Tall Tales from Kansas

how to smile like a proper elf

Chief among all the things I love most about this time of year are these.

And these, and these, and these.

When you can get them at a place where you can also have a rendevous with a frisky feline, well that's a bonus.

Available greenery for your front porch fountain too?  Bonus on top of bonus.  

When I spotted the elf in the greenhouse I thought I was hallucinating.  Until she spoke.  She clearly got an A+ in the "How to Smile Like a Proper Elf" portion of her training.

Here is the poinsettia we selected.  It's a "Noel Red".

This one did not come home with me.

But we have several future dates planned.  Thanks Pendleton's Market for another year of great produce, plants, flowers, butterflies, pumpkins, kitty petting, and all around good times. 

when these big guys clip-clopped by

The Old Fashioned Christmas parade happened on Saturday, in spite of the rain.  

It didn't stop the festivities.

But it did make for lots of umbrellas.

And other sorts of shelter.  It's important to make do, when you have to.  

Victor was not deterred by rain overhead or underfoot as he proclaimed "They're COMING!"

Little Miss Red Coat, was also in the "fie on rain" camp and let nothing interfere with her festive look.    

There is something very special about this parade. Low tech. Nostalgic.  

You could feel the street vibrate when these big guys clip-clopped by.  

Chris and I decided that babies and little doggies had the best seats in the house this year.  

When the umbrellas went up and stayed up, about 30 minutes into the festivities, I told Chris my eyes had seen a sufficient number of horses.  Which was code for "I'm ready to go".  Which he of course immediately understood.  I like it when my date knows when I am ready for coffee, oatmeal, and a fireplace.    

a necklace fashioned from a shaving brush

One of my favorite events of the season was last weekend. 

Bizarre Bazaar.  The 30th anniversary actually.  The woman who designed the t-shirt was telling me how there was an artist who had chicken foot ornaments at the very first event.  Oh dear.  

Fear not.  I have NONE of those to show you.  But how about a pet tag necklace, or some smiling cat blocks, or a super cool basket made by Cheryl from Eudora.  

Pottery is always a good choice.  For some reason I never think I have enough.

If you are looking for a gift for the person who has everything, may I suggest a painted hand?

This stylish woman simply needed to have her photo taken.  

This retired librarian talked to me about her intricate ornaments and how she makes them all year long, except for a few months when she concentrates on her other artistic ventures. 

Its not often that you get to enjoy the sound of a good accordion.  It was perfect. Music makes every event better.

Who had a spinning top toy as a child?  We did!

Above is one of my favorite artists.  I have purchased pins and tie-dyed socks from her over the years.  The sculptured bowls were new this year.  

For originality how about a necklace fashioned from a shaving brush, and who doesn't need a cute pin?

Oh I could go on, but I will end with a few of my purchases

I had to draw the line somewhere.  I needed to reserve some funds for the holiday farmers market which is coming up in a few weeks.

as we thought about Ray and Chas

Chris and I went downtown today for the Veterans Day parade.
 

Things got started off with a fly-over.  No matter how many times I see one, I am always simultaneously impressed and choked up.  

There were people walking and riding and smiling and waving.  

 Mostly we wanted to show our respect and gratitude as we thought about Ray and Chas (our Dads) on this 100th anniversary of Armistice day.  

slowing my roll long enough to stop doing and just BE

Spectacular is the best I can do for the colors of THIS fall season in Lawrence Kansas.  And it doesn't seem like enough.  

The colors followed us home from Lake Tahoe.  Before we left there  was not much to write about.  

This last week though, the leaves sat up and took notice.  Giving Lake Tahoe a serious run for it's money.  

All this amazingness right here in my own town.  All for free. All it cost was slowing my roll long enough to stop doing and just BE.  

if one of you swears by paca poo

Part of the fun of the Kaw Valley Farm Tour is having the opportunity to buy locally produced goods from the farmers.

Things like fabulous gourds, pumpkins, mums, bittersweet, eggs, and mums.

And of course, one of my favorites.  Special alpaca dryer balls.  

They also had other things I did not need.  Though I did find them interesting and unusual.

If one of you swears by paca poo as fertilizer I will get some for sure.  Next year.   

come rain or come shine

We made it out to 5 of the farms on the 14th Annual Raw Valley Farm Tour over the weekend.  These photos are from both Saturday and Sunday.  It's a marathon.  Fasten your seatbelts and enjoy the ride.  I don't think any commentary will be needed.  

Driving out through the fields of Kansas.  Even on an overcast day, is pretty good.  

Thank you to the following farmers we visited for opening up their places to us.

