September Visit -- Finally!

After bad weather and good family events (or something like that) had kept him away for several weeks, Himself found time to pull his new toys down to III. He had purchased the brush cutter about a month ago and had the new "toy" trailer at least a week before he could get away to Missouri. It took considerable restraint on his part, I think, not to run off south on his own and make an opportunity to try them out.

Finally, this past week, we took a couple of days of vacation and two little bairns and headed down. I and the Little Hofs stayed at Too most of the time as electricity, running water and television come in handy with the "wee" generation but Himself spent considerable time at the ranch. He mowed the lane and the clearing conventionally, hauled the Snapper to Too, hauled the "big" mower to III, did end-of-summer maintenance on all then assembled his new brush cutter, made the adjustments and went to work. I wasn't there to record the event with pen and camera so had to rely on Himself to report that it works great! He tried it out down the lane, pushing the brush back to the timber again and did the same in the clearing. (Beats having to cut each 2-inch tree with the loppers!) I think having the bigger mower there and this brush cutter will do one of two things. It will shorten his mowing time or he will be mowing 30 acres. I guess time will tell.

Meanwhile, I will have to put the Cedar Post bed project on hold as I need to make an old-fashioned sled to pull behind the Mule (wooden runners with oak planks for the bed). There are dead trees down across the river trail and Himself plans to cut the trees for fire wood. He would like to haul the firewood up to the cabin. Our trailers are too wide to pull down the trail. So that Himself doesn't have to widen the trail, a sled is the perfect solution! I found half-hearted instructions on the 'net so I'm set! I'm ready to getter done. I can sleep on the floor another month or two . . . the other side

Lean, Mean Mowing Machine

The machine wasn't doing Himself much good, sitting at home in the garage.

Fall is coming-end of August

This summer has flown by as no other summer before it has. The weekends are getting away from us, and it appears most of September will be taken up by events beyond my control. I will try and do my best to be patient during this period.

A note for Clint. As we didn't get to fully test the converter and battery last season, I thought i'd let you know that in march, i fully charged the battery, and six months later, it is still going. Thanx again for the gift.

It is now nearing the season in which all other projects will end and work on the new trails will begin. We don't have far to go to get to the upper clearing by the highway, but it is pretty rugged terrain, and a bridge will have to be built.

I can see it is becoming almost a full time job just keeping the current trails cleared, as every time we have gone down the trail, a tree or trees have fallen, and of course they ALWAYS fall across the trail. You would think they could fall another direction once in a while.

We have purchased a new trailcutter mower. It will be used to clear the land that has not been fully overgrown with big trees, and to keep the trails cleared. It will be pulled behind the 4-wheeler. I can hardly wait to try it out.

We have pulled Tony's boat out and have stored it out of the way in the timber garage for the season.

Herself has kept busy with the 4-corner cedar post bed, while I try to take care of things outside and stay out of her way. I believe she will get it finished, and am sure it will be better than sleeping on the cold un-insulated floor.

All for this time
Himself

Fairy Land

The fairy flowers growing on the creek bottom are gone now but all the rain has set the stage for another fairy wonderland. This weekend, Himself and I admired 6 or 8 different kinds of mushrooms. Some looked just like pancakes and were as big around as dinner plates. Some were like the traditional white mushroom with stem and cap. These in the photo were a beautiful shade of rosy red. Every where we looked, there were mushrooms and fungi.

I have been reading up on Missouri mushrooms and there are edible ones out there now. One, called the “Other Mushroom” as opposed to the Morel, is the Chanterelle. Himself and I will need to develop a palate and an eye for mushrooms. With this many mushrooms, we could eat like kings -- and feed the world!

Getter Done

(or Sheer Determination)

After a three week hiatus, we finally got back to III. Two weeks ago, Himself and I were in the neighborhood at Too but as there was about 4" of rain in the gauge -- and still raining -- we didn't even visit here. This weekend was wet also but Himself made up his mind that he had to mow so Saturday afternoon we drove to III. After all the rain, the drive wasn't too muddy but the grass was about 8" tall and wet. Very wet! Himself immediately revved up the mower and headed up to the gate to make the ol' homestead presentable. After knocking off "the top" he mowed down the drive and part of the trails before the skies opened up and the rain forced him to the porch.

I had been piddling around as he mowed, figuring out in my head how I was going to get four cedar posts to stand and actually hold up a mattress and two full size adults. I finally decided I wouldn't know 'til I tried and got out the tools and went at it. Himself got bored sitting (or maybe I was making him nervous with my sawing, pounding and drilling) and he came and helped me with a couple of posts -- and out of a tight spot or two, I might add.

With three posts up and a couple of rails, it is easier now to figure out how to put the rest of it together. As I have to measure twice (or 3 or 4 times) to cut once (hopefully) and as I have no plan or How To book, it is a slow process but it will be there next trip for me to anticipate and to study on. But all ready, the next project wriggles around in my head and I want to getter done and get on to the new.

Sunday morning, we arose early to more low clouds and drizzle. Himself, more determined than ever to mow, waited for the clouds to break and the grass to dry. The radio's weather forecaster predicted a break in the rain around 10:00 a.m. As we have gotten a bit skeptical about weather forecasts, we weren't really surprised at 10:00 a.m. that it was raining harder than ever. Finally, after a good hot late breakfast, Himself just bore down and went out and mowed her wet. In the drizzle. In the tall wet grass. He got her done.

Three cedar posts are secured (in the fashion of a pioneer's rope bed).
The fourth post will be the challenge!
It was so dark and dreary in the cabin, that without Cousin Clint's gift of power and our lone electric light, I could not have taken this picture.

August In Missouri

We are back from a weekend at III. Saturday was hot but a breeze blew all day and Himself and I puttered around the clearing. He mowed; I went to town and shopped. He burned stumps; I smoothed cedar bed posts. Came evening and Himself cut stumps and I meandered along behind with my loppers awaiting the right opportunity. When he stood and stretched, I was there.

Will you please take out one scrawny cedar tree for me, while you have the chain saw out, I asked politely. Silence. A "look". Then, "which one?" he reluctantly asked and I showed him the small tree. He pondered but didn't answer. He stood and contemplated longer and I knew we were in far enough that I must remain quiet. Patiently I waited for the decision. I knew he could see the need but one thing was going to lead to a half dozen more.

He sighed. Then Himself said, "that whole clump needs to come out; those three are dead and that young oak is crooked and has to go". No, that oak will straighten out after the cedars are gone, I countered. Himself didn't reply and after a few more minutes, he pulled the rope and the chain saw roared to life.

There went the cedar. A stretch and a pause, then the second scraggly cedar was gone. Himself bent again to the task and in one fell swoop took out the little rugged oak, turned to me and grinned.

I was not surprised. I knew early in the negotiations that the price I might pay to have the cedars taken out was one poor, misshapen oak. I had gambled and lost; had hoped the Judge might grant a stay of execution at the last moment -- but had never counted on it.

Smiling to himself (I well imagine) he turned away and started on the three dead trees, calling over his shoulder, "you better figure out how to get these cut trees cleaned up!

Stop the Clock!

This weekend, Himself and I admired our cabin clearing -- the neatness, the mown areas and the groomed appearance. Himself has asked me before to be sure and take "before and after" photos and I do have some early pictures such as the "The Lane, before", below. So when I went to post the photo, I was surprised when I looked at that photo with nostalgia.

I love the cabin clearing today and take pride in the work Himself and I have done but when I pulled that "before" picture up, I thought "oh no!" "Stop!" "Don't do any more. This is the way the lane should look!"

But maybe, I really just want to go back and do it all again.

Himself and I have connected with this place. Though we worked hard, we have played hard too. We enjoy our time here -- and each other. We have connected again, Himself and I, in this place called III.

The Lane, before

This is how the lane looked when we bought the property, in December 2004.

The Lane, after

And this is how it looked in May (when the children and bairns were all down). Himself had it all mowed and groomed -- and there are about 50 fewer trees and shrubs now.

A Man's work is never done

The dependable Jeep threw a shoe!

Himself is looking to see what caused the slow leak.

Discoveries

We are at III every other weekend. This visit, Saturday midday (after I had been to Bethany to shop, of course) Himself asked, as he always does, what is on your agenda today? Don't know, I said. Can't get motivated to do one thing yet. Himself agreed and we sat on awhile. Then we got up and went our own way. It was hot and humid and I walked across the clearing, moving rather slowly when I spotted some nails on the ground. One can tell, there once was a burn pile here. Himself has trained me well and just last visit the Jeep had a low tire as a result of a stray nail. So I picked up the nails and screws and as I did, I found more. And more again -- so I went and got my metal detector that I've had for 6 or 7 years but never really knew how to use. I sat, then, and read the book, set the dials and went to work digging out a cupfull of nails and screws. I learned to use my metal detector.

It finds nails and screws amazingly well. I hope it finds gold and silver as easily!

But there at III I'd get a "hit" and hunker and search and might only find a half inch brad but I would always find something. Sometimes it was just a piece of shiny tinfoil -- but that detector works!

