one for men. Caedmon, a farm hand was taught to read and write by St. Hilda and is known as the ather of sacred song in England.

This is Caedmon's Cross on the temple mount in Whitby. At the top is Christ, then David, Hilda and Caedmon at the bottom.

If I could hop a plane tomorrow, I would not hesitate in the least.

On a more sobering note, Whitby is also one of the places that Bram Stoker used an inspiration for his best seller "Count Dracula". All over towns are signs about Dracula.

True light and dark in the same are. Light on the top of the hill and dark in the valley of streets.

Evening Primrose

2009-07-03T16:51:00.000-07:00

Evening Primrose

Oenothera Biennis

Evening Primrose is a North American native biennial plant. The plants are very tall, often 4 to 5 feet or more in height. The stem is erect, stout, soft-hairy, reddish and branching forming a shrub. Leaves are alternate, rough-hairy, lanceolate, about 3 to 6 inches long and lemon-scented. The taproot is elongated, fibrous, yellow on the outside and whitish within. The flower spikes grow on auxiliary branches all along the stalk. They are about 2-1/2 inched in diameter, bright yellow and have four petals, a cross shaped stigma and a refluxed calyx (leaves under petals). The flowers open in the evening and close up during the day and are strongly scented with a delicious sweet perfume which attracts pollinating moths. The fruit is an oblong 1 in. capsule containing many tiny reddish seeds. (stolen from altnature.com)

I have the pleasure of watching these flowers open every evening. It's like time lapse photography,only the real thing. Takes a few minutes for each one to unwind itself. First the green leaves slower pull back, nothing happens for a little while then the little stigmas inside begin to spin and the flower opens. It is just so cool to watch. I love having them in little neglected flower beds in front of the house.

I took a video of one opening but unfortunately I am unable to upload it to the blog. What a shame. If you know anyone near who has this flower, it well worth watching in the evenings. In the past I have shared it with neighborhood children, but alas we have no children anymore. But the adults around certainly enjoy it also. It's the hit of the neighborhood!!

2009-06-14T16:44:00.000-07:00

My all time favorite flower is the Columbine. This little purple and white one grows in my back garden area. It is mingled with Lily of the Valley.
This is a huge fern in my "wild area". She is surrounded by lots of salal. To the west is an old gravenstien apple tree that has fallen, grown upward and at some point had a transparent apple tree grafted to it. So it's a combination of new and old and a wonderful sight.

This little maple tree is insisting on growing in the middle of the Lily of the Valley. Right now it's really pretty, but I must remove it as it is right next to the house. There is another one about the same size growing under my grapevines that must also be moved. So, I'm trying to find a place for them to grow together.

I absolutely love Lily of the Valley but it is so invasive. A couple little plants have completely taken over an area about 6 feet long. It' such a good grower. I'm planning on finding an area where it can grow together into itself. I will need to put it in a container in the ground to keep in in one area. We'll see how that goes.

2009-05-09T22:49:00.000-07:00

Spent the day at Deception Pass. Been many a year since I was there last. It's such a beautiful place. These gulls were ever watching the folks fishing for hering. Quantity control duty.

I had no idea crabs actually molt their old shells. That's what was happening here. At first I though it was 2 crabs then realized it was on shedding a too small shell. Fascinating.
These were absolutely disgusting looking. They were hanging from a rock completely covered with huge barnacles. I don't know if they were part of them or if they were something I couldn't see. But they were so gross looking, but amazing.

The famous Deception Pass bridge taken from the North Beach are, a giant meccano set.
This is taken from a trail from the bridge down to the North beach. It was such a beautiful day.
That's quite a trail, coming back up especially. I went down and realized there is a parking lot much closer to the beach. But what exercise.

Problem was I splatted on the rocks. Oh my goodness what a sight I'm sure. No one was near me but a boat was going by. Perhaps they were too busy baiting their hooks to see a clumsy ole' lady sprawl out. I bunged up my knee and I think I need a complete body massage now. I fortunately had left North beach and was at West beach. I would have never made it up the trail on a bum leg. I said a little four letter work beginning with "s" and then laughed. What an idiot. However, it sure hurt. Tonight my body is feeling a bit like the old "got run over by a Mack" truck feeling. My knee is definetly not right. Swollen and can't bend. Oh well, all in a day's fun.

I'll see what tomorrow brings. I've been icing it. I won't be going anywhere tomorrow. Had planned to do some outdoor work around her tomorrow afternoon. Reckon that's out.