Coal Creek Farms
Vesecky Family Farms
Pendleton's Country Market
Blue Morning Glory Farm
Henry's Plant Farm

If YOU want to experience the Kaw Valley Farm Tour, mark your calendars for the first full weekend in October.  You won't regret it.  Come rain or some shine.   

a downpour is another story

Hello and Happy Friday night from Kansas, where I have just come in from snipping what could be the last bouquet of zinnia's for the season.

Rain is forecast for the next 2 days.  Between 90 and 100% chance.  Who knows what havoc that could wreak on these sturdy troopers that have brought me an amazing amount of joy all summer long.  As you may be able to see, there is mildew forming on the foliage now.  Just part of the process.  

I am bummed about the rain only because this weekend is the area Farm Tour and we have tickets in hand.  Farms to visit picked out.  Rain coats are at the ready.  We won't be scared off by a sprinkle.  A downpour is another story.  

little half-pints with red hair in high top tennis shoes

 Fall festivals/arts & craft shows are starting in my neck of the woods.  Slightly cooler days (by spells), friends gathering, you know the drill.  

All sorts of good things to look at.  People.  Crafts.  Music.  

Pumpkins, big trees, and little half-pints with red hair in high top tennis shoes.

Baby goats (or is that a lamb?) and halloween banners.  It doesn't get any better.  

And so it starts, the yearning for fall and every little thing that comes with it.  

the opportunities for photos are endless

Labor Day weekend is typically the time to see sunflower fields in full splendor here in Kansas.  There was some worry that this year would be a bust because it's been so dry, but a few good downpours in the last month seemed to have set things right.    

 

Chris and I made our way out to one of the fields closest to us recently to check things out.  

There is something about seeing all these specimens en masse that makes you smile.

Seriously, you can't help yourself.

As you might suspect, the opportunities for photos are endless. 

We of course availed ourselves of the opportunity.  

 I like that they supplied a saw for the "cut your own corn for fall yard decoration" option that you could participate in.  

This field had some very tall specimens growing, as well as a shorter variety with multiple flowers on each plant.  There were also some medium tall sunflowers with big giant heads.   

I love them all.   Even if I can't tell you their real names.  

P.S.  If you live close to Lawrence, this field is at 923 E. 1450 Road, Lawrence.   The field you hear about more often in the area is Grinter's Sunflower Farm - it is located at 24154 Stillwell Road, Lawrence.  We haven't been there this year so can't speak to what is happening there.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

some are better than others

A summer walk by the lake in Lawrence = sunflowers, grasses, and lots of birdsong.

While walking, I spied for the first time, a white wooly worm.  Someone said that means we'll have blizzards this winter?  

There is a great bench at the end of this walk.  Perfect for letting all the the rambling thoughts I have had while walking coalesce into something.  Or not.   I don't know about you, but I have a LOT of ideas while I am walking.   Some are better than others.  All warrant exploration.   

I distracted them with the camera while Chris grabbed the rose bush and ran

This is a Chihuly Floribunda.  Planted at Tall Tales Headquarters this week. 

I spotted it at Henry's Plant Farm when I was wondering about.

I had a nice chat about it with this nice lady who looked like a rose expert to me.  We discussed the dreaded "witches broom virus" and whether or not it only affects knock out roses (it doesn't) and if there was a rose that was immune (there isn't).

Because I can't live without roses, and even though it may eventually become diseased, it was purchased and planted.

And yes, there has already been a cutting brought inside.  I might have to go back and get another.

There were several that caught my eye. 

Luckily I did not have to get into any shoving matches with anyone over the chihuly.

These two hecklers tried, but I distracted them with the camera while Chris grabbed the rose bush and ran. 

A girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do.  Especially when it comes to rose bush buying.

the person who decided to plant these trees and place the benches strategically underneath

Last week, before the snow fell, when the skies were blue, I ventured out to check on my favorite star magnolia trees. 

They don't live in my yard, but that did not stop me from sitting on this perfectly positioned bench to look upward.

I actually examined them from every angle, and found all to be quite pleasing. 

I do not know the name of the person who decided to plant these trees and place the benches strategically underneath them.  I hope whomever it was, knows what good work they did.  

Seriously good. 
 

the perfect environment for thinking

The Sunrise Project has moved in to the former Sunrise Garden Center on 15th street in Lawrence.   Its a gathering place. 

A spot to meet, talk, dream, create, and grow.   You could also read if the spirit moved you.  Even if you didn't bring anything with you, there were books on the shelves.  And games.  Interesting conversations swirled around me.  

It was the perfect environment for thinking, writing out cards, and staring off into space. 

All while enjoying my first latte made with coconut milk.  Because its important to explore new taste sensations.   And the really friendly barista asked me if I wanted to try it.  

and that would have been a tragedy

The snow and single digit wind chills did not stop us from our appointed rounds earlier this week.  We decided to each pick a new sweater pattern to work on together in 2018.  Something to stretch our skills.  Challenge our ideas of what might be too hard for us.  