I took the metal detector up the drive to the front gate and my first hit was a square nail! I was thrilled. The old farm house that used to sit "up top" has been dated -- at least part of it built with square nails. Unfortunately, the farmhouse was bulldozed and only an old cistern remains. I will take the treasures I find and make a memory board to those that walked this land, planted flowers, planned and dreamed, worried and schemed, way before my time.

And my unplanned, no agenda afternoon led to several hours of playing in the dirt, learning a new skill and discovering just a little bit of the history of III.

The Enemy

This is the critter that almost got my tomatos at III! Two weeks ago the tomatoes were looking poorly. I thought it was just the result of the deer chomping on them and I built a chicken wire cage over and around the cherry tomatoes. I want those cherry tomatoes to go to seed so they'll volunteer every year. I won't have to plant new ones; just wait for the little rascals to grow from last year's seed. But then! Then, I found one of these ugly little creatures. I tried knocking him senseless with a stick. If he would have let go, I would have stomped him to Kingdom come but he hung on for dear life. Not having the courage to just pluck him off, I roared off to town for tomato dust and dust them I did! This past weekend, two war-ravanaged tomato plants still survived. I dusted them again. Let us hope for a late frost. Those plants need to bear fruit and make seed. And next year, I will be prepared with my cage and my Sevin!

4TH OF JULY 2006

We headed to II on Saturday, July 1 for a full week, actually 9 days of "vacation".
The first 3 days and nites we spent at II, just doing minor repairs, cleaning, etc. It was nice, as the previous year, we would to go to II just to mow on a Friday nite, then immediatedly take off for III. Which was all right, but now i am realizing that work must also be done at II. We had a very relaxing week, at least I did. I worked when I wanted and just sat and did nothing the rest of the time. Herself just couldn't seem to just sit and relax for more than a few minutes, and off she would go to find something to do. With the screen room done, most of the clearing done, and the trails in fairly good shape, i spent considerable time just soaking in what all we had done. I will try and finish another trail this fall, and i will try and get a bridge built. Will depend alot on cooler weather.
boi

Red eye

We are off, tomorrow morning, for a week in MO. The lists have been made and the bags packed. The weather report is calling for hot, humid temperatures but we are used to that. These two beauties await me at III. These cedar logs are project material!

They are a little rough, in the photo, but I have been working them. They are ready! and so am I . . .

Garden Invasion

Last trip down, I lovingly planted five cherry tomato plants. I chopped through 50 years of pasture grass and dug out Prairie Roses with 2' long roots. I pulled grass and dug in a large bag of potting soil, then embedded the tomato plants. I watered them profusely hoping they would make it two weeks until I could get back and tend them. While I was gone, while my back was turned, something stepped over my garden fence and feasted on all but two of my tomato plants! And next to them, wildflowers had been cut off a foot from the ground as neatly as though I had taken my garden pruners to them.

It must have been a deer but I couldn't find any tracks. I can't think what else would have munched them all down and left 12" of the wildflowers and why didn't they take the last two tomatos?

I will save those tomatos! I pounded in stakes and wrapped chicken wire around the surviving two plants. If something gets in this time, it won't get out -- but I don't know what I'll do if I go back and find I have trapped a deer! Or what I will do if the last two tomatoes are gone.

Summer at III

Among the bumble-bees in red-top hay, a freckled field of brown-eyed Susans dripping yellow leaves in July,
I read your heart in a book.

From "Adelaide Crapsey" by Carl Sandburg

It is summer at III. The bashful Brown-Eyed Susan is in bloom as well as the Prairie Roses. We spent only part of a day here this past weekend as we were at Too, doing overdue repairs and maintenance. I enjoyed the day at Too but as I cut back grapevine or sprayed poison ivy, my thoughts wandered over here and I wondered how the tomatos were doing, what flowers were in bloom and how is that next project going to turn out.

We soon will have a whole week at III. I'll have my fill, no doubt, of prairie flowers and pioneer ways but for now, my thoughts are of summer days at III.

A VISITOR TO III June 9,10,11 2006

We were welcomed by the news that my brother, RWH, was finally coming down for a weekend visit at II, and also a visit to III. Now, he finally knows what we have been writing about. RW and a friend came to II on Friday, and stayed until sometime Sunday, while herself and I stayed at III. Saturday afternoon, RWH and his friend came to visit us at III. They immediately hit the pond with their fishing equipment, hoping to have the same luck as previous fishermen have had catching the big "cats".
HOWEVER, the only fish that seemed to be biting were small ones, and I mean very small. But, RWH seemed to be having some uncanny ability to catch stick fish, or, maybe they were "fish sticks". And, I might add, was very consistant at it. Cast after cast would bring in sticks and more sticks. As the picture indicates, he finally pulled in the "big" one. I never did see him catch anything that was alive. Anyway, it was fun having visitors and hope they will come down again sometime. I do want RWH to know that one of my first thoughts when we were first looking at this property was all the times we roamed the timber around Prescott, shooting at squirrels and anything else that moved.
We didn't do to much this weekend. I mowed as usual, herself started her new project of planning a cedar post bed. I worked on removing more stumps with the chain saw. I think I am finally down to maybe 25 more that I have to remove before I can mow and not have to worry about hitting one, as I did this weekend. I bent the deck enough so that it stopped the blade from turning, but managed to get it repaired, changed the blades, did a little maintenance, and basically took it easy for a change.
We went back to II on Sunday afternoon to mow there as we knew it would be another 2 weeks before coming back, and with the 1 and 1/2 inches of rain we got Sat. nite, it would have been a jungle. Anyway, I got half way down with the push mowing, and the engine quit. So, have to install a coil the next time down. The mower is 27 years old, but keeps on a runnin. Just needs a little coaxin sometimes.
All for this time

Ronnie's Catch

III's Garden

Crazy Quilt

Crazy Quilt

The garden at III started as a symbolic gesture when we first began our sojourns to this pretty part of the world.  It was late winter or very early spring and too cold to really plant anything but I carted down a bunch of winter onions and a clump of chives and stuck them in the ground just so I could say we had a garden.  Soon after, in imitation of the pioneers during the great westward expansion, I put in a fence to signify that this is my place, my homestead.

The fence is short and virtually useless but I dig in there and compost and am conditioning that area for a real garden someday and the fence bookmarks the garden spot.

Today, early June, the garden is colorful with a few yellow blossoms of the Brown Eyed Susan and some pearly white Queen Anne’s lace.  The last of theWild 4 O’Clocks are fading and I am letting various other wild things grow – at least until they bloom.  Depending on what gifts they present me, these wild young things might be removed or decapitated.  Some transplanted Bachelor Buttons, brought from home, were added to the fabric today.  I am hoping that the “Buttons” will blossom and set seed to return each spring on their own.    

III’s garden is a mish mash of colors and textures right now – a Patchwork Quilt.  In order to keep down the grass and unwanted wild flowers, I have placed small pieces of carpet in the garden.  This might be an unorthodox method of weed control but it works and I like the look of my Crazy Quilt garden.

The Rifleman lives!

MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND-2006

We were ready for a warm weekend. We had been going to II and spending the nites there as the days only warmed up to the 60's and the nites dropped to the mid 30's and 40's. That was fine, as the cooler weather allowed us to clear some old brush piles that remained, and a few other cool weather projects that needed done.
But Memorial Day Weekend held promise of warmer weather. We headed to II on Thurs evening after work. Had a quick bite to eat then jumped on the mowers and got that out of the way.
Friday morning, we packed up and headed for III. We got there about 9:30 and the temperature was already in the 70's. I headed for the rider and started my mowing while herself did the usual. Anyway she got back from who knows where around 1:00 PM. And I know the only reason she came back then was because she was hungary. I had finished most of the mowing, having only the trails to finish, so we had a sandwich, a short break, and off to finish the mowing.
It had rained 3/4" a few days before we arrived, but the topsoil was dry. I was covered with dust, dirt, grass and weed clippings, you name it. So my first job after the mowing was to get our outside shower going. I hauled 30 gal of water down to our water reserrve(trash can), then hooked up the propane tank, installed batteries in the pump, lit the heater, and I was ready to go. I went and got my clean clothes, soap, etc and headed for the woods. We had been dreaming of a shower since last year, as it is so much better then just cleaning with a washcloth. IT WAS GREAT!!
The next day (sat) we worked on finishing the screen room, adjusting doors, installing hooks, etc. It is now done except for some flooring of some sort. I thought to myself, this is great, now we can rest and do whatever the rest of the weekend. WRONG!!!!! Herself cannot rest, and when she cannot rest, I feel as though I have to help. Anyway, we now have to build a little storage shelter for all my tools, oils, gas, etc. All her stuff goes into the cabin, my stuff goes outside.
Anyway we build a little roofed storage area, got it finished, and moved all my stuff into it.
The rest of my "free" time I did battle with the carpenter bees. They try to build their nests in the 2X4's under the porch, and I try to kill them. I think I finished off approx 20 to 25 of them, but there is a few left. I will not fail. At one time, on Friday afternoon, we were being swarmed with them. I had a can of spray killer in each hand and got several of them, but had to give up when I ran out of ammo.
The Frey's and Craig's and Johanna all came down. We all had a good time, had fun riding the 4-wheelers, and had some pretty good potato soup. You will have to ask herself about that dietary delacasie(SP).
Herself and I really love it at III. Peace and quiet. At nites we listen to the whip o wills, coyotes, whoot owls, etc.