2009-04-30T19:50:00.000-07:00

My favorite little seaside village, Pittemweem, Scotland

I am beginning to feel a bit homesick for the land of heather, bagpipes and haggis. It's been 2-1/2 years and it's killin' me. Perhaps next year. :-)

I miss the quiet, calm lifestyle. I miss the North Sea and the River Tay. I miss the Firth of Forth and the neighborhood pub. I miss Bill & Elspeth, JoAnna, Katy, Daniel, Jared, Steve, Carol, Louise, Emma and Danny. I've dying to see Louise's little Millie who will be 2 in June. When I left she was just a tiny little girl in an ultrasound photo.

I need to get back to Whitby, England and hang out with Christine. Climb the 199 steps to St. Hilda's mount. To walk the land St Hilda walked.

I wanna return to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne where St Cuthbert & St. Aidan were. To walk the ground, to walk the seashore and get the fresh lobster from the fisherman and have a pub owner cook it up. Oh so sweet.

I shall wait. But my heart is definetly longing to return.

Fire in the Sky!!

2009-04-15T21:33:00.000-07:00

Taken at Cisero, a wide spot in the road, on Hwy 530 between Arlington and Darrington 4/14/09

Easter/Pascha

2009-04-11T15:48:00.000-07:00

Icon of Christ's Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem

While the Protestand churches are celebrating Easter tomorrow April 11, the Eastern Orthodox church celebrates Palm Sunday. Easter or Pascha is next Sunday. During the Paschal season a prayer is said in most services, the Prayer of St. Ephriam. If all of us would sincerely pray this prayer we would certainly be better for having done so.

Prayer of Saint Ephraim
O Lord and Master of my life,
Grant not unto me a spirit of idleness,of discouragement,of lust for power,and of vain speaking.

But bestow upon me, Thy servant,the spirit of chastity,of meekness,of patience,and of love.

Yea, O Lord and King,grant that I may perceive my own transgressions,and judge not my brother,for blessed art Thou unto ages of ages. Amen.

For those of you who celebrate Easter tomorrow, God bless and have a wonderful day worshipping our Risen Lord.

Christ is Risen, Glorify Him!!

Spring in the Air!

2009-03-27T22:54:00.000-07:00

Finally, there in NO snow in my front yard. There is still some in the back, but that's what's left from shoveling the garage roof. The poor grasses everywhere in town look as though they just gave up. Laying flat, rather pale and sickly looking. That should improve soon as the days are longer, providing a little more light for it to green up. We don't get as much light as the neighboring towns because of our majestic ring of mountains, but it's so worth living here. I'll take the diminished light.

The daffodils are struggling to stand tall. The crocus meet the challenge head on, successfully unfolded their petals with grace. The ever hardy and verocious weeds are seemingly not having any trouble whatsoever! They poke their proud little heads through the dirt, just daring anyone to try and come against them. Well, that battle is equal to Bannockburn. But unfortunately, just like the British they will rise their ugly little heads for battle again and again. This Scottish decendent will not be beaten and like any good Scot will fight to the bitter end!

Whitehorse Mt. has never been more beautiful than one day this week. She was dressed in her most exquisite dress of pure white with blue trim. She was absolutely glowing in the light of the morning sun. I could have sat all day taking in that sight. No photograph could never hold water to the live performance that morning. God has blessed us in this little mountain hamlet. I just wish everyone realized that.

2009-03-01T21:24:00.000-08:00

It's actually melting. There is only about 1 foot in the front and over 1 foot in the back. There are actually patches of grass around town. Yippee!!

Funerals

2009-02-28T14:07:00.000-08:00

I attended the funerals for both Sandy and Sally. Sandy's was a modern "Celebration of Life" held at a nice restaraunt in Edmonds, WA. Very nice gathering, but sad. Only one person spoke of any type of relationship with God. It was like Sandy was gone forever, with no hope of life after. But, that was Sandy.
Sally's was different. Held at St. Cecelia's Catholic Church in Stanwood, WA. That was a funeral. Ashes to ashes as she was cremated, which suprised me. I had no idea cremation was done by Catholics. But the service was beautiful, a litugy with the Eucharist being served. However, not being Catholic I could not partipate.
Sandy never spoke of a relationship with God in any manner. She attended the Catholic church as a child, but did not as an adult. Sally however, was very Irish Catholic and proud to be. She often spoke of her faith and her Celtic roots.
To experience the difference in the two funerals was an eye opener.