To the Yarn Barn we went.  For the annual sale.  Thank goodness we did.  If not we would have missed this photo op.  And that would have been a tragedy. 

how angels flap their wings

While I wait for Chris to edit the photos he took at the “old fashioned Christmas parade” last weekend, I present the best of what you can do with your iPhone.

It was a beautiful day and the crowds were plentiful.

There were ladies in red capes riding big horses and one lady in a blue dress riding in a carriage drawn by a teensy weensy horse.  We spotted the remnants of holiday appropriate breakfast snacks, consumed while waiting for things to get started.

This little miss and her dad were having a fine time.  She showed me how angels flap their wings in between giggling and shrieking with delight.  

And of course there was Santa.  Because it just wouldn’t be an old fashioned Christmas parade without him.  

the best spot in douglas county for poinsettias

We went over the river and through the woods today.  Or more accurately, down 15th street, through the fields, and across the railroad tracks. 

To the best spot I know of in Douglas county for poinsettias and greenery.

There was all manner of other finery out there too.

But oh the poinsettias.

I came home with the most spectacular red one out there.  If you want to get the second most spectacular red one, Pendleton's will be open until December 7th.  They will also be at the holiday farmers market next weekend.  Which happens to be  one of my favorite events of the whole year.  I need all hands free for this extravaganza.  Hence fresh wreaths and poinsettias must be purchased ahead of time.  

More info on the holiday market here

a view like this should be lingered over

The Christmas lights are up in downtown Lawrence, and things are “oh so festive”.

I told Chris tonight we MUST get downtown this month and go out for dinner.  We will sit at a table by a window and bask in the glow of all these lovely lights.

There will be cocktails and appetizers and we might take an hour to decide on the entree.

Because a view like this should be lingered over.  

If you live in (or near) a “smallish” town with Christmas lights, promise me you will do likewise.  

a concrete slab dedicated by the class of 1948 ... for dancing

As the host house for Thanksgiving, part of our job, in addition to making the turkey and stuffing, is to select a nice hike for Thursday morning.  We went scouting the other day for a new option for this years ramble.  We take our job seriously at Tall Tales Headquarters.

We  went looking for a place with leaves, grass, and excellent views.  

It's important for the hike to be do-able for all skill levels, and not so long that the turkey burns up in the oven while we are gone.  I think it's good to have the possibility of getting lost as a feature, but not all family members agree.   This urban hike on the KU campus will fill the bill this year.  Trees, grass, lakes, the Campanile, and we even found a concrete slab dedicated by the class of 1948 ... for dancing.  Guess who is going to be doing the hokey pokey on Thursday?  

hat's off to the organizers of this event

Today, under overcast skies, we made our way downtown for the Veterans Day parade. 

I did my best to keep a stiff upper lip, but confess to some tearful moments. 

Our dad was in the Air Force, and we moved all over the world growing up. 

We changed schools regularly, and learned to make new friends quickly. 

It was a good way to learn about life.  And the world. 

There were veterans from all branches of the service marching or riding today. 

My hats off to the organizer of this event.  It's the first time since 1968 there had been a parade in honor of Veterans in Lawrence.  

It was good to have a fitting venue to offer our appreciation.  

who doesn't need a reminder like that floating around?

My Friday started with a color check on the burning bush, followed by mum watering, and a short sit on the front porch before we got down to the real business of the day.  Sampling the Huevos Bravos at the Ladybird Diner. 

The swirling leaves and pumpkins in the windows did not distract me. 

We sat at the counter.  Next to a young woman who started her breakfast with an Irish coffee, and a young man who had just completed an exam and ordered a bloody mary and a half order of biscuits and gravy with 3 eggs on the side. 

If you are a fan of a breakfast with a mexican slant, you will not be disappointed by this.  Black beans on the bottom, topped with a cotija cheese quesadilla, egg, chorizo, and avocado. The salsa verde, sliced radishes, and pickled onion are things you don't always see on Huevos Rancheros.  Maybe that's why they are Huevos Bravos?  Heck you can call them what you want I just gobbled them up.  Happily. 

Then we headed for a walk.  But not before we spotted a truck full of pumpkins and this letterboard.  Which I did not buy.  But I might go back and get, so I can put the sentiment on the coffee cup in photo #6 on it.  Who doesn't need a reminder like that floating around?  

Celastrus Orbiculatus

Oh Celastrus Orbiculatus you delight me so.  Especially when you are hanging from the knobs of an old flower seed display.

