Tall Tales from Kansas

productivity is the enemy of the porch

The more I sit on my porch, staring at the small piece of the world in front of me, the more I want to do it. Big birds soar on currents, kids ride their bikes by, squirrels think about planting nuts in my garden, wasps prowl on the periphery, breezes move the leaves, the fountain burbles, I hear Chris sneeze inside the house, an idea comes to me, I recall the popsicles mom made out of pineapple juice when we were kids, I sip coffee, I re-arrange myself in my chair. It's all wonderful. The key is to let go of any thoughts that there are more productive ways to use your time. Productivity is the enemy of the porch. 

I am well pleased with how this plant has performed out back in it's pot on the deck. Such a curious and interesting pattern of growth. Really the whole pot is doing well.

I have turned the heel and am headed towards the toe on these socks I want to wear with my Birkenstocks when it gets cold. Lows predicted to be in the 40's in the early morning this coming weekend. The needles are clicking. A second sock will have to be made. 

These strawberries were tasty. I ate them sliced up in a bowl of Wheaties with a few Cheerios dropped in for good measure. Sometimes you have milk that must be used before it starts to turn. You know what I mean. A bowl of cereal always makes me think of being a kid. Mom loved Puffa Puffa Rice - we hated it. She used Sucaryl and powdered milk in her cereal. How could that possibly have been good? She said it was. Who am I to question. 

There have been some great sunflower walks lately. 

The grasses are nice too.

Chris said "chili sounds good" the other day when we were talking about dinner menus. I agreed whole-heartedly and went on a search for the really good corn muffins from America's test kitchen that I like to make. 

We started watching season 1 of Hotel Portofino. I like it. Chris is going to give it one more episode to see if it hooks him. It will make excellent watching while sock knitting if I end up watching on my own. 

And with that, I conclude the whirlwind tour of what is happening as we move into September right here in Lawrence Kansas. Do share what you have been up to, if you can get yourself off your own porch. 

with no hope of replicating it

In addition to burying things in my pots, the squirrels who think they live here, and therefore can do anything they like, have taken to chewing on my front door mat.

Not only that, they have decided it is perfectly ok to act like beavers and knock over jade plants by cutting through the trunk/stem.

Rather than go ballistic, I am letting a crust form over the end of this stem and will stick it back in the dirt to re-root. In terms of the front door mat, I am hoping they get tired of it before they reach the middle. 

Meanwhile the geraniums are in the middle of another bloom, acting like the high temps and humidity are no big deal.

The caladiums with other assorted trailing fillers are also performing according to plan.

Did I tell you I found a source for clotted cream right here in Lawrence Kansas? And that I secured a jar with my mind set on replicating the cream tea experience in Bath? It was perfectly tasty, but as we all know, an experience like that simply stands on it's own with no hope of a repeat that can match the original, unless I perfect the time machine that will take me back to Bath with Chrissy and Sister, and the bridge... but it's important to try. 

The Zinnias are in full bloom with no signs of slowing down.

The more I cut, the more they bloom. 

So I do and they do and it's a beautiful thing. 

Tomorrow I am headed to Concordia, Kansas to see Dottie and Mary Fran. I can't say exactly what we will get up to, but I am pretty sure it will be low key, with a coffee shop visit, nice meals, early morning walks, maybe a dip in the pool, and a few naps. In other words a swell time. 

charms all of their own

One of the nicest things about going on vacation, is coming home from vacation. Enjoying the everyday things you love, appreciating that someone took care of business while you were gone, and letting your recent experiences float through your mind.

Deadheading the geraniums, admiring the trailing ivy that is doing well in the pots, making a bouquet of small zinnias for a little bitty vase to put upstairs by the computer. Recalling the garden at our cottage in Broad Campden.

Getting back to the farmers market, wondering if I really have all the plants I need this year, or if a case can be made for why I need this beauty. 

Going on usual walks that don't involve going through stiles or wondering if I should turn left or turn right. 

Admiring this years crop of American Lotus at the wetlands while I think of the gardens at Kiftsgate and Hidecote. Hearing the calls of the red-winged blackbirds instead of the wood pigeons. 

Working on poufs for a pillow, remembering making these in Bath and Broad Campden.  

Getting the fountain on the front porch turned on. Successfully. No leaks. 

Yes, to travel is a wonderful thing, maybe partly because it makes you realize how the familiar routines have charms all of their own. 

 

big, small, medium-sized, and every way in between

On this, the night before the last day of the month of May, I am thinking that THIS has been the BEST May ever in my whole life. Despite the storms, which have been many, the trip to the basement to wait out the tornado warning, Chris staying up late to watch the radar... it's been so beautiful. 

The hikes in the woods have continued, as have the walks on the trail by the river, and the strolls in the neighborhood. Each with its own charms, ALL with flowers along the way to admire. 

Unfortunately the thistle got mowed down along the path the day after I took this photo. No matter. More will come. You can't keep a thistle down. 

We have previously discussed the therapeutic benefits of a good mind clearing morning walk. I recently read something about how good it can make you feel to clean out a drawer. That resonated with me. One drawer - that is so manageable. It has been added to my "do this" list. Something to do that can clean away clutter while sweeping away unwanted chatter in the brain seems like a real win-win. 

Enjoy your last day of May. I would love to hear how you spend it. Big. Small. Medium-sized... and every way in between. 

accept, trim, bring inside, enjoy

This week I have been mesmerized by the raindrops on plants,

enjoyed a stupendous sunrise on the way to work, 

gotten the bougainvillea planted, 

went to an engrossing exhibit at the Spencer museum "Emmett Till & Mamie Till-Mobley: Let the World See".  artwork below by TJ Reynolds, 

and cut some roses from this bush that has undergone a transformation and is producing 2 different kinds of roses.

I don't question, just accept, trim, bring inside, enjoy. 

making our way through it

Tonight it's some everyday moments from the last week or so. Sunrise on the way to work, lilacs snipped from the bushes by where we parked for a walk, the key lime pie that got made because it's been too long since we had it, a perfect iris from the neighbors yard, and evening clouds.

What I only took pictures of in my mind this week was the man in the hospital whose wife had placed an eagle feather on his chest, the quilter whose friends came to visit her - speaking of things they will make together in the future, the 87 year old who told us he is not afraid of dying then proceeded to tell us how he met his wife when she was 13 and they held hands in the back of the bus on the way to school, the nurse in the surgical intensive care unit grabbing a bite to eat while he worked on notes but stopped to answer a few questions about our mutual patient... some of my fellow travelers this week, making our way through it, connecting on the path. Good stuff. 

a sprinkle of this and a dash of that

Tonight it's a sprinkle of this and a dash of that. Things I wanted to tell you about, pictures to show that do not go with what I want to say. You get the idea. 

The dianthus are blooming. They are oozing with vibrancy. Seriously. So much so that you needed 2 pictures of them. 

Last year I told you guys about the Julia Louis-Dreyfus podcast - Wiser Than Me, which I enjoyed. She has a new season and I have only listened to the episode with Ina Garten, but I loved it. In the conversation Ina admits that she (YES, even a hostess as amazing as she is) gets nervous when having people over for dinner. She worries she will mess something up and has some anxiety about things. This admission to such "humanness" makes me like her even more.

This bright yellow/green of new growth on this tree caught my eye on a recent walk. I felt you needed to see it. Yes, I know you have new growth on the trees where you live. Still. 