Continuing education

I hadn’t shot a rifle since the last time Himself gave me some training -- about 30 years ago. After asking for and receiving a general review on how to hold and load a rifle, I was thrilled that my first three left-handed shots all hit the target. I was sure I would miss it completely. After that first flush of success, I shot 6 more rounds and all six hit the target but not as well as the first three. Ah, beginners luck! I really enjoyed the target practice and hope to do it again. Of course, as Himself tells me, I can do whatever I want, when I want, at III (except for when he needs my help – but he didn’t say that!) . . . the other side

Puddle Jumper

We pushed and pulled Tony’s boat into the lake and I took the first lap around the pond. Himself pushed me off and called after, if you see water coming in, check the drain plug! Now I am not comfortable IN WATER so that made my heart pound hard for a bit but as I didn't see any water rushing in, I relaxed and tried my hand at paddling a flat bottom fishing boat. Using two mismatched paddles, I’m sure it was rather comical to watch me paddle and wigwag my way around the small pond. I finally got in a sort of rhythm and paddling as one might a canoe, I managed to manuever here and there. LJ came and jumped in after a bit (literally! and rocked the boat) and between the two of us, each with one paddle, we made our way around again. It will be nice on cool summer mornings to take my coffee out in the boat and drift in the cool morning air.

May Stay

Beautiful May columbine.

We stayed at Too Thursday evening and were up and around in good time. Himself took the breakfast duty. He scrambled eggs, fried up some bacon and we were on our way to III. The sun was out and the dire, cool forecast didn’t materialize here as it got up in the high sunny 60’s -- just right for working outside cutting brush. Himself pulled the easy tour and mowed half the day while still wearing his jacket and down-filled vest on top. Cutting brush, I took my jacket off, later the sweatshirt went and soon I worked in just a knit shirt. I cleared brush and overhead branches in the drive and hauled them down to the cabin clearing with the Mule and trailer. Himself said later when asked that, yes, he could tell I had worked up there. But when we rode up the lane later, I said, “you CANNOT tell that I’ve done a thing!” Too many trees and too many branches to even know I’d been there.

After a lunch of Salami sandwiches and Jalapeno potato chips (my turn to cook!) Himself went to mow the trails and I clear-stained the three screen doors and various wooden molding strips. Himself had been wanting this done and I hadn’t told him my plans so when he stopped back in for a break between trails, he was so glad to see that it was a fait accompli -- and I enjoyed surprising him.

We hadn't stocked up on groceries for III so our supper was make shift, just two brats each, with mustard and bread. We were hungry and, we reminded each other we were roughing it. We gulped them down; they hit the spot and clean up was easy.

We didn’t get such an early start the second morning but, again, after eating breakfast we headed to III about 10:00 a.m. I tarried just long enough to help unpack, review my shopping list and then drove back to town where there were city-wide garage sales. I stopped at four or five of them and spent a grand total of $1.55 while buying a half dozen things! I shopped the local grocery to buy stock for III and two rib eye steaks for supper. Next, came the big investment when I bought gas for mowing and filled the Jeep. Himself was back working on the shade room when I returned.

All weekend, the Phoebe birds scolded us the whole while we were in the shade room and Himself finally took pity (or gave in to their nagging) and moved the nest outside to a ledge under the eave of the screen room. He even went to the pond, the ol' softie, and got some mud to paste the nest down. The parents do that when they build the nest. There were 5 little perfect eggs in the nest. We are hoping the parents find the nest now and claim it.

Isn’t it such a coincidence that we have a nest here and one over the porch light at Too. And aren’t we fortunate to have two beautiful places, Too and III. . . . the other side

The "bottom" trail

Where Himself mowed with the brush as high as his head.

FIRST THREE DAY WEEKEND OF '06

The last time we went to the cabins, it rained the whole weekend. The grass was already tall, but could not mow. So, the weekend of May 13, we took Friday off and headed for Missouri on Thurs afternoon. When we arrived at II we found over 4 inches of rain in the guage, and the grass was tall. So we immediately fired up the mowers and knocked down II.
The next morning, we ate a good breakfast and headed to III. Since we had not mowed at all there this year, everything needed mowing. So I fired up the snapper and took off, while herself went - shopping!!!! I finally finished mowing all we had cleared about 2:00 PM and took off to see if I could clear the trails. The trail down by Sandy creek was overgrown with some kind of tall overgrowth. I had driven the 4-wheeler through where I thought the path used to be, then followed up with the rider. The stuff was so tall, I could see neither left or right, only straight ahead, but managed to plow through. Hopefully I will only have to go through this once a year.

After the mowing was done, we started to work on finishing the screen room. We put up the last section of screening, hooks and handles on the doors, etc.

Sunday was a day of relaxation at last. We spent the day clearing old brush piles, and burning them, blazed a new walking trail around the pond, then we mowed what we could of the dam, cleared brush where we couldn't mow on the dam, and just generally took it easy. Ha!!!

Ms Phoebe's pride

Phoebe bird

Phoebe bird

I’m not sure what it means, but Mr. Roger Troy Peterson in his Field Guide to the Birds, asserts that the Eastern Phoebe (Sayornis phoebe) has a weakness for small bridges. I think that really means that they build their nest on them, or under them, not that they just nest near them but the irony of my nesting Phoebe bird is that she chose to nest above Too’s outside light fixture – near our little bridge. The Phoebe likes to nest on sheltered ledges and niches and will build on bridges, porches, eaves and sheds.

Ms. Phoebe has produced five fine eggs. The light fixture is too close to the porch ceiling for us to just peek into the moss and mud nest so I used the hand mirror and with the help of Himself, was able to take a picture. As we go in and out, we startle her off and away and I feel sorry that she can’t sit on her eggs. I have proposed to Himself that when we have her startled off the nest, that we turn on the outside light to produce a little heat to protect our eggs. Himself doesn’t think that is probably necessary.

The Phoebe named himself as he says phoe-be or fi bree with the second note alternately higher or lower that the first. It isn’t really whistled but just spoken. Phoe-be. Phoe-be. Mr. Peterson says that the Phoebe is in the Flycatcher family and that they are not as restless as most birds but sit quite still but they do pump their tails up and down as they sit and wait to snatch up passing insects.

Last visit here, Ms. Phoebe scolded at us. She sat up in a tree somewhere and chided us, trying to shame us into vacating. This time, she has not scolded but waited patiently for us to quiet down. Then she slips back into the nest without us hearing so much as a whisper of her.

We will go to III tomorrow and leave Phoebe bird in charge.

one more thing . . .

Things fell off the shelf and down onto the metal table and range. My heart stopped. My breath held. I waited for the shattering of glass but none came. Creaaak. Creaaak. I jumped to my feet, scrambling for my glasses as my heart went from zero to 120. I stood beside the bed and waited. Creeaaak. Creeeaak. Creeaaak. For Gods Sake! It came to me that Himself was out there jacking up the corner of the cabin while I was asleep in bed! About that time, down came two or three more “pretties” from the wall. Startled out of my disbelief that someone would actually level a cabin with a sleeping person inside, I climbed up on the chair and took down all the breakables. I heard noises outside and knew that Himself was pushing a block or board under the cabin and heaved a sigh of relief. It was over. I breathed again. My heart slowed. I went and poured a cup of coffee.

Creeeaak. Creeeaak. SH__! Now he is jacking up the middle! I very precisely sat the cup of coffee in the middle of the table as tho an earthquake was imminent or as a drunken person might sit down a glass, making sure it wouldn’t spill then stood in the center of the cabin as I thought “nothing can come down and kill me here.” I waited for him to be done, to slide the blocks under the cabin wall. As I heard those welcome sounds, I let out the breath that I had been holding just as the cabin crashed back to the original position. The walls and floor boards groaned and slid slowly back into place and pans, light fixtures and pretties all rattled around again. The blocks had slipped out from under again! My heart dropped from my throat and bounced off my diaphragm. The whole cabin was going to come down around me.

I ran out on the porch. What on earth are you doing? I (probably) shrieked! Himself had a smirk about him but calmly told me he was leveling the cabin as he started in again to jack up the middle. I was angry – and speechless. I stood there on the porch debating whether it was better to be standing underdressed on the front porch in front of God and everyone or inside where I might be killed.

With the cool, morning air finally making the decision for me, I bounded back inside, shaking, quaking and furious! I threw on my clothes. I secured more objects. I paced the floor. I heard the blocks go under the cabin. I didn’t know whether to let down my guard or not. I wondered if the blocks would hold or go. I fumed and paced and stewed. Himself took his time in coming in and a good thing too. As angry as I can get, I am too quick to forget. By the time Himself came in and cooked me a good, hearty breakfast, I could almost laugh at the situation. I could almost see the humor. . .