I hope you have a local farm to visit for your fall flower needs.  It is one of my favorite things about living in Kansas.  You never know what you are going to find there.  That you NEED.  

the lost companion of the banner over my fireplace

The thing I got most excited about a few weeks ago at Art in the Park in Lawrence was these banners.  BANNERS seriously float my boat.   

Cute babies with squishy legs and feet, pet beds with canopies, and a dad getting a head massage are all good.  Seriously good. 

But a banner is so cheerful.  And it lasts for a long time.  And requires no maintenance. 

Second to the banners there was also this future singer in a rock & roll band, the tuba player from the municipal band, and baby in boots with sunglasses giving me the serious stare down.   

But see how nicely the banner works with the pom-poms and puzzle balls hanging over the table. 

These 2 curly headed creatures were so cute they almost killed me. 

But it was only the circle garlands that came home with me. 

This one clearly is the lost companion of the banner over my fireplace right now.  I was glad to be able to facilitate a reunion. 

enough said

There were some extra cute kids at the butterfly bio-villa out at Pendleton's last weekend. 

The butterflies were pretty spectacular as well.  But they weren't talking like the kids were.  "Hey I found the black one!  Did you see the black one?  It's over here!"

Or "I have to go to the bathroom mom, do they have a bathroom here?" And "hey be careful you almost let one out the door" said big sister to little brother as he headed out of the bio-villa to take care of his business.

If you don't give two hoots about butterflies or cute kids you can just space out and look at the fields and sky.  

Oh.  They also have a pumpkin patch.  Which opens this weekend.   Enough said. 

 

anticipation is a wonderful thing

Hello friends:  I am tapping away on Chris's laptop this afternoon.  The "regular" computer is still in the evaluation stages.  Second opinions being sought, stuff like that.  Meanwhile, here are some photos I downloaded from my camera and uploaded to Typepad prior to the crash.

A walk in the woods.  Nothing better to get my mind turning in a new direction.  To fall.  Chilly mornings and woodsmoke in the air.

Imagining crunchy leaves.  

Cinnamon, apples, gingerbread.  

The upcoming annual trip to Arkansas with the Moss siblings.   Where we will take a walk in the woods and try not to trip over any roots on the trail.  

To mums on the porch and a visit to Schaake's and Pendleton's for pumpkins and gourds.

Reading in front of the fireplace on a Sunday morning.  Putting up the Halloween garland.  

All of these thoughts were playing in my head when I was walking.  A non-stop reel.  Previews of coming attractions

Anticipation is a wonderful thing.  

don't know about you, but I like to "grab and go"

Today my friend Joan came over so we could work on a new project.  She brought her "sew together" bags at my insistence and I was blown away by her fabric choices.

I must make another one.  Soon.  I need one for small sewing projects.  My current one is for small knitting projects.  I don't know about you, but I like to "grab and go" when I am taking a project somewhere to work on.  I can't be messing around with transferring contents between bags. 

Chris and I did the annual sweet corn run this week.  We each played our parts... based on our talents.  Because he is a more meticulous cleaner, he shucks.  I cut, freeze, and bag. 

One side dish for Thanksgiving dinner, done.   

Happy Friday.  Have you read this excellent commentary from one of my favorite bloggers - Kristin Nicholas?  I have been thinking about it since I read it earlier in the week.  In the event that you don't follow her, I am sharing, because it's worth a read.  Whether you are putting up corn, making a bag, starting a project with a friend, or staying home to read a book this weekend, I hope it fulfills your idea of "making the world a beautiful place".   Thanks Kristin for a lovely piece of writing. 

a mass of chest high amazingness

On the way to the dentist last week, I stumbled into hollyhock heaven.  Who knew it was right here, on Vermont street, in Lawrence Kansas?

Mine did not come up this year.  Just part of the cycle of life in a garden  Maybe I will go get a couple of new ones tomorrow and pop them in the ground.  Sort of a fresh start.  No way you can walk through a mass of chest high amazingness like this and not want to at least try and replicate it. 

 

the mechanics of tucking your head inside your shell

After checking out the roses, and asking this bird how she obtained ownership rights to house #1, I veered from my usual walking route around the pond the other day.

Some days just call for walking off the beaten path.

Where you can get up close to the waving grasses and see into the trees

And you might meet a turtle also on a walk,

and stop for a talk.  About turtle things.  Like the mechanics of tucking your head inside your shell and how that's such a useful skill to have. 

Other activities included tree observations, finding a plant that might need to find a spot in my garden this year, and watching the sun rise higher in the sky. 

