Waterworld

Well, we certainly volunteered for some significant experiences in a very short period of time! We have now been initiated into the beautiful autumns of the Pacific Northwest, but also COLD winter weather, the worst snowstorm in Oregon history, and the worst flooding since 1996. And now we're realizing just what "spring cleaning" really means - we have erosion damage to repair and lots of downed trees and broken branches to remove.

Our normally pristine river is again flowing within its confines, although they are different than before the flood. With the impasses of felled trees and the force of the water, it carved new paths for itself and is twice as wide in places as before. We even have islands of trees and rock in its path. What an angry torrent of muddy rolling waters it became, with such force that huge trees and logs were carried along the current like matchsticks, and the freight-train roar was all permeating as we watched the water encroaching closer and closer to our yard. I just couldn't bear to get pictures this time!!

Quote for the day, from John Greenleaf Whittier, thanks to Cheryl Beller.......

No longer forward nor behind
I look in hope or fear;
But grateful take the good I find,
The best of now and here.

Well, now the flood waters have receded and the rain has stopped for a few days (?) - in fact the weatherman predicts magnificent weather for Wednesday (which basically means no rain, no fog, no floods and temperatures above 45). It's now time to get out of the house. We are happy about this, but not as much as the dogs >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>






Did someone say "stir crazy"?
Of course the cats wish THEY
could have equal time outside.......


(Hey, would you look at the size of those birds? And so close......)


- because sometimes the best seats in the house are taken.


Okay, in the category of "too good to resist" - just a few more pictures:


































On a personal note: A reporter for the local newspaper is running a story on us concerning our new businesses in this area - basketball instruction, jewelry making, pet portraits and grief recovery. Here is their picture for the article (no picture of Ronn - I think he ducked out of the interview early:)



I'm now making jewelry specifically for Valentine's Day and will have pictures in about a week. If you're looking for something to wear with a special outfit or need a gift for someone at that time, let me know..........