Not only did the short purple Iris bloom, now these old fashioned two-toned beauties are doing their thing.  I climbed up close to get a picture in case the storms that are forecasted for the next 48 hours cut short their life span. 

Clouds overhead. Because I keep referring to the rain and not showing anything that looks remotely stormy. 

I just saw something about the movie Anatomy of a Fall and watched the trailer. Who's seen it? It looks v.v.v. suspenseful. It's on the agenda for watching next week.  

If you are local, get to the Garden House Cafe in KC. It's on Southwest blvd. As the name implies they have coffee and plants. There is a really nice vibe to the place and I enjoyed a very good sit there this week. I sampled one of their bagels because someone said they were good. They were, and the cream cheese was whipped and tangy. Perfect with my latte. 

I can keep going with the reasons it was necessary but I will stop there

In between working, weed pulling, and generally wasting time in the best ways possible, there was a trip to Zeb's in Eudora, where the windows are covered with fabulous drawings, and the Rosemary Rise latte is available for a limited time. It's so unusually delicious that I will be going back asap for a repeat. 

Ignore that cherry turnover on the side. I don't know how it got there. The sprig of rosemary on top provided one of the most indulgent, sensory-inclusive, sipping experiences ever. 

My little redbud tree is having a so-so bloom this year. They can't all be spectacular. However, this specimen in front of the post office downtown is something else ... it must be in a micro-climate that got spared from a late frost or something. There are always spots of beauty to be found, even in a "so-so" year.

The light coming through the upstairs window, illuminating my first mini flower arrangement of the year, making the vinca vine and ground cover look like a million bucks is another one of those unexpected bits of loveliness.  

I got hooked by a picture from Smitten Kitchen of a New York Crumb cake... and did some baking today. Hats off to Deb Perelman for another recipe that is perfectly perfect.  I followed it to the letter. Tender, soft, melt in your mouth. Because really, we all deserve cake for breakfast at least once in a while. Especially when you are in your 60's. I can keep going with the reasons it was necessary but I will stop there. 

I took a picture this afternoon of the one tulip that came up in the front garden. Maybe this will be the year I actually get off my duff and plant some new bulbs. 

In the meantime, I sure do enjoy looking at this one. 

Helpful links: New York Crumb Cake

a travel time of less than 30 seconds and no need to pack a suitcase

Happy Sunday from Kansas where we continue to be warm/cool, then cool/warm, with lots of intermittent wind thrown in, along with occasional clouds/sun and rain. This is normal weather in Kansas. FYI.

I have just finished a 3-day Palliative Care virtual conference from the second floor of Tall Tales Headquarters. You have to love a travel time of less than 30 seconds and no need to pack a suitcase. Good stuff. I am mulling it all over in my mind as I write this.

While I decide what I learned that is important to begin to incorporate into my daily practice I give you these things to consider. Tulips are for sale in the grocery stores. Love, love, love.

I just read a new children's book about grief. It'a a keeper. Well written, beautifully illustrated. Sylvester's grandmother has died and he decides to write her a letter. 

A wonderful thing for a child to do, compose their love into a note that can be mailed. Why not? 

I would recommend this for any child who has lost someone. I got this copy from my local library.

I continue to hand-stitch away on the triangle quilt. I think I have finished quilting around well over half of the 225 triangles.  Quite enjoyable. Especially while watching the last season of The Crown. Which we have just recently started, and are enjoying immensely.

The End. 

the remarkable octopus who lives at the Sowell Bay Aquarium

This little succulent cutting has continued to bloom in the kitchen window since being moved indoors in the fall.  Ahh the ability to adapt and continue to flourish (and even bloom) is a marvelous thing. 

The sunny mild days have been nice for short walks... I think I have gotten a bit lazy in the cold, wanting to sit by the fire in the morning for coffee before bolting out the door. I don't know about you, but if I don't bolt right away, I can get pulled into all manner of "stuff".

Butterscotch latte's are back at Barkers on Massachusetts Street. 

Finally (because people were coming over to our house) the Christmas garlands over the table came down and the old hearts and other assorted valentine themed things went up.  Immediately I "feel" springy. Can daffodils be far behind?

On the reading front, I sat in the parking lot behind Sarah's today, in the shade of a nice old tree, reading the last several chapters of Remarkably Bright Creatures, by Shelby Van Pelt. It's due tomorrow, and though I could certainly keep it longer... possession being 9/10's of the law, but other folks are waiting and I don't want to make them wait longer than necessary.  Hence the unusual reading spot that is relatively close to the library. 

This is the story of Tova Sullivan whose son Erik died 30 years ago, under circumstances that were never really settled. Cameron is a young man whose mother left him when he was nine and he didn't know his father. Ethan is the Scotsman who runs the local grocery story and may be a little sweet on Tova. Marcellus is the remarkable octopus who lives at the Sowell Bay Aquarium. Avery is the owner of a local surf shop. Somehow their lives are all connected in ways that are revealed as the story unfolds. Quite an enjoyable read. Highly recommended.

he was right

The report from Tall Tales headquarters this week follows.  It is slow, languid, not terribly exciting, just what the first part of February is all about. It was warm enough to walk outside a few days, I finished up the very last of the saved loaf of Mrs. Peter's sourdough bread from the farmers market (along with some halo's which have been insanely good), and a valentine's decoration came out. 

Would you get a load of that root ball on the succulent next to her? I guess it should be planted?

I have been knitting up a cowl - this is the first time I have used Atlas yarn and it is lovely to knit with.  We had a glorious sunset one day last week.  I was sitting on the couch doing Wordle right before dinner, all snuggly warm under an afghan, when Chris said, "the sky is really pretty", I said, "is it worth me getting up for?", he said "well you will have to be the judge, but I think so". 

He was right.

maybe it will be sewn and then cut up

Good evening from the upstairs room of Tall Tales Headquarters, where I sit to do a weekly check in. The blinds are closed, lamps are on, candles lit. Who besides me is ready for sunset to come later? But everything in season, as we discussed at lunch this week... 

The Huffs drove to Lawrence and we had a delightful lunch at Wheatfields, complete with a ginger almond spice cookie and mixed fruit tart. You may want to know that the coffee cups at Wheatfields are "bone china" which Marti heartily approved of. Their regular salad is a delightful concoction - mixed greens topped with pickled cucumbers, a bean salad, crunchy croutons, with a piece of focaccia bread on the side... good stuff. 

In addition to seasonal eating there was a review of the games Marti and her husband played with 3 other couples they used to hang out with. The sheet that was hung with holes for noses so you could "pick a nose" ... as in identify whose nose was whose, no fingers involved, was the most original. Marti told us the meetings to plan the parties were as fun as the actual events. Isn't that often the way? 

In addition to lunches out, there have been coffee meet ups with friends this week. Fabric stores were visited, projects discussed - no photos taken, I was too busy exclaiming, touching, asking questions. It was one of those very simple meet ups that for some reason, gives that needed shot in the creative arm/brain. 

These units have been arranged, re-arranged, and re-re-arranged many times. Such fun to see how different they can look.  There is a bit more sewing of units to do, then I will stitch them together. Maybe this will go on the table in my living room? Maybe it will be sewn then cut up and made into a bag of some sort? Who knows. It is just simple fun and two weeks post class I am still practicing, learning, having ideas. The true sign of a good class.  

Susan S. commented on my last post about deciding on a whim to load up the car and head west to see the redwoods and the Pacific Ocean!!!  I jumped up and fist pumped her from afar. I have given Chris fair warning, told him how amazing and wonderful I thought that was, reminded him our years are limited, nudge nudge... will keep you posted on my success at subliminal/overt suggestions. 

