While I Was Gardening

As I am almost finished with work in Carkeek – much earlier than anticipated – Bill suggested we take another hike on Bainbridge Island in the Grand Forest. I felt guilty (for just a moment) about not working on a day perfect for work, but decided to take my son’s reminder to heart after complaining about my workload earlier in the month – “You remember you’re retired, right?...

The hectic days of the gardening season are winding down – and I am ready for the season of reading, long walks, hiking, and naps. Especially naps. But before it all comes to an end, I thought I’d share with you a few shots from my garden. It has been a tough gardening year because of drought, a few days of excessive heat, and my work in Carkeek (twice/week from mid-July thro...

Our annual family get-away was a joy – and as I probably say each year, one of the best vacations we’ve had. This tradition, a trip to Cannon Beach and nearby beaches and forests, my son and I started 27 years ago – just the two of us. Some years later, we were able to talk Bill into accompanying us. He has loved each and every trip so far. As always, I took a multitude of ph...

An elementary school for young girls bombed; more than 165 people killed. More soldiers dead than officially reported. “Small potatoes.” Weapons stocks being depleted, again under-reported. Dishonesty and “misrepresentations” of facts and numbers. “No new wars!” Healthcare and expenses of daily life soar, countless people do without basic needs. Measles cases and deaths under...

Once again, we returned to the Snohomish Centennial trail for a peaceful walk on a gorgeous day. Our starting point this time was the Pilchuck Trailhead, along the Pilchuck River.

We could not have chosen a more beautiful day for a walk that ended up longer than planned – 4.5 miles.

But when greeted with such a sky as this, and a gentle breeze to c...