The walk concluded at the Japanese iris's.  Which are beautiful right now.  I really wanted to stick around and observe this fellow roller blading, I thought he would be ok with a spectator given that he appeared to be geared up with all the proper stuff.  But the thought of him falling make my ankles weak.  So I left.  

more than Chris can carry to the car in one trip

This puffed up peacock clearly thought he was in charge of things the other day at Henry's Plant Farm in Lawrence.  He was shrieking commands from his perch high up in the tree while his royal plumage trailed behind.  Meanwhile his buddy stood around doing some backward walking fan dance moves.  It was all quite entertaining.

Not to be outdone by all that pomp, these furry creatures let us know that in fact, it was they who were running the place.

These guys just stood out in the field and let me know that if I wanted to speak to them I should come bearing gifts.

The flower selection did not disappoint, and we had ourselves a fine time on our first outing of the season. 

My rule is never to buy more than I can plant in an afternoon, or more than Chris can carry to the car in one trip.  Which actually turns out to be the same amount. 

to celebrate my Mexican heritage

The combination of warm sun, cool breezes, and the wild phlox in full bloom made for a perfect spring walk this walk.

The bluebird and the lady bug were a bonus. 

Happy Cinco de Mayo.  Right this minute I have Chris searching for the recipe for the chicken enchilada recipe we used about 2 months ago.  It was easy and delicious.  We are having it tomorrow night for Happy Seis de Mayo.  No reason to celebrate my Mexican heritage on just one day of the month.  Feel free to follow suit.  

when you schedule your trip to Lawrence this year

Seen on a random drive through Lawrence this week.  It may, or may not, have been on earth day.  This spring every single day feels like earth day to me. 

When you schedule your trip to Lawrence this year, promise me you will take at least a whole afternoon to drive up and down the streets looking for sites like this.  Sweet, old fashioned, pretty.  And all for free.  If you are lucky you will get to meet the gardeners like I did at the house in photo #1.  I might have gushed too much over my love of their garden.  But I don't think they minded.   Not one bit.

which one is the spinach?

Sometime, in your life, I hope you get the chance to go out into a field and pick asparagus.  And if, while you are there, you get to see a girl in a sun bonnet, well so much the better. 

A work commitment kept me from my appointed rounds at the farmers market on Saturday. 

So I was pretty happy to be able to go out to Pendleton's Market and get my weekly produce.  It's amazing to see asparagus just popping up out of the ground.

Initially you might wonder how you could possibly fill up a basket.

But you can, in no time at all.   It's a family affair, and if you want, you can also take a tractor ride out to the field and Mr. Pendleton will school you in the fine art of picking. 

There were all sorts of things growing in the field and "along about July" they will have 9 different kinds of potatoes ready for digging.  Raise your hand if you've always wanted to try that.

We made a stop at the tent for greens too.  My hands were flying through the spinach, chard, and bok choy.

Then I came home and soaked and stemmed and chopped and lunch for the week was prepared.

I loved listening to these kids ask "which one is the spinach?" and "is that lettuce?"  Such a great experience for them.

In addition to all that gastronomic goodness, they most definitely have treats for the eyes at Pendleton's.  If you are into succulents, they have a great selection and some wonderful ideas for how to put them together.  And don't even get me started on the combinations of flowers put together in pots.

P.S.  did I mention I got to pet a kitty?  Pure bliss. 

a time out for mindfulness

Last week, I left the house on my day off to find an adventure. 

Which I did.  An adventure that included blue trails and white trails and sometime a blue/white connection between the trails.  There were also lots of roots and rocks to jump over plus an area or two of shoe-sucking mud. 

There were old stacked rock walls, a snail, wild violets and phlox, dried leaves, and new leaves that were just unfurling. 

I saw streams, vines attached to trunks, blue skies, and trees with arms that reached only to one side. 

The adventure ended with the discovery of a new area at the lake.  With strategically placed benches for sitting and gazing.   

A well placed bench for resting at the end of an adventure is perfect.  Just the thing for reading, or looking, or for taking a minute to let the whole experience sink in before racing off to whatever thing has to be attended to next.   A time out for mindfulness.  I need more of those. 

P.S.  If you come to Lawrence and want to take this hike, it's the Northshore Trail at Clinton Lake. 

my finds from an afternoon last week

Spring is the best time for driving around and collecting all sorts of beautiful things.  For free.   Here are my finds from an afternoon last week.

Just as I was about to call it good and head for home, I spotted this patch of creeping phlox.  One of Angie's favorites.  I must find a spot for some in my garden this year.   

 

we said hello to frogs, ducks, and birds

Saturday we ventured out to the Baker Wetlands to see what we could see.  In addition to getting to pet a 12 week old chocolate lab, who was taking his new mama for a walk, we said hello to frogs, ducks, and birds.   We did not pet them. 

This is a great place to walk when there is a nice cool breeze and it's sunny.   Maybe not so great in the heat of summer, although as we made our way around the place we did find some areas that were shaded. 