We have warmed up into the 30's and 40's this week. Hurrah. The snow is melting, the car was washed, a few remaining Christmas decorations came off the porch. Plans are being made for ham and beans this coming weekend with really good corn muffins. I am listening to Dracula and it is riveting! There are 5 hours to go... can't wait to discuss. Yes, with YOU. All of YOU. 

telling about it

Yesterday the 3-ring binder with recipes collected from magazines, websites, friends, etc etc etc was given a much needed purging. I mean really, if I haven't made the stuff ripped out of Bon Appetit in 1992 yet, chances are extremely high they will never be tried. 

Brother I did not throw out the "Falsomagro" recipe and Dottie I did not throw out the "Celebration Cake" recipe - both epic recipes that have only been made once and will not be recreated again unless I do them with you. But every single time I look at the recipe I think of the fun we had making them. Eating them too, of course. But really it was the making, wasn't it? 

I still have the full magazine that Modern Macaroni & Cheese was in from 1989. It automatically falls open to this exact spot. We made it for New Years Eve this year. 

This was before going into the oven. Always good. Never fails. Loaded with lots of vegetables. 

The inspiration board got a facelift for the new year too. I have been doing this for many years... Diana Giffin was a fellow blogger that turned me on to the idea. Up in the right hand corner is the photo I took of her board that gave me the idea. It always remains on the board. Diana has been gone for some years now, but she lives on my inspiration board. Sometimes my mind wanders to her beautiful geraniums, or her amazing art studio with all the windows. 

The other piece that has lived on this board for a few years now is this quote from Mary Oliver. It's' up there with all the things I want to make and do and dream about. 

P.S. this is me telling about it. 

it stops drinking when it's had enough

We had some snow last week or so... it melted. It sure was pretty. Especially since 3 kids came to the door and asked if we wanted them to shovel the driveway. Always yes to that. Our backs and their wallets agree it's a great business arrangement. 

Before the snow, when it was just cold, the oak leaf hydrangea was decked out in fall colors.  

Eggnog in the morning season is in full swing. You might imagine the picture would have steam rising from the coffee and the eggnog glass would be full. But the thought to take the photo came to me only after I had indulged. Sitting by the fire in the morning, feet up, candle lit, thoughts drifting, it's wonderful. 

The poinsettia this year is an especially good one.  I am watering it from the bottom. It stops drinking when it's had enough so I don't kill it.

 

The moon the other morning looked like this out the back door. There are so many things to swoon over. Everyday, something different. 

The mitten garland went up, maybe I will add a new mitten this year. The option is always there. 

It's my mission to make it to all my favorite coffee shops in December to see what clever holiday latte they have hit upon. 

When I cradle the warm mug in my hand and bring it to my mouth, inhaling the aromas of the holiday, invariably I will say "this one is the BEST yet"... and I mean it every time. Sincerely.  

someone pegged them to the clothesline

The dried sunflower head from the farmers market has been added to the front porch fall basket. We'll see if any creatures decide to have a nibble or drag it off. Which would be perfectly ok. 

The squirrel's have discovered and sampled this gourd in the last week. 

They left this one, along with the pumpkins, completely alone. 

Meanwhile, these leaves are hanging on as it someone had securely pegged them to a clothesline... to withstand gale force winds. 

The maple just said it was done and dropped most of it's pretty red/orange leaves. 

Just a few stragglers left.  Chris gathered them up and I put them all over my flower beds. A winter boost for the soil. 

Meanwhile, this beauty down the street is stunning, especially when gazing up from under the canopy. 

My experiment in eating fermented foods is going well. As in, this stuff is good! 

I like to imagine it's doing all sorts of healthy/beneficial things for my body as I eat it. 

gone straight to the bistro dining hall in heaven where lunch is served from 11am until 2pm

This is one of those "flight of ideas" posts. You know where I want to show you pictures of things so I make up a loose story to go with them.  Or not. Basically these are all the non-leaf fall photos I have taken lately. 

First up is this pot of buttery mums with white collars. 

Followed by fall morning walks with stupendous clouds. 

This was on the way to work one day last week when I went in later than usual, and my drive coincided with this amazing sunrise. 

I did a presentation at work that day, and after something like that, I treat myself by going to The Filling Station Coffee Garage that is close to the med center. It's important after a presentation to sit, sip, and reflect.  

And then they called my name and I went to the counter and grabbed my Gillham bowl (shown below). An amazing concoction of quinoa, avocado, black beans, pickled red onion, pumpkin seeds, radish, and cilantro, topped with an egg and lime crema. 

An assortment of flavors and textures so pleasing I was certain I had died and gone straight to the bistro dining hall in heaven where lunch is served from 11am until 2pm. If you are in Kansas City, get to one of the filling station coffee locations and order one. 

a sublime experience

For today I have compiled a list of things that are still happening.

The leaves are still turning.

The Quails continue to meet for dinners, and always have dessert at the end, in particular when there is a crème caramel on the menu. 

New walks are being found, some with fungi growing on stumps and things hanging from the trees. It's a fact that a lunch, packed and eaten out of doors, at a picnic table, after a hike, is a sublime experience.

Old walks carry on, with new clouds passing overhead.

Zinnias are blooming.

Blog posts are being written. The end. 

the adult version of recess on the playground

In these last in-between days of late summer and early fall, there are candles inside and outside.

I am having races with myself to finish projects, promising myself the possibility of new creative endeavors to start on.

Just because I have not begun a new year of "school" does not mean my body and mind does not continue to return every year to the idea of new beginnings in the fall. Meanwhile, the leaves are falling and I am arranging coffee dates. Times reserved for holding warm mugs in hands, talking with friends. Coffee talk is the adult version of recess on the playground.

As I take my walks I look forward with great expectation to the full on fall colors, while continuing to enjoy what is happening now. 

Living immediately because our whole future lies in uncertainty. That is a quote from someone, but I'll be darned if I remember who. 

I am not reporting it

A mish-mash of good things from the last weeks. Walks, zinnias, the white truffle garlic bread with house made ricotta appetizer, making Barb and Nancy pose at the little cafe table, pickling peppers and making simple syrup, watching a robin who was delighted that I turned on the sprinkler, and eating cake.

One Red Robin, hopping on branches, drinking from cracks in the sidewalk, digging up worms.

More good things than one should be allowed in a short span of time. I am not reporting it though. Except to you.

to let other ideas find their way to the forefront

This past weekend was a potato salad eating, porch sitting, butterfly watching, needlepointing, watercoloring, kind of holiday here in Kansas. After the morning walk I watched the butterflies drift on the breeze, searching for just the right flower. Quite contented was I as I watched. Brother and I have discussed how the observation of birds (and the like) has become so entertaining as we enter our more mature years.  



I think the fountain should be cleaned. But I didn’t get to it. Yet. 

Thanks to Ann, I made the BEST, carrot/beet salad. I happen to love beets and carrots any way you want to fix them, but the dressing is what sends this over the moon.  Spicy in an exotic way that makes me feel like I am on vacation, having lunch in an open air market. In case you are interested, and you should be, here is a link to the recipe.  Moroccan Grated Carrot and Beet Salad link.  Did I mention it also has raisins? 

I am clipping bouquet after bouquet of zinnias, loving every minute of the cutting, arranging, admiring.

Evidence of unusual activity in the flower patch above. Who did this with such precision so as not to dislodge the petals left in their wake on departure? 

