tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83459357481199753712024-03-14T01:13:07.006-04:00Lise's Log Cabin LifeLisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.comBlogger756125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-8008358667950287152015-02-28T11:25:00.001-05:002015-02-28T11:25:41.328-05:00Putting One Foot In Front Of The OtherI'm here at the cabin for a quick weekend visit. Timed it just right to be able to enjoy the beauty of the recent snows but not to have any impact on my flights.<br />
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The cabin holds it's usual magic...peaceful, surrounded by nature & much to my delight, snow... <br />
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...and funky icicles...<br />
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...sun sparkles twinkling on the snow... <br />
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...birds gathering at the feeders, ice cold spring water to drink, the gurgle of the creek slipping along the rocks...the perfect environment for a relaxing weekend. <br />
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Much has happened since my last post. I am still enjoying my work with Allegany Franciscan Ministries and life in Crystal Beach. But last July, I <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hip-labral-tear/basics/definition/con-20031062">tore the labrum</a><i> (the "cushion" between the ball of your hip and the socket)</i> in my right hip while on the treadmill. The torn part of the labrum flaps around, sometimes clicking in an odd way and sometimes getting caught between the bones, causing immobility and extreme pain. I met with three doctors, each telling me that I not only had a torn labrum but I had some arthritis in that hip, resulting in the diagnosis that success could not be guaranteed with arthroscopic surgery and a hip replacement was preferred. HIP REPLACEMENT??? A resounding no was my response and I requested we try every other means of healing before deciding on a surgical route. I tried physical therapy. Anti-inflammatory medication and natural supplements. Walking with a cane. But my mobility continued to decrease significantly, as did my enthusiasm for anything but the most important daily tasks.<i> I've definitely increased my understanding and empathy for people who deal with chronic pain on a daily basis...it sucks the life out of you!</i><br />
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My daughter Jessica and I were talking about what I was going to do about it. I said I didn't want to have surgery until there were no alternatives. "Mom," she said followed by a short but pronounced pause, "look at you, this is eating at your soul!" Whoa. I took a deep breath, and knew my next steps.<br />
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I chose to continue my treatment with Dr. W. He has years of experience, Johny liked him and after much discussion and a review of my MRI in conjunction with my symptoms <i>(which had always been specific to the tear, without arthritic pain)</i>, we decided arthroscopic surgery was worth a try. With Johny by my side, Dr. W cleaned up what was a severely torn labrum, along with some other "pebbles" in the joint, and I've been healing ever since. Dr. W thinks I'll still need a hip replacement at some point, because the arthritic spot is significant, but my hope is to heal completely and not have to take that road.<br />
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Johny was amazing throughout the entire process, staying with me from before Christmas until I went back to work. Every day I discover another capability that I have "regained" like being able to sit and stand, putting on my pants and socks, and even shaving my legs...it's the little things in life, one step at a time! Staying positive and holding on to the knowing that I am healthy and well!<br />
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In the meantime, Johny and I decided to buy a house in Tarpon Springs, near where I work. We're excited about this cute little furnished Florida cottage on Lake Tarpon that I found, and we'll be closing near the end of April. I knew as soon as I walked into the front door that this was our future west coast FL home. This is the back yard looking onto Lake Tarpon in the distance, and no, the sail boat doesn't come with it. You can be sure you'll hear more about it!<br />
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As for the family, all are doing well. Liam of course continues to be a sparkle in our lives. <br />
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Fluffy and Pogo are well, though Pogo did get hit by a car in our small corner of the mountains and lost his left eye as a result. But he's a real trooper and for the most part, I don't think he knows there's an issue.<br />
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That's my update! I'll close with a few photos from behind my current apartment... <br />
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...a Golden Crowned Night Heron...<br />
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...Black Crowned Night Heron... <br />
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...Red-bellied Woodpecker... <br />
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...Egret... <br />
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...Blue Heron taking off...<br />
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...a gorgeous Hawk...<br />
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And a couple tulip closeups...<br />
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Here's hoping that this post finds you well and I'm holding thoughts that your days are filled with love, laughter, good health and fun! Keep putting one foot in front of the other :)<br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you next time,<br />
Lise Lisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-76469098799585740922014-09-04T12:45:00.000-04:002014-09-04T13:22:47.867-04:00Like FirefliesHere I am, home sweet home in my little slice of Heaven on earth. My first vacation since I started working.<br />
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It's so peaceful but not necessarily quiet...what do I see and hear? Bird song surrounding the cabin...rich green leaves fluttering in the breeze, brushing against each other and periodically a rusty redish orange one floats to the ground with an ever so slight thump...hummingbirds racing past my head, sometimes close enough to cause me to duck as I feel the breeze of their wings...my chimes gently ringing tones of joy that resonate a calm within me...the creek gurgling over rocks in its way and splashing down the cascades...as night falls, the chirping cicadas resound through the woods, almost overpowering the creeks gentle lullaby. Then there's the rain - it starts with the drops dripping through the leaves, morphing into a sound similar to a tap dancers soft shoe slide, building into a multitude of snare drums being brushed and if the weather is right,becomes a syncopated symphony on the tin roof. And much to my surprise, the fireflies are still twinkling, little flashes in the night that I didn't expect to see this time of year. I've missed this place.<br />
