Scavenger Hunt continues

My favorite restaurant is currently receiving a new makeover.  I hope it reopens

Jenna's favorite eating place is Subway hands down.  We also like Figaros which appears in the photo

The web page appears differently on the phone (her screenshot) and the computer (mine)

I drink something different every morning - sometimes a soda.  And lest us not forget this great photo here

Jenna did not take a picture for the contest but used this one that she had saved to her phone.  She said the cup has orange juice in it.  I had learned that it was not even hers. It may have been sent in error. I hadn't even thought about it until just now.  I think she will be disqualified for that. 

I made a correction and sent in the photo below to replace the Van Gogh cup above 

Now for the plants around the house or yard.  There were more taken than submitted - and not just of our yard.

my submission: snowball bush grows outside of Jenna's window

same snowball bush taken from Jenna's window

Jenna said she wanted to take the tulips - which is why I went for the
snowball bush.  She did take this photo but as you can see from
an earlier post, these are NOT our tulips.  Still pretty.

 

so many plants in bloom right now; we
enjoy our walks around the neighborhood 

As with the web page, her facebook screenshot appears differently than the one I took

She had also liked the above photo and was qualified to be entered in the contest.  I forgot to like and don't know whether I have been entered or not.

I had taken a picture of the first street sign we came to.  It was hidden in the trees.  She didn't seem to go for a street but did take this sign (which I neglected to crop)

20th photo in her camera:

20th photo in mine (or at least was; I've now cleared the majority of pics from my camera)

Savanger Hunt - Any Body of Water

I am sharing these pictures in three different posts.  The majority were taken on Tuesday, April 20th.  

This came to us in the mail

We started our Scavenger by driving to Horse Creek to take pictures.  I took these first three:

Both were taken from the left side of Horse Creek bridge. I couldn't decide between the top two but submitted the first.  

Taken from the right side

Jenna decided on a different approach and took this photo below from underneath the bridge

She also took one of the South Umpqua River, but the 106 bridge blocks the gorgeous view.  I would have just stopped for us to get out, but did not know where to park.

Over the years we have both taken several pictures of both Horse Creek and South Umpqua including these five photos from this very long post.

 The river above runs adjacent to Highway 105. Horse Creek runs along Millsite park.

More Staycation – More Excitement

Day 3

         Since it has been light enough to drive Jenna to seminary in the morning, I have been taking her in while Roland sleeps.  He gets the honor of picking her up as the sun is glaring so loudly that I am not comfortable with it.  Happy Doughnuts offers specials each day: Maple Bar Monday, Twists on Tuesday and so forth. Wednesday's specialty is biscuits and gravy for a dollar.  Thus after we picked Jenna up from seminary we went to Happy Doughnuts to get biscuits and gravy for Roland and me and a bacon maple bar for Jenna.

        Roland and I left the house again just before 9:00.  We drove to Canyonville to get our second shot.  Unlike the first shot where we had to get out and go inside, we stayed in the car while they came out to us to get our ID and give us our shots.  So we are now good to go.

            Since we were already in the car, Roland decided to take me to Roseburg though Jenna would have much rather gone.  I thought it would be great for me to stay home with Bonnie as we were passing the house anyway.  But Roland wouldn’t hear of it.  We spent day four in Roseburg first at Lowes because we needed air filters but also dirt, purifiers, and a replacement pair of gloves.  Oh, and fencing to keep the chickens out of whatever we plant.  They have already knocked down our tulips and Jenna and I have each straightened them out and are losing dirt.

            We then went to Costco.  I was puzzled that they were giving away samples.  But they came in small white paper baggies that customer could eat once leaving the store.  We purchased one hot dog as I was hungry and didn’t believe the samples would tie me over.  I ate the hotdog plain and shared the samples with Roland as he drove us back home.

            We then set up an appointment to take Jenna to the fairgrounds on Saturday (I plan on staying home with Bonnie that day) and I printed out a receipt with her order number on it. Meanwhile, as you wait for our next adventure, here are some photos to tie you over:

Jenna and I have both straightened the tulips that the chickens knocked over

Roland and I added some dirt

and these flowers 

and chicken wire and pinwheels which
we hope will keep the fowl creatures out

we added chicken wire to keep them from going under the deck

I took these pictures trying to capture the concern of the chickens on the outside for those "trapped" on the inside.  They weren't trapped really.  They got in beneath the stairs but were to stupid to figure out they could exit that way as well

Mitch trying to entice the "trapped" chicken

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I do have three posts of Scavenger Hunt pics (plus extras in the first post as we took several pics of the first item on the list) and will post those within the next three days.

Photos Taken Yesterday Morning

 The sunrise was gorgeous!  Great way to welcome Earth Day.

We did not plant a tree.  We planted onions and peppers.  I did not take any pictures.  I am too exhausted to write the details.

