Sunday, August 26, 2012

Brotherly Love


Ken (& Scout) and Steve (& Allyson):  Lake Merwin, the Shorthorn Trail, perfect weather and two brothers with widow-maker stents, which allow me to enjoy extended play with them. 
        Tuesday, Ken and I pretty much had Lake Merwin to ourselves.  The calm water leading to the waterfall was clear to the bottom and a beautiful blue-green.  Scout demonstrated his swimming ability (above) and his extreme devotion to his master.  We found a good place with a sandy bottom to get out of the boat in the water.  When Ken disappeared under the water, his loyal hound swam out.  
        16 months ago, Ken was lifeless for about 60 minutes while Ann and paramedics pumped his heart for him.  This week, we could lounge on the boat in the water, with a beverage and a sandwich and, like a dog, just enjoy being. (Couple more photos here).
            Saturday, Steve joined us for a fairly long, uphill walk on the Shorthorn Trial in the shadow of Mt. Adams.  It was pleasant, with temperatures in the 70s. This time of year, the trail is a bit dusty, and few flowers bloom until . . . . we reach the Spring-like area near the rushing creek, which is the payoff of the hike.  
                Soft, green grasses and bouquets of wildflowers envelop the sparkling water, which looks pure enough to drink. (Photos here). So, we lingered, talked, and did just a bit of exploring, where we spotted an American Dipper dancing, then flying down stream to keep its distance from us. 

Monday, August 6, 2012

Welcome, Paige!


Welcome, Paige! 

Children are blessings to all those touched by the child. 

Children provide a point of contact for family and friends: reasons to visit with each other and share the joys and work of life.  Loved ones get together for birthday parties, children’s sporting and other events, proms, weddings, (bail hearings, jail release parties). . . .

Children remind us of the joys of learning, growing, and experiencing life: first words, first views of exotic animals at the zoo or a sprinkler on a hot day. 

Children give us another person to whom we can teach and from whom we learn.

Children provide cover for adults to watch cartoons, play with toys, and do childlike things that might, otherwise, cause people to think we are a bit weird or immature. 

We’re all ecstatic to have Paige in our lives and thankful that Paige and Lauren are healthy.