Sad times again

2009-02-17T22:49:00.000-08:00

This past weekend a wonderful lady from work passed away. Sandy was a nursing assistant and suffered a brain aneurysm about 2 years ago. She has been in rehab center, aware of everything yet unable to talk, walk or move at all. She was able to point to letters with a pointer held in her mouth. When visiting her she was still a kick in the pants. She possessed such a good sense of humor. My first introduction to her at work was when she snatched my supply cart and hid it. She was only 57 years old.

Then this evening a nurse form work passed away. She failed to show up to work today and her son went to her house. Found her on the floor, alert but not able to talk. He called the emergency crews and they took her to the hospital in Everett. From what I was told, she was able to speak and was telling the ER folks what to do. She died about 7 pm. That was a complete shock! She celebrated her 69th birthday on the 6th of Feb.

Tomorrow will be a difficult day at work. Our administrator phoned all department managers this evening to tell us what had happened. As we gather for our regular 9:30 am standup meeting there will be many tears shed. Sally was an absolute kick in the pants. No one ever needed to ask how she felt about an issue, she was more than willing to share her thoughts.

May God bless their souls and give them a peaceful journey to his presence.

2009-02-17T22:38:00.000-08:00

My little mountain. I can't imagine living anywhere else.

My little house on Feb 14, 09. The snow has been on the ground for over a month. Anywhere from 16-18" in various places around the yard. It's frozen solid. Kind of fun filling the bird feeders. I don't need to stretch, take the feeder down or get a ladder. I just walk up to it on the snow and fill er up. The birds are very happy campers these days.

In all honesty, I'm ready for it to melt. It's been great but time to go away. It's so chilly all the time. When the sun is shining it's absolutely beautiful and in the early mornings when it's freezing everything sparkles. That's pleasant to see.

2009-01-30T19:07:00.000-08:00

This is Ethan Michael Green. 1/26/09 6lb 9 oz, 21"
Proud Gramma Green to the right and Grampa Sutherland to the right. Doesn't he look like an old sailor? Ethan looks like his Daddy

Here is a couple pictures of the "diaper" cake I made for my niece and nephew for their baby shower. Only, the shower didn't happen as little Ethan Michael Green decided to grace us with his presence about 3.5 weeks or so early. We had the shower planned for 1/25 and he dediced to come earlier. Tracy went to the hospital Fri 1/23, spend the day and was sent home. She hadn't gotten much sleep so the shower was postponed. Monday she went in and sure enough, the little guy arrived at 11:55 a.m. I haven't seen him yet either!! Hope to soon.

The first picture here is to show the snow that lingers outside the house. There is still just under 2' out there. By the sounds of things, it may melt soon at this point. It's beginning to rain and the wind blows quite strong periodically.

Aside from that, the cake turned out so cute. My niece Brittany helped me put the items around the 3 layers. There are a couple hats, a pair of shoes, 3 onzies,pacifiers, a toothbrush, spoons for an infant as well as several for a toddler, gum jell an some lotions, shampoo etc. It's so cute. I sent it to her because the diapers are newborn size. I couldn't find the Pampers Gentle Care in a 1 or a 2. I would make another on in a heartbeat, only it's a bit expensive.

They are quite easy to make. Takes a lot of diapers and patience.

2009-01-10T15:51:00.000-08:00

This was my favorite barn. It's the Snelson barn on Hwy 530 between Trafton and Ryan Falls. Unfortunately it fell this last month due to the snow. Rather sad to see it in a heap. I took a picture of the "after" but must have done something wrong and deleted it off my camera before I saved it after uploading. Oh well, I can get another one later.
I was whining this morning about all the snow we still have (22") after three days of heavy rain. The ice under made driving in my little town a bid dicey. But, we didn't flood. I feel so bad for those people who's houses were flooded. I just can't imagine the pain of that. Material things are meant to mean nothing, but I'm not sure there are very many people who have reached that state of mind. We put so much emphasis on what we have.

It's tough when things become a big financial burden. In the economy of today, it's difficult enough without having this thrown into the mix.