Every Day is Saturday: Days Two and Three

             Cow Creek was given a huge amount of vaccines for their tribes and those working at Seven Feathers.  By the first week of March it was announced that any friends or family of those employed at Seven Feathers.  The announcement said that candidates had to be at least 65 years of age.  But when we called to get Roland set up, it was learned that I could be vaccinated also.

Roland and I received our first shot on March 16.  We were given cards which provided a date indicating when we would be available for our second shot on April 13.  We hadn’t heard from the clinic and so went down to see if we could get in.  That’s when we learned that April 13 was not the accurate next shot date but the date of eligibility.  We still had to set up an appointment. The soonest we could get in was yesterday.

Now just to backtrack a bit.  If you are a faithful reader you will remember we spent Roland’s first day off washing cars.  The weather was HOT nearing 90 degrees.  Could anything beat the excitement of washing cars?  The next two days offered awesome weather.  Overcast skies, cooling wind.  Perfect yard work weather in my opinion. So here is a summary for the rest of days 1 and the start of day 2. 

Day 1

            After breakfast and a bit of TV, Roland went out to use whatever machine while I tried calling the bank and a pharmacy to see if we can schedule an appointment for Jenna to receive a shot as the state will now vaccinate anyone over the age of 16.  I felt like I was getting the runaround with machines talking at me and providing choices – but none applied and I wasn’t allowed to talk to a human.  Roland decided we would all pile in the car (except for Bonnie who we left at home) and drive to said places to talk to humans.

            Our first stop on the agenda was at the saw shop as Roland’s appliance needed fixing.  With mask over face, Roland went in while Jenna and I waited in the car.  It was small enough that the shop employees could take care of it without calling a specialized mechanic. They figured they’d have it ready for him within a day or two.

After that we ran to the bank.  Again, only Roland got out of the car while Jenna and I waited in the car while Roland knocked on the door of the bank to see if he could set up an appointment.  After that we went to Safeway Drug.  Roland took Jenna with him, but they returned in less than a minute.  Although Safeway does offer a vaccination drug, it is not that one that Jenna qualifies for and so we had another number,  name and website for another runaround.  At least we knew that we’d end up at the fairgrounds on Saturday but would feel better about getting that appointment scheduled rather than just show up.

After that Roland decided to treat us to A&W for lunch.  Enjoyed the rootbeer.  It’s been a while since I’ve had A&W.  No frosty mug.  Only 5 persons allowed to dine at once.  I don’t think the food was worth it.

 Day 2

The reason for our visit to the bank was to sign some paper work which required two signatures plus a notary.  We met our friends who were on their way to the coast for a few-day getaway.  I was grateful that they allowed us their time.  I’m certain that signing documents was not the highlight of either of our “va and stay cations”

I had told Jenna that I would take her out for a scavenger hunt as soon as I returned home (pictures to come) and Roland dropped me off in the driveway and backed up to the side and told me to take the Saturn as he would need the bigger car in the event that his garden tool was ready to pick up – which it was.  He left the house before Jenna and I got into the other car.

Most of the scavenger hunt could be done at home, but there were a few places that we needed to drive to.  I told Jenna to take different pictures from the ones that I took and we would each enter the contest.

Roland said he had knocked out some of what he had planned but was on the couch when we returned.  He took a couple of naps which I think is a remarkable way to spend a vacation.  I know he hasn’t slept well for whatever reason and so I am glad he is taking it easy. More to come.  Aren’t you excited?

Drunk With Power

             On Monday night Roland and I watched 911.  One of the stories focused on a mother who’d been drinking while driving.  Due to her poor decision to find the bottle (or flask) more of a priority than any other human beings -  including her own child. Because he is a scared-out-of-his-mind passenger not able to communicate with his mom, he calls 911.  By the time the emergency crews arrive on the scene there is a horrific accident involving 10 – 20 cars – all because she had been disoriented behind the wheel.

            Toward the end of the show, Bobby, who is a main character in the show, goes to an AA support group and talks about how so many people think they can handle the situation of drinking and staying sober – not at all rational about what their decisions may cost others.  While he was giving his speech I thought about the mandating on mask wearing and the decision of those who are able to “remain sober” by not wearing it or ever thinking of others. 

The mask wasn’t designed to protect ourselves so much as it was designed to respect others that we may come in contact.  Even now that many have received their shots, there is a new attitude that “I have now received my shots – I no longer need to wear a mask”

WE STILL NEED TO WEAR MASKS!  The pandemic is NOT over!  There I go being a rational buzzkill.  But am I really?  Biff thinks I’m a weenie who is afraid of getting COVID.  I am NOT afraid of getting COVID.  I am appalled how torn up this nation has become. I also think Biff is too focused on having the approval and living the ways of the world than of God.  

