“We’re going to the pumpkin patch…we’re going to the pumpkin patch…” The voices of excited children ring through the minivan. And who can blame them? It is a late October Sunday afternoon in suburban St. Louis, Missouri. My daughter, sonin law, seven-year-old Natalie and almost-three-year old twins, Cameryn and Colin, and Grandma Joan (that would be me), all carefully seat-belted... READ MORE >
The damp gray morning is perfect for sitting in front of a fireplace and sipping something hot. Coffee, hot chocolate, tea…it doesn’t matter. Unfortunately, this is not my day to relax. Here’s where two inventions become very important in my life. First is the invention of the covered, insulated coffee mug. Second is the invention of the built-in car coffee... READ MORE >
The dog intently watches his owner’s hand signal. Then, nose to the ground, it seeks its prey until, suddenly with an explosion of feathers, a ruffed grouse flushes into the air. This is a common autumn scenario played out by hunting dogs, labs, setters, etc. and does not ordinarily include pugs. But tell that to Mr. Magoo, my pug. Hunting... READ MORE >
Time for my annual (sort of) farewell summer column. I have no regrets. I have chewed, swallowed and ingested every part of this summer to the fullest. Enjoyed its sunsets and beautiful warm days. Made certain that sipping cool drinks on the deck and eating dinner at outside cafés were a priority. I haven’t short-changed one minute of my summer... READ MORE >
At first, we wanted to change the name of the big yellow Labrador retriever we had adopted. Her original name, Goldie, didn’t seem that exciting or interesting, but after several days of trying things likeSunny or Daisy or Mazie, we gave up and kept her old name. We couldn’t have made a better decision, for she lived up to it.... READ MORE >
If the Northland gets one more blast of heat, my zucchinis just might bear fruit. What? Excited about a zucchini harvest? Yes. I am. This is not your common zucchini patch. This is my zucchini container garden. Much of my garden has failed in this summer of garden infestations and blights. With so many crop failures—carrot seedlings mowed down by... READ MORE >
My son-in-law backs the mini-van down the driveway. My daughter and grandchildren wave good-bye as the car moves quickly down the driveway. Their annual summer visit is at an end. The van’s top carrier is filled with “child-management equipment”— a double stroller and two pak’n plays. The van’s interior is filled with “child entertainment” items. Some books but mostly electronic... READ MORE >
Hole Number One: I place my golf ball on the tee and pick up my driver, feeling good. It’s a fine summer day with warm sun and blue skies. I swing my club correctly and strike the ball. Okay, so it doesn’t gain height and scuttles along the ground, what everyone calls a “worm burner,” but travels an okay distance.... READ MORE >
In the evening and very slowly is the best way to water a garden, and that’s what I’m doing. Rustling leaves in the nearby woods catch my attention. Too small a noise to be that of a deer, the sounds must be something little. I turn from the spray of water I am directing at my potato patch in time... READ MORE >
“Did you remember your camera?” I asked my husband as our vehicle hurtled north, realizing I’d forgotten mine. He hadn’t, so we were on our way to the Canadian wilderness camera-less. It was a sure bet that every large mammal in the area would prance in front of us, and we would be overrun by photogenic opportunities. I gritted my... READ MORE >
By continuing to browse or by clicking "Accept," you agree to our site's privacy policy.AcceptPrivacy policy