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I'm happy to say though, that I also love my beach place and my work with<a href="http://afmfl.org/"> Allegany Franciscan Ministries</a>. It certainly has kept me busy, as have a few other things <i>(I'll share just a few)</i>. I was greeted by Liam <i>(I went to share his sixth birthday weekend)</i> with a huge lingering hug and an impassioned "I've <b>missed</b> you Mémère!"<i>, (brought tears to my eyes). </i>Here he's sporting his two dangling-by-a-thread front teeth that he eventually lost, one by one. <br />
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I had a business meeting in TN, and Johny and I met and stayed at a B&B the weekend prior. The most relaxing part being watching the cows across the French Broad River graze in the rain. <br />
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The meeting I attended was the <a href="http://www.blueridgeinstitute.net/">Blue Ridge Institute</a> <i>(something I would highly recommend for any non-profit execs)</i> in <a href="http://tnstateparks.com/parks/about/fall-creek-falls">Fall Creek Falls State Park</a>, where I was greeted by this doe, <br />
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got to see the breathtaking falls, <br />
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walked across three suspension bridges <i>(personally challenging my fear of heights)</i>, <br />
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and waking to gorgeous foggy sunrises. It was a perfect venue for a very uplifting, informative and fun week. <br />
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Then back to FL where I watch lizards battle, birds appreciating the bayou behind my little beach place, sit by my little Gulf beach listening to the small waves splash on the sand, and keep my brain stimulated with the operations of the office. <br />
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My time here at the cabin has been refreshing, where I've shared my birthday with Johny, taken lots of pictures, and enjoyed swinging in the swing, just being. <br />
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<br />
Beyond all that, you may be wondering where I've been. Truth is, even
though I have lots of awesome things that are happening in my life, the
essence of Lise's Log Cabin Life comes from the cabin, and what happens
to me when I'm here. Not only on the outside, but the inside <i>(of me)</i>. My writing self is inspired here at the cabin and I want to share this wonderful place with you <i>(and where, of course, I have lots of time to write for pleasure)</i>. My working self is inspired in FL, and I'm not sure how much of my everyday life is going to be of great interest to you <i>(where, of course, I don't have lots of time to write for pleasure)</i>.
The fact is, there are some things I believe will spark your interest,
and I will post those as life happens...I'm thinking of it somewhat like
the fireflies, sparkling a bright light now and then, long enough to be
enjoyed, brief enough to not be boring yet make you want more, and
intermittent enough that when you see it again, the thrill is there. I'm
hoping you find the comparison to be true. At this moment, being in the
space I consider my muse, I'm sharing :) <br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you again soon,<br />
Lise Lisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-66036820516189872492014-07-13T11:17:00.001-04:002014-07-13T11:34:00.700-04:00I'm Late!I'm late! I'm late! For a very important date! That's right, I'm late in publishing last weeks post. In fact more than late, I didn't write one. Why you ask? Good question. I just didn't do it. And you know what? I didn't put myself in a rabbit stew about it <i>(as the White Rabbit did in Alice in Wonderland)</i>, I just let it go.<br />
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So, hello! It's been a great two weeks. Family's been coming to visit and enjoy my new place on the weekends and time seems to fly by during the work week. Here's a little of what's been going on...<br />
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Pretty sky<br />
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My niece Sophie canoeing in the bayou<br />
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Fireworks in the driveway<br />
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A Heron <i>(hangs around here a lot)</i><br />
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A Downy Woodpecker <br />
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An Egret<br />
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A colorful Lubber grasshopper...<br />
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...he found a friend...<br />
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Life is good.<br />
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And a little update on the cabin...there's going to be LOTS of blueberries!<br />
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My brother and niece are coming today; he's bringing some tools to help me hang my chimes...awesome! I'm looking forward to seeing them. We'll also canoe and play in the pool, who knows what else. <br />
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Next week, I'll be posting from Tennessee; I'm meeting Johny in Knoxville for a little weekend getaway and then I'll be attending the Blue Ridge Institute for the week, that should be a great experience.<br />
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Did I say life is good? <br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you next week,<br />
Lise<br />
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Lisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-49014691451384985932014-06-29T15:21:00.001-04:002014-06-29T15:21:35.216-04:00I'm In!One box/bag at a time, that's what it takes to move a short distance. It took two loaded car trips and one wrap up trip to get everything moved. That would include 50 or so trips up and down these stairs to get everything inside...<i>I kept running the thought "this is good for my legs and butt" through my head to keep me going.</i><br />
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And here I am, settling in and loving this place.This is my back porch rocker that came with the place; the pillows are new, I bought them especially for this purpose. I posted this on Facebook <i>(if you're on FB and want to be friends, send me a friend invitation)</i>, asking for input about what color to paint the chair, and decided I may very well leave it with the rustic "sandy, weathered look" that a few friends suggested. <br />
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I was tickled when I discovered that the armchair in the dining room is the same color scheme...it definitely wasn't a conscious decision, but I'm happy with the way it turned out <i>(the rocker is just on the other side of the sliding door)</i>.<br />