 There were other stories that overlapped.  One was about caring for a child in child care and having that child taken away because the biological mother supposedly turned her life around – and perhaps the parent should have rights but at the same time at how many expenses of the child or others who are involved in the child’s life.  Reminded me of when I had worked for the Department of Child and Family Services and the heartbreak of it all.

I like that the show focuses on what is happening in our nation right now and keep the mandated mask as part of the storyline. Like it or not – it is a part of history.

Perspectives on Craters of the Moon

 

https://www.idahopress.com/opinion/editors_notebook/forget-national-monument-craters-
of-the-moon-should-be-a-national-park/article_084c0496-ad13-53c9-99f0-75e374fb6af5.html

            I was on my mission the first time my family visited Craters of the Moon in Arco, Idaho.  I had only heard about it – but not in full detail as I learned the second time my family had gone – just to make sure I had the opportunity. Patrick was with the family the first time but had managed to miss out the second time.  I still did not experience the fullness that the family had endured the first time around. They told me that everything looks the same.  The picture above, the picture below, whatever is behind it - it looks the same.  The scenery does not change.

            Jenna had reminded me of this as she was asking about church policies and state policies on precautions with COVID.  Unlike the rest of the RS presidency, I am not in a hurry to embrace the world as perhaps I had in 2019.  It’s too soon.  Not just for me – but many people.  And I respect their privacy.  I respect their desire to stay home.  I don’t mean to sound negative nor focus on the solitude but I know the pandemic is not over.

            I think Roland and Jenna get annoyed that I am not as anxious to be outside as they are.  Jenna then tried to remind me of the Craters of the Moon incident that I had partially related to her I don’t know how long ago.  I would have thought before Oregon.  She told what she thought she remembered and got most of it wrong.

            “Didn’t you say that one place looked the same but that when others had approached you and asked if it was worth the walk Corey said that it was.  He was focused on the good parts, right?”

            “No.  First of all, I wasn’t even with them but had heard the story second hand.  And it wasn’t Corey.  It was Patrick.  When people would approach members of my family and ask, ‘Was the trail walk worth it?’ my mom would answer that everything looked the same.  And yes, Patrick did build it up leaving the tourists to believe perhaps there was something.  After they crossed paths my mom would say to Patrick ‘Why did you tell them that?  Do you really think the walk was worth it?’  Patrick would respond, ‘No, but if I had to do all that walking, I am taking somebody down with me.’”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bv07oiiyDCw

            Not the greatest response for a returned missionary to want “others to suffer as he had” but I somehow don’t believe either his or my mom’s response would have made a difference to most tourists.  My mom had related their experience when they took me back to see the caves – which let me tell you a Duracell flashlight doesn’t have enough power to explore.  You will need the strength of the sun if you go cave exploring.

            The highlight of that day trip was NOT Craters of the Moon but rather the parade we had to stop for - not by choice mind you.  We had to stop for it.  The wind blows dry in Arco – or did at that time.  Mom pulled out a fresh loaf of bread from the car and made sandwiches.  By the time we got them into our mouths the bread tasted stale. 

            I think I was more impressed with Arco and Craters of the moon than I am with the safety vs. freedom issues that are currently a part of our lives.

Pandemic Continues Alongside Global Warming

 

            Randy really wants us to come to St. George – like now – which would be fine but the pandemic is far from over.  Almost half of all adults have received a vaccination shot – but there are still a high percentage that refuse.  They are too macho.  They are too proud.  They are determined NOT to let the government control them.  The same people who refuse to get flu shots or wear seat belts or have convinced themselves they are immune to any other law.

So I read this article from Yahoo.  I hope that Oregon continues with its restrictions and those that think we ought to reopen can go spend their summer in Florida and see how well that works out for them.  International Travel is still a rare occurrence.  Other countries don’t wish to let Americans in.  I don’t blame them.  Americans are spoiled and have attitude.  The entire world belongs to them and therefore we should do whatever the heck we want. No restrictions.  No consequences.  Some American attitudes make me ashamed to say that I am American.  Get over yourselves!  Think of others.

Even my oldest who lost his first wife, whose daughter was initially admitted to the hospital with COVID – who continues to visit the hospital as often as her mom – refuses to get his shot.  Great example for your daughter, Biff.  Nice to know where your priorities are.

We’re told that airfares have gone up to outrageous prices and I think are at full capacity now.  Fires have started already and it’s only April.  We use the heater and A/C in the same day.  What’s up with that.  If COVID doesn’t kill us, global warming will.

 Oh, and now they are now mentioning an increase in allergies and a new plus to the mask.  Roland had pointed out what we're breathing in as our cars continue to lose their shine. Pleasant thoughts. 

Staycation Has Started

            Brace yourselves.  This is almost as exciting as having a pantry/office.  Roland started out his vacation by washing the cars!  I know.  I can hear the envy.  We really do know how to live it up.  As a result, I may not be posting as often until he returns to work.  Meanwhile enjoy the pics.