Spring time burning is happening in Kansas right now.  You don't need binoculars to see that, but if you do have a pair - bring them.  We wished that we had brought ours so we could see some of the birds better. 

There are 45 acres of native wetlands, as well as many acres of restored meadows and marshes.  The Oregon/Calilfornia trail runs through the middle of it.  If you come, stop at the visitors center if it's open.  You can get a map there of all the different trails and parking areas.  

happiness catches you and stays with you all day

Joan came to Lawrence today for our annual visit to the Ladybird Diner.  Where we pay our respects to Mrs. Ladybird Diner who is the undeniable queen of pies.  It seems only right to set aside one day out of the year to recognize such greatness. 

We started with a nice healthy egg salad sandwich topped with a pile of spicy arugula, avocado, and pickled radishes. 

And then we moved on to the main course.  Cherry for me, coconut cream for Mary Joan.   My photo doesn't do justice to the tart deliciousness that is this pie.  But don't take my word.  Come and try it for yourself. 

If you are lucky, when you spill out onto the street, you will be swept up in the gaiety of a Fat Tuesday parade.

Complete with music and marching and beads and smiles and oh it was splendid. 

And if all that wasn't enough, as we got back to our cars, Mary Joan - the worlds greatest KU Basketball fan, spotted Frank Mason on the street and took a photo with him.   What a nice young man he is.  

Sometimes, when you are lucky, happiness catches you and stays with you all day.     

a tour of the top floors of houses in old west Lawrence

While out on an adventure walk recently, my eyes were drawn to the shadows.  Big shadows, stark shadows, soft shadows, faint shadows. 

There were also bottles, round porches, and peeling trees. 

Oh, and this super cool gate on the house with the round porch.  I saw plenty of things to like as I strolled, taking advantage of this sunny day in February. 

I'm pretty sure someone in this window was looking back at me as I snapped this shot.  I waved.  Crossing my fingers that the window would fly open and an invitation to come up would flutter down to me.   I wish they would have a tour of the top floors of houses in old west Lawrence.  A tour for one I mean.  Just for me.  I need to look out these interesting windows and see what my town looks like from up there.   

as long as it is within reason

Yesterday morning as I was flipping through instagram, I came upon a photo of Bob Walrafen ,taken by his wife Nancy, on their New Years Day hike.  I pointed it out to Chris and said "hey, we should go on a hike too".  He said "hmghf".  Which can mean:  a. absolutely, b. don't get crazy on me, c. how about tomorrow? or d. if we have to.

So we finished our breakfast, which though it is not shown, also included a leftover waffle that was placed in the toaster and buttered (amazingly delicious), and laced up our boots.

We started out under cloudy skies, but as we went on the sun would occasionally come out and change the whole landscape. 

At the conclusion of our expedition, having had a most excellent time, we decided next year we should look and see what Nancy and Bob are doing on New Years Day, and copy them again.  As long as it is within reason. 

One year and one day ago.

and hello trees

These things I saw on a lovely walk this week, when I pulled the car over on a whim, and got out, because I could.  There were patterns and a little Free Library that had a copy of Winne the Pooh - in french!

There were red chairs with sun shining through them and garlands & stars adorning a porch.

There were big old trees and wrought iron fences.

I saw a wreath on a door of a house with a porch with a peak that contained Victorian Gingerbread woodwork.  And hello trees.

All the while I was walking, I was serenaded by wind chimes that someone had the good sense to hang in just the right spot to be melodic, but not clanging.   Oh Joy.  I hope your 2017 is full of just this sort of afternoon.   

One year ago today.

the perfect combination of horse and people watching

The Nicodemus Buffalo Soldiers were one of my favorite parts of the Old Fashioned Christmas parade in Lawrence yesterday.

We were two of the many who gathered on Massachusetts street to watch.  

Hats, mittens, and scarves were required.

This was the perfect combination of horse and people watching, with just the right amount of  "Merry Christmas-ing" thrown in to put us in a jolly frame of mind.  When we got home Chris made a chocolate cake.  I suggested this be a regular part of the annual Old Fashioned Christmas parade festivities.  He agreed wholeheartedly. 

 

a big fat crazy mess or an incredible work of art

It was poinsettia buying time in Lawrence today.  For the last several years I've gotten ours from Pendleton's Country Market.  Usually I get them at the Holiday Farmers Market, but wised up this year and went directly to the farm while I had Chris with me to help carry.  This will leave my arms free next Saturday for other stuff.  Presents.  For others. 

I am always tempted by the more exotic looking varieties, but find it very hard not to get the deepest most beautiful pure red plant I can find.   This year was no different. 

I am also in the middle of sorting this bag of scraps from Pam.  I have convinced myself that I can make a quilt out of them if I put my mind to it.  I told Mary Ann the other day that it is going to be a big fat crazy mess or an incredible work of art when I get done with it.  

