Building A Log Cabin

Fall is here!

2011-10-14T16:09:00.002-04:00

Bad blogger (a.k.a. ME!) is back and excited for my favorite season - fall! We are headed up next week to the cabin for several days and the colors should be at their peak in Northern Michigan.

I also saw my first eastern Blue Bird! I was so excited - took several bad shots and the only one that was half-way decent was this one of him apparently snubbing me. Ah well, I probably deserved it!

How are the fall colors in your area? Have you been doing any fall baking?

Boat Ride

2011-08-24T18:52:00.008-04:00

Do you think......

....that my dog.....

....enjoys boat rides?!

Watch Scout's mouth below open and shut with excitement on her cruise around the lake.

Meet my friend the Blue Heron

2011-08-04T20:54:00.001-04:00

Heading to the cabin tomorrow. Hoping I have exciting stories to tell you. Just know it will probably involve birds, a lake, cabin, glass of wine and an adirondack chair! What are you up to this weekend? (By the way, do you think I'm the laziest blogger ever? I'm hoping not....)

For the love of lakes

2011-06-18T20:32:00.004-04:00

A lake is the landscape's most beautiful and expressive feature. It is earth's eye; looking into which the beholder measures the depth of his own nature.

~Henry David Thoreau

A bad day of fishing is better than a good day of work. ~Author Unknown

Seems like the summer is going by so fast! Didn't it just get here? Long hours at work and school stuff has made me a dull girl but never fear....I have my escape planned. Next weekend we are heading to the cabin and having a family party. One thing I am most looking forward to is sitting in my adirondack chair and looking at my lake. Also....seeing Greg try to take Scout for a walk again.....ha,ha!

Log Cabin Feathered Friends

2011-05-31T21:31:00.003-04:00

The bird watching has been great at the cabin. I currently have a wren, a chickadee and a tree swallow nesting in my bird houses. I am so excited - do you want to come to my birdy baby shower?! LOL!

Here's my nesting Tree Swallow. The male always watches over the nest box from a nearby tree and brings his sweetie some food while she's nesting.

A personal favorite is the Rose-breasted Grosbeak. They are at the feeders from morning to night. They sing such sweet songs.

I've finally been successful in attracting the Orioles (jelly, mealworms, orange sugar water and orange slices do the trick.) They are definitely the most spoiled bird at my cabin.

What birds are you seeing? What is your favorite?

I need to be quieter....

2011-05-19T21:56:00.003-04:00

In the morning at the cabin, I get all giddy about running down to the dock to get some good bird photos. Greg said I sound like a freight train when I head out and snap twigs and branches and stomp on the deck. And also that it's any wonder I get any bird photos. But I do.....look honey.....I think they like me.....

Do you see why this photo cracks me up?

2011-05-09T20:33:00.004-04:00

*Poor Greg! Do I mention that Scout doesn't do this with me? Nor the dog walkers I have come during the week when I'm working? In fact, they left a note last week saying how good she walks on the leash. I showed Greg the note and he is claiming it's a conspiracy, ha,ha!

Birds at the Log Cabin

2011-04-26T21:56:00.004-04:00

One of the things I love about where our log cabin is located is all the bird watching opportunities. This past weekend I witnessed a Loon pair in love on our lake and I am hoping we have a couple loon chicks this year.

I've picked up a few new bird houses to put on top of our kitchen cupboards. Hobby Lobby has great birdhouses by the way.

The juncos are still plentiful which indicates how long winter hung on in Michigan this year. I like juncos, they're such friendly, hopping birds.

Sparrows are usually a dime a dozen, but I do think the Tree Sparrows are cute.

And here's my favorite little Chickadee - not a bird but my lovely niece of course! She has a megawatt personality and owns my heart. (I won't mention her pinching me and laughing last week....ha,ha!)

Game Night at the Cabin

2011-04-14T21:45:00.003-04:00

I've gotten Greg's family (well now their my family, ha!) hooked on the game BOGGLE. Have you played this? If you have, then you know how many crazy words people try to make up and then get points for. Boggle does this to you!

Greg almost had me in fits over the word "Yaw." I was sure he was crazy....until I looked it up in the dictionary. Yep, it's a word. And he got the points for it. I think somebody is going to call me tomorrow and ask me for my spelling bee trophy back.

What are your favorite games to play with the family?

Why....

2011-04-02T13:54:00.002-04:00

This is why you don't take your mom and aunt to the museum.

And this is why you need this afterwards....

This was my weekend....

2011-03-15T18:55:00.001-04:00

And how was YOUR weekend? I don't know about you, but I'm ready to start seeing GREEN again!

Finishing the Cabin Basement

2011-03-06T20:00:00.002-05:00

We've had the cabin for almost three years now and we've finally reached the point to finish our walk-out basement. I'm looking forward to using it as additional entertaining space. Greg has visions of putting animal heads on the wall....seriously, he's going to get me kicked out of my membership to Defenders of Wildlife & The National Wildlife Federation! :-)

Anyways, we decided to do the walls in tongue & groove wood to continue our theme. One of my unnamed relatives likes to remark about our cabin "it's too bad you don't have a wall to paint." It's a log cabin! And also I'm too lazy to paint walls......hee,hee!

Here's phase 1 - first wall is done and so is the stair landing.

Anyways, while Greg is dreaming about his potential man cave, I'm thinking about where the wine cellar is going to go......

Meet my new little friend...

2011-02-27T19:26:00.004-05:00

While looking at the big tree in front of our cabin this weekend, I noticed a little head peeking out of one the holes.....

Apparently I'm the proud mama of a baby red squirrel!

I'm a sucker for babies!

It was sweet to see him so gingerly exploring his world outside his safe little nest.

And now I'm sure he's headed in for a nap and to dream about all the peanuts he's going to get off my bird feeders this year.

A winter walk...

2011-02-19T22:19:00.003-05:00

Once again, Scout is going to take Greg for a walk. Whoops, I mean Greg is taking Scout for a walk....yeah....let's see how this works out.

First she sits down and refuses to budge.

Then they walk to the end of the dock. And as I call out to Greg to make sure she doesn't jump onto the lake (as I have terrible visions going through my head of my puppy plunging through the icy waters) - she promptly jumps onto the lake.

Yep, time to come on back before mommy has a heart attack!

(And if you're curious about Greg's other walking adventures with Scout, click here: http://logcabininmichigan.blogspot.com/2010/01/dog-story-from-log-cabin.html

Out and about the log cabin

2011-02-01T18:52:00.005-05:00

One of Greg's best friends and his family came to visit us at the cabin this past weekend. With their 4 kids and my stepson - they out-numbered the adults. I won't even tell you about the volume level......

Greg and his buddy went out onto the lake to check the ice fishing conditions. Later on they caught a nice pike!

Of course we had to take everyone to see the elk herd in Gaylord, Michigan. The city maintains an elk herd of over 70 elk on about 104 acres. It's amazing to get so close to these beautiful animals. Some weigh over 800 pounds!

Here's our friend's children posing in front of the elk park.