Use it Up, Wear it Out, Make it Do or Do Without

Himself saves everything. Our new shower shelter is 1/2 pup tent from the Viet Nam era. We have packed it around for 35 years, through three states, four towns and six houses and have finally found a use for it. It is the shower "curtain" at III.

I was going to build a "stick" enclosure, 2-sided, tucked into the timber for a little privacy but as I was surveying the situation and making my plans, Himself decided to help. "Why do you even need an enclosure?" he asked. I do, I said. "Why don't we . . . this?", he said. "How about . . . that?", he asked so we compromised and strung the pup tent up between me and the world. I am satisfied for now. I will have a hot shower, a little privacy, a great view -- and finally a use for that tent! . . . the other side

A Natural

Himself is pretty funny. Should have been a comedy writer. I don't dig because I'm stubborn (or keep digging, is more accurate as anyone can start to dig but not everyone finishes). I dig because I'm a natural. I come by it honestly as my Great Grandfather Austin and his sons were ditch diggers. They were scallywags and moved all around a three or four state area but for awhile, around the turn of the 20th century, they lived near Shannon City, Iowa and hired out to dig ditches.

As it turns out, I'm glad they were ditch diggers as they were hired to do a job for George Washington Wilson, established farmer, over by Arispe. One of the Austin "boys", Robert, or RB as he was called, had his head turned by a little bit of a gal, George W.'s daughter, Mattie Jane. Great Grampa Wilson wasn't too enthused about his daughter marrying a ditch digger by the name of Austin but Mr. Wilson had 14 children and evidently Mattie had her mind made up so what was a man to do?

Robert Briggs Austin and Martha Jane Wilson were married July 5, 1907 at Creston, Iowa and also moved around alot, looking for the better life. They had five boys of their own and two daughters. Their third son, Forrest, was my dad who dug a few ditches in his lifetime. So, if it hadn't been for those Austins digging ditches for Great Grampa Wilson, I would have been someone else and wouldn't be a natural at digging. Then it would have been Himself having to do the digging as I'm sure most wives won't. Ain't he a lucky dog? . . . the other side

THE WORK HAS STARTED

04/12/2006
WE HAVE BEEN LUCKY TO HAVE SOME NICE WEATHER ON THE WEEKENDS. WE HAVE BEEN GOING TO II ON FRIDAY AFTERNOONS. WE SPEND THE NITE AT II, PUTTER AROUND, DOING SMALL THINGS THAT NEED TO BE DONE BEFORE THE SEASON REALLY START. HERSELF HAS BEEN PRACTICING AND BUILDING UP HER STANIMA FOR THE SHOPPING SEASON, WHILE I HAVE BEEN GETTING THE MOWERS READY, BATTERIES CHARGED UP AND INSTALLED, PICKING UP STICKS, ETC.
HERSELF WAS SLEEPING IN SATURDAY MORNING, AND AS I AM AN EARLY RISER, I JUST COULDN'T SIT AND DO NOTHING, SO DECIDED IT WOULD BE A GOOD TIME TO TRY AND LEVEL THE CABIN. I HAD A JACK, AND SOME PIECES OF LUMBER FOR THE LEVELING. I THOUGHT I COULD DO THIS EASILY AND QUIETLY SO AS NOT TO DISTURB THE SLEEPING BEAUTY. ALL WAS GOING WELL, I JACKED THE CABIN UP ABOUT 4 INCHES AND SLIPPED THE 2X4S INTO PLACE. JUST AS I GOT IT INTO PLACE, THE JACK SLIPPED AND THE CABIN CAME CRASHING DOWN(ACCORDING TO HERSELF). I DIDN'T THINK IT WAS THAT BIG OF DEAL UNTIL I HEARD THINGS FALLING OFF THE WALL THAT HERSELF HAD HUNG. ANYWAY SHE WOKE UP TO WHAT SHE THOUGHT WAS AN EARTHQUATE.
AFTER THAT TRAUMA, WE LOADED UP AND HEADED FOR III. THE FIRST ORDER OF THE DAY ISSUED BY HERSELF WAS THAT WE WERE GOING TO SET UP HER OUTDOOR SHOWER. IT DIDN'T MATTER WHAT I HAD PLANNED. I HAVE LEARNED TO OBEY.
ANYWAY, WE TRIMMED SOME TREES AND BRUSH FOR HER SHOWER IN THE WOODS. NOW, IT MUST BE SAID, NO ONE COULD FIND US BACK IN THE SOUTH FORTY UNLESS THEY KNEW WE WERE THERE, YET SHE WANTED THIS SHOWER PLACED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE TIMBER. AND THEN WE HAD TO PUT UP A SHOWER CURTAIN FOR PRIVACY. ANYWAY ITS ALL SET UP.
I THEN WENT TO WORK CLEANING UP MORE STUMPS WITH THE CHAIN SAW WHILE HERSELF WENT ON TO HER NEXT PROJECT, A NEW OUTDOOR OUTHOUSE. SHE CLEARED A PATH(AGAIN, TO THE MIDDLE OF THE TIMBER) AND PROCEEDED TO START DIGGING THE HOLE. I HAVE TO ADMIT THAT HER STUBBORNESS COMES IN HANDY SOMETIMES. SHE DOESN'T GIVE UP, DIGGING THRU THAT CLAY AND ROOTS UNTIL SHE HAS A FINE HOLE IN THE GROUND, AND I DIDN'T HAVE TO HELP!!!
THE 4-WHEEL TRAIL IS LOOKING GREAT!! IN MOST PLACES IT IS NOW WIDE ENOUGH TO GET THRU WITHOUT MUCH TROUBLE.
OUR NEIGHBOR IS TRYING TO WRANGLE AN ACRE OF LAND FROM US. SINCE IT IS LOCATED RIGHT NEXT TO HIS NEW HOUSE, I REALLY DON'T HAVE A PROBLEM WITH THAT. HE SEEMS TO BE A RIGHT NICE GUY, ALWAYS WILLING TO OFFER HELP OR WHATEVER WE NEED, BUT ALSO SEEMS TO BE A BIT OF A BULL SHOOTER.
WE NOW HAVE FRESH WATER AT III. I BROKE DOWN AND HAD THE RURAL WATER INSTALL A METER. FRESH WATER WAS THE MAIN TROUBLE WE HAD AT III. NOW I CAN WASH THE MOWERS AND 4 WHEELER ONCE IN A WHILE.
THIS SUMMER, I PLAN ON NOT DOING ANYMORE CLEARING OF LAND, OTHERWISE I WILL SPEND ALL MY TIME ON THE MOWER. ITS PROBABLY GOING TO TAKE 3-4 HOURS NOW. THE TRAILS SHOULD ONLY NEED MOWED 2 OR 3 TIMES. ONCE THEY ARE ESTABLISHED, HOPEFULLY I WON'T NEED TO MOW THEM ANYMORE.

Himself and the mule

Spring is not yet in full bloom at III. Himself has been out working on the trails. Here, he had to pull down a tree that was blocking one of the trails.

Awakening

We have been to III two weeks ago and again, this weekend. Some spring rain and warm sunshine have brought green to the pastures and lawns enroute but our own small patch at III is still clothed in winter colors -- browns, beiges and yellows. The drab oak leaves still cling to the trees and overall, it doesn't appear that spring has made an appearance here.

However, if you hike through the timber and take time to look, kneel down and sweep the leaves away, you see the first signs. Small ferns stick their noses up through the carpet of leaves, moss is mounded, green and plush and other plants, unnamed by me, are showing shoots of green.

III is awakening . . . the other side

NEW YEARS BEGINNING

Weekend of March 10, 2006
We had intended to go to Shag II on Saturday and install new plumbing in the cabin, however around 6:30 PM on Friday Nance declared "we should go tonight". So, rush around and gather things up and off we go. Of course we can't turn on the water at II as the toilet leaks, but anyway we arrived and carried in 10 gal of water to get us thru the nite.
The next morning, I got up and started on the plumbing. As all the plumbing and fixtures had been there since the cabin was built, my goal was to replace everything. While I was doing the plumbing, Herself started her year off by: you guessed it-she went shopping!!! However, I will concede that this time it was necessary, as the cabin had to be restocked, gas cans filled, etc. I truly am glad she enjoys it, because I truly despise shopping.
Back to the plumbing. I removed all the copper plumbing and started installing the new flexable "pex" piping. With the tubing and all the snap together attachments, it can make a plumber out of anyone, me included. All went well until I tried to remove the bathroom faucet. It would not budge. Every fitting was corroded. So I had to take a hack saw and cut the faucet out. Once that was done, everything else went smoothly. I also installed a drain faucet outside the cabin, so when we drain the pipes for cold weather, instead of taking the pipes apart, then put them back together, now all I have to do is open the drain.
The temperature climbed rapidly to 70 degrees, so we had a quick lunch, and headed for III.
By the time we got there, it was 75 degrees and sunny. We immediately went to work. Actually I went to work, herself started her year off by going exploring down by the well while I worked on widening the 4 wheel trail. We (I) worked till about 3:30 PM then we decided to pack up and head back to II to spend another nite, this time with water.
We got up on Sunday to cold and rain so we just puttered around the cabin, had a good breakfast, then packed up and headed home.
Herself's year got off to such a good start that after we got home, we discovered her arms were covered with poison ivy. If anyone ever wants to find poison ivy, just follow Nance. She can find it anywhere.
Later
Boi

Migration

Here in the "north", the ducks, geese and hawks are moving into and through the area. We have had warm days of sunshine which tantalize our senses into thinking spring is here. But then, the very next day, the temperatures have dropped, the air is crisp and we are made to realize that it too soon, too early. It is not yet time to start our migrations to III.