Bouncing Bonnie

                 When we had initially brought Bonnie home back in September, she spent her first morning running from room to room – anxious to greet all of us.  Man, that dog was hyper!  She still gets excited like that whenever we’re about to go for a walk.  Other than that, she seems to have adjusted to less bounce until last night.

            I allowed myself to accompany Roland and Jenna to Roseburg as he was insistent on buying some new clothes for her and she is never all that thrilled when the very word “clothes” is mentioned.  Not your average teenager by any means.  I knew she didn’t want to shop for clothes.  I don’t like to shop for clothes.  We made a few moments of our night being miserable together.

            Poor Bonnie.  Left alone for over three hours.  And once we had pulled into the driveway, she was going nuts.  Jenna opened the door so that she could run out on the deck.  She ran to my room, Roland’s office, back outside.  Always a fun challenge putting groceries away while trying to dodge an overly sensitive animal. 

            We have an assembly line method for bringing in the groceries.  Roland always unloads the car – bringing items from the trunk to the deck.  Jenna takes said items from the deck and brings them into the house.  I put the groceries away – or at least a large majority.  Jenna will take care of the items that go into the back and Roland will put away whatever gets piled into his office (which has been doubling as a pantry since we moved here; cool, huh?  Most people just dream about having their office in a pantry but don’t get to experience the luxury first hand).

            Bonnie was so focused on the joys of having humans in her life again that she neglected to see what food had fallen to the floor.  I count that as a blessing that I was able to save the food than watch it disappear as she inhaled the products which overall would not have been good for her.  I mean it’s not like Bonnie is withering away.  Bonnie could really stand to lose weight.  She is like a three year old child.  Her vocabulary is quite limited (unlike Jenna who was using four syllable words and really did have understanding) and I am always reminded of that Gary Larsen’s Far Side cartoon in which the master is reprimanding the dog  in the first frame and seeing what the dog is hearing in the second:  “Blah, Blah, Blah Ginger” only in our case it’s:  “Blah, Blah, Blah Bonnie”.

            Such a sweet dog.  Loves human affection.  She does NOT like the vacuum cleaner.  Runs away from it before it is even plugged in or turned on.  But she doesn’t seem to have a problem with the lawn mower or grass trimmer – which produce a more powerful noise – but they are both outdoors and perhaps she doesn’t even notice.  She just notices the person who is outdoors more in hopes of getting to pet Bonnie than maintain the lawn.  Or so that is what Bonnie seems to believe.

Our Letter/Card Assembly Line

  

            Shortly after Roland and I had married he had invested in a sales program featuring Roger Butcher.  

He had tried a number of suggestions, but the one we used the most was for sending out letters to home owners whose physical addresses were different from the property itself.  We would form an assembly line as someone would write the letter, another would fold it, another would insert it into an envelope.  One would adhere the mailing lable, stamp return address and add a stamp. 

            The more hands that got involved, the quicker the process.  For the most part it became an activity that we would force the boys to assist.  Often we made it a family home evening project.  There was at least one time we had involved the YW of our ward.

            Roland had started out by folding, sealing, labeling, addressing and so forth – each letter one at a time.  I told him that to do just one thing at a time.  Fold ALL of the letters and then stuff each into its own envelope before moving on to the next step.  That way I can assist.  I refuse to do one letter at a time from beginning to end.  I think assembly lines are so much easier.

             We haven’t done letters since living in Utah but have moved onto greeting cards.  At first it was only a couple a year, but the pandemic seemed to create more time for Roland to come up with cards which aren’t the norm to send out in multiplication.  We have not done an assembly line for the birthday cards but all else.  Someone folds (except last night as Staples had done it for us) stuff the envelope, address, and so forth.  Last night’s project: Earth Day.

Trying a New Method

             I don’t know how many times Roland has cleaned up after the chickens which aren’t even ours.  I don’t mind them in the yard.  I really don’t.  But I do not care for arrogance or assumptions.  We purchased netting for the deer a few years ago and the chickens have gotten entangled in it.  I asked Roland if we could use it to surround the deck.  Last night we went out and he used a staple gun which is holding thus far, but seems like it would be easy to tear.

            Roland decided to repurpose the green wire shelves that were once a part of our cheap greenhouse.  He had stapled those to discourage the chickens from getting under the porch.  Now it just looks more like we are trying to capture them and keep them – which isn’t the case at all. 

            Roland continues to feed them and we do collect the eggs that are deposited (that is if we are aware of where they have been laid.  I don’t know if the neighbors have complained any further as nothing has been done with either the pigs or the chickens.  I know there are less pigs and perhaps there are less chickens.  I don’t know anymore. 

            We’re planning on demolishing the deck and creating a back room.  We just need to find someone who will commit.  Meanwhile I have these lovely photographs to view.