And of course Scout was beside herself - so many children to love and lick! I think it was the only time she left my side for more than 5 minutes!

*We're expecting 12 inches of snow tonight in lower Michigan - they are saying it will be blizzard conditions and that it will be "thundering" tonight. Should be an interesting drive to work tomorrow! To my mid-west friends - stay warm and safe!

This photo needs no explanation...

2011-01-21T11:57:00.000-05:00

Winter Foliage

2011-01-09T20:10:00.004-05:00

First off - a belated Happy New Year to all my bloggy friends! Did I tell you that one of my New Years Resolutions is to be a better blogger, that includes getting around to visit you more often! :-)

It was in the 20's and very sunny at the cabin this weekend. We went on a couple winter hikes and dreamed about never coming home. A lot of you know how much I love winter and wanted to share with you some of nature's handiwork.

I don't know what this plant is, but I liked how the bright red contrasted against the snow.

Look at the snow crystals on this bush glistening in the sun.

Evergreen trees are always one of my favorites.

And here's Scout eating some of nature's handiwork. She wants to let you know that winter is very tasty!

Winter Wonderland

2010-12-21T21:48:00.005-05:00

I love all seasons and winter is no different. I think in finding many activities to do in winter such as skiing and snow shoeing, it makes the cold more tolerable. Our cabin is located in a snowbelt in Northern Michigan - and this makes my dog Scout beyond happy. (Greg has been grumbling about all the shoveling, but really all he's doing is the deck. We got a snow plow guy for the driveway.)

Here's Scout guarding all her snow.

Greg shoveled the deck. I was too busy feeding and talking to the birds.

My bird feeders have been so busy. Almost had the nuthatch eat out of my hand. The chickadees always do and scold me while they do it.

How much snow do you have? I was thinking about making a snowman but I figured Scout would canabalize it shortly after. Just how much snow can a dog eat?!

Winter Weekend

2010-12-11T10:34:00.003-05:00

Made it up to the cabin last night. It was 32 degrees and plenty of snow on the ground. Scout could barely contain her excitement - I think she ate half the snow in our backyard! And of course she kept "faking me out" all night pretending she had to go outside to the bathroom and as soon as we got out there she ran around wanting me to chase her. Not fun at 3:00 in the morning!

The birdwatching was phenomenal this morning. We had Chickadees, Hairy, Downy and Red-Bellied Woodpeckers, Gold finches and a Tufted Tit-Mouse. The more birds I see, the more bird feeders I want to buy. So this afternoon I'm dragging Greg over to Bosmans to pick up more birdy food and another new feeder. Later on we are going to go snow shoeing. I'm debating about taking Scout - cuz I know she'll be pulling her leash so hard that I'll be water skiing on top of the snow! What have you got planned this weekend?

Christmas is coming to the cabin...

2010-12-02T21:56:00.003-05:00

Gosh, it feels like ages since I've posted. To give you a quick run down.....changed jobs, registered for classes, been playing with my niece, had a bad root canal (which has left me with nightmares of my dentist) and joined the Board of Directors at the Michigan Audubon Society. How's that for busy?

I've started to decorate the log cabin for Christmas, just need to do the outside. I'll post some photos when we head up there next weekend. I can't tell you how much I daydream when I'm in my car (or at work, ha,ha!) and think about being at the cabin, snow on the ground, birds at my feeders, warm kitty on my lap, fluffy dog at my feet, hot chocolate in my hand and having my neighbors caroling outside my door. Okay...we know that's not going to happen......but really, don't you think they can at least sing to me?

Guess who's invited to Thanksgiving Dinner?

2010-11-15T21:11:00.002-05:00

No, just kidding! We wouldn't have a squirrel for Thanksgiving. Well, unless he offered to bring a pumpkin pie or something.....

Salmon Run

2010-11-01T20:49:00.002-04:00

It's a little late in the season, but Greg and I managed to find a spot in northern Michigan where the salmon were still "running." (For you non-fishers out there, it's when the salmon swim upstream to spawn and make more salmon babies!)

Here's Greg in action!

He landed this fish in less than 5 minutes after casting. Afterwards, we let the salmon go because he was "fresh" and we wanted to give him an opportunity to spawn in case he hadn't done so already. We're nice like that - ha,ha! :-)

Even Scout was impressed - she managed to wake up from her nap on the bridge to give Greg a congratulatory tail wag. After that, it was time for treats! It's hard work guarding the river of course....

5 Year Wedding Anniversary

2010-10-28T11:24:00.003-04:00

Just a quick post today! We are up at the log cabin celebrating our 5-year wedding anniversary. We have nature hikes, a fishing excursion and some nice dinners out planned. I can't think of a better way to celebrate.

Greg and I met over 8 years ago at an art auction through a mutual friend. (And no, neither one of us bought art that night!) 3 years later, we married on October 28, 2005 in my favorite season - autumn of course! One thing I love about my husband is that he always strives to make me happy (for example, giving in to me by letting me get a cat and a dog. Though I haven't told him about my plans for a goat yet.....)

Have a wonderful week and I will check in with your blogs later this weekend my friends!

Unfinished projects at the log cabin

2010-10-24T12:58:00.002-04:00

Is it just me, or is Autumn going by quickly? I didn't make it to the cabin last week due to the flu. (Now why did I get that painful flu shot at work? Hmph!!) But this week we will be headed up there as Greg and I will be celebrating our 5-year wedding anniversary! Hope there is still some fall colors left when we get there!

I was thinking about all the projects we didn't complete this summer, putting stone on the outside basement wall, putting in the walk out patio, having a party with my reclusive neighbors, etc. Oh well, there's always next year! Winter is coming and I must break out my wine collection! Cheers!

Bright Sunshiney Day

2010-10-14T20:56:00.003-04:00

When we're at the cabin, we see the sun rise over the lake every morning. Every time I hear that song "I can see clearly now" by Johnny Nash, it makes me think of log cabin mornings, sitting on the deck, watching the birds and drinking some hot tea.

We are headed up this weekend and the fall colors should be at their peak. Can't wait to get some photos! Here are some from a few weeks ago.

Another morning at the cabin.....Scout is probably walking Greg right now. Ha!

Here's a little toad sunning himself. I had an explosion of toad babies this summer in our yard - at one point I had counted over 30 of them!

My Dahlias are still blooming and have become one of my new favorite flowers.

And now I leave you with one of my favorite songs....

Trains & Weather

2010-10-10T09:37:00.002-04:00

Should I admit this? Okay, I am going to, I have no filter you know. I am fascinated by the weather and by trains. A couple weekends ago, they were having a fall color tour on one of these antique trains in Grayling, Michigan. I bought tickets for our family. What's really neat is the original train depot that was built in 1882 is still standing and is now maintained as a museum. The day was cloudy but here are a few photos:

The next thing I'm fascinated by is the Weather. And in our cabin town, we have a National Weather Service Station, I believe only 1 of 4 in the state. (When we would drive by this mysterious building, Greg would always tell me I think it's a cover for a secret government operation....he had me going for a while!) So when they announced a rare open house, I jumped at the chance - secret operation or not, I was going to get to the bottom of this!