I am restless and yearn for the outdoors, the timber and the creatures of the fields. I take Mom on long drives on the back roads, into the hills and crooked roads of southern Iowa, looking for areas that remind me of III. When it is dry, we take the low maintenance roads where the trees are apt to meet over head, where long abandoned barns have been brought to their knees, where the roads go up hill and down vale and follow the natural curvature of the earth.

Our inner clocks tells us that soon it will be time to go south. . . . the other side

Fall colors

Disconnected / Isolated thoughts

We arrive at III about 9:30 or 10:00 Saturday morning. Himself hits the ground, loppers in one hand and orange fluorescent paint in the other. He is on the 4-wheeler and tearing off down the hill to finish up the trail started in November.

We have checked the mouse bait. The outside bait is gone and the inside bait is not. That is good; we are evidently holding the little critters at bay. The outhouse bait is gone; I think that we will concede this battle due to the nonchalant construction of the little building. The wee creatures can just come and go at will -- as long as they don't nest in there!

I fiddle around the cabin awhile, have a snack (I can't operate on an empty tank) and make sure the fire in the wood stove is going good before I hike down the trail. I meet up with Himself and help him clean up the trail, then we wind our way through the timber to connect this trail to another. It is not too cold in the timber and Himself and I work companionabley, with little conversation, moving fallen trees, cutting branches and brush. We make the trail wide enough for the 4-wheeler. Some parts of the trail are natural; we just follow a preordained plan but other sections of the trail must be wrested from the brush and the scrub and the trees. We work on until mid afternoon, then take a ride on the trails and measure it out at one mile. We have two more major trails to build this winter or early spring. After that, we will have to be content to just maintain the trails or Himself will be mowing and grooming a 37-acre park!

The shade room still sits with one open wall. Next spring, we will hang two screen doors providing an opening wide enough that the 4-wheeler can be parked under a roof. Once we finish screening that wall, we will be able to cook, eat or sleep there, protected from all the flying pests that live out the short seasons of their lives in this place called III.

We started with a Coleman stove and lantern, advanced to an indoor, propane cooking stove and even a sink with an outside drain. From there, we moved on up to one, battery-powered light bulb. And now, Himself has given me a portable camping shower. It will even have hot water -- thanks to a propane tank. One of the first projects next spring then, will be a shower stall. It will be two sided, made of oak poles and branches and backed up to the timber so that the one in the shower will be the only one with a view . . . the other side

Makin' do

The dock sits above the frozen pond, isolated -- disconnected from shore. The pond must have been very low when “whoever” built it. When we first saw the dock, the shore end was a couple feet from shore and under water, the pond end still hanging from the wooden posts. Over the summer, I pried at the low end with a stout branch and have managed to prop it up on blocks. Next spring, I will draft some young, strong family members and pull the dock up and back to shore. I think we can mount it on metal fence posts that we have gathered up from around the old pasture. That will be satisfactory. I like to reuse, recycle, make do . . . the other side

NEW YEARS RELIEF-12/31/2005

Saturday morning we decided to pack up and head for the hills. The temperature was supposed to get to the mid 40's which would be nice for what we intended to do. We got to Shag III around 10:30 AM. We opened the shack expecting to find mice, but none were found.
We then unloaded the necessities and got out the equipment we needed to work on our trails, and off we went. We forged a new trail from the SE corner of the property and made it all the way past the pond and on to one of our previous trails. Then we cut off and started off for the NE corner of the property. We then came to a huge ravine. I need to find a place to build a bridge and I think I have found it. So we will forge a trail that will end on the other side of the ravine and thats where I will build a bridge. It will be my first attempt at building a bridge, so I will be looking for volunteers to be the first to cross it.
About 3:00 pm and we decided we better quit and head for Shag II for the nite, as we needed rest after working all day and didn't want to be up in the nite feeding the fire(we are not true pioneers, yet). So off to II. All was well till I turned on the water. The pipe to the toilet was leaking again, so it was back and forth to the hydrant and toilet to get it fixed. Finally decided there was no hope, so just shut the water off for the nite.
Sunday, we got up and had a good breakfast, closed up II and headed back to III. Herself and I spent the day cleaning up the trails we had forged. Then I went exploring as did Herself, both off in different directions, but after about an hour we ended up about 100 yards from each other.
We think we may have a couple of locations for a future house, but that may change as time goes on.
The temp got up to 56 degrees with some sunshine. Two perfect days for trail breaking.
Had lunch about 2:30, then packed up and headed home to await our next adventure to the timber.
BOI

SEASON'S END-30 December 2005

It is now the end of December, 2005. We closed II down and secured it for the winter in mid November, then went to III for the final time there. Of course we couldn't just sit and relax and think about what all we had accomplished. Instead we went to work on the pond dam, clearing the trees we had already cut, and cut the larger trees on the dam down and into firewood.
We then burned the scrub left over from the trees.
Then we started to put things away not knowing if and when we would return. Herself secured the shack while I tended the mowers, 4-wheeler, and put tools away. It is a difficult time not knowing when we will get back, but it gives us something to look forward to.
I know that when Spring comes, we will need to finish the trails before everything turns green to avoid the ticks and also so we can see more than 15 feet in front of us. I also hope to build a couple of bridges across some ravines, mainly just to see if I can do it.
When the trails are done, our next project will be to complete the screen room, which shouldn't take to long, as we just have to install one more section of screen and a couple of doors.
After that, the projects will fall into place as we determine what we want to do next. Probably clear some more land and work on our drive way, and cut more trees, and mow, and work on the shack, and and and and and and more ands.
We hope to make it to either II and/or III this new years weekend. Maybe for only a day but who cares. Much better than watching football all weekend. So, if we make it to the cabins, perhaps there will be another tale to tell.
Until then
Boi

1 Year Anniversary

With Christmas behind us (and a fine one it was too with the children and bairns all gathered together under one roof) our thoughts turn to III. Our first real visit to the area was on New Years Day one year ago and my intention, and perhaps Himself's also, is to revisit III this coming New Years Day. Now our hopes will all hinge on the weather as everyone in Southern Iowa and Northern Missouri knows, if you don't like the weather today, just wait until tomorrow. It is sure to change.

It would be fun to visit III knee deep in snow. I've always wanted to learn to cross country ski, to ice skate and to try snow shoes but as of this moment I don't imagine there is any snow to be found in all of the 37 acres. If the weather is better than drizzly, if it is even half way decent, we will probably take a run to III. Anniversaries should be celebrated.

for the Splendor of the World . . .

The mild weather holds and Indian Summer takes your breath away. A weekend in the timber with temperatures in the 70's, oak trees showing all shades of red, yellow, brown and orange under bright blue skies refreshes the spirit and feeds the soul. We were blessed with that day last Saturday.

Himself and I cut "the West trail" on Saturday morning. We set to, upon arrival, and didn't stop until our company arrived. Beth brought Austin and Jake to spend the day and our first duty was to walk the Trail of the Well. The boys thought we must have walked about 17 miles but in reality it was only about one. One mile with many things to see, beauty all around and youthful exuberance running ahead, leading us up the trail. It was a good day.

the River Walk

I think this view is just lovely. The trail is headed east to the Sandy Creek. You can see one of our trailblazing marks on the closest tree. I told Himself that perhaps we should be making slash marks on the trees as the early woodsmen, or long riflemen, did. However, if we would have had to reclaim our trail looking for slash marks, we might never have found it. The orange fluorescent paint was much easier to see . . . the other side

Found "Treasure"

This is a photo of the old limestone well we found, while floundering through the timber on the river bottom. We were so excited! I want to get down in it, of course, to see if there are any artifacts but Himself is saying that we cannot for fear of collapse. I do think we can find some kind of a grappling hook or long handled tool, so that we can at least probe for treasure . . . the other side

Writers block over

We have gone to III this past weekend(october 15,16, and 17) Saturday we put all other projects aside and decided to finish our trail. First we had to find the river. I knew the way to the North fence boundry, so when we got there we split up. I went to the west and herself went to the east. Herself found the river, so we went back to where our previous trail ended, and forged into the heavy timber armed with loppers, chain saw, and mower. We headed mostly east, clearing as we went. After we cleared several yards, we came upon a piece of tin lying to the side. As herself was in the lead, she investigated and found an old well about 20ft deep and 5-6ft in diameter, lined with limestone rocks. After looking for awhile, we went ahead with the trail and came to a beautiful overlook to Sandy Creek. The creek is low this time of the year, but it looks interesting. I noticed just about every tree of age has poison ivy vines creeping up to the tree tops. One vine I noticed was approx. 5" in diameter. Eventually, we will attact the vines near the trail. On we went, cutting and clearing until we came to the SE border, where we we're going to have to start up a big hill. It was getting late, so decided to call it a day. Went back to the shack, cleaned up and had brots for supper.
We have since found out that limestone wells were built in the 1800's, as later wells were lined with tile. The well is in excellent condition for being over 100 and maybe 200 years old. It is empty, except for some branches and leaves. I am very curious to do further exploring in this area to see if we can find and indication of a cabin or house. To much poison ivy at this time.