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This is what I look at when I sit on the rocker. It's been extremely warm and humid here, so the time I've spent outside is limited right now. I did take a dip in the salt water pool we have, <i>(I say we, this is a duplex, but I haven't met my neighbor yet)</i>, and it was extremely refreshing. <br />
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I was tickled when I arrived; this rose welcome was in the guest bath. Quite creative and it put a big smile on my face!<br />
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This beauty joined me early Saturday morning. <br />
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And this Blue Jay seemed very happy that I put bird seed out. <br />
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These are the only bags and boxes I have left to unpack. The kitchen & my bedroom, bath and closet have been completely organized <i>(LOL, I sorted my clothes by type and even color coordinated some of it)</i>. That makes me very happy. <br />
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This is the kitchen, spacious and bright <i>(well, not at this time of day, the blinds are closed to keep the sun out)</i>, and has lots of working counter space. <br />
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As I unpacked, I came across this horseshoe that Johny found in the garden. I need to hang it up; I think I'll install it above the front door. In the meantime, it's sitting on the kitchen counter, collecting all that good luck. <br />
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Life is good, gratitude fills my days. I do miss Johny, Pogo and Fluffy, but they'll be back!<br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you next week,<br />
LiseLisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-3890671434705099932014-06-22T15:08:00.000-04:002014-06-22T15:08:21.118-04:00Look At That GardenWhile Johny was visiting, he spent lots of time checking on the weather in case he had to ask a friend of ours to go water the garden. He was relieved as each day passed and rain graced the garden frequently while he was here, in fact so much so that he became a little concerned that there might be too much rain <i>(we had that problem last year)</i>. When he arrived at the cabin on Monday this week, he was thrilled to find that everything was growing beautifully and all the rain did the garden good, <i>(including the weeds.)</i> He spent a lot of time weeding after he took these photos...<br />
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...corn... <br />
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...lettuce...<br />
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...salsify...<br />
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...squash... <br />
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...and turnips... <br />
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...I can't wait until he comes back and brings me a goody bag. <i>Both Johny and I are looking forward to seeing each other again in mid July. We're meeting in Knoxville for the weekend as I head to a conference in Tennessee the following week. A mini vacation for both of us and I'll be able to enjoy some of these awesome organic veggies he's nurturing!</i><br />
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This is the sunset that welcomed him home, I do miss that view and can't wait to see it with my own two eyes again! <i>I'm hoping to make that happen in early September. </i><br />
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I've gotten back into my routine since Johny, Pogo and Fluffy left. Work continues to be extremely rewarding, and my life here is quite enjoyable. I spent this morning drinking coffee at Crystal Beach, <br />
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and watching this <a href="http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/accounts/Uca_longisignalis/">fiddler crab</a> scurry about. <br />
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I'm excited that next weekend, I move into my new place; my next post will be from there! Ah, life is good:)<br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you next week,<br />
Lise Lisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-44820899142687127122014-06-15T17:04:00.001-04:002014-06-15T17:04:34.252-04:00It's Been A Great VisitIt's been a great week with Johny, Pogo and Fluffy still visiting. Seems like the time has flown by.<br />
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Tuesday Johny and I celebrated our 8th Anniversary. We had a great evening dining at <a href="http://www.massimosrestaurant.com/">Massimos</a>, an eclectic fine dining experience that lived up to its reputation. I do believe Johny was most impressed that Massimo, the Chef, was once the personal chef for Sophia Loren. He actually came to our table when Johny asked to chat with him a bit; it was a very nice conversation. <br />
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Later in the week we took Pogo to Crystal Beach; his first time. He seemed to enjoy it but never ventured into the water. I liked this photo but the lens was still foggy...<br />
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...Pogo didn't seem to mind the seaweed or the sand, and was loving all the smells. <br />
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It was a beautiful sunset, even though it was overcast...<br />
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Saturday we went to downtown <a href="http://www.dunedingov.com/index.aspx?page=2">Dunedin</a> and enjoyed walking along the quaint downtown. I though this bougainvillaea arbor was amazing...<i>look at the size of it!</i><br />
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We also saw this flower in one of the yards. It was most unusual but I have no idea what it is. Do you?<br />
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We also played pool in the Club House. We weren't very good but we had fun.<br />
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Today we celebrated Father's Day with my Dad, Donald, my brother Roger and my Aunt Luci. We started out at <a href="http://thebirchwood.com/dining/">Birch & Vine</a>. Unfortunately a transformer blew resulting in a a massive power outage there <i>(effecting their electric grid specifically)</i> and though we tried to wait it out, we ended up at <a href="http://www.400beachseafood.com/">400 Beach</a> down the road. We did enjoy the buffet and were glad they could accommodate, with all Birch & Vine's patrons having to find an alternative. <i>I do hope they were able to recoup some of their losses from the day; it looked like they were still powerless (in more ways than one) when we finished with our brunch.</i> <br />
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I thought I'd share a photo of this continuously blooming orchid...the common name is butterfly...<i>I can see why</i>...<br />
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After we all went our separate ways, Johny and I stopped at <a href="http://haslams.com/">Haslam's Bookstore</a>, Florida's largest new and used book store. I stocked up on various Florida flower, bird and nature books so I can study my surroundings. The one red flower I showed you previously isn't in any of the books, which leads me to believe it isn't a Florida native. </div>