I am using a process that I saw on crazy mom quilts using scraps.  It was helpful to have an idea for just how to get started. 

I am pairing like sizes and sewing them together.  Once I get all that done I will lay them out and try to figure out a plan for assembly.   There will be neutrals added in somehow as well.

This group of already pieced bits will be used exactly as they are with just a bit of trimming.  They are going on the back of the quilt in some kind of arrangement.   

On the cooking front, I made a pot of baked pumpkin oatmeal this morning to fuel me through the day.  Its a great recipe and the perfect way to use up the rest of a can of pumpkin.  If you happen to have a half of a can hanging around waiting to be used, that is. 

In between sorting fabrics and waiting for the oatmeal, I got a bit of cable knitting in.   I wish I could make myself only do one thing at a time but that's not how my mind works.  It stutters and stalls and likes to jump around. 

This fabric might have gotten washed in preparation for holiday napkins too. 

Because if two projects are great, three are spectacular.  Don't ask me what four is.  

a very well written, extremely disturbing story

This is me.  Reading the last of my book in a very well-lighted, safe, cafe.  In the middle of the day.  With other people around.

Because this book was too scary for me to read all aloney on my owny at night in the bedroom at my house.

Luckily, there is a new place in town that I needed to check out.   As it turns out, it is more of a breakfast/lunch spot than a coffee shop.

But the straight up joe they were serving was mighty fine and I loved their cups.  Coffee tastes best when it is in a cup that feels right to your hand and pleases your eye.  They also happened to have one of my favorite breakfasts on the menu.  

The Levee Cafe is in North Lawrence, a part of town that I find quite charming. 

There is a super cool art exhibit up on the walls at the Levee right now.   Photographs of Lawrence taken by Katy Clagett over the last several years.  Very much worth seeing. 

I was glad to be surrounded by all this goodness and niceness as I finished I'm Thinking of Ending Things by Iain Reid.  It's a very well written, extremely disturbing story.  You have been warned.  All that said, there are two people I know who will absolutely want to read this book - Jamie Boatman and Cheryl Jean Moss.  I already called and told Jamie.  Brother you tell Cheryl Jean about it.  Dottie, under NO CIRCUMSTANCES are you to read this book. 

a little metal and rust to break up all that red and green and fa la la la la stuff

If you are passing through Lawrence over the holidays, and want to see something interesting, cruise by 11th and Rhode Island streets.

Here, on the site of an old lot that used to be a Packard junkyard, you will find Nick Schmiedeler's sculpture.  It's made of found objects - many of them Packard parts.  But also some street sweeper drums, anodes from water heaters, industrial chains, pistons, gears, sprockets, and a tractor wheel thrown in for good measure. 

You better write this location down.  Because at some point in the next month you are going to need a little metal and rust to break up all that red and green and fa la la la la stuff.  Trust me on this.

I even asked the horse to make an appearance again

November is officially here.  Cold, gray, skies and gale force winds.  Before it hit this week, Chris and I had time to get in a hike. 

Just a little scouting expedition prior to the planned hike on Thanksgiving day.  Before dinner.

A little reconnoitering if you will.  So we know when to turn left, when to turn right, and when to proceed straight ahead. 

It's important that an hour hike take just an hour when there is a turkey in the oven at home.   One of us might start to get a wee bit testy if the other one strays from the agreed upon plan.

Rest easy all.  You can count on us.  We got this hike down.   No maps needed.  The route has been committed to memory. 

I even asked the horse to make an appearance again if he can fit it into his schedule.  He is taking it under advisement. 

Onward ho.  Thanksgiving here we come. 

 

out on the prairie in kansas

Yesterday we headed south from Lawrence on 1500 Road to a farm near Baldwin Kansas.

To the studio where Pam Carvalho of Prairie Found Studio works her magic.  She and about 10 of her artist friends are displaying their work this weekend. 

This quilt above was not for sale.  It is clearly priceless.  I was quite happy to be able to see it and will be thinking about it for a long time to come.  Such beautiful work. 

Pam is the maker of the fall/winter garland that hangs over my dining room table. 

Having the opportunity to see where artists work, and the surroundings that inspire them, is a treat. 

I came home with some treasures.  Plus a huge dose of creative energy. 

Would you get a look at that dried Okra?  In your entire life, have you ever seen anything so unexpectedly beautiful?