We knew it was supposed to cool off that nite, as around 7:30PM the temperature had already dropped to the lower 50's. So we decided we would fire up the stove for the nite. I was in bed around 10:00. Around 12:30 I could feel the cold creeping, so got up and threw more logs into the fire. I checked the temperature outside, it was 48 degrees. Got up again at 3:30 to fire up the stove again, and the temp was 42 degrees. Got up again at 5:30 for good and got the coffee going. I know herself got up once to feed the fire, yet she claims twice. I am such a light sleeper that I hear every sound, so I have my doubts as to her having got up twice.
Sunday we got up and started up on the trail again. It was decided that we would start where we wanted the trail to begin and see if we could meet up where we had finished from the previous day. It must have been luck, or herself's compass reading ability, but we came out right where we wanted. We ended up with eight tenths of a mile of trail. The next time we will continue the trail to the west end of the property which should give us a minimum of 2 miles of trail. Keep in mind that this trail is going thru raw, heavy timber. It is hard work, but a feeling of accomplishment greets us when finished.
We have used the dc/ac converter for three weekends now. I estimate the lamp has been on for approx. 5 hours, and have filled the air mattress 3 - 4 times, and have not had to re-charge the battery yet. I know it will fail when we need it the most, but I need to have some kind of idea how long we can expect from the battery. Thanks again, Clint, for introducing our "cabin in the woods" to electricity.
Just to give credit where credit is due, herself forged the new trail, leading us and marking the way, clearing with the loppers, then I would follow up with the chain saw, followed by the mower. She did a truly fine job, and the trail is very scenic. Daniel Boone could not have forged a finer trail.
On Monday, we got up and herself started clearing brush from the lane where previous owner had cleared trees. She got 2 trailer loads, and only cleared about 25 yards. At that rate it will take approx. 500 more trailer loads, but its a start. While she was doing this, I took the marking paint and went and marked some trees so we could find the trail after all the leaves have fallen, covering the trail. She worked much harder than myself, but then she is much younger.
All for now.
Boi

October 1, 2005: The leaves are just beginning to show color.

The sounds of Silence

Himself has a block, a writers block. He has not made an entry for over a month. I have been silent, giving him space, but he still does not write. I think, then, the remedy is to take him to III. We will go to Too tomorrow evening. I imagine that we will winterize the cabin; lock her down for winter. Not that we won't go again this fall but at this time of year, you never know what Mother Nature has in store. So to protect against a freeze, snow or just plain cold temperatures, we will need to close her down. Then, Saturday morning, we will head to III. We hope to get out into that beautiful timber and a have a look see. Maybe cut some trails. Look around to see where we might situate a house in a year or two. We are taking an extra day and will stay until Monday. We are anxious; can't wait! Our weather forecasters are predicting a beautiful weekend. 70 degree highs. Lows in the mid 40s. A fire in the woodburner will feel good at night or first thing in the morning, to take the chill off but Himself shouldn't have to get up in the night to add firewood -- not if we go prepared. And we will.

I have faith that on our return, Himself just might have something to say. the other side

The lull before the storm

Saturday the pond was still and green and stagnant. It almost seemed that one could take a piece of chalk and write on the green, slate board surface.

Sunday morning we arose to thick, gray skies and drizzly rain and the look of the pond was fresher, clearer.

I like both ponds.

Fall fashions

From: http://www.conservation.state.mo.us/nathis/seasons/fall/
Kansas City Region: Fall colors are just starting to turn in most of the region, but the process will begin to accelerate with cool evening temperatures predicted for this week (lows in the 40's). Sumac, Virginia creeper, poison ivy and dogwood are starting to turn red. Hackberry, redbud, honey locust, elm, ash. hickory, and cottonwood are starting to show some yellow. There is good viewing of fall color in Swope Park, White Alloe Creek CA, Burr Oak Woods CA, Maple Woods NA, and Big Buffalo Creek CA. Highways 45 and 24 make excellent drives for fall color viewing. Many trees in the Sedalia area are beginning to show fall color. Most notable are walnut, ash, and sycamore with shades of yellow. Dated 9/29/2005

We are sitting on the porch at III. The skies are overcast, the wind gusty and occasional thunder rumbles around the edges. Rain drips and, falling on the tin roof, it sounds more than what it is. To the noise of a thunderstorm in the night and what sounded like pouring rain, we got up to not even a half-inch of rain in the gauge. There will be more rain this morning and we are more or less content to sit on the porch with our morning coffee and wait it out.

I take a stroll in my green, waterproof, shoes and sweatshirt, around the clearing. I am almost wishing I could be working, cutting brush and trimming back cedar trees but I remind myself that I wished for the thunderstorm and rain and I must be satisfied. We hear crows and blue jays scolding and an occasional wild turkey's gobble. There are other bird sounds that we cannot recognize, nor name. A gray squirrel runs through the clearing and disappears into the trees. Himself catches a glimpse of a deer bounding across the trail and into a thicket. The pond was moss green yesterday, stagnant and still, but the rain has brought it back to life with raindrops stirring the surface.

A fall shopping list:
Tarps for winter.
Snowshoes and
Cross-country skies.
Ice skates, perhaps.
A yellow, "no'eastern" rain hat
to allow for rainy walks;
to keep rain off the neck
Mud boots for Himself.


Yesterday we cleared more of this old pasture and cut up some of the bigger logs for firewood, thinking forward to winter. I cut back cedars to allow more sunlight for little hardwoods and Himself used the chain saw to move the clearing back and then mowed down the tall grass.

There is some color coming to the timber. Oaks are starting to turn brown or red, just around the edges. The few walnuts have thrown off their summer foliage and the fewer cottonwoods have changed to yellow and lightened their load of leaves. One large tree in the west, which I can’t identify, is standing out from its neighbors dressed in red and orange. The fall fashion parade has just begun, giving us a preview of the coming show . . . the other side

In the light of day

Himself is painting the untreated boards of the shade room. We have to paint untreated lumber so that next spring and summer the carpenter bees won't make a beeline for it. Treated lumber is supposed to deter the creatures but I'm not sure it does. The carpenter bees can drill right into a 2X4 or 4X4. Himself sits on the porch many a day and stands guard, armed with a can of superduper, projectile wasp spray. He can take out a carpenter bee at 40 paces and is the fastest gun in the west.

Meanwhile, the shade room is taking shape. It would have been screened in this past weekend but our favorite local lumberyard didn't have enough screen in stock. The wall to the left in the photo is open and now the insects fly in freely and sit on the screen and try to get out. Himself, the old softie, because we opted to use 4X4 treated lumber at the corners instead of cedar posts that I had planned, volunteered to erect a cedar post in the screen room for ambiance and support -- then embellished that with cross braces like in an old western movie. Now what more could a gal ask for . . . the other side

We have light!

Thanks, to Cousin Clint, we now have light at III. He kindly gifted us with a DC to AC converter and the first thing Himself did today upon arriving was to run an electrical wire and hook up an electrical outlet. We plugged a lamp in, turned on the converter and "Presto!" we have light.

Himself asked me what I thought about the light and I said, I don't know.

An electrical light is change. I guess I wonder what the next advancement will be here at III. Starting with Coleman lantern and stove, we have stepped up to cook on propane. We have a sink with a drain that runs outside (even if it is into a pail, which I carry to the garden to recycle the "gray" water) -- and now electricity! I have enjoyed roughing it here this summer, playing pioneer and, as I have said a time or two, practicing for the Second Great Depression which I was sure was inevitable when gas went up to $3.00 gallon; I thought that would squelch the economy and cause the market to crash. I was ** Prepared **!

I have learned things this summer, roughing it at III and coping with the drought at home. I have learned how much water I have wasted in the past. I have learned that I can use much less water and I have figured out ways to recycle the water. At home where I am catching the water off the roof (when it will rain) and here at III, I carry the gray water from the kitchen to the evergreen trees and the garden. Of course, I knew these things; learned as a child watching my folks and my grandparents, traits left over from the droughts of the 30s and habits of the Great Depression. Vegetable and fruit scraps always went to the chickens or to the garden and I remember dry times when the dishwater went to a flower or tree.