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And that's a wrap! Tomorrow, Johny and gang will be heading to the river house for a couple days, and then back to the cabin. He's quite happy that it's been raining quite a bit at the cabin while he's been here, so the garden should be in good shape <i>(he'll probably have lots of weeds to pull though)</i>. It's been great to have them here, and I'm already looking forward to their next visit. Until then, I'll miss them!</div>
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you next week,</div>
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Lise</div>
Lisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-12991365192378786312014-06-08T17:08:00.002-04:002014-06-08T17:08:43.581-04:00Feels A Little Like Being NewlywedsJohny arrived safely Friday evening. Pogo and Fluffy were elated to finally be released from the confines of the truck but a little apprehensive with the unfamiliar surroundings, so we spent some time helping them become accustomed to my new place. Needless to say, Johny and I were very happy to be in each others arms again. We decided to get a pizza delivered (a luxury our mountain cabin life doesn't offer) which would accompany just picked lettuce from the garden.<br />
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It was absolutely delightful...tender crunchy leaves of lettuce perfection. Better than anything you can buy in the store, including organic. <i>I guess he'll just have to visit more often!</i><br />
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We spent Saturday familiarizing Johny with my new neighborhood. I showed him: the new temporary place in Crystal Beach that I'll move into at the end of this month, Crystal Beach, we walked along the <a href="http://www.pinellascounty.org/trailgd/">Pinellas Trail</a> <i>(it was too hot for Pogo, he's not used to this FL heat, so we'll be walking very early morning or late evening from now on)</i>, we went to my office, we drove around and we met friends for dinner. Today we went to the <a href="http://www.spongedocks.net/">Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks</a> and moseyed around enjoying the small Greek community. We also drove to Tampa to go to <a href="http://www.traderjoes.com/">Trader Joe's</a>, a cool grocery store that's fun to visit but getting into and out of their parking lot is a nightmare!<br />
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We've now returned home and are relaxing. Pogo's been walked <i>(poor guy, the ground is so hot he trots to get back quickly, but doesn't like walking in the grass)</i>... <br />
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...and Fluffy's enjoying her new cat nip toy. <br />
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I have to admit, absence does seem to make the heart grow fonder! Johny and I have been enjoying every moment together, finding joy in every moment, giggling and laughing and kissing and holding hands. We may not look like newlyweds, it feels like it. Makes this new journey I'm on all the better. <i>And yes, I'm enjoying work and my role tremendously. </i><br />
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With all that said, time to go. My husband is patiently waiting...<br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you next week,<br />
LiseLisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-10307326406629888922014-06-01T18:40:00.000-04:002014-06-02T06:34:13.291-04:00A Few Visitors and A Garden UpdateIt's been an awesome week. I'm settling in to my life here and enjoying it very much. I continue to feel incredibly grateful and fortunate. Here's a taste of the week...<br />
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I was pleasantly surprised when I walked into my office this week by this pair of <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Red-shouldered_Hawk/id">Red-shouldered Hawks</a> sitting on the light post. I was even more pleased when Eileen <i>(my boss)</i> told me they hang around the retention pond behind our building, but this was the first time she saw them together.<br />
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Johny's been sharing pictures of the garden...it's doing quite well. Two things haven't grown, the mache <i>(bummer, we both would really enjoy having fresh mache) </i>and some of the squash seeds. But everything else is growing beautifully... <br />
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...beans...<br />
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...lettuce... <br />
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...potatoes...<br />
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...spinach...<br />
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...turnips...<br />
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...and tomatoes he has growing in pots on the deck <i>(for two years they haven't grown well in the garden, so we decided to try something different this year)</i>.<br />
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It's too bad things won't be ready for harvesting when he comes for a visit next week, but the next visit will definitely include a care package!<br />
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Besides the hawks visiting me outside my office window, Johny's had a couple visitors too. This black snake has decided to call our cabin home... <br />
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...which is a good thing because black snakes keep the rodent population under control!<br />
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There's also been a hummingbird nectar crook. Johny was refilling a low hanging feeder every day. He knew something wasn't right because it would be full at night and empty in the morning <i>(the hummingbirds don't feed at night)</i>, so he set up the critter cam and caught the rascal...<br />
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...this raccoon would come, reach up to the feeder and tilt it to drink the nectar. Johny solved the problem by raising the feeder, I hope the raccoon doesn't find something else to feast upon!<br />
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I'm excited to share that Johny, Pogo and Fluffy are coming to visit
beginning next Friday. I'm looking forward to sharing this new area with him, and exploring together. You'll hear all about our adventures. Until then...<br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you next week,<br />
Lise Lisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-58269374369724597852014-05-26T18:46:00.001-04:002014-05-26T18:46:26.250-04:00A Great Memorial Day Weekend with Jessi and Liam<i>I know I said I'd post at least every Sunday, but I don't have internet at the river house any more, and since this is a holiday weekend, I figure today counts:)</i> It was a beautifully relaxing weekend with Jessi and Liam...the first time we've been alone together for quite some time. There's something special about 1:1 time <i>(or 1:2 time in this case)</i>. <br />