A perfect way to spend a few hours on a November day.  Out on the prairie in Kansas.  Pam's open house is still going on today (Sunday) if you are close.  Prairie Found Studio - 859 E. 1500 Road, Baldwin Kansas.  Hours are 10am to 4pm. 

compare cowgirl boots with other pumpkin hunters

If you live anywhere in the vicinity of Lawrence Kansas, you have exactly two more days to get yourself to Schaake's.  Where, in addition to getting a pumpkin, you can ride a tractor, have your picture taken, get some kettle corn, look at some chickens, and have your dad push you around in a wheelbarrow. 

But mostly it's about the pumpkins.  Finding the right one.  Exactly the right one.   For you.  Luckily, they have the right one for a whole lot of different you's. 

Then after you find the right one, you might want to walk through the maze, or talk to a cow, or compare cowgirl boots with other pumpkin hunters. 

Schaake's.  A family tradition in Lawrence.  It never disappoints. 

 

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on the fun-o-meter

fellow leaf lovers

At last.  The annual turning of the leaves has begun in Lawrence.  Color me excited. 

I like cruising around town and pulling over when I see something that strikes my fancy.  Last week I met a couple walking their dog.  "Isn't this a grand specimen?" the man remarked, as he reached over to touch the trunk.  Then he went on to tell me about a couple of other spots in town where the maples were about to reach their peak color.   Fellow leaf lovers are good people. 

Before I die, I swear I am going to rent a pope-mobile and driver up to Vermont in October.   Maybe combine it with a trip to the Rhinebeck sheep and wool festival.  Then we'll stay at a cabin in the woods with a big fireplace and couches for reading and napping after we take hikes, where we might get lost, but only for a little bit.

the best of what Kansas is all about

This is King (or maybe Kong).  We met him and his partner Kong (or maybe King) at Coal Creek Farms.  They are the "paca" herd dogs.  We bonded over the fence last Saturday. 

In addition to King and Kong (those really are their names by the way) and the herd of alpaca they also had horses, a donkey, and a mama and baby pigs.

At this stop on the Kaw Valley Farm tour, a friendly cowgirl was giving roping lesson.

There was live music by "Drifters by Moonlight" and lots of good spots to sit and listen while you ate your lunch.

There were educational opportunities if you wanted to chat with an expert on fiber processing,  or you could just walk around in your overalls and boots and let the whole experience sink deep into your bones. 

I love that all these local farmers open their homes to give the rest of us a glimpse into the farming lifestyle.  It makes me appreciate them all the more.  This.  This right here is the best of what Kansas is all about. 

the floppy ears, the zippy tails

Part two of the Kaw Valley Farm tour involve goats.  Cute frisky goats with horns.  Cute frisky goats with horns that I wanted to be right in the middle of.  I settled for talking to them though.  Luckily there were not other people around to hear what I was saying to them.  It was ridiculous.  You talk that way to frisky goats too.  Don't try to deny it. 

There was also the unlikely duo of the little white cat and the big black bull who were sharing quarters. 

Hello little goat.  Want to play with me?

This cat almost came home with me.  I snuggled with him and kissed him and told him how beautiful he was before I put him back down under the big tractor in the barn. With his feline siblings. 

The turkeys were giving me the evil eye, but I didn't take it personally.  I commiserated with them on the whole saggy neck thing. 

I snapped this little poster of very helpful information.  I did not know baby turkeys were called poults.  Did you?

Other things of note at this farm were the painted quilt over the barn and some pretty zinnias.   Mrs. Farmer told me that her daughter did the painting.  How cool is that?

And I think I mentioned the goats already.  Maybe twice even.  But it can't hurt to show them  three times.  The floppy ears.  The zippy tails.  I am besotted.  

to help settle the dust after a day out on the farm

The 12th annual Kaw Valley Farm Tour was this weekend.   A great opportunity to explore 32 local family farms and get a glimpse into life on the farm.  Ok.  Let's be honest here.  I wanted to see animals.  The more the better. 

We picked four places to go to on Saturday.  Two of our favorites and two new ones we hadn't been to before.  One was an orchard. 

There was no u-pick going on, but that was ok by me. There were apples and cider for sale, and I just wanted to walk among the trees and look anyway. 

The weather was perfect.  Sunny.  Blue skies.  Seventy degrees.  Ahhhh.

This gaggle of girls didn't give a hoot about not picking apples either. 

Right before they headed out into the fields to explore, they informed me "the cat's name is SWEETIE".  They said I could take over petting duties because they had to go. 

We came home with some apple cider which was the best I have ever tasted.  Now I am going to have to find out where I can continue to buy it.   Cool hand drawn label huh?   

After a day of petting and looking I was a bit parched by the time we pulled into the driveway.  I got out a glass, filled it with ice, poured in the cider, topped it off with 1 oz of vodka and 1 oz of Domain de Canton French ginger liqueur, and gave it a stir.   Completely delicious.  Not too strong.   The perfect drink to help settle the dust after a day out on the farm.