I also learned that I like to reuse, recycle, find a new use for an old object. For instance I want to use the cedar trunks that I have kept and cleaned up, removing the bark. At home, I like watering my flowers and vegetables, dipping the pail in the rain barrel. I do not always like carrying the peelings, the egg shells and the watermelon rinds to the garden, here or at home, but find that I do it much more often now and am glad that I am reducing the amount that has to go in the garbage bag and then to the landfill. I like finding just the thing at a flea market or garage sale, something I have needed or can use at III.

I have had fun roughing it with Himself out here at Shag III. We can do with much less than we have in Creston or even Shagbark Too. We are hardy, independent, can improvise and problem solve and we have fun while we do. So an electric bulb burning in our uninsulated hunting cabin? What do I think? I like it. It makes life easier. But even more, I like having fun and "making do" with Himself at III . . . the other side

Shaderoom, too

This is a shaderoom of a different nature. It used to be full of 1st year growth trees, tall grass and scrub. Now the sun streams in, dancing on the ground and twirling among the branches. Between me cutting the small trees, dead limbs out of bigger trees and all manner of other growing things and Himself mowing in there, we are creating a shady place for children to play. I envision the trees growing taller and sturdier with hand holds and branches to climb so that in a few years bairns will be able to play house and cowboys, climb trees, ride rocket ships, be washed up on desert islands and all sorts of imaginative pretend. . . . the other side

Nourishment

For months I planned the shade room. I sketched it out a dozen times, listed materials and calculated cost. I planned the shaderoom with an old-fashioned tin roof, cedar-trunk corner posts and a dirt floor. I planned on screening it in for a cool place to sit with my morning coffee, a shady place to serve breakfast or supper -- away from the heat of the day and the buzz of the bugs.

Himself, on the advice of those that know, talked me out of the cedar posts. They will rot and not last long. We should use treated 4 X 4 posts. Okay, I agree, but still planned the tin roof and the three, screened walls.

The day came to order the material and standing at the counter of the local lumberyard, (not a home center, mind you. a lumberyard) I am told, "You have to special order the galvanized tin; the tin is not stock material". Himself says, we may as well shingle it. "Shall we shingle it?" So, in the heat of the moment with the lumberman frazzled, tired and overworked and Himself just wanting to get the job started and done, in a matter of minutes we figure the shingles and the sheathing for the roof and idea of the tin roof ripples away.

Standing at the counter, I showed Himself the sketch I quickly drew, figuring three sheets of plywood to cover the 12 X 12 roof. It looked too good to be true; no cutting, just lay three sheets of plywood, alternate directions, up on the rafters. Look at this, I said, does this look right? Ok, he said and we recited the order, wrote the checkand hightailed it to III before the lumberman could change his mind about the delivery.

After an afternoon of hard and rewarding work setting the corner posts, it came time to sit and reflect on the afternoon's accomplishments, to admire our handiwork created from 4 X 4 posts, cement premix and pond water. You are going to be short plywood, he said, and I got my sketchpad and studied and pondered and reluctantly agreed that in those moments at the counter of the lumberyard, that while calculating our needs I did, indeed, short us on the sheathing for the roof.

So it was planned that I would pull the trailer to town the next morning, brave the wrath of the frazzled, tired and overworked lumberman and ask him to cut two sheets of plywood and "while you are at it, toss in another (60#) bundle of shingles" and, and "yes, I know you want to be out of here by noon." Himself would stay behind; he would cut and hang rafters so that upon my return we could, at full speed, prepare the roof and start to shingle.

And it was done. I pulled the trailer. I braved the wrath. I bought the material that would finish the roof of the shaderoom.

Himself executed nicely. He labored and sawed and drilled and corrected my architectural mistakes and because, in my calculations, I was south one foot there is a special corner in the shaderoom called "Nancy's corner". Because I believe that good comes of difficult situations, Nancy's corner will be commemorated. Perhaps it will be stained glass. Maybe there will be a child-sized door, a secret egress. Maybe it will just be painted differently than the rest of the cabin.

I enjoyed the planning of the shaderoom. I enjoyed the adventure of the "doing" and solving the problems and correcting the errors. I can rejoice in Nancy's corner because I dared to dream it and Himself and I dared to do it. . . . the other side

People need dreams, there's as much nourishment in 'em as food.

Dorothy Gilman

LABOR DAY LABOR - Sept 3,4, and 5 - 2005

Wow, I didn't think a Labor Day Holiday would be so busy. We stopped at II Thurs nite. Got up Friday and went to Princeton to place an order for the screen room. Can you deliver, we asked. Well, maybe, very busy, need to get done early, don't know, it would be late. Finally he said yes but late, maybe 2 or 3 in the PM. So placed our order and went on to III. I went to the neighbors and told him that the lumber yard would be delivering and where to place the materials. About 2:30 i decided to go up to the driveway and start mowing. No more than started up the lane and here comes a pickup with a big trailer loaded with our materials. Not only did he deliver right to the cabin, but he helped unload.
So we immediately started in on the screen room. We set the corner 4x4 pressure treated posts in concrete and made sure all were plum and true. Let them set overnite. Next morning, I started setting the roof trusses while, of course, "herself" went to town. There had been a slight mis-calculation on the amount of roof sheathing we would need so of course Nance went after the needed materials. Now, I am wondering, she had been planning this screen room ever since we started going down there. Spent hours measuring, planning, etc and still she came up 1 and 1/2 sheets of 4x8 plywood short. Was this planned to get her to town, as if she needed such a plan? Pretty suspicious to me. Anyway by the time she got back, all the roof trusses were installed. next step was to get the plywood up and tacked down. all went well till we got to the pieces Nance went to pick up. We had to have them cut in half so they could be hauled in the trailer. Anyway, it looked like the cuts were made in the design of a half moon. As we have no electricity i couldn't straigten out the cuts, so just slapped them on as is. Left a pretty good gap as i had to adjust for the circular cut. So, got the sheathing up, roof felt down, and shingled, in 2 days work. Not bad as the only power tool we had was a battery powered drill. Any cuts were done by hand. Now all thats left is to brace the roof and screen it in. After the screen room is done, i have a few more stumps to clear, then it will be onto the trails. It was truly a Labor Day Weekend.
And the screen room has a special corner, called "Nance's Corner". She will have to tell you about that, as I have been forbidden to even mention it. Ha . . . himself

August at III

We spent Saturday and Sunday at III (see his entry below). It was typical August weather and we did get some clearing done although it was really too humid to be doing much. We arrived Saturday morning, 8/20, and jumped right on to the hard jobs. Himself went to mowing and I went to town! I found a great thrift shop and checked out a couple of other shops in Bethany. I also filled the jeep with gas, which hurt, as I had to pay $2.57/gal. That is the most I have ever had to pay for gas in my entire life. I only record it here so that I can look back in 20 years and either say, "gee, we were still burning gas then?" or "wow! I have to pay $7.70/gal now -- that was cheap back in the olden days!" I wonder which it will be? Maybe we will be running our vehicles on soy bean oil in 2025???

While himself runs around playing commando or Rambo with the buzzing insects (we are ordering him a holster in which to carry his super-duper, wasp and hornet spray -- he's the fastest draw in the West!), I continue to make improvements. I carried a 1/2 ton of broken tile from the top of the drive to the wettest part of the driveway one weekend. Wait, to clarify, I dug them out of the brush, threw them into a trailer and carted them down the hill. No way could I have carried that much broken tile and be done already. Last weekend, I shoveled out the fire pit (2 trailer loads) and carted the ashes up to another place in the drive that has a low spot. Previously, I edged the sloping drive with cement block. I figure the blocks will allow water to run through but will hold the ashes that I have now carted up and dumped. Ashes are much easier to dig than the red, Missouri clay.

Now, to be fair, himself cooked gormet meals all weekend and maybe even washed the dishes. He also revved up the chain saw and cleared some more scrub and cut some trees. He sent me into the brush and tall grass (he really doesn't like the insects -- case you couldn't tell) to clear first year growth trees so he could mow that patch down. In addition to the cabin clearing being a fire break, by keeping it mowed we will cut down on the risk of ticks too.

So, all and all, we enjoy each and every weekend that we spend at III. We have so many plans for when it cools off, for Fall, that I don't suppose we can possibly get them all done. One project we do want to finish is to get the Shade Room up and roofed. That will make life simpler and more organized and we'll hang the hand tools in there and park the Mule and the lawn mowers there too. That will free up the front porch, now cluttered. The trails, too, are a priority for both of us. We can't wait to get some trails cut into the "deep" woods, down to the river. We disagree on which direction we need to go to get to the river -- but we will find it! And this fall we will walk in to where we want to eventually build our house and decide on the layout so that next summer we can get my barn (garage) built. We will probably put running water to it and have a stool and shower in a corner of the barn. Of course, that will mean a septic tank or leach field so there will be plenty to think about for next year. The planning is almost as much fun as the doing!

