2008 Reaches Mid Point

It seems like only yesterday that our home was in the dark for a week. The ice storm of December 2007 was an amazing event for this baby boomer. It was the longest I have ever been without lights, (for a couple of days) running water, furnace, and the CBS Evening News. Debbie was not working outside the home at that time and school was called off. I would go to work each day (working without lights as the generators there would only power the computers and restroom lights) then return home each evening about 6:00 with news from the outside world. I would give Maverick and Debbie the news as we sat around a flashlight. Then about 6:30 we would go to bed. I felt like a true pioneer.

This Saturday the day began with a slight breeze and cool temperatures. For the very 1st time this year I was able to sit on the porch and read the morning paper and enjoy my morning coffee (Folger's Cinnamon Swirl). However there was the gnawing irritation of the fact I knew I had a half days work before me doing what is known as "yard work." It was kind of hard to ignore since some of the weeds were taller than Debbie's lilies.

The week of July 4 is THE HOLIDAY for people who live on the pond. Usually there is a fireworks display and everyone has parties to celebrate our country's independence. The fireworks display sponsored by a local bank has been moved to the Skiatook airport this year. Last year the display was postponed due to high level of the pond. This year the water is high again and they have moved it again. We are hoping the two marinas do something for the boaters so we can still have the display up here. We will have our traditional (for the last 7 summers) gathering here. Trisha, Cheryl and hubby Scott and son Caleb will be in from out of town. So that will be an added bonus for the weekend.

This, of course means extra cleaning around the house to prepare for guests. And, since we will be on the porch overlooking the pond I should make it look nice. There are weeds to whack, grass to pull and cut, and bugs to kill. So, I got up from my cushy perch and tied on a bandanna around my neck and top of my head. I asked Debbie if I looked rugged. She said I looked like an old hippy. Anyway, I took up my lawn tools in the never ending attempt to tame the part of the wilderness I own here around the pond. I was three hours into the project when rains rolled in again! So, I have another hour or two awaiting me sometime this week before the 4th.

The dawn is here and the coffee is fresh once again. The back porch is calling. Two good reasons to end this post.