The change of seasons has me wanting to complete the projects I have been working on for months.  I need to clean out my creative work que to let other ideas find their way to the forefront.  

Map #2 of the Cotswolds completed during a FaceTime session with sister. Exploring before the exploring is quite enjoyable. 

how 'bout you?

These are all the "things" from this past week. Good stuff that caught my attention or flitted through my mind. Possibilities dreamt about. Some have pictures to go with, some don't.  This way you have to insert your own visual which is likely just as good. Maybe better.

On a morning walk I spied a group of 5 neighborhood kids who met up at the corner to all ride their bikes together to school. Backpacks on their backs that you know were likely filled to the brim with stuff they can't wait to get into.  Oh how I loved my new supplies.  Right this second I can smell a freshly sharpened pencil as if I were standing in front of the pencil sharpening apparatus in Mrs. Berg's second grade classroom. The metal kind you operated by hand, that was affixed to the chalk board near the front of the class. 

Above are the the pickled peppers and garlic I mixed in with the grilled corn from last week's market. It turned into a most pleasing simple salad. 

You may not want to hear more about zinnias, but holy moly! They are on fire.

The peach/blueberry/yogurt/honey breakfast that happens almost every single day during fresh peach season in Lawrence Kansas. 

It's gonna be a hot one this week here in Lawrence. Temps in the 100's. There is a quilt I want to work on. A top I want to cut out and start sewing. A needlepoint I want to finish. The spirit wants many things but the body wants to sit and stare. I am almost done reading one book and listening to another. I am in that predicament of wanting to know what happens but dragging things out because I will miss these casts of characters when I am done. Ideas for trips to the ocean, or the mountains, or the desert, or a quaint village in a foreign country want to be fleshed out. This is the current state of mind/body/spirit in Lawrence Kansas. How 'bout you? 

 

I have them trained not to rely on being over tended

Before I head to the market in the morning I feel compelled to show you a few things related to last week. Starting with the elderberry lemon cake which was fantastic. The elderberries add a little pop/crunch and a very faint blackberry taste that paired perfectly with the lemon. 

My zinnias are pumping out the flowers like nobody's business and did not suffer from lack of attention while I was gone. Zinnias are tough, and I have them trained not to rely on being over-tended. 

The sweet corn last week was stupendous! I did make the grilled corn, zucchini, red onion, pickled jalapeño, splash of lime thing I told you about and it was like eating summer in a bowl. Will make again. 

The succulent pot out back also survived perfectly fine without me and in fact, is starting to send up some spikes with flowers. You gotta love that. 

it is ok to play with the little rocks

A recent rundown of routine events which are really nothing to write home about, but account for a large part of life, include having coffee while watching the birds on the old building right outside the window. Hopping, chirping, pecking ... normal bird stuff. 

Another great blue heron sighting, same body of water, same branch sticking up from the water, but facing a different direction this time. No less glorious the second time around. 

Quick pickling and corn shucking after the market. Sometimes when I do these things after the market I like to imagine that I am in a farmhouse in the middle of Kansas, living that life. For just a few hours though because, well, air-conditioning... 

A walk at the Baker Wetlands, where a new (to me) sign has been put up to warn of the dangers of playing on the rocks by the river. 



It IS ok to play with the little rocks though. 

Peach #2. I will attempt not to show you peaches 3 and 4 but I can't promise. They are so pretty. 

Finally, here is something I did not take a picture of - while wandering around the house, I happened upon my boxed-up wedding dress in the closet. It was packaged after the wedding 42 years ago, made a brief appearance when one of my nieces put it on for a lark at a shower about 15 years ago, and has been taking up space since then. It was dropped off at a donation spot this week, along with a box of unused, un-needed "decor" items. Ahhhh.... I feel like I have lost 10 pounds whenever I clear something out that someone else may need/want. 

go with me on that logic

Summer things happening around here include the beginning of the weekly quick pickling of cucumbers and red onions. No summer would be the same without them. 

The coneflowers are looking good in the garden. I do love that the birds carry the seeds all around the garden and you never know where a good crop is going to pop up from year to year. 

First vase of zinnia's, cut from the seeds that volunteered up from last year. 

A decidedly "unsummer" thing is the making of granola, because for some reason it sounded so good and I needed to have some with blueberries and yogurt for breakfast. I only made a small batch. Just to satisfy the craving. Because I could. 

The sunflowers from last week's market are looking nice on the table. 

Oh, and another decidedly summer thing was this glass of white sangria that I had while out with the Quails at the Pressed Penny Tavern in KC a few weeks ago. 

It was tasty. If you live in the area and you decide to go, be sure and start your meal with the Brussels sprouts. They are the best. Seriously good. If you like a Reuben, they make a good one. Mary Joan ordered one, Jamie and I went for the polenta, but then ended up eating 1/2 of Joan's reuben. 

And one final more "summer" thing... I was driving over for a massage earlier today and Castles in the Air by Don McLean came on. Lordy it's been a while since I heard that. Music from the 70's always reminds me of Panama and the beach and summer. Go with me on that logic.  Happy memories. 

 

I gotta find an 8 year old to go with me

A recent hodge hodge of things you may or may not need to know about... 

the oak leaf hydrangea is having an especially good bloom this year, the geraniums are getting used to their pots,

the Japanese fern was really happy after our recent rains... 

the delight of a really good latte at a favorite coffee shop...

...and the quirkiest of things I have been meaning to tell you about is the cereal bar I discovered when I went to get a refill on my new favorite cold brew at the Java Break in Lawrence.

The thing that kids dreams are made of. Cereals - you get to pick 3, plus all sorts of interesting toppings,

as the sign says... "eat that mutha down". I gotta find an 8 year old to go with me. 

if any of you are friends with her, please give her this tip from me

I think these gnarly looking beets from the farmers market last week are so beautiful.

I simply washed and trimmed them and roasted them in the oven. They have made my salads this week extra interesting. 

This week's peonies - just as nice as last week's crop. 

I have been waiting and waiting for cherries to get to the store and finally yesterday I found these. They are quite tasty but not (in my opinion) as good as the Rainier cherries, which I hope to find around here soon. 

Why is it so much fun to put them in your mouth, pop off the stem, and work that pit out? And if you are sitting outside and no one is around, seeing how far you can spit it. 

I am still thoroughly enjoying the Julia Louis-Dreyfus podcast Wiser than Me. Today I listened to the interview with Ruth Riechl, who had some great tips for those of us following behind her in this thing called getting older. 

I can use all the help I can get.

P.S. What I really want Julia to do is give Marti Huff a call and interview her. If any of you are friends with her, please give her this tip from me. 

 

because it's so much fun to look forward to them

The Huff girls tripped on over to Lawrence this week to have lunch with me. Will you please get a load of that fabulous dress Marti is wearing? Yes, the one with the Mola yolk/collar. Raise your hand if you know about Molas. They are the most intricate, colorful appliqué embroidery, done by the Kuna women who live on the San Blas islands. All of this known to me because of living in Panama in the early 1970's. Anyway, I just thought it looked stunning on her, and now you know about Molas too. 

We discussed places to eat in Kansas City and "huff marks" - the rating system used by the Huff women to determine the likelihood that they will be eating there. There are no strict rules, it's all based on gut feelings.