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We fished together...<br />
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...and caught fish... <br />
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...and de-hooked fish... <br />
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...and released... <br />
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Sleeping handsome... <br />
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Liam fished... <br />
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...and pondered...<br />
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And then there was the awesome desert we decided to splurge on... <br />
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...and the full, satisfied belly that followed. <br />
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It was a fabulously relaxing weekend, and nice to meet at our river place <i>(a happy midpoint from where I'm at now and Jessi's place)</i>. <br />
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I'm back at the Villa, and there's a thunderstorm rumbling nearby. A great ending to a great weekend. I hope your weekend was filled with family fun. In honor of Memorial Day, my heartfelt thanks go out to all those who sacrificed their lives to keep us living free.<br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you next week,<br />
LiseLisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-16296068679093457042014-05-18T14:26:00.000-04:002014-05-18T14:26:50.577-04:00Life Is GoodHow shall I begin...<br />
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Everything is unfolding in the most perfect of ways, confirming for me that this is exactly where I should be.<br />
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My first week at work included lots of orientation and training, filling my brain with more information than I can effectively articulate, but it established a good foundation. Having previously worked with my boss <i>(and friend)</i> Eileen removed the usual nervousness one feels when starting a new job, and allowed me to walk in the door with a confidence that helped me let the periodic sense of feeling a little overwhelmed roll right off my shoulders. The orientation and training isn't complete yet, but I'm thrilled to be working for <a href="http://afmfl.org/">Allegany Franciscan Ministries</a> and honored to be among a group of incredible colleagues. <br />
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The Villa I'm staying in is comfortable and will work for the next six weeks. I'm really excited about the place I'll be calling home beginning in July. The photo above is Crystal Beach at sunset, a small spot on the gulf that seems to be a well kept secret, because the only people I see around there appear to live in the area. The place I'll be living is three blocks east of the beach. There's a nice park with gnarly live oaks right across the street from the beach and the <a href="http://www.pinellascounty.org/park/12_trail.htm">Pinellas Trail</a> <i>(a lovely path for walking and biking)</i> is between the house and the beach. <br />
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This small pond is behind the house I'll be staying in <i>(my temporary permanent home)</i>.<br />
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This bird was at the edge of the pond. It sort of looks like a heron but it's beak is short...anyone know what it is?<br />
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This is the beach in the morning, I'm facing directly west...<br />
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...now facing northwest...<br />
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...and southwest. <br />
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This heron was enjoying a snack along a walking path that parallels the gulf. <br />
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I'm excited to be here, and continue to be filled with gratitude for all that is unfolding. Thanks for all the good thoughts and positive energy you've been sharing, it makes everything that much better! I do believe I'll be publishing a post once a week, most likely on Sunday's. And I'll get back to visiting your blogs too.<br />
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FYI, all is well at the cabin. Johny's busy entertaining our friends visiting from Luxembourg, and loving every minute...it's his longest friend Guy <i>(they've known each other since they were young boys)</i> and Guy's wife Mariette. It's been rainy and cold enough for a fire the past few days, <i>a big contrast to the 70's and low humidity here</i>. <br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you next week,<br />
LiseLisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-53377657153607134412014-05-12T21:11:00.002-04:002014-05-12T22:09:33.816-04:00Tomorrow's The Big DayI begin my new position tomorrow. I hope I can sleep. <br />
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Today's been filled with identifying an awesome beachy sort of place that will be my permanent temporary home, soaking in the last hours of my "sabbatical" and spending time with most of my family to celebrate my niece's birthday.<br />
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I've also been thinking about you, and how I will miss writing my blog every day. Of course I'll post about this new chapter in my life, and updates about the cabin, I'm just not sure how often. I suppose we'll be discovering that together.<br />
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The flower is an orchid my dad has in his yard; it is the only orange stem of blooms, all the rest are fuchsia. It captured my attention, somehow representing this new journey I am on...the why of that I can't say. <br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you soon,<br />
Lise Lisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-75793230538242141902014-05-11T15:38:00.002-04:002014-05-11T15:38:20.258-04:00Happy Mother's Day!<div style="text-align: center;">
Celebrating motherhood! </div>
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you tomorrow, </div>
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Lise</div>
Lisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-43319351108332605802014-05-10T15:11:00.003-04:002014-05-10T15:19:32.008-04:00My New Journey Begins<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".1.1:3:1:$comment10203630654989040_10203631532210970:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.0:$comment-body"><span class="UFICommentBody" data-reactid=".1.1:3:1:$comment10203630654989040_10203631532210970:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.0:$comment-body.0"><span data-reactid=".1.1:3:1:$comment10203630654989040_10203631532210970:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.0:$comment-body.0.$end:0:$0:0">I'm at my temporary home <i>(a nice little villa)</i>,
where I'll be living for the next two months. The car is unloaded and I