Glad to know I'm not the only nosey person....I mean interested person in the weather!

Here's one of the meteorologist explaining the weather maps to us. He looks like he could be a secret operative.....

Here they are releasing a weather balloon. Maybe it's a secret message to aliens? Hmm...

At the National Weather Service, they are staffed 24-7. Most of the meteorologists have 4-5 computer screens in front of them, monitoring the weather. It was interesting to find out that they put weather buoys out in the great lakes to monitor the weather and provide information on lake conditions. So the last thoughts of the day are....they could be secret agents, and I wonder if they would hire me?! (Greg is rolling over on the floor laughing hysterically at me right now....)

Autumn in full swing

2010-10-05T07:49:00.003-04:00

It seems like I cannot pick up enough fall decorations for the cabin. I still think I need more pumpkins (can you hear Greg grumbling now?) Here are some recent images...

From 2010_10_02

Scout is a little upset over the size of her pumpkin. Think I need to get her a new one.

Fall is coming!

2010-09-23T20:17:00.002-04:00

My favorite time of year is upon us. I love autumn and can't wait to show off Michigan's colors to you soon. How is it looking in your neck of the woods?

I've started decorating the cabin. I've decided a girl can't have too many pumpkins. Thus I plan on putting pumpkins everywhere - inside and outside the cabin. Greg says we don't live on a pumpkin farm but I beg to differ...

The trees have a little hint of color right now.

The ducks are getting ready to migrate. I'm sure my poop covered dock will miss them.

And Scout may be the happiest of all. She thrives on cold weather and is ready for the white fluffy stuff.

A walk in the woods

2010-09-14T21:22:00.003-04:00

Pursue some path, however narrow and crooked, in which you can walk with love and reverence.
-Henry David Thoreau

Greg's parents have a cottage on 20 acres nearby to our log cabin. The setting is so beautiful filled with so many old trees. One cool morning, the four of us along with Scout went on a hike.

Here's Greg's dad leading the way. He wins the prize for being the fastest walker.

I did notice one thing. Greg and his dad walk alike.

I loved this photo of Greg's dad in the middle of the valley, breathing in the fresh clean air and enjoying the moment.

I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived.
-Henry David Thoreau

Small Town Fun

2010-08-31T20:47:00.004-04:00

I think one of the best things me and Greg did was select a "small town" in which to base our log cabin. It's nice to escape from the concrete jungle. And doesn't it seem like the small towns always have the nicest events and friendliest people?

One evening we headed downtown.....

I packed up my wine backpack with "spirits" and cheese. (Special thanks to one of my friends for getting us this gift for our wedding - best gift ever!)

And we headed to the town pavilion to listen to the local orchestra play a summer concert.

They played a tribute to Frank Sinatra as well as many other favorites. My in-laws loved it. (On the other hand, my pre-teen nephew and stepson were begging for ice cream money but I think they managed to listen to a few tunes...)

Now I must admit, I wasn't sure if I should have brought my wine backpack. (Greg's mom was glad I did! Ha!) And during the concert, I noticed this elderly lady staring at me and my backpack. At the end of the concert she approached me and I thought "uh oh, I offended someone." Instead she smiled and said "now that's the way to enjoy a summer concert!" I knew I loved this town......

Love of a child and dog

2010-08-29T21:05:00.004-04:00

Greg's best friend and his 2 boys came to visit us at the cabin this weekend. Scout loves all kids but was particularly enthralled with the youngest one. Scout loved him immediately and followed him all around. My heart melted to see these two together. Can you see the connection in the photo? I still can't stop saying Aw!

Wildfire

2010-08-16T19:11:00.003-04:00

Remember that song...."she ran calling Wildfire......" It was by Michael Martin Murphy. I love the songs of the 70's and this was one of my favorites. When Greg and I went for a day trip down to the Manistee River recently, we saw this woman riding her horse down the River. Can you imagine what a beautiful ride that was.....wish that was me.....sigh.....

Special Note To Greg: I want a pony and I'm going to name it Wildfire!
For the rest of you, I've posted the video below.

Indestructible

2010-08-01T09:36:00.003-04:00

See my chipmunk? He's lucky to be alive. He jumped from the deck railing trying to land on one of my bird feeders in the trees. Once he jumped, he was only able to grasp the very ends of the perch with his front paws, did a somersault and then fell 2 stories to the ground. SPLAT! Horrified and half crying (yeah, you all know what a softie I am)- I go running down and find him. Here he is looking around. He chirped at me and went on his merry way. Yep, he's indestructible!

P.S. I had several essays to write for school this week and a job interview that I think went well. Keep your fingers crossed for me! I'll be over to visit you soon!

Outdoor projects at the cabin

2010-07-26T17:06:00.002-04:00

We've been busy at the log cabin doing outdoor projects and entertaining friends. This past weekend I was elected recording secretary of our lake association. I keep joking to Greg that I'm one step away from being mayor of this one-horse town!

Greg has been driving his ATV and picking up all these free rocks for our slope. He also put in a mulch pathway that I think turned out pretty nice.

Greg's flower boxes are doing well!

The butterflies seem to like these purple flowers. (I don't know what they are called, I'm just happy I haven't killed them! Ha!)

My new bird bath - don't think I've shown it to you yet. I found this in an antique shop for $20 - isn't it wonderful?

We've been invaded by baby Grosbeaks! I counted 7 of them the other day on our deck crying for their parents to feed them. They're noisy and I love them. Look at this plump little girl - she's certainly well fed! I don't know what my excuse is......I need to tell PF Changs and Pepsi Cola to quit feeding me....

Three questions on the cabin pets

2010-07-19T20:52:00.003-04:00

Question #1 - Do you think I feed Marvin too much?

Question #2 - Do you think Marvin is daydreaming about chipmunks or about buying Scout a one-way ticket to Switzerland?

Question #3- Who do you think is the King of the cabin?

From 2010_07_04

Chipmunk in Charge

2010-07-14T19:50:00.002-04:00

This red squirrel waited patiently for the chipmunk to finish eating at one of our deck feeders. Usually they are aggressive so I was surprised this one was being so polite.

It's going to be a busy week. I have 2 birthdays, a baby shower and sadly a funeral (one of my best friend's father passed away.) I'll be by to visit you soon my friends!

Love and waiting

2010-07-11T20:41:00.003-04:00

Time is too slow for those who wait, too swift for those who fear, too long for those who grieve, too short for those who rejoice, but for those who love, time is eternity.

~Henry Van Dyke

I shot this photo as I was heading back to shore from a morning of kayaking. There was something about the moment, two of the most precious living beings in my life waiting for me.

Of course as soon as Scout saw her mommy, she ran out to the kayak and almost tipped me over with my expensive camera equipment. I'm definitely her number one...

Fun 4th of July

2010-07-06T11:30:00.003-04:00

We've had numerous visitors, dogs running around, kids hitting badminton, people riding on ATVs and lots of kayaking going on. How was your 4th of July and what did you do?