I'm gonna rant a little right now. The company I work for has decided once again to change insurance companies. Seems to be an annual event. But this year, it's horrible. Each person has to fill out a questionaire. It is looked at and they decide whether or not you will even receive coverage. One lady they told her she could quit after the first page. Oh, she can get insurance, at the rate of $1400.00 a month and a $3000.00 deductable. Who can afford 1400.00 a month just for themselves for insurance. Not the average worker. One person was denyed cause she had glacoma, another because of childhood onset diabetes which has resulted in the amputation of both her legs below the knee. I haven't done mine yet. I don't have anything seriously wrong, but they may deny me cause of weight. The old company would pay for people to quit smoking, up to $500.00 but they wouldn't pay up to that amount for weight loss.

So in the meantime, what's a person to do. You can come into this country and the next day have health care through the state. I in no way think people should not be allowed to immigrate to America, I just think everyone should be treated equally. Now we know for sure that's not going to happen. Never has, never will.
As long as insurance companies run the heathcare system we are screwed! National health might be a better answer. At least everyone can get healthcare. It has it's drawbacks for sure, but people don't lose their houses because they can't pay for healthcare. People who are really sick, get treated.

I am so tired of all the political crap. I don't think anyone is really out there to help the American People.
I don't see anything getting better, just worse. Common sense and decency are laughed at. Children being ripped from parents or grandparents because someone thinks they aren't good enough. Children being placed back in abusive homes cause the parents have the right to the child and the child dies. It's a tough situation.
Taxes rise, the poor get poorer and the rich get richer. The man in the middle might as well hang it up.

There are Christians who absolutely believe you can't be a "real" Christian if you are a Democrat. Democrats tend to be for social programs. Isn't that what Christianity is about? Republicans tend not to be for social program. Isn't that opposite of Christ's thinking? Rebublicans are pro-life and pro-death penalty. Democrats tend to be pro-choice and anti-death penalty. NOTHING makes sense.

In reality it's a dog eat dog world out there. Do we each need to be the pit bull. Aggressive and even violent in order to just survive. NO!

"Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God which passeth all understnding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethen, wahtsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virture, if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which you have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you" Phillipians4:5-9

I must admit it's not easy and not promised for us to be easy. We must keep our eyes on the prize, trust in God for all things, and let the worries of the world be carried by Him. We will survive!

Whew!!!

Happy or Not

2009-01-07T18:15:00.000-08:00

HAPPY :-) SAD :-(

No work today due to flooding. No pay for not working due to flooding

Got into the dentist, due to flooding. Expensive repairs in store at the dentist, with day of pay

Ordered a new laptop last week. How do I pay for it with the dental bills?

The snow is melting. Under the snow is 2-6 inches of ice

Don't have to shovel snow anymore. Have to watch for flooding (garage especially)

The sun might come out Thurdsay. If the sun does not come out Thursday

So, there it is. I broke a tooth last night-my eye tooth, or vampire tooth. How cute that is! Gotta pull it and then get a partial. Told the dentist office it was really going to cut into my nightlife as it's probably hard to suck blood through 1/2 a tooth. Oh wait, he's sucking the blood the easy way, out of my checkbook.

2009-01-06T20:17:00.000-08:00

The snow is deep. Sounds like the final count for us was close to 7' total. Now that doesn't mean there was 7' laying on the ground a the same time, but---there has been over 4' base. The rain is setting in and the water is rising. My driveway is a huge puddle which still has a thick layer of ice under. It's so fun!!

But I keep warm inside with my little propane stove. It's not as comfy as wood, but sure beats the mess.

On a sad note, I broke a tooth tonight and I look really bad. It's the vampire tooth on the right. Great. There goes a bunch of cash!

Please pray!!

2009-01-02T20:22:00.000-08:00

Please pray for this little guy. His name is Thomas. He is a grandson of our parish priest at St. Andrew Antiochian Orthodox Church. He just completed his 6th day in ICU at Children's Hospital in Seattle. Poor little fellow has RSV, viral pneumonia and bacterial pheumonia.

This picture of him with his Mom Sarah, he actually has his eyes open a bit. He is intubated and the Drs are letting that breathe for him a couple more days.

You can visit his Caring Bridge site for updates at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/thomastsoukalas.
His parents Mike and Sarah are very appreciative of all contacts made through the journal.

God is good, he cares for his children and is in control.

2009-01-01T20:12:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO EVERYONE!!!

This picture was taken a couple weeks ago. The deep in the "teens" cold ended, but it's still cold. During the day it has gotten to 38 a couple times. Not today though. We had 7" of new snow fall overnight. I shoveled the driveway once again. I can't say that I don't like the snow, just the shoveling.