have stuff stacked everywhere. I've driven to my new office to get the driving route established, and I'm happy to say it will likely take me 15 minutes max to get there, only because I'm driving through a school zone, today it took me 4 minutes. I took a mini tour of the area, and then
went to Publix to stock up on some basic supplies. I've sent Johny pictures of the villa, and he's happy it's nice; it is odd not to have him here with me, but he'll be here in a few weeks. I asked him to send me a photo of the beautiful pinkshell azalea that bloomed only after I left the cabin...</span></span></span><br />
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<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".1.1:3:1:$comment10203630654989040_10203631532210970:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.0:$comment-body"><span class="UFICommentBody" data-reactid=".1.1:3:1:$comment10203630654989040_10203631532210970:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.0:$comment-body.0"><span data-reactid=".1.1:3:1:$comment10203630654989040_10203631532210970:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.0:$comment-body.0.$end:0:$0:0">It's a beauty!</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".1.1:3:1:$comment10203630654989040_10203631532210970:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.0:$comment-body"><span class="UFICommentBody" data-reactid=".1.1:3:1:$comment10203630654989040_10203631532210970:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.0:$comment-body.0"><span data-reactid=".1.1:3:1:$comment10203630654989040_10203631532210970:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.0:$comment-body.0.$end:0:$0:0">I have to say, I am so very fortunate to have this opportunity, but even more so, that
my life keeps unfolding in such an incredible way. I am blessed, truly
blessed, and grateful for it all.</span></span></span><br />
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It's a strange and exciting experience all
at the same time!!!<br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you tomorrow,<br />
LiseLisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-91088614635225636172014-05-09T14:42:00.003-04:002014-05-09T14:42:51.631-04:00Red Sun In The Morning...<br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you tomorrow,<br />
LiseLisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-53803656175681554912014-05-08T17:57:00.001-04:002014-05-08T17:57:11.135-04:00Remember The Mute Swan Nest?The last time I was here, I wrote about the <a href="http://www.liseslogcabinlife.com/2014/04/nesting-mute-swan.html">nesting Mute Swans</a>. I was extremely disappointed when I returned to the lake and found the nest abandoned. <br />
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Because the nest was a popular "attraction", I searched the internet to see if I could find anything. Sure enough, the <a href="http://spacecoastdaily.com/2014/04/swan-watch-update-six-hatchlings-sighted-in-nest/">swan nest</a> made the news, reporting six cygnets!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-biswUJPAJZQ/U2vu70ZsJpI/AAAAAAAAUKw/PD3_cG2U8Is/s1600/10245580_618767198210754_8846381539008107394_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-biswUJPAJZQ/U2vu70ZsJpI/AAAAAAAAUKw/PD3_cG2U8Is/s1600/10245580_618767198210754_8846381539008107394_n.jpg" height="305" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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Photo By Kerry Palermo, SpaceCoastDaily.com.</td></tr>
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I've not seen them on any of the lakes, but I'm happy to know the family survived:)<br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you tomorrow,<br />
LiseLisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-92119411911467608592014-05-07T15:56:00.003-04:002014-05-07T15:56:48.981-04:00Not A Cloud In The SkyGorgeous morning along the river...<br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you tomorrow,<br />
LiseLisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-75405359450663008392014-05-06T15:55:00.002-04:002014-05-06T15:55:24.784-04:00A Little River TimeI have three full days to get ready to relocate. I say relocate because I'm not really moving; I'm just relocating my stuff <i>(clothes, accessories, personal care items, favorite photos and stuff...like chimes, crystals, homey things)</i> and living in another space <i>(I really love this fact for some reason; yet another place to call home. I'll tell yo something funny about that shortly).</i> I have to switch my winter clothing to professional <i>(thank goodness the office is a casual environment)</i>, and collect all my accessories that I haven't had a use for in the cabin. That's to be done in between "taking care of business" and of course, visiting with friends <i>(sorry to say not with Liam, the scheduling just didn't work out)</i>. But here I am, and I daresay, life is good. <br />
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Did I mention it's hot here? And yes, I'm already sweating. Thank goodness for air conditioning. <br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you tomorrow,<br />
LiseLisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-33841280691294901212014-05-05T14:14:00.003-04:002014-05-05T14:14:53.095-04:00Turning The PageWow, my last day here at the cabin before turning the page and beginning a new chapter. I've packed all my belongings, filled the car, shed a few tears of sadness and clapped and given a woo hoo for the journey I'm about to begin. I'm attempting to soak in my surroundings to put the very essence of my mountains, woods and log cabin into my cells. I'm spending every possible minute together with my love Johny, <i>(& Pogo and Fluffy)</i> appreciating our last day together for a while. And I'm sharing some of what I've seen today with you, my loyal friends, family, and followers.<br />
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Last nights sunset...<br />
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Strike bean progress <i>(see the new sprout pushing up on the right?)</i>...<br />
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One of the many white trillium dotting the floor of our woods...<br />
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A <a href="http://www.liseslogcabinlife.com/2012/04/rare-pinkshell-azalea.html">Rare Pinkshell Azalea</a> bloom that, unfortunately, won't open before I leave. It's my favorite bloom around our cabin, as there are no leaves to distract from the blooms <i>(they come after the blooms).</i> <i>Click on this <a href="http://www.liseslogcabinlife.com/2012/04/rare-pinkshell-azalea.html">link</a> to see them in their finest. </i><br />
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My favorite rhododendron, just beginning to unfold...<br />
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My Onearm. Looks like she's just had another litter...<br />
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Wild strawberry blooms...<br />
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A Pipevine Swallowtail...<br />
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I'll miss this place, no doubt about that. But I'm excited about this new journey and everything it holds for me and us. I'll be in Florida tomorrow, probably sweating. But that's okay, I'll get used to it.<br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you tomorrow,<br />
LiseLisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-20771205745094704242014-05-04T14:55:00.003-04:002014-05-04T14:55:50.368-04:00My First Bear Sighting!This is what we saw as we walked down the path from <a href="http://www.liseslogcabinlife.com/2014/05/watching-sunrise-from-clingmans-dome.html">Clingmans Dome after watching the sun rise</a>...<br />
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We saw it from a distance at the same time we heard someone walking up the path shout, "Shoo bear!". I quickly took a picture, and then not thinking fully, Johny and I immediately ran toward it. <i>We couldn't help ourselves.</i> We slowed down as we got closer, and watched the bear glance at the onlookers as if to think, "What, you've never seen a bear in the woods before?" <i>No Little Bear, I haven't, </i>I thought as I kept snapping pictures and watching him graze in the grass. <br />
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We moved a little closer, and he lost himself in the tall grass that led toward the edge of the trees. First an awesome sunrise, then a friendly encounter with a bear. What a day!<br />
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Oh, there's more fun. We came across several plump wild turkeys...<br />
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We drove through <a href="http://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/roaringfork.htm">Roaring Fork</a>, a one-way winding motor nature trail and found this beautiful rocky creek that meandered along the road...<br />
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...and these old log cabins that were homes to the pioneers of the area. <br />
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The sun shining on this stone bridge caught my attention, <br />
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as did this old grist mill, <br />
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with it's ancient yet functioning wheel. <br />
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It was a perfect way to spend my last Saturday in the mountains, and a day I will always remember. If you are ever in the Smoky Mountains, a visit to Clingmans Dome is a must.<br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you tomorrow,<br />
Lise <br />
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<br />Lisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-60328294062131205962014-05-03T16:03:00.002-04:002014-05-03T16:03:32.299-04:00Watching The Sunrise From Clingmans DomeToday is my last Saturday in the mountains for a while. Wanting to make the most of the day, we decided to drive to <a href="http://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/clingmansdome.htm">Clingmans Dome,</a> the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and watch the sunrise. It meant getting up at 3:30AM, and driving to Tennessee, but it was worth it. It was still dark when we arrived. We stepped out of the car and were blasted by strong winds and freezing temperatures <i>(shouldn't have been a surprise at 6600 feet, and though we had coats, we never thought to bring hats or gloves)</i>. But the sky twinkled with thousands <i>(no exaggeration)</i> of stars. It was awe inspiring. And then we saw it, a shooting star...the perfect start to our morning! When the tips of our noses were frozen, we got back into the car and turned on the heater for a while. I noticed the sky to the east beginning to brighten, so we made the half mile trek up the mountain to the observation deck. Another thing we didn't anticipate was the effect the altitude would have on us. We started up the path with lots of energy and enthusiasm, quickly finding ourselves winded and a little dizzy. We slowed our pace and made it to the deck. Remember that wind and freezing temperatures I mentioned? Of course, it was magnified at the top (click <a href="http://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/clingmansdome.htm">here</a> to see the deck). But we were rewarded for the effort...<br />
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At this point, we were so cold we went down the ramp to get out of the wind. After getting some feeling back into my hands, I made my way back to the top. Johny decided he was too cold and would watch from a spot on the Appalachian Trail. </div>
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I knew sunrise from this vantage point would be breathtaking <i>(in more ways than one)</i>. What I didn't realized was how emotional I would feel; it really did take my breath away.<br />
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Our day didn't end with the sunrise, I have much more to tell, including a bear sighting <i>(no kidding)</i>, but will save the rest for tomorrow <i>(too many pictures in this post already)</i>. <br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you tomorrow,<br />
LiseLisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-10440567419578996412014-05-02T15:12:00.004-04:002014-05-02T15:12:58.554-04:00Rhododendron & A Black MorelI love the colorful spring blooms that surround us with splashes of bright color. We're still waiting for our rhododendron to open around the cabin <i>(we're at 3600 feet)</i>, but these, like the <a href="http://www.liseslogcabinlife.com/2014/05/iris-up-close-and-personal.html">iris</a> photos I posted yesterday were taken in town yesterday. The intricate center of rhododendron reminds me of a henna tattoo! <br />
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Much to our surprise, Johny found this black morel right next to our compost pile. We've never found a black morel before, they've always been yellow, <i>(click <a href="http://www.liseslogcabinlife.com/2014/04/do-you-know-molly-moocher.html">here</a> to see photos)</i>, and here one sprouted right beneath our feet! We'll be cooking it this evening, <br />
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along with these yellow ones we harvested yesterday. I'm curious if there is a difference in taste--experts say the black are the best--we'll be doing our own comparison and I'll let you know what we think!<br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you tomorrow,<br />
LiseLisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-1796271378551034602014-05-01T15:40:00.004-04:002014-05-01T15:40:47.603-04:00Iris, Up Close and Personal<br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you tomorrow,<br />
LiseLisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-54280946903701305892014-04-30T14:55:00.001-04:002014-04-30T14:55:06.861-04:00How Does Our Garden Grow?Watching the garden sprout brings a joy I can hardly describe...it's a little like birthing a child. Have you experienced something similar? This year, our garden is being sowed in bits and pieces, mostly by Johny, who's been wearing the overalls in this family for a while now. <i>I've been so busy with my writing class and preparations to head back to Florida, I've not been an active gardening participant.</i> I'm proud of having planted bean seeds, but that's all I can take credit for thus far. We will be sowing more in the next few days before I leave, but I fear I won't be able to see those seeds sprout. So far, this is what we have pushing themselves through the rich soil and up to the sun...<br />