And so go our days at III . . . the other side

yellow jackets demise and other things

well, we went to Shag III last weekend 8/20/05 to complete my covert mission to search and destroy my terrorist yellow jacket nest. I waited till late afternoon to locate the nest, then marked it with spray paint so i could find it when it got dark.
about 8:30 I decided it was time, so donned my cammo gear, and my super flying insect killer that shoots a stream 50 feet, and headed out on my mission. I arrived at the nest at 8:32 P.M. and discovered a few of the yellow jackets we're on patrol. As they had not yet spotted me, i decided it was now or never. I let loose with one steady burst and totally doused the nest, walking toward it as I fired. One full can into the hole, then I ran like h___. Thats not heck, either.
I checked the next morning around 5:30 A.M. Did not see any activity, so let loose with another long burst directly into the hole. As of 11:30 A.M. there was no activity, so will assume the nest has been destroyed. I will keep my eye on it though. If i spot more, i will use gas on them this time.
I am getting my equipment gathered for a fall push on the 4-wheeler trails. I now have ammased 5, yes thats right, five chain saw blades, so when I start into the timber, I won't come out for awhile,
We have started pushing outwards from the driveway towards the timber line, clearing out small trees and scrubs and tall weeds. It will mean alot more mowing to keep it cleared, but this will be good to keep cleared for no better reason than a fire break if there ever happened to be a fire.
We seem to have cleared the herd of mice that were nesting inside and outside of the cabin. After putting about 20 boxes of d-con out, I have not seen any indications of mice in or around the cabin. I imagine when it gets colder they will be looking for a place to winter over, but they will only meet death. . . . himself

the battle goes on and on and on

We have come to find out that there will be a never ending supply of insects. Each type seems to have its own time of the year that it becomes a nuisance. I have battled the carpenter bees to a standstill, the ticks, I no longer just flick off. When i spot one crawling on me, I take a bic lighter and burn it off. I singe a few hairs, but why just flick the tick for him to attact later. I prefer to fry them. Now, the yellow jackets. I knew we had a nest, and i knew the general area where the nest was. I have never bothered them, nor provoked them in any way. However, they have attacked me for no reason. Just because I mowed over their nest is no reason, but they did. Now this nest is living on borrowed time. The next time we go down, I will wait till dark and mount a night attact. I will douse the nest with gasoline, then use some lighter fluid to make a trail from the gasoline, then i will ignite the nest. This will be a personnal attact as they have stung me several times. After 2 weeks, the stings still itch.
After visiting with my friend an co-worker Mr Ron M, I have finally convinced Nance to purchase some pressure treated lumber to use for the screen room instead of cedar trees. Although all the books and websites say cedar was used for fence posts, I will lean to the advice of Mr. Ron.
I am looking forward to this fall when the leaves have fallen and I can get started in ernest on my trails. There will be places for small bridges, and I am thinking that railroad ties my be the answer to bridge construction. There seem to be plenty around when I haven't had any use for them, but now that I do, well, we'll see.
All for now.
Boi

Peace of mind

Life is sweet, tender and complete
When you find the bluebird of happiness.
You will find perfect peace of mind
When you find the bluebird of happiness.

Our wildlife refuge houses a number of bluebirds -- or a few, very active bluebirds! I can't tell them apart so don't know if it the same birds all the time or many different ones. Whichever, they are pretty! When the sun glints off their backs, they sizzle! Bluebirds are songbirds and soon, I hope, I will know their song without seeing the bird.

ITS HOT!!!!!!!!!!

We went to Shag. II on July 15. It is a Friday and hotter than __ll. We did mow and because of the lack of rain, the grass hadn't grown much so we completed the job in record time. Of course the drive belt on my rider keeps coming off, and strangely enough it is always when I am going up the steepest part of a bank. So when the belt comes off, i go rolling down the hill backwards, as without the drive belt, the brakes alone won't stop the mower. So, full speed down the hill backwards, 95 degrees, and hoping to get the mower to stop under a shade tree. Well, that never happens either, so wherever the damm mower stops is where I get to put the drive belt back on, and its never in the shade. Anyway, I purchased new drive belts and installed them, so hopefully that will cure the problem.
Saturday: DEFIANCE. It happened in the first degree. I was shocked and MAD!!!!!All I wanted to do was get to SHAG III early while it was cool, but no. Someone had to prove how independent she was, so we lost about 3 hours.
Anyway, when we go to III, it was hot and humid. I mowed and by the time I was done, I was covered with dust and dirt. Nance watered the trees, but was taking breaks everytime I looked. The temperature inside the cabin was 97 degrees and climbed higher after we opened the windows. With no breeze to draw out the hot air, it was decided that we would go back to II and spend the nite. We could have stayed at III but when its to hot and dangerous to work its best to move on.
As there has been rain since we have been to either place there will be alot of mowing to do, and we have to go to K.C. for grandchildren's birthdays for awhile, so the pressure will be on.

Dog days: a period of stagnation or inactivity

This is a good way to spend a period of inactivity.

The brightest of the stars in Canis Major (the big dog) is Sirius, which also happens to be the brightest star in the night sky. In fact, it is so bright that the ancient Romans thought that the earth received heat from it.

according to http://wilstar.com/dogdays.htm

And now we have one theory on why the hot, humid summer days are called the dog days of summer.

Free falls and dog days

I peek in here, checking to see if Himself has posted; I haven't had time but I thought maybe he would have extra time at work. He hasn't been inspired, evidently, and since I am tired of seeing that tick in here when I bop in, I'll add a short note just to move the tick down the page.

We didn't get to Shag III this past weekend as we needed a weekend at home and because Iowa has been in the midst of a heat wave. 90 plus degree temperatures and terrific dew points result in + 100 heat indexes. (YOU look up the plural to index -- I don't know it and don't want to take the time to look it up!) Anyway, it was too bloomin' hot to be without electricity, he said. I did remind him that we come from pioneer stock but that, nor the call of the wild, would lure him away from the air conditioner.

As it was, it was good that we planned on being home as Dana took a free fall from a 20' ladder and now is laid up with an injured foot. He had to wait all weekend to see an orthopedic specialist today. He will have to ride to Des Moines tomorrow for a scan of the foot and then go back on Wednesday to consult with the specialist again. Meanwhile, he's surviving on ice packs and pain pills. Poor boy. Poor lucky boy, when you think what it might have been!

To help a little, we had the small Frey over, some. They are always good and offer plenty of free entertainment! We enjoyed every minute of their visits.

okay, the plural of index "can be spelled either indexes or indices" . . .
"Investopedia" says

A True Story. The End.

Female deer tick with dime for size comparison. (borrowed from http://www.ent.iastate.edu/imagegallery/ticks/iscapfwd.html)

Excerpt from Nance's letter, 7/05/05:

I did come home with a tick, tho. That part wasn’t good. Lanny tried to remove it for me but we didn’t have a very good pair of tweezers and he was hanging on for dear life (the tick, that is). So, today, I went to the doctor and had her remove the tick's head. The doc also gave me a one-day antiobiotic, just in case. Anyway, it’s all “behind” me now.

And after all that, I think that Himself is going to sue me for "pain and suffering". Says he has been traumatised!

Maddie Mae, secret agent

Her daddy calls her Agent 99 when she wears this outfit and I think she is adorable in it.

Madeline isn't into fishing yet but I'm sure she will be as much as Morghan and Jack love it. Another year, and we'll have Maddie's picture in here with her first fish and probably Gabrielle and Joey's too!

And PaPa. Someday, PaPa might catch his first fish and get his picture taken!

1st Visit, revisited

This photo was taken on our first visit to Shag III and believe it or not, the photo was taken on New Years Eve day 2004. Obviously, it was a mild, winter's day. Traci and Craig and the KC bairns met us there and we just hung out for a few hours. I have to admit that I enjoy it more in summer @ 90 degrees than in December but I am looking forward to fall and I would like to try to learn to snowshoe or cross country ski so I will like it in winter, too. And in winter, I won't have to worry about the ticks!

Mule

The "Mule" is another form of recreation at Shag III. Here is Craig, Gabrielle and Joey riding the Mule. Joe looks like he might be asleep in the photo; I don't think he is but more than one child has taken a nap while riding! All five of the bairns love the Mule now and fight over who's turn it is and beg and plead for rides. If the Mule isn't running, it is not unusual to find one or more babes just up and sitting on the thing. We don't dare leave the key in the ignition anymore as certain little children are very observant and know all about which things to push and which to turn and we don't want anyone under the age of 7 years driving yet.

The biggest fish to date

Tony caught this beauty (?) not too long after he dropped his line in. As far as I know, it was the biggest catch of the weekend.

Our pond

Our pond is muddy, not pretty at all. It's source is runoff down the red Missouri clay hills. Some day we may be able to clear and grass the natural waterway and clear the pond up some but for now, the brown pond does not keep the fisherman out.

Tony and Dana both caught some nice cats out of the pond (and they throw them back in to be caught again) and below are pictures of Morghan and Jack with their catches.

I have come to believe that no one is happier, more joyful, than an avid fisherman with a fish on the line. When I see that elation, that pure joy, I wish I were a fisherman.

And more fish! 

Jack Gibson Frey with his chub or his blue gill. 7/2005

There are fish in the pond! 

Morghan Grace with her nice blue gill (???) 7/2005