I'm spending the first day of the new year cleaning house and watching old Twilight Zone epidodes. A marathon day on the SciFi channel. Such an exciting life I lead.

2008-12-28T20:31:00.000-08:00

So, I guess we have snow! Total snowfall was near 5', but on the ground at any time was just under 4'.

The pile is from the roof of the garage--pretty tall.

Love the little "snow dog" on the neighbors' fence. Isn't he cute!

I've shoveled snow, fallen down, shoveled more snow including a roof and fallen down again. I'm finished with it. I wished for 6'. I'm changing my wish, can ya do that midstream?

I actually missed a day of work cause I couldn't get out. That was the worst. I've not missed a day in 5 years and to miss cause of snow--that's not good. I was raised in snow. First time driving there was snow. Oh well.

The house has stayed warm enough. Wood heat would have been nice, but oh I don't miss the mess.

The kids had a great time Christmas day playing in the snow. The kids being 20-32 years old. The little ones ages 18 months and 3 -1/2 year did too. Little Dani tried to throw snowballs. The cutest thing even seen. Mia the older, loved throwing snowballs at her uncle Ryan who obliged her with exaggerated gestures of surprise.

I've been home 2 days straight, which isn't enough. Today my neice wanted me to go to Mt. Vernon with her. I couldn't get my car out of the drive but she has a big 4 wheel drive truck. While we were away, my brother came and plowed the the drive. So--if I can get to Hwy 530 I'll be fine. The streets of D'town are horrible. But gotta hand it to the city crew, they've done their best trying to keep up. Just too much and then the rain set in and all's mushy, slushy and big bumps of ice makes things a real mess.

So I hope everyone had a Blessed Christmas. Christ is Born, Glorify Him.

2008-12-17T21:55:00.000-08:00

So, the great Pacific Northwest is being slammed with an arctic cold front and it's dumping lots of snow. I managed to drive to and from work (60 miles round trip) without any problem, only to get stuck in my own driveway!! I shoveled the snow in Birkenstocks, a light jacket and no gloves. (I got out of the stuck car to get the shovel and left the keys inside and didn't want to walk back and forth again through over a foot of snow).
I fell on my behind 4 times and now 2 hours later my back muscles are getting sore. I took a very hot bath with epsom salt to try to stave off the soreness. I don't think it'll work.
But I am determined to go the distance to work again tomorrow. After all that slipping, falling, shoveling, pushing and freezing, I'm not letting that driveway not be used!

Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T19:04:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is upon us already! We all have things for which we should be thankful, but how many of us really take the time to thank Almighty God for all our blessings. I know I fall behind.
I am so thankful for my church, my family and my friends. The three groups don't blend much, but it's sweet having them all in my life. I have the cutest great neices ever and am looking forward to meeting my first great nephew in February 09. His name is Ethan, which I love.
I am thankful to be employed by a good company and good staff.
Nothing is perfect in this life and certainly we shouldn't expect that. Each day we travel the roads, working out our own salvation. God is so merciful. Even when things seem at their worst, God is there. He never fails us though we fail Him so much. But each day we have the opportunity to begin the journey anew.
God bless y'all.

Halloween

2008-10-16T19:06:00.000-07:00

Children dressing up in cutie outfits and trick or treating is so fun. I love the little ones, standing so proudly and totally into the character, saying "trick or treat" when I answer the door. A couple years ago, the door was open about 6 inches and I was standing in the kitchen just around the corner. I heard the voice of a child, then heard the door close and then a knock! I opened the door to a little guy no more than 4 years old. I guess he thought the door had to be closed in order for him to knock. He was standing there so self assured in his great big Spiderman outfit. His little eyes told it all. He was really, really Spiderman. I expected to see a long string of web come flying from his hand, latching onto the roof and him ascending to the highest regions. I gave him extra treats.

2008-10-15T19:57:00.000-07:00

As I arise today,may the strength of God pilot me,the power of God uphold me,the wisdom of God guide me.May the eye of God look before me,the ear of God hear me,the word of God speak for me.May the hand of God protect me,the way of God lie before me,the shield of God defend me,the host of God save me.May Christ shield me today.Christ with me, Christ before me,Christ behind me,Christ in me, Christ beneath me,Christ above me,Christ on my right, Christ on my left,Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit,Christ when I stand,Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,Christ in every eye that sees me,Christ in every ear that hears me.Amen

The signs of Autumn

2008-10-15T18:12:00.000-07:00

Autumn is a sad season. The nights are longer, the days are shorter, the cold is setting in, the leaves are in the dying process. The heat has to be fired up and the windows closed. Having to rake the leaves, prune the perennials and watch them shrivel on the stems. The brightly colored finches and other birds leave town. Many salmon go up the rivers and streams to die. Winter will be arriving on our doorsteps before we know it.