We spent a most pleasant few hours talking about anything and everything anyone felt like chewing on. Books are always a topic, none of us got up to see the Coronation but we talked a bit about "The Crown", someone had a chicken salad sandwich which led to a discussion about what we each put in our tuna salad - there was general agreement that a touch of dijon mustard is essential to the mix.  There were also consultations made with our calendars to pick our next lunch date in June. It's important to get these dates set... mostly because it's so much fun to look forward to them. 

P.S. Today on my walk I heard a Baltimore Oriole. I will try not to tell you everyday what I hear with my new bird ID app, but I am not promising anything. 

we'll see how long I keep up this new habit

I felt some of you might want to hear the full report on the strawberry breakfast tart.  The one from the Farmers Market this past weekend. 

Dangerously good. Perfect ratio of filling to crust. Lots of pure strawberry flavor and not overly sweet. The crust was firm but flaky if that makes any sense, and the drizzle of frosting was exactly right. There will be another one in my future. 

The stock and allium are doing well.  I am now a fan of dropping a pre-1982 penny in all my vases, and trying to change the water at least every other day. We'll see how long I keep up this new habit. 

In other news, let me recommend highly this new album by Joy Oladokun - Proof of Life. I read about her when I was flipping through the NYT a few weeks ago and of course gave her a listen. Then immediately went and purchased the album. I have been listening non-stop.   

And I haven't even mentioned the art work on the cover. Says the person who sometimes chooses wine and books based on the label/cover. Not this time, but it is an added bonus. 

sit, sip, write, think, listen, smile

Let's talk daffodils today shall we? I have been waiting and waiting and waiting some more for the arrival of bunches of them in the grocery store for the American Cancer Society's Daffodil Days. Finally, on Saturday morning, I found some!

I rushed them home, trimmed the ends, put them in vases, and placed them where I could enjoy them the most. 

Early this morning, more were open. So beautiful. 

Spring things are happening a little later here this year, but they are happening. I have a wonderful crop of buds on my redbud tree right now.

These will open into the most beautiful flowers very soon.  While I miss the 2 small cherry trees that formerly lived in this spot, I have been delighted so far with this redbud tree. 

This morning I made a solo venture to one of my favorite coffee shops. A signpost of recovery. It was wonderful to sit, sip, write, think, listen, smile, be happy to be here. 

Right as I got out of my car I spotted these slightly different variety of daffodils.

So beautiful against that lovely distressed brick background. 

And just like that the weekend is almost over. Tomorrow I am back to work again, feeling revitalized and ready. Lunches packed, uniform at the ready. The trend that started on post op day #30 is continuing. Thank every single one of you for your well wishes.

 

I am not counting any chickens...

May I suggest that if you have surgery, and are off for a month, the week you are going back to work you schedule a drive into town like you are going to go to work, but instead go out and have dinner with your friends? That's a confusing sentence, I know. So let me explain...

3 days before I had to go back to work, I met the Quails at Il Centro in KC to celebrate Mary Joan's birthday. I knew if I could do that, I would be ready for work. It was wonderful to be laughing with friends, the meal was great, and my endurance was on point. 

So, this past Friday, back to work I went. It was harder in some ways and easier in other ways than I anticipated.

When you walk in the office to this on your desk, the love and support does amazing things to get you through the day. The walking was hard, but do-able, being with patients was the best, no passwords were messed up, I did not forget how to do my job. Whew. Now that the first day has been conquered, the rest will fall into place. I work with some of the BEST people. I also have ice packs in the freezer in my office. 

Getting back into that groove seems to have helped me. Today Chris and I went for the best walk I have taken since surgery. It was only about a mile, but it was pleasant, mild soreness only - no serious discomfort.

I am not counting any chickens, but my fingers are crossed for more of the same! Oh it was wonderful to be out of doors with some sun and a breeze and the birds...

you don't know what you don't know, until you do

Prior to my surgery, I made sure I had all the supplies I would need for stitching, sewing, knitting, writing, and all other manner of projects I would be working on during my month of recovery. It makes me laugh to think how my pre-surgery mind thought my post-op recovery was going to go. Kind of like this... nap during surgery, wake up, work with therapy, go home, take a nap or two, do PT daily, read books, finish up all unfinished stuff, go back to work.  

What I did not anticipate was that I would be so tired.  Jeez. I have been napping like nobody's business. Seriously. After breakfast, in the afternoon, AND before supper - a quick lay down as well. Well you don't know what you don't know, until you do. 

Sister and I did a FaceTime call the other day and while she sketched amazing things, I worked on a bunch of hexies for a project. They are kind of addicting to make and I am a little over halfway through. 

They are going to turn into a pillow at a sewing get-together next month. Which gives me plenty of time to finish them. 

Kansas has been true to form this week with temps in the 60's one day and the teens the next with rain then snow. There are signs of spring approaching though. Chris and I got out and took a couple of walks on the nice days which was completely wonderful. 

Once again, I want to say how excellent it has been to get Marco Polo's, texts, e-mails, and cards from people checking in to see how I am doing.

I will be stocking up on feel-better cards myself to send to anyone and everyone who has a sniffle or a scrape in the future. 

What I have found is the first two weeks after surgery went by in a blur, a blur of just learning how to get in and out of bed, moving around the house, and being grateful surgery itself was over.  Weeks 3 and four seem harder because you want to push your fast forward button and get better more quickly. Except I can’t find the fast forward button on my internal remote control.  Getting good sleep at night is challenging because of the difficulty finding just the right position. I have a serious case of the princess and the pea syndrome and can feel every tiny wrinkle underneath me. All of this is just to normalize the recovery experience for anyone going through something similar. The other little secret that everyone says is normal but no one talks about, is feeling blue, sad, downright depressed in some moments. I am glad to have Chris around to be able to take off my “happy face” with him if I need to. My brother and I also FaceTime regularly and discuss the chapters in the books we are writing (in our minds) about the travails of recovery. 

Onward ho! 

whenever a healthcare provider moves into the patient role

French toast with blueberries and sausage is a very good breakfast when your body is knitting itself back together. It sends a message to new parts, that are getting acquainted with older parts, that the boss (you) are going to be treating them right. Plus, French toast is known to encourage the production of endorphins. 

I sliced the bread extra thick but neglected to take that into account when soaking it in the custard before baking. It was still quite acceptable on the deliciousness scale. 

The calendar tells me it has been 19 days since surgery. These are the thoughts that run through my mind in no particular order:
Will I be ready to go back to work in 10 days?
Should walking still be somewhat uncomfortable?
Why does it feel like I still need this cane?
Maybe I should use more pain pills?
And of course, the inevitable middle of the night, "hey what's that and why does it hurt?"

I am reporting on all of this because we humans just want to be sure we are "on track" don't we? We like to be sure that we are having a "normal" recovery. We change our expectations from having the fastest recovery ever in the history of this particular surgery, to being  in the "acceptable" range. 

Whenever a healthcare provider moves into the "patient" role, all our words of support, encouragement, and sound advice regarding how hard to push it and when to use analgesics play around in our heads. Chris asked me the other day if going through this will change anything I do as a part of my work. The answer is a resounding YES! What I will do a better job of is educating patients and their families about how they are going to second guess themselves at every single turn, driving themselves crazy with all of the uncertainty and expectations. Then I will hand them a card that says "You are YOU, different from anyone else that has ever had this done, YOU are going to recover at YOUR pace and no one else's, and when you start thinking differently, send me an email and I am going to lovingly remind you of this". There will also likely be a hug involved, depending on our relationship. 