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<i></i>Strike beans; love how they curl themselves from the soil.<br />
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Spinach; looks plain but we've not had success so we are especially hopefully these grow to their full potential. <br />
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The lettuce sprouts are a little blurry <i>(from my photo, not from the ground)</i>, but they are abundant. The entire row is sprouting!<br />
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Potato greens are pushing through the straw...I hope we get more <a href="http://www.liseslogcabinlife.com/2012/07/we-have-true-potato-fruit-in-our-garden.html">true potato fruit</a> this year. <br />
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The mache looks good; this will be a real treat to enjoy fresh. Have you ever eaten mache? It's used like a lettuce, with small round leaves that are sweet, crunchy and thin like a spinach leaf. Yum!<br />
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The turnips are sprouting at a wild rate, they definitely needing thinning. Yeah for the turnips, last year they were a little sparse. <br />
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As I walked from the garden in my sprouting reverie, I came across some dandelions and violets blooming along the side of the road. The contradiction of colors drew my attention, I thought you might enjoy this...<br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you tomorrow,<br />
LiseLisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-78797187311122448362014-04-29T14:42:00.001-04:002014-04-29T14:42:19.552-04:00Color With Our CoffeeFollowing a gully washer of a night, we enjoyed our coffee while on the porch swing, grateful that the only damage we experienced was road erosion <i>(it was significant, but it can be fixed)</i>. We were entertained by several goldfinch and a stunning <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/rose-breasted_grosbeak/id">rose-breasted grosbeak</a> feeding upon the sunflower seeds I set out for them. They hung around for quite some time, giving us splashes of color as we enjoyed our coffee. Once they flew away, I could hear them singing in the woods, it was a lovely serenade. Click <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/rose-breasted_grosbeak/id">here</a> to listen to the sweet melody of the grosbeak, you'll be glad you did. <br />
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We expect to have more dangerous storms roll through this evening and tomorrow. Times like these remind me of how precious life is. I'm holding healing thoughts for all those who've been effected by these storms and am hopeful they experience a swift recovery. And looking forward to blue skies.<br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you tomorrow,<br />
LiseLisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8345935748119975371.post-29251713734997638592014-04-28T14:05:00.005-04:002014-04-28T19:39:12.032-04:00Lise's Violet JellyIt's a spring tradition at our cabin--making violet jelly from those dainty little violet blooms that blanket fields with purple. Easy to make, the biggest challenge is picking lots of the tiny purple flowers! <i>I really enjoyed making what may be my last batch of violet jelly for a while, click <a href="http://www.liseslogcabinlife.com/2014/04/a-new-adventure-begins.html">here</a> to read more about my new adventure.</i><br />
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<b>Lise's Violet Jelly</b><br />
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Make the violet tea at least 24 hours before you make the jelly. Boil 2 cups of water for every 2 cups of cleaned violet flowers. Pour the boiling water over the freshly harvested violets (make the tea the same day you pick them). Cover the bowl with a plate and let it steep for 24 hours.<br />
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Strain the mixture. Your liquid will be a deep violet color. <br />
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Ingredients:<br />
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2 cups violet tea <br />
4 tbsp Myers lemon juice with zest and pulp <br />
3.5 tbsp Ball pectin or 3 tbsp + 1 tsp + 1/2 tsp <i>(this
amount of pectin will result in a softer consistency that will still
spread with a knife but the jelly could not stand on it's own, if you
like a firmer jelly, increase the pectin)</i><br />
4 cups sugar<br />
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<u>Directions: </u><br />
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Sterilized your jars, lids and rings. Keep the jars warm in a low temp oven, the lids and rings in a pot of hot water. <br />
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Pour the violet tea, pectin, and lemon juice into a large pot and bring it to a boil. The lemon turns the purple violet tea a pretty fuchsia.<br />
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Once the mixture is boiling, add the sugar and stir to melt completely.<br />
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Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then let it boil for 1 minute. <br />
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Ladle the hot jelly into the jars.<br />
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Wipe the top of the jar, place the lid and hand tighten the ring. Place the jars
upside down on a cooling rack for 5 minutes, then turn them right
side up. You will begin to hear a delightful little popping sound as
the jars seal. You don't need to use a hot water bath. This is how the old timers have made violet jelly, and it's always worked.<br />
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I doubled the recipe and ended up with ten 8 oz. jars.<br />
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Can't wait to spread this on some toast...I do believe this is my favorite of all the jams I've made!<br />
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<i>Visit <a href="http://www.theprairiehomestead.com/2014/04/homestead-barn-hop-157.html#sthash.en1hS70Z.dpbs">The Prairie Homestead</a>, <a href="http://www.flourmewithlove.com/2014/04/mix-it-up-monday_27.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+FlourMeWithLove+%28Flour+Me+With+Love%29">Flour Me With Love</a>, and <a href="http://www.abrightandbeautifullife.com/making-monday-38/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+abrightandbeautifullife%2FkvUC+%28A+Bright+and+Beautiful+Life%29">A Bright and Beautiful Life</a> for more interesting recipes.</i><br />
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Thanks for reading my blog, see you tomorrow,<br />
Lise <br />
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Lisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12431245561712781037noreply@blogger.com7