Stan & Joyce Orchard
Trying to figure it out since 1975.
Skunk Cabbage Arrive
Warmest day of the year so far and we spotted the first skunk cabbage of the season. It’s also the 47th anniversary of meeting the love of my life and our grandson is seventeen today. Life is amazing.
Work Crew
We moved some firewood, searched for antlers, marveled at how much things have changed. What a time to be alive.
It’s Official
Our oldest granddaughter is now taller than her grandmother.
Petunias From Seed
This is the first full grow season with our new greenhouse. Decided to try something we’ve never done before: start our hanging petunia baskets from seed. I learned they germinate from light on the surface rather than buried. Today they sprouted! Excited to see how they do. Anyone with petunia experiences they’d care to share?
New Chopping Block
After more than twenty years, my old cedar chopping blocks have all disintegrated. One of our neighbors had a few so he gave me one. Works great! This is what passes for exciting news on The Orchard Compound these days.
Forest Cathedral
Our woods are usually quiet. Except for the frogs and coyotes and occasional bugling elk, it’s really quiet. But when it snows the forest becomes a very special place.
The Light Of My Life
On this date long ago in Ketchikan, Territory of Alaska a child was born. A little beacon of light on the darkest day of the year. She continues to amaze me that she has survived her journey into the dark world of stroke survivor which began in 2009. The doctors told me repeatedly her odds of making it were slim. Yet here she is, still brightening our family’s world with a smile, not a voice. Despite that madness the madness that seems to have us in its grip, there is still goodness in this world. Celebrate it, people.
First Snowman Of The Season
The ground was covered when we got up at 4 this morning. Been showers off and on all day. Our youngest granddaughter and her dad still found enough to create this diminutive, icy humanoid. With all the insanity these days, it’s nice to see that some things never change.
Exploring With Jazzy
A cold, dark, dreary day was brightened by our youngest grandchild. We discovered deer and elk tracks, threw sticks and stones in the pond, and splashed in puddles. Both learning new things. Priceless.
Cows, Sheep, Companions
Earlier this year our neighbors added two lambs to their small farm. One didn’t make it so the remaining lamb bonded with these three cows. They’re now inseparable. Life goes on and on.