I will then tell them that French toast with blueberries, sausage, and syrup can have a very soothing effect on whatever ails them.

the cognitive and emotional aspects of recovery from surgery

Today it has been 17 days since I came home from the hospital. How is that even possible? To mark this milestone, a lunch date was arranged with my wise counselor Marti Huff and her co-counselors who specialize in laughter and distraction therapy. Oh how wonderful to be out in the world carrying on like a regular person, granted with the aid of a trusty cane. 

Marti reminded me of what her mom used to tell her ,"everyday, in every way, I am getting better and better", which is a helpful mantra as one starts to second guess themselves regarding the speed of their recovery. There was also discussion about reminding ourselves in the middle of the night, when all things can seem like more than they are, that... "this too shall pass". When you have a counselor who is 99, and has lived through all the things that life has thrown at her, and is thriving, you feel great comfort in her wisdom. I sure do. 

We toasted ourselves with a glass of wine, discussed potential future outings, and enjoyed sweet potato wedges, Brussels sprouts, a lyonnaise salad, lentil and sweet potato Shepards pie, and an earl grey creme brûlée.  

The scheduling of outings is as important as solving 5th grade math problems when one considers the cognitive and emotional aspects of recovery from surgery.  

purring promotes healing

On post-op day #9 a corner was turned. The corner that put me out onto walking better street. A smoother glide. Of course there remain times of discomfort. Which I fully expect to continue for awhile. Here are some other things that are enhancing my recovery this week.  Photos of my great-niece Katharine. 

Naps in bed in the sunshine with books by the bed, friends sending me photos of quilts they are working on, ideas of things to create bubbling up all around, dreaming of the gooey butter cake I saw online this week and deciding when will be the right time to make it. It was a "St. Louis style" gooey butter cake. How could it be bad?

Chris procured a pill splitter for me so I could cut my pain pills in half and feel like I can get just the relief I need and not feel woozy the next day. Hurrah. I am a fan of the "lowest most effective dose" with the fewest side effects. Sometimes it takes a bit of practice to find that sweet spot. 

Regular video's and photos of my great fur niece and nephew from sister. I swear I can feel them right here with me. 

It's a well known fact that purring promotes healing.

 

Jarred the physical therapist

Thank you all so much for your ongoing comments and support as I recuperate from surgery. While I have been doing exercises at home, and had a full 45 minute session at the rehab place yesterday, I want you to know about some recovery techniques I am investigating to see if they add anything to the traditional plan.

Today there was a drive in the fresh air and sunshine while we slurped up a shamrock shake. Those who know me are aware I typically choose not to use my good calories on anything "fast food", but for some reason today it sounded good. We haven't had one for a few years and they are mintier, than they used to be, the green is more artificial if that is possible, and we both enjoyed it.  One is plenty to split between 2. They do have 10gm of protein by the way. Which is important in recovery. 

For my cognitive re-training, sister is sending me 5th grade math problems to see if I can figure them out. Math in 2023 is not the same as it was in 1967 or 68 which is when I think I was in 5th grade. I could turn that into a story problem but I won't. So far I have successfully completed 3 of the 5 she has sent. One was a real hard one that I got wrong because I had never heard of a "tape diagram" before, which you need to understand to be able to do. Jeez! I am taking great comfort in the fact that Marti Huff (one of the wisest people I know) got the same answer as me when I sent it to her to do. I am saving the last problem for later tonight after I take a nap then eat dinner.  Math problems are fun when you don't "have" to do them and you are not getting graded.  Sister always gives me lots of encouragement. 

P.S. I wish you could have seen my face on Tuesday at therapy when Jarred the physical therapist said our next exercise would be to "get up from a seated position without the aid of your arms". He promptly raised the level of the platform on which I was seated, which made it easier, and we are still getting along famously. 

2 nurses who stood out in a sea of stars

Good morning from Tall Tales Headquarters where I am beginning day 5 of post-op recovery. At this exact second I am sitting on the couch, ice packs in place, afghan covering my legs, cup of coffee in hand, relishing this moment of feeling things are healing in my body.

Thank each of you for all the good vibes you sent out into the universe for me. I have felt each one nudge me from the place you sent it from. Such comfort. How to fully explain the immensity of the loving kindness and concern I have felt surrounded by? The closest I can come is a feeling of light and protection enveloping me, Like I am moving through the world sheltered from any possible harm.  What a feeling. It makes my cry.

My hospital experience was top notch. I was at the KU campus at Indian Creek in Kansas City and the attention to my safety, comfort, and well being was amazing. Emma and Martha were 2 nurses who stood out in a sea of stars. How good it feels to be on the receiving end of such excellent care.

I am up, walking, have started therapy, am giving up the walker for the cane today. Chris has been on duty non-stop at home. Cooking wonderful meals and making sure I have every little thing I need. 

Please know that every single e-mail, text, call, Marco-polo, FaceTime, card, flower, book, and good wish have been, and continue to be appreciated. I shall be posting updates as “007” and I complete our bonding and prepare for all our future adventures together.

P. S.  Sister suggested the name 007 for my titanium/ceramic hip and as soon as she said it I knew it was right.

 

I'm not built that way

We had some big white snowflakes today in Lawrence. But just for about an hour or so. Nothing stuck to the ground. It was the perfect morning for a late breakfast, steel cut oats topped with big giant blueberries, walnuts, some yogurt and maple syrup. Coffee to sip. A glance through the paper. Nowhere to go. 

Cold weather makes me want to stay inside and make stuff. Coincidentally, I scribbled down a list in my journal the other day of things I want to get going on. Today I worked on three.  Let's begin with the triangle quilt. As you can see, it has not yet been started. 

I have wanted to make one since Pam Garrison brought her's to art retreat #3 (I think) in Palm Springs years ago. Solid triangles, sewn together in strips. She told me she got the idea from Elise Blaha and today I found her old post of a baby triangle quilt she made. It was fun to look at in preparation for embarking on mine. 

I made a few practice cuts on some scraps to be sure I understand how this is going to fit together. I'm glad I did. This stack of Kona Solids (fat quarters) was acquired a while back with just this purpose in mind... plus a few other projects I have thought of for using the scraps I am going to have afterwards.  

My needlepoint project also got some attention. I think I am just past the halfway point?

This cowl was also begun. Yarn purchased in Lincoln when we went over the summer. It's a combination of linen and silk and is very nice to work with. 

Sometimes I think if I just did one thing at a time, I would complete things more quickly. But I'm just not built that way. My hands and my mind like to skip to and fro and I feel compelled to go where they lead me. 

I am going with it

Daybreak on the first day of 2023 was foggy, quiet, gentle, atmospheric. 

End of day was the same, no fog, but still quiet and peaceful.

In between these 2 pictures, we did not hurry and we did not scurry.

There was brunch at home, after which we tested ourselves for COVID for the 1st time since the beginning of the pandemic. We have never had symptoms and never had a need to test before. Several family members have turned up positive since our Christmas get together and because we had tests on hand we decided to use them. To see what it was like? Because the tests are going to expire soon? For the experience? Whatever. We did it. 

Both negative, for which we are grateful. It would prefer not to start the new year testing positive. But in the back of my mind I still think it's likely that we will all get it sooner or later. Who knows? I don't dwell on it, a good mantra for 2023 is a favorite from Marti Huff... "don't trouble trouble, until trouble troubles you". I am going with it.  

carefully stored in an old dish from Mama Fina

On the very last day of 2022, as I looked through photos from the past year, I selected these as some of the great moments.