We're staying up here another week and enjoying being lazy. My internet connection with my laptop card has been sporadic so I'm trying to make my blog rounds to all of you. This morning I"m at the coffee shop so I can crank out some emails. Miss you!

Here's some pics of what we've been up to...

Scout has become our lookout now on the dock. I don't have the heart to tell her that no freighters are going to be going by on our lake...

One of my good friends taking her dog Archie out for a kayak ride. By the way, Scout LOVED Archie, those two had a kissy fest during their entire visit.

My two new Adirondack chairs that got a lot of use from Greg and I. By the way, they were only $40 a piece at Christmas Tree Shop. Great deal!

My friend Lisa and her husband taking our ATV out for a spin. Her kids loved it too.

By the way, one of the best moments of the weekend was when my friend's little boy said to me "I love your log house! It's awesome!" Aww......!

Catching up

2010-06-30T14:26:00.002-04:00

Whew - I'm done with school finals! Got a 3.42 this semester (B in anatomy, A+ in writing) so I'm thrilled about that. Anatomy was tough! And I had 2 semesters of it so I'll take my "B" and be very happy!

We are heading up to the cabin and will be there for a few weeks. Have various friends coming to visit s0 I've been planning my menu and fun things to do. I have my guest rules:
1. Do eat all my food.
2. Do not put any strange objects in the toilet.
3. Tell Scout how pretty she is.

Pretty simple.

I"m looking forward to gathering more wildflower bouquets like this one from last week and placing one in the guest room.

Whoops, Scout wanted me to remind you of one other guest rule - it's actually for the men. If you have to do #2, please do it in the downstairs bathroom! Ha!
(Yes, I know that was totally inappropriate to post but you should all know me by now...)

My childhood nightmares

2010-06-22T21:52:00.003-04:00

Before I became a nature lover and tree hugger, I did have some irrational fears as a child. You already know about my dragonfly phobia. I was convinced they would bite me AND sting me at the same time.

Also, did anyone else have their mom and/or relatives tell them not to look caterpillars in the eye? I'm trying to figure out if I'm the only one who believed this crazy tale! I have a sinking feeling.....

Anyways, I'm proud to say I'm over the dragonfly and caterpillar thing. Now the snakes and spiders.......NEVER!!! (P.S. What insect or animal are you afraid of? I can't be the only scaredy cat....)

A fish story

2010-06-20T20:00:00.003-04:00

Somewhere, across the lake....

...a man and his son go fishing at dusk.

They cast and they cast.....

...until the father shows the son how it's done. But.....

...they didn't catch one as big as my baby girl Scout!! Now who's a good girl?!! Scout is! Come to mommy for a big smoochie!

My Dream Patio

2010-06-15T16:27:00.004-04:00

The hubby and I have been doing some serious planning for our walk out patio to the lake. We've been playing around with this cool landscape drawing program called Smart Draw - they let you use it for free for 7 days. The main thing we envision is having a bonfire / entertainment area.

We hit Barnes & Nobles yesterday, pouring through magazines. And Greg poured his coffee accidentally on a few of them! Ha, that's what he gets for making me eat that raspberry chocolate cheesecake. I dislike that combo and wanted something else, but he insisted and said just try it. I did....YUCK!

Anyways, I digress. We've decided we are going to do compacted stone for our patio and will have a paver walkway to it from the doorwall of our walk-out basement. Here's my inspiration...

Who wants to sit with me in these chairs and talk about solving the BP oil gusher?

Something about this crazy frog appeals to me!

A solar water fountain feature....how eco friendly can I get?!

A girl can never have too many bird houses!

Oh...must not forget the margarita machine! Ha!

Things with wings

2010-06-13T17:17:00.003-04:00

When I was a little girl, dragonflies used to scare me. If they landed on me, I would go screaming bloody murder to my mother. Now I pursue them and try to examine all their detail....go figure!

A beautiful moon

2010-06-12T08:28:00.002-04:00

“The night walked down the sky with the moon in her hand.”

Frederic Lawrence Knowles quotes

From 2010_05_27

A few weeks ago we had a full moon shining brightly through the cloud covered sky. It looked so beautiful and mysterious at the same time. It's nights like these that I enjoy sitting on the cabin deck (after being bathed in mosquito repellent) and listening to the peeper frogs and watching the moon go by.

I won't spoil the moment with the joke my husband told that night about the planet Uranus. :-)

Log Cabin Projects

2010-06-10T21:32:00.002-04:00

We've had our log cabin for almost 3 years now and there's still many projects to complete. But here's a few things we completed recently......(after I promised Greg I'd make his favorite dinner and have a cold beer waiting for him!)

Greg painted our plain ole door a nice hunter green. Now I want to dress up the side and front deck with adirondack chairs, a bench with pillows and a margarita machine.

We have a sloping lot so we wanted to make it simpler to get to the lake side. Greg is installing some stairs. Scout said it doesn't matter to her, she'll still pole vault them and land a perfect 10 on the ground!

Oh, and did I mention that our resident chipmunk is doing some landscaping of his own?!

No thank you.....

2010-06-08T15:57:00.002-04:00

My stepson offered me a present......

...but after seeing it pee all over the road and almost on him, I said no thank you!

*P.S. No turtles were harmed in the posting of this blog. Stepson saved the turtle from certain car death in a middle of a rural road and set his course on a creek nearby. I'm still scratching my head wondering how turtles are able to pee that much!!

Cabin Surprises

2010-06-06T18:26:00.003-04:00

If we are strong, and have faith in life and its richness of surprises, and hold the rudder steadily in our hands. I am sure we will sail into quiet and pleasant waters for our old age.
-Freya Stark

First surprise - seeing a fox for the 1st time in my life. She had a few kits with her too. We definitely locked eyes through my cabin window. I bet she could see me smiling....

2nd surprise was having baby Robins hatch in the eaves of our log cabin. Anytime I made a sound on the deck, 3 little heads would pop up looking for food.

And my best surprise........was my Loons coming back to our lake. I believe they are going to try to nest again. And I'm going to do whatever is in my power to help them. I am looking into getting an artificial nesting raft for my Loons as well as buoys to protect them. More on that later......but can you hear my heart singing once again? :-)

Adventures of the Red Squirrel

2010-06-03T12:41:00.003-04:00

Time to lighten things up on my blog!

So how did this Red Squirrel end up exhausted and laying down on my deck railings? To get the answer to that, we have to go back in time....

Here he is munching on some peanuts. Now where did he get those.....

Oh yeah, by cramming his plump little body into my tiny little bird feeder! One thing I do have to say, he was pretty neat. Notice how he placed the empty seed shells outside the feeder.

Broken Heart

2010-06-01T11:35:00.001-04:00

*Just a note to those who read my bird blog, this is the same post that I have posted there today.

See the 2 beautiful Loon eggs in the nest above? It breaks my heart to know they will never hatch due to the unfortunate (and dare I say it - IDIOTIC) actions of a person who got too close to the nest. On the day I found the nest, I posted signs at the boat launch warning everyone and to please give the Loons their space. According to one resident on our lake, it was the first time in 30 years that the Loons had attempted to nest on our lake.