Autumn is a wonderful season. It is wonderful to see the glorious shades of orange, red, yellow and green in the leaves. The beautiful Harvest and Hunter's moon, the cozy feeling of pulling the shades, sparking the fire and curling up to read a book or watch a bit of TV and eat popcorn. The winter birds are arriving and filling their bellies with the leftover seeds (and those we put out for them). The voices of the children as they play football in the street, zoom by on their skateboards, bikes or scooters. Watching the children pile the leaves and jump in only to pile them for another jump. (I'm so blessed to live in a small mountain town where these things still take place.) The markets are heaving with pumpkins, squash and Autumn colored floral arrangements. Even though I don't like juices made of apples, I love the smells of mulled/spiced ciders. I love seeing the pumpkin fields and the corn mazes. The Bald Eagles return en mass, to perch on the tops of dead trees, and feed on the dying salmon. The bears feed constantly to fuel themselves for the long winter sleep, safely away from humankind.

All in all, it's another season, another segment of time given to us by our Most Holy God. Who can argue with that?

Orthodox Funeral

2008-08-22T22:23:00.000-07:00

Our dear friend Marianne passed from this life into the presence of God Aug. 21, 2008 at 4:16pm. I was so blessed to be at the house about 5:30pm and able to participate in the preparation of her body. What a beautiful service performed by ladies of the church as well as her daughter Kris and Mariannes best lifelong friend Elaine - "Sponge".
Washing her, applying myrhh oil on her rapidly cooling body then dressing her was an incredible experience. It was a first for me. I so appreciated Teri, Helen, Mary and Cheryl welcoming me in this final act of love and friendship for our Marianne.
As the tradition goes in Orthodoxy, the body is not embalmed and is buried quite soon. She passed at 4:16pm and will be laid to rest in the cemetary around noon on Saturday. That's less than 48 hours. Her body was taken to the church this afternoon about 5pm and people will be there all night reading the Psalms. The funeral tomorrow will be at 11am. After her body is buried, we will return to the church for a "party" as she wanted. She so often told me she really didn't want a funeral because it was too sad. But in talking with our priest, she was going to "allow" a funeral, but there had to be a big party after. A happy time, celebrating her life as well as everyone left to mourn and miss her.
Words cannot express the emotions felt at this time. Experiencing death in Orthodoxy strengthens my faith in the One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church and our God.

Marianne

2008-08-19T21:03:00.000-07:00

Marianne, Servant of God
Moral
Accepting
Resilient
Independent
Attentive
Nuturing
Naughty & Nice
Enthusiastic
Marianne is so fine! She is so honest with her doubts and fears, her "I knows" and her "I don't knows". Her laughter is heart tickling and infectious. Her sense of humor is pleasing to the soul. Her love for her family is unwavering and her love of God is passionate and deeply rooted. Marianne is a terrific encourager, enthusiastic supporter and down-home "knock you up-side the head when you need it" kind of friend. She is fiesty,humble, compassionate, understanding, truthful, generous, sincere, gentle, caring and delightful. I have been incredibly blessed to have been welcomed into her life, exchanging heartaches and hilarity. And Marianne, I won't tell a soul about the Mole!
"Now to Him who is able to keep you from suffering.
And to present you faultless
Before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy.
To God our Savior
Who alone is wise,
Be glory and majesty,
Dominion and power,
Both now and forever.
Amen"
Jude 24-25
No one knows how hard the road is from this life to everlasting life with God. I pray you will be gently escorted by the angels. Love ya "kiddo"!!

Sadness Abounds in a Small Mountain Town

2008-07-13T20:14:00.001-07:00

Sadness abounds in a small mountain town. A 22 year old man took his own life in the wee hours of the morning of July 6. There can never be any closure to such a senseless act. No one can ever know why?
But we all ask that very question, why? Could anyone have known? Could anyone have prevented it? What was going on in his mind at that moment?
He was a very well liked kid. A very busy, mischivious child, always on the edge with his brother and cousin.
He loved his big truck and loved his family.
Many young people are saddened. My hope is that something positive comes from this sadness.
May God bless his family and have mercy on his young soul.