There was also Marco Polo'ing done with Peggy and Annette - dear friends since our days together at Marymount. We had a wonderful, hair-brained, hastily planned, 36 hour trip to Omaha in November and have been communicating using MP since then. So much better than texting. It's an ongoing conversation that can dangle and get picked up anytime one of us feels like it. Delightful.

Sister and I started talking about a lace curtain, which led to talk of Sweden and Norway, which resulted in getting out our Stockholm travel journals and doing video "flip through's" to send each other. Why don't I paint more? I loved every single thing I did in that journal. I will have to post that video here on the blog. Sometime.

I pulled out my "binding supplies" that are carefully stored in an old dish that I think Dottie told me belonged to our grandmother - Mama Fina. I don't think she kept sewing stuff in it, but she might have. I sat in the sun in the dining room and hand stitched some binding. I also dearly love that strawberry pin cushion that Pam Garrison made me more than a few years back.  

Looking back, that's what you do on the last day of the year right? Let memories filter through without any one getting stuck. We also played Clue and drank champagne. Chris and I have determined that Mr. Green is a serial killer and must be stopped. 

Happy last day of 2022 to all of you. I hope you are toasting in the new year in whatever way best pleases you. As for me, I am going to go and wash my face and put on my pajamas right this second. I will be raising my glass to all of you in complete and total comfort. That is what pleases me more than anything. 

time enough for that after the beginning of the new year

Having this week between Christmas and New Year's mostly at home (as in not working), is foreign and quite pleasant. I have never had a job where business was closed during this week. Sitting around and enjoying the decorations and music feels luxurious. But also there is a part of me thinking "shouldn't I be getting ready for something?" I continue to enjoy looking at the pictures Dottie sent.  One below from Christmas 1979. I am impressed with Angie's placement of greenery over the mantle. We never talked much about our shared love of decorating for the holidays. Just another one of those things you don't think about until it's too late. 

Chris and I pulled the Clue game out of the basement and figured out how to play it with 2 people.  This after trying to play CaseFile on Christmas Day and finding myself thoroughly confused. Sometimes it makes sense not to muck up a classic with too many gimmicks. Says the great-aunt anyway.  As of 12/29 at 3pm we are nose to nose with our skills of reasoning and deduction. 

Today I poured the last bit of eggnog into a glass and toasted the month of December.  With the coffee chaser to make the whole experience last just as long as possible.  Sip sip slurp.

I have been reading short stories, finishing up a hat and some fingerless gloves, moving along slowly on my needlepoint, going to bed early, sleeping in until 7:30, staring at the tree, wondering what everyone else is doing, hoping NOT to see anyone start getting virtuous or productive yet. There will be time enough for that AFTER the beginning of the New Year. Right now I am leaning deep into some serious loafing and am finding it has its merits. 

 

come little leaves said the wind one day...

Tonight it's a few favorite recent moments. Great moments, some brief, some longer, just the things that make life sweeter.  Lets start with a lunch out shall we?  I am giving Wheatfields high marks for a most excellent lunch with the Huffs last week.

The quiche, salad, sandwiches, bread, all delicious and I haven't even gotten to the lemon tart, the carrot cake, and the panne cotta. Marti told me about her old neighbor C.J. Doney, AND how her grandmother, every October, would recite this poem to her... 

    "Come little leaves, said the wind one day
    Come o'er the meadows with me and play;
    Put on your dresses of red and gold,
    For summer is gone and the days grow cold..."

Can you imagine anything more wonderful, than at 98 years old having this memory of your grandmother? Me neither. Except now I have THIS memory of Marti Huff reciting it in Wheatfields and every single trip there (especially in October) moving forward will be better for it. 

Somehow I missed uploading this purple daikon and watermelon radish (from Mellowfield farms) photo into my market post. No matter, now you have seen it. Once again, Mother Nature on display in her absolute finest. Which brings me to the butterfly on the zinnia out back before the cold snap. 

For a bit of complete escapism, with lovely characters, scenery, and a sweet story line, you may want to watch Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris.  Trailer embedded below for your viewing pleasure. We watched it on Amazon Prime for less than three bucks! 

The mums on my front porch below. I took 3 old pillow cases that were no longer fit for use, slit them up one side, and covered each pot with one. Secured on the side with a clothespin, voila! - they survived the frost.

Finally, real quick, Ohio street is where I "leaf peeped" after the farmers market this week. The colors this year are unrivaled. I think I say that every year. I always mean it too. 

When I looked up and saw the light in the leaves, it was like the a shot from a movie where some kind of a vision or spectral sighting happens. It didn't, but it sure could have. Right there on Ohio street. 

bought years ago at the grand bazaar in Istanbul

A hodge-podge view of the transition from summer to fall, in no particular order. Flowers left in the garden for the birds makes me happy. Seeing birds partaking of them makes me double happy. 

Nearing the end of the Zinnia season.

Neon Pothos clipped and brought in for wintering over. It did so great in pots with the caladiums this year. Hopefully it will root easily and I will not forget to add water to the jar over the winter. 

Halloween banner and other "trip-trap" put on the mantel.  

Jade plants and dracaena trifasciata pots moved back inside and gourds arranged on porch along with fall pillows.  I bought these years ago at the grand bazaar in Istanbul. They are badly faded, not meant to be left outside, but that's where I love them best. Maybe next fall will be the year for new pillow covers. There are so many fun fall and Halloween fabrics. 

Old cross stitch hung up.

It's time for pumpkin baking too, as soon as that last piece of banana bread has been consumed. Maybe I need a piece right now? I just saw a recipe somewhere for a hot toddy too. With honey and camomile tea - it called for Rye but Bourbon sounds better to me. Is it just me or is Fall feeling especially delightful so far this year?  

holding their wings open to dry in the sun

During my post-vacation return to the activities of everyday life I have been doing extremely important things.  Such as:

Meeting up with the Huff's for lunch. Stonefruit salad with kale, burrata, crouton, chopped hazelnuts. It was divine and only bettered by the piece of lemon meringue pie for dessert - the filling was tart and rich with an almost lemon curd quality to it. The meringue was whipped into a state of absolute creamy perfection and then torched. To. Die. For.  We discussed books, field sobriety tests and heel to toe walking. I think the topic of forgetfulness came up but I can't be sure. 

Washing my cantaloupe Hoka's. Which were beyond filthy. Wow did they come out clean!

Taking a morning walk, checking in with the natural world. There was a tree with a whole lot of turkey buzzards in it - holding their wings open to dry in the sun?  Not this tree that is falling slowly into the river, a big tall tree, it reminded me of the cormorants in their trees on the beach around Summerland

Making banana bread even though it is pumpkin bread season because these 3 bananas required using. Since the last batch I made, I  have become a firm believer in baking the bananas before putting them in the batter. Sort of the same way toasting nuts and roasting vegetables intensifies their flavor. 

Cutting zinnias.

There was other stuff, but this covers the highlights.

P.S. If there is a more divine color combination than pink and orange I would like to meet it. 

the combined collective energy of a group of like minded individuals invigorates me

In follow up from the farmers market last week let me just say this cantaloupe was flavorful, soft and firm (if that makes sense), and was the perfect addition to my lunches for work. I am a fan of pepper and a speck of salt on my cantaloupe. That's how Angie always ate it.

The bag of tiny potatoes was made into "smashed" crispy potatoes. Olive oil, salt, pepper, into a 375 degree oven for 20 minutes or so, slight cooling period, then coated with combination of melted butter, olive oil, chopped chives, grated parmesan, smashed with the bottom of a measuring cup, back in oven at 425 degrees for about 15 minutes or until crispy. Success! I made potato salad with the second half of the bag. Little potatoes are creamy and dreamy any way you make them.