I found the nest last Sunday, came back to the cabin on Thursday and found no Loon parents. After investigating, I inadvertently found out who the culprit was who got too close (I'm pretty sure, but have to admit other factors go in to Loons abandoning the nest) and was just devastated. I admit, I went inside my cabin and cried. (I know Bird Girl will know how I feel, I still remember when her bluebird babies died.) My heart is completely broken...

Cabin Friends

2010-05-27T06:12:00.002-04:00

This is my "noisy at night saying peeper, peeper 20,000 times friend."

This is my silent friend who recently got booted from his favorite grassy area by the Loon. He may be angry, but chooses to remain silent.

And this is my spoiled friend who gets his own peanuts every time I'm up at the cabin. And if I forget, he'll stand on my deck and chirp to let me know I'm slacking!

Loon family, mallard family and a winner

2010-05-25T12:33:00.004-04:00

George was right! I have a Loon's nest at my cabin! They are building a nest right at the end of our unfinished dock. What's ironic is that Greg and I named our cabin the "Loon's Nest." No, not because I wear crazy pajamas and he sings Mexican polka songs all the time, but I'd understand why you would think that! (P.S. George, I believe I have your address so I will send out your Loon card!)

This photo was taken far away because during nesting season, a Loon will abandon its nest if you disturb them. They are finicky little duckies! But, I will be getting out my tripod for my mac daddy lens as well as a video camera. I'm about to be a Loon mama!

Also, Mrs. Mallard has a big brood. She had 11 babies! I think I'm going to call them the Duggar family....

Pure unadulterated joy!

2010-05-23T19:31:00.003-04:00

We just got back from the cabin and I had to share this Loon sighting with you! I usually have to go to the neighboring big lake to see the Loons, but now I have my own loons on my little lake heaven. And I haven't told you the best part yet.....

P.S. If someone can guess before midnight tomorrow, I will send you one of my Loon greeting cards as a prize. Must be a U.S. citizen and have a blog. :-)

Soccer anyone?

2010-05-16T12:30:00.002-04:00

I didn't get to go to the cabin this weekend but Greg did go up with my stepson for a weekend of fishing. I decided to stay behind and enjoy my new little niece Charlotte. Also, Scout wanted to have a soccer tournament in the yard and that took up a lot of time as well! :-)

Greg called me yesterday and let me know there were a pair of loons right in front of the dock. I told him to invite them in for tea, minnows and anything else they wanted. I am counting on them having babies this year!

My new niece!

2010-05-14T12:38:00.003-04:00

Wanted to share some good news! Last night I became the proud Aunt of Charlotte Elizabeth. This was my sister's first baby and everything went very well. Charlotte is the 6th generation in my mom's family to have the middle name Elizabeth. What else can I say except I am madly in love with my niece! I'm envisioning ponies, party dresses and trips to the zoo with her....

A common sight

2010-05-10T19:56:00.002-04:00

This is a common sight we see when we drive I-75 north to our cabin. If it's early in the morning or dusk, the deer are plentiful on the side of the road. You have to be careful of them crossing the road which reminds me of a funny story....

Our family had just finished eating at a polish restaurant up north. My mom took home a big platter of sauerkraut. All of us kids piled into the van and continued heading up the interstate to our cabin. Lo and behold a deer crosses the road and my dad decides to swerve to miss it. The van rolls on its side and my mom's sauerkraut has splattered all of us. We were okay but as we stepped out of the van, we had sauerkraut in our hair, clothes, everywhere. Gawkers were pointing and laughing at us. Till this day, I will never eat sauerkraut!

Bargain shopping for the cabin

2010-05-06T07:49:00.004-04:00

I love a good bargain, especially picking up cute items for our log cabin. I've been very fixated on my guest room (really, you'll enjoy being my guest!) and keep picking up odds and ends for it. I have a birds and blooms theme going on.

My recent store favorite has been the Christmas Tree Shop. Don't be fooled by the name - they have great home accents for indoors and outdoors. Take a look at this butterfly hanging I found - only $2.99? Can you believe it?

Here's a view of the guest room. (Really, it is a nice view from there, never mind my car that's parked too close!) That green mason glass candle holder on the table is from the Christmas Tree Shop - price - only $1.99!

Anyways, I'm still working on your room for when you come visit. I saw a cute dresser that has birds and flowers hand painted on it at Home Goods. I also want to pick up a nice headboard. Maybe I should put a wine cellar in there too...what do you think? (I bet a lot of you want to come visit me now!)

The girl who made our log cabin complete...

2010-05-02T20:21:00.003-04:00

Today is Scout's birthday! She is one years old! From the time we got our log cabin, I knew we needed a dog to make it complete. (We had the log cabin cat, but of course I needed to add to my zoo!)

Here is Scout at 4 weeks old and the first time we got to see her. She gave Greg a kiss on the hand as soon as he picked her up. He was a goner!

Seriously, don't you think she could've been a model?

Okay, she's not acting like a model here.

The face of innocence...

Happy Birthday to my beautiful girl!

P.S. As long as I live, I will never click on another Facebook attachment, link, photo, nada, nothing! That virus reeked havoc on my computer and I had to have it "wiped" completely! I was having to go to school to use the computer but now I'm back! Thank you for your visits - I appreciate it!

I'm just saying.....

2010-04-22T19:54:00.003-04:00

...somebody needs a manicure!

P.S. I'm crossing my fingers my computer virus is gone but I need to take it back to be reformatted. I took it home so I could pull some more photos off of it. Hope you are all doing well - I'll be making my rounds!

Bad Virus

2010-04-19T22:08:00.001-04:00

Sorry to be M.I.A. Got a bad virus on my computer - I believe from facebook - ugh! Taking my computer in tomorrow and hopefully will have it back by the weekend. Miss you all and will be by to visit you soon!

Morning at the log cabin

2010-04-09T08:50:00.002-04:00

Morning is my favorite time at the cabin. The lake is calm. The air is crisp and clean. The birds are chirping. (Never mind that Greg is snoring like crazy and the dog kept licking my face at 4 in the morning to go to the bathroom.)

Ah yes....I wasn't quiet enough on the dock so these Mergansers ran for their lives. Seriously, I won't hurt you! Though I do have visions of capturing you and putting you in my bathtub to be permanent pets.....no, I'm kidding! Really! Come back...

Spring at the cabin

2010-04-06T16:09:00.003-04:00

Spring is when you feel like whistling even with a shoe full of slush.
~Doug Larson

Spring is nature's way of saying, "Let's party!"
~Robin Williams

Marvin's Secret

2010-03-31T13:49:00.002-04:00

Psst! Don't tell anybody....

But sometimes I like that dog!

After 2 exams at school this past week, I am ready for a long weekend at the log cabin. The weather is suppose to be in the 70's in northern Michigan. I am looking forward to that! What are your plans for Easter? Besides sending me an Easter Basket filled with those jelly beans I love so much....

Queen of the cabin & crazy PJ's!

2010-03-23T09:37:00.002-04:00

Here's the queen of the cabin! By the way, I'm really trying to break my habit of posting photos of Scout all the time. I keep wanting to share her cuteness!

Scout loves her "baby girl time" which means she gets to cuddle her 70 pound butt in my lap as I pet her. By the way, how do you like my scotty & kitty pj's? These are good for "waving from the deck to my non-acknowledging neighbors," don't ya think?

Look at the intoxicated look on Scout's face as I rub her head. I promise, I didn't give her any beer!

Isn't she a ham?

Shelley, Greg & Scout go to a parade!

2010-03-20T08:37:00.003-04:00

Part of the allure of the northern Michigan towns for me is the quaintness of the downtowns. I love all the events they have whether it be a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, a maple syrup festival or better yet - a parade! Last week we attended Gaylord's St. Patrick's day parade and we took Scout with us. The day was rainy and dreary but we still had fun.

I love Gaylord's downtown, it is styled in an Alpine Swiss theme. Its' sister city is Pontresina, Switzerland. There are so many cute shops here and great restaurants.

Can you guess who was Scout's favorite in the parade?

Hey - doesn't it look like Greg is choking Scout?!

Here comes the cops! Except I think they've been drinking some of that green beer...

Just kidding! Greg was adjusting Scout's collar as she got very excited at that Irish Setter boy in the parade. I told her she's too young to date. In fact, she's never allowed to date!

I think this guy needs a leash...

I am so looking forward to sunny days! Trying to decide what I'm going to grow in my garden this year. What will you be planting?

Log Cabin Updates

2010-03-18T15:44:00.002-04:00

I was so happy I got to spend a few days at the cabin last week. It was nice to take a break from studying! The weather was okay but got rainy toward the end of the week.

We went on some nice hikes and also got to meet my blogger friend Joan of The Retirement Chronicles. (Go visit her blog to view some fantastic photography. I told Joan she's lucky our log cabins aren't close by each other cuz I would be bugging her everyday!)

The snow has started to melt. Our lake is still frozen but melting on the edges.

Here's Joan and I! Isn't she a cute lady? I look like a big monster next to her. (Note to self - start jogging more and drink less pepsi!)

Here's my little chickadee making new friends with my bird feeder. I had them eating out of my hands all week but of course Greg was never able to capture the moment on camera. I really need the paparazzi to start following me!

I took lots of photos at the cabin while we were there so I will be posting these in the next day or so. I feel like spring is here! Time to get new spring pj's so I can wave to my neighbors and impress them! Ha!

Getting all my ducks in a row!

2010-03-10T13:03:00.002-05:00

We're leaving for the log cabin in the next hour or so. (I've been calling Greg at work every 30 minutes to tell him to please hurry up. Scout is getting upset and Marvin is ready to leave without him. Ha!)

Tomorrow, I am meeting a blogger friend from The Retirement Chronicles for lunch in Mackinaw City. This will make the fifth blogger friend I've met in person so far. Watch out - you could be next!

This past weekend we went to the Detroit Kennel Dog Club Show and Scout's brother won 2nd place in the Bernese Mountain dog puppy division! His name is Jet. (And at our last play date, he kept making out with Scout and I had to tell him to take it easy!) Here's a photo of Jet. Isn't he a handsome boy?

It was fun to see so many Bernese Mountain Dogs in one place.

I wanted to take this boy home with me but his owner said no.

I fell in love with this Anatolian Shepherd and decided I want one of these too! Greg dragged me away from the breeder, begging them not to answer my questions and to just ignore me. (I got their business card - ha!)

And finally, doesn't this sign crack you up?

A great day for the animals

2010-03-06T17:31:00.002-05:00

Scout: I'm having a great day today! It's sunny and I've been playing in the backyard!

As long as I have my mommy, dirt to dig and toys to bury, I'm very happy!

Marvin: All I need is a patch of sunlight and for that dog to stay outside - and then it's a great day!

It's almost time....

2010-03-04T18:50:00.002-05:00

My Loons should be back within the next 30 days. I'm so excited! I have to get ready. Get the kayak geared up. Another memory card for my camera. And a bull horn so I can yell at all those boaters and jet skiers who get too close to my Loon babies!

Here's a video so you can hear how beautiful the Loons sound.

Yoo hoo Mr. Ice Fishermen!

2010-02-27T20:37:00.002-05:00

Okay, some of you already know how I'm always waving from the deck of my log cabin to my non-acknowledging neighbors across the lake. About half the time it's in the morning when I'm wearing my crazy pajama pants and now combined with my big fluffy ski coat. Looks great, I promise! (HA!)

Anyways, the ice fishermen fascinate me. I'm always checking them out with the binoculars to see if they've caught any fish. Imagine my surprise when I was looking at them and saw one of them looking back at me with their binoculars! I waved. And you know what.....he waved too! I'm making progress people.....

Quick Question!

2010-02-17T16:08:00.003-05:00

Do you think I need to throw this bird feeder away?

Some updates: School is going well! I was recently inducted into Phi Theta Kappa which is an honors program for community colleges. Greg is joking now he's married to a sorority girl! Okay - then on spring break, he better take me to Florida!

Also, I've been volunteering at a local hospital and just love it. The highlight of my week last week is when this angry man was yelling and swearing at a fellow volunteer next to me because he felt like she gave him inadequate directions. When he left, I asked the woman "Who is that?" She replied "The pastor!" LOL!!!!

I miss all of you and will be around to visit. (I miss your humor Suz & Jen, I miss your stories and history Betsy, I miss your decorating Penny, I miss your comments Wendy a.k.a. little sis, I miss your projects Sandi, I miss all your interesting tidbits Mildred - and so much more!) Please let me know if I've missed anything!

Guess who's enjoying the snow?

2010-02-09T15:50:00.002-05:00

I think it's already snowed 4 or 5 inches and it's still coming down! About 26 degrees but the weatherman says "it feels like 14" - okay then.

School was canceled tonight - woo hoo! Oh wait, I don't have any classes on Tuesday night...figures! How is the weather in your neck of the woods today?

Here's some photos of my snow monster Scout enjoying the snow! She is a tomboy just like her mom...

A favorite cabin item...

2010-02-01T16:54:00.001-05:00

This sign is posted in our moose-themed bathroom. My hubby gets a lot of use out of this one...ha, ha!

A dog story from the Log Cabin

2010-01-28T13:18:00.009-05:00

Somewhere out of the log cabin....

...down a wooded winter road....

....a man tries to walk his spoiled Bernese Mountain Dog.

The "offender" in question, who shall remain anonymous, has decided to test the man and show him who's boss.

Little does the man know, the "offender" doesn't do this with mommy!

Warm Winter Weekend

2010-01-19T19:25:00.005-05:00

This past weekend at the cabin was just beautiful! Wish you could've been there! Sunny and in the 40's. Yep, the weather was warm enough to walk out on my deck in some crazy pajamas (my schnauzer ones this time) and wave to my non-acknowledging neighbors!

Not a cloud in the sky!

This is a photo of my brother-in-law and my niece and nephew peeking out from the loft railings. My 2 year old niece learned a new trick this weekend - pull down Aunty's pants when she's bending over to pull something out of the oven! Ha!