There was an Oh My Gouache Art Zoom this past Sunday that was tremendously fun.  We painted together from parts near and far on ZOOM. Each of us working on what we wanted to...the combined collective energy of a group of like minded individuals invigorates me. Here is what I worked on. 

Flying birds, leaves, and a self portrait on toned paper with colored pencils. Good clean fun. 

Other activities this week have included a walk by the river and a "hot Indonesian" latte at La Prima Taza, one of the oldest coffee spots in Lawrence. 

Unbeknownst to me, there is a crowd of regulars that brings their chairs and sets up a coffee klatch on the sidewalk outside on Wednesdays at 9:00am. I can not say if this is a recurring weekly event, but I will say they all ordered "my regular" drink, and the barista greeted them by name. Just one more thing to love about Lawrence, Kansas. 

I accidentally on purpose took 2 stickers

What I did for fun recently:

1. Made biscuits and a few jars of pickled cucumbers and onions. I discovered recently that pickles and onions are a wonderful accompaniment to spicy beef and broccoli. The perfect foil to the whole soy/sesame/oyster sauce/umami thing.  

2. Went for an early morning walk and saw sunflowers at the middle school down the street. In that first morning light they were magnificent. Anything + early morning light = beautifulness. 

3. Went over to the county election office and voted in person early. I accidentally on purpose took 2 stickers that said I voted. 

4. Mixed up a wine spritzer of sorts so I could use up the last 4 strawberries before they went bad. 

5. Admired my very own patch of coneflowers. After pulling weeds. Which was NOT fun, but nonetheless required attention. 

Finding things to do that are "fun" is essential to living a contented life. For me. 

Helpful links:  Biscuit recipe here.

 

on a tuesday there was this...

An early morning walk on a weekday, with no expectations, yielded all of this.

I saw this quote on line today from Henry David Thoreau which seems made for this experience. "You must live in the present, launch yourself on every wave, find your eternity in each moment." Right on HDT. 

to understand them as a part of life that come and go

After almost an entire month of not being able to walk without discomfort (which totally took the mental health benefits out of it), I have been back at it for the past 3 days. Church of the glassy river, Baker Wetlands, pond down the street... how I missed you. 

Oh the mysterious ways of the body and the reaction of the mind. What is this? When will it go away? What should I do to make it better? Is this making it worse? You know the drill.  Can we talk about aches and pains for a minute? Not to roll around in them so everyone will feel bad for us, but rather to understand them as a part of life that come and go. Often with no rhyme or reason... not one that we can pinpoint anyway.  A cloud that has blown in that will surely blow away is a great metaphor from Tara Brach (or maybe Pema Chödrön) for the suffering in life.

This has been a great wake up call for me on the importance of STRETCHING and making time for it before and after walking. The next time I am plagued with some unpleasant sensations in the body my plan is this: acknowledge, accept, and remember it's a cloud. Then I will speed dial my massage and physical therapists, who by the way are my "team" as much as my primary care doctor and all the "specialists" out there. Fabulous women these two. 

We did. It was good. We were glad.

When Johnny and Annette were visiting Tall Tales Headquarters recently, we had Margaritas and Bloody Mary's. Not at the same time. 

The luxury of having your own personal bartender, who cleans up after himself, and has a wicked sense of humor, can not be overstated.

The fact that he is a dear friend and married to one of my dearest friends ... ok, enough said. 

In other news, these zinnias all re-seeded themselves from last year. Best crop of volunteers ever. I took care to break up the dried flower heads last year and throw them around at the end of the season. Seems like it paid off. It also helps that these zinnias are in my back garden where it is sunny and sort of protected from the harsh winds here in Kansas. 

I am very much enjoying listening to The Trojan Horse Affair podcast. I am not sure where it is going, but it's so interesting and a commentary of sorts on these times we are living in? If you like a podcast, give it a whirl. Excellent to knit along to. 

In addition to cleaning the bathrooms before our guests arrived, the sewing area got neatened up.  



This may or may not turn into a smallish pillow for the chair at my desk at home. Old jeans + scraps = real good fun. 

While we are on the subject of sewing, I reinforced a buttonhole on these yard-mowing shorts for Chris recently.

I told Chris they come with a money back guarantee. I am in love with the whole mending movement - in theory anyway. I need more practice which will of course make things closer to perfect

There was a meeting of the Huff Lunch Club recently. Items discussed included the universal appeal and good looks of a pair of Birkenstocks at any age, the importance of incorporating creative endeavors into a life, and carrot cake. 

That's all I have to report today. Did I mention that we ate carrot cake in addition to discussing it? We did. It was good. We were glad. 

you are so loved, already

Here's a quick update on the happenings at Tall Tales Headquarters this Memorial Day weekend.

I fell hook line and sinker for these groupings of fat quarters at Sarah's Fabrics in Lawrence - Here There batiks by Marcia Derse. 

This neck warmer, which is in no way needed right now, came off the needles and got blocked. It turned out exactly as expected. I asked the chair to model it for you and it was most obliging. Thrown over the head no extra looping, lays perfectly, wonderfully soft. Pattern is the Ensata Cowl by Amy Van de Laar from Brooklyn Tweed. Yarn is Peerie (fingering weight) also from Brooklyn Tweed. Colorway is Treehouse and is a bit greener than it looks in this photo. This yarn is a dream to work with. 



Because something always has to be on the needles, I started this Color Affection wrap by Veera Valimaki using these yarns that were in my stash and seem to go together pretty will... time will tell. Pattern available on Ravelry. 

My wonderful local bookstore, The Raven, won Publishers Weekly bookstore of the year and I couldn't be prouder. Yay for local bookstores and all those who shop there.

Strawberry season will not be lasting much longer... I am taking advantage of every local strawberry I can eat. 

Fabrics are being washed for cutting, pressing, sewing.

Succulent pots were planted out back today. All caution to the wind. Do what you want. It may work out, it may not. Angie's plastic birds that have lost their wings were added to the mix along with shells, rocks, and other morning walk finds. 

Amidst all the sadness in the world right now, the Mulvenon's have welcomed Maya Louise into the family. Hope springs eternal. Welcome to the world baby girl, you are so loved. Already. 

an unburdening

One might think that working part time instead of full time would translate to more not less blogging. What I am finding though, is that the extra time is going instead to sitting and thinking. Thinking about stuff like "No Mow May" which helps the bees.  

There is also the thinking and eating activities, as in how will I use the farmers market purchases. At this time of year it's pretty much just clean and eat. Strawberries with blueberries and yogurt, asparagus with greens and hard boiled eggs in a salad with a mustardy vinaigrette.  

Deciding if one piece of cake will make 3 desserts or only 2. This coconut/lime concoction may be my new favorite from the Chonky boys. Moist with a pop of lime in the frosting and the chew of the flaky coconut. 

The annual cleaning, filling, and plugging in of the fountain. 

Watching the rain on the hosta leaves. 



What I am actually finding is an unburdening. Letting go of the need to "do" without a reason. Especially some self-imposed rule that needs to be let go of. 

Chris and I are talking about a drive to Tulsa.  Who's been? On our agenda at this moment is The Philbrook Museum of Art, a botanic garden, and I just stumbled across Knit Stars which looks amazing. What else have you done there that we should investigate? Do tell.