Well back to my reality of school work. I think I can name every bone in the body now! Hopefully it gets me somewhere! I'll be catching up with your blogs today and tomorrow. Thank you for still visiting me!!

Giveaway Winner & a couple runner ups...

2010-01-13T19:48:00.002-05:00

Hi! Thought I forgot about you didn't I?! I've been studying the human bones in the body for an upcoming quiz next week so sorry for the delay! Now - onto the Giveaway Winner which my mom drew out of a bowl for me - thanks mom! Also, cuz I despise only having 1 winner, I have a runner up too!

Winner of the Tote Bag - Carol at Carol's Heirloom Collection!
Runner up for a magnet from my nature store and because they mentioned my favorite book To Kill A Mockingbird - Daisy at Smiling with Daisy!

Congratulations Ladies! Please email your address to me at: shelleyupnorth at gmail dot com.
Thank you everyone for entering! I plan on having another giveway this spring!

Giveaway from the Log Cabin!

2010-01-07T15:10:00.002-05:00

It's time for a giveaway from the log cabin! I want to thank all of you who visit my blog (except that spammer named DISA - she's gotta go!) I am giving away this tote bag above from my nature store. This bag is perfect for carrying books, taking to the beach or heading to the market.

It is enscribed with the following quote:
"Though we travel the world over to find the beautiful, we must carry it with us or we find it not." -Ralph Waldo Emerson

Now for the rules:

Leave a comment on this post telling me what is one of your favorite books that you have read and why.
Deadline to enter is by 11:59 pm. on Jan. 10, 2010
Must have a blog.
U.S. or Canadian resident only. (Sorry, those shipping costs are high!)

Good Luck! (Except to Disa!)

Cold temps at the cabin

2010-01-02T11:28:00.002-05:00

Time is just flying by! Happy belated Holidays and New Years to all of you my dear blogger friends! Did you see the temperature above on my weather thermometer? It was -5 when I first woke up - ouch! Greg is hanging this up today. Ever since we've built our log cabin, we've become obsessed with the weather. Or maybe it's old age....

The birds have been flocking to our cabin like crazy. I love feeding the chickadees out of my hand - sometimes I want to close my hand on them and bring them inside and make them pets. (No, I'm not going to do this, I just THINK about it...ha,ha!)

Tomorrow I head back downstate, back to reality. I look forward to catching up with you on your blogs. Please let me know of any special posts I might have missed. Also, I need to announce a belated giveaway. Let's start the New Year with a bang!

Log Cabin Christmas - Part 2

2009-12-19T14:24:00.003-05:00

Here are a few more photos of our cabin all decorated and ready for Christmas! I am counting down the days until we can drive up there. The snow keeps on coming so I think I need to get my skis ready!

I'm so glad Greg talked me into putting in a log staircase in our home. It was fun to put lights and garland on it for Christmas.

Here's our kitchen bar top all decorated. I also put white twinkly lights on top of the kitchen cupboards.

Here are my 2 little snow birds that Greg bought for me. I love how they are all bundled up for winter.

I love Nutcrackers too. Now I just need to go buy some nuts and put them to work!

I have Mr. Moose on the lookout for Santa on our stair landing.

I still have to go purchase 2 more Christmas presents and then start on all my baking. How about you? Are you ready for Christmas?

Log Cabin Christmas - Part 1

2009-12-17T08:01:00.004-05:00

Good morning everyone! I thought I would share a few photos of our Christmas decorated log cabin. For many years I dreamed of having a cozy log cabin and I always thought it would be a wonderful place to spend Christmas. (As well as drive my neighbors crazy with me yelling "Hi there" from the deck. Ha! Next I might break out the schnauzer pajamas....)

Here's my skinny 9 foot Christmas tree. I put it up all by myself! Scout tried to climb onto the ladder to help me hang ornaments. I'm lucky to still be alive...

Here's my electric fireplace. I added some cranberries to the garland afterwards. One day I'll have a fieldstone fireplace.......(Greg is running to hide his wallet right now.....)

Here's a close up of my Santa. Notice that he's carrying a birdhouse? He likes the birdys too.

Here's a close up of my tree. I love my angel ornament. Greg says he hopes she inspires me.......what does he mean by that?!

A snowy morning

2009-12-15T07:21:00.003-05:00

We had over two feet of snow up at the log cabin. It was so beautiful but we had a lot of digging out to do. First priority was for Greg to dig out a path to my bird feeders! Don't want to make those birdys angry....

The sun is just starting to peek out. The lake has a light covering of snow on it. It's going to be a beautiful day.

I don't see any of my neighbors out on their decks. Too bad. I was going to wave to them while wearing my silly cat pajamas....

Well here's a nice visitor....the downy woodpecker. Let's invite him in for a nice cup of hot chocolate. We won't mention the fight he had earlier with the nuthatch....

I'm ready for Christmas!

2009-12-11T07:44:00.000-05:00

Snow - here I come!

2009-12-09T06:09:00.003-05:00

We've had no snow in the southern part of Michigan. This morning as I write this it is raining! But alas, up north at the cabin, they've already received 10 inches of snow! And there's more coming!

I'm already driving Greg crazy with the 101 things I want to do at the cabin this weekend. (Snow shoeing, baking, more decorating, taking photos of Scout in the snow and of course - waving to the neighbors from the deck of my cabin as I wear my kitty pajamas! Last year it was sheep ones.)

And to those kids in my classes that wear pajama pants to class and think they are the "cat's meow" - they have nothing on me! Ha!

Amish Caramel Corn

2009-12-07T13:07:00.004-05:00

I love giving homemade food gifts to family and friends for the holidays. This week I've been testing different recipes to see which ones I think will be perfect for the Christmas goody baskets that I make up.

I found a great recipe for Amish Caramel Corn. It was easy to make and Greg gave it thumbs up! This would be perfect to put in a cute holiday tin. Are you making any special gifts for the holidays?

Here's the recipe: "My Amish Friend's Caramel Corn"

Ingredients

7 quarts plain popped popcorn
2 cups dry roasted peanuts (optional)
2 cups brown sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup margarine
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Place the popped popcorn into two shallow greased baking pans. You may use roasting pans, jelly roll pans, or disposable roasting pans. Add the peanuts to the popped corn if using. Set aside.
Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F (120 degrees C). Combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, margarine and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring enough to blend. Once the mixture begins to boil, boil for 5 minutes while stirring constantly.
Remove from the heat, and stir in the baking soda and vanilla. The mixture will be light and foamy. Immediately pour over the popcorn in the pans, and stir to coat. Don't worry too much at this point about getting all of the corn coated.
Bake for 1 hour, removing the pans, and giving them each a good stir every 15 minutes. Line the counter top with waxed paper. Dump the corn out onto the waxed paper and separate the pieces. Allow to cool completely, then store in airtight containers or resealable bags.

Happy Birthday to me!

2009-12-05T11:45:00.002-05:00

In case you haven't guessed, today is my birthday! Ha! That baby with the smirk on its face in the above photo is me. I'm with my parents, grandparents and my favorite Uncle.

So far it's been a great birthday! Hubby gave me a gift certificate to a day at the spa (and he has another surprise gift for me!) Wixy wrote me the best birthday poem ever on his blog - check it out here. Some of you dear blogger friends wished me happy birthday on my facebook page - thank you! I'm going to lunch w/ my sister and mom. And then for dinner - w/ my dad, stepmom and hubby.

And hopefully there's a cake along the way....I love cake....have I told you that already? I'm dreaming of a multi-layered buttercream cake with chopped nuts...hmmm....okay, enough of my cake obsession!

P.S. I wonder what Scout gave me? Besides underwear! HA! (See below's post if you missed it.) Have a great day blogger friends! I'll be announcing a giveaway very soon....

Thief

2009-12-03T21:02:00.003-05:00

"Hi there! I'm stepping in for my mommy today while she's studying. I upset her a little bit today when I took a pair of her underpants and ran in the yard with it waving it like a flag! You should've seen her chasing me! Especially when the neighbor that lives in back of us came outside w/ his dogs and saw what I was doing. I think the last straw was when I started digging a hole and burying the underwear in the dirt. That's a no-no! And mommy is still scratching her head trying to figure out how I got that underwear! But I'll never tell..."

Signs of Winter

2009-11-20T07:24:00.003-05:00

I think my first snowflakes are on their way to the cabin soon. How do I know? Well my squirrels have been gorging themselves on my suet feeders and I had a little junco visit me too. I do love snow (like you Betsy!)

I'm getting excited for the Christmas festival that's coming to our town - that's when they'll light the Christmas tree. And of course I'm ready to break out my skis and snowshoes. I think the reason I love winter is because of all the activities I find to do. (Though check w/ me in February, at that point I'm ready to go to Florida.)

School is going well - I have a test to take this Saturday and then another test next week. Then I can enjoy the Thanksgiving weekend. School has changed so much since I last attended. I can't tell you how many students wear PAJAMA pants to class. Really - Pjs are appropriate school wear?? Must be a fad....

St. Jude's Ranch

2009-11-18T14:25:00.005-05:00

Wondering what to do with all those Christmas cards you receive this year? Don't throw them away! Instead, join me in sending the used card fronts to St. Jude's Ranch!

St. Jude’s Ranch for Children rescues abused, abandoned and neglected children of all races and faiths from the vicious cycle of child abuse. They provide healing and nurturing in a safe home-like environment where children can learn life skills to start new lives with new chances, new choices and new hope.

"The children participate in making the new cards by removing the front and attaching a new back. The result is a beautiful new card made by the children and volunteers. The benefits are two-fold: customers receive "green" holiday cards for use and the children receive payment for their work and learn the benefits and importance of "going green".

Doesn't this sound like a wonderful cause?! Great opportunity for you recyclers out there! (Suz, Jen and Betsy!)

Cards may be donated by sending them to:

St. Jude's Ranch for Children
Recycled Card Program
100 St. Jude's Street
Boulder City, NV 89005

Sunday humor...

2009-11-15T19:58:00.003-05:00

*Thank you my dear blogger friends for all your concern and good wishes for Scout! She is doing much better and will never receive another rawhide bone the rest of her life. Her reaction to this - chewing up Greg's slippers! ha,ha.....

*On another note, I have 3 tests to study for this week, but I promise to be by to visit your blogs this week!

Priceless

2009-11-11T19:40:00.004-05:00

Bear with me here....

Cost of a rawhide dog bone.......$3.95

Cost of gas to race 100 mph to the emergency vet clinic once I realized my dog was sick from the rawhide....$10.00

Cost of visit, x-rays, bloodwork and pills......$550.
And yes, this is Scout's x-ray.

Cost of knowing my baby girl is going to be okay.......PRICELESS!!!

And I didn't even mention the cost of the carpeting I'm going to have to replace because of the puppy vomit and diarrhea. Or the xanax pills I had to pop cuz I thought I was going to lose her. No - just kidding about the pills.....(Greg reads my blog ya know.....ha!)

Someone's knocking at the door...

2009-11-05T06:41:00.002-05:00

So I'm in the cabin reading a book when I hear a knock at the door. I open the door and no ones there. "That's strange" I thought. I shut the door, and then there's even louder knocking! At this point I think Greg is playing a joke on me....

Once again I open the door, and my little "door knocker" (well actually he was knocking on the cabin walls!) flies away to the tree in front of our deck.

This is the Pileated Woodpecker, one of LARGEST Woodpeckers in N. America. And yes, he can do some serious damage to a log cabin! I put out some more suet cakes which I saw him feeding on later. Hopefully this deters him. Otherwise, I'm going to have to break out those aluminum pie plates and hang a few from our roof (I received this expert advice from some fellow bird friends - for some reason this works!)

Or maybe next time I'll invite him in for some tea and cookies....

Weekend Recap at the Cabin

2009-11-01T20:20:00.002-05:00

Greg and I went to the cabin for a long weekend to celebrate our anniversary. (Thank you to everyone for your kind wishes! Greg read every single comment!) Let me recap our weather for you:

Thursday - Rain
Friday - Rain
Saturday - More Rain. I am contemplating building an Ark at this point.
Sunday - Clears up and of course it's time to head home.

No matter the weather, we still had a great time! We rented movies, read books and went walking in the rain. It's hard to explain, but just being in our log cabin itself feels like a vacation to me.

Here's the last of Autumn's leaves, still clinging on.

My Wedding Anniversary!

2009-10-28T04:22:00.000-04:00

Four years ago today, I married my best friend. I was introduced to Greg from a mutual friend at an art auction. I still remember his olive green suit and all the curious questions he asked me. I thought he was so handsome and had such a calm, pleasant manner about him. Now, here we are and I am still crazy in love with this man! Come walk down memory lane with me....

Here's our wedding invitations that I made myself. The day we got married was a sunny, crisp fall day.

We just walked out of the church as husband and wife. Greg is knocking my socks off again!

We had our reception at a log cabin of course!

I love this photo. It reminds me of our love of the great outdoors.

We had a Mariachi Band play during dinner. Greg introduced his love of Latin music to me and we had many fun dates going salsa dancing.

I thank god every day for this man!

Saturday, in the park....

2009-10-24T13:42:00.006-04:00

Saturday in the park
You'd think it was the fourth of july

People talking, really smiling
A man playing guitar
Singing for us all...
-From the song: Saturday in the Park by Chicago

Do you remember that song? I'm probably dating myself here... Anyways, Greg and I love to visit the parks near our cabin. There's this small one in the city of Grayling, site of one of the largest canoe races in N. America. It's located right on the Ausable River.

Here's what it looks like right now...

And this is what it'll look like this winter! Hard to believe, huh?

Okay, sorry I scared you with that early winter scene! Back to present time. Here is Greg and Scout checking out the river from the bridge.

Look how fast that water is moving! There's over 180 miles of Blue Ribbon Trout Fishing here. Michiganders refer to it as the Holy Waters. Recently Forbes magazine named Grayling to their Top 10 List of Top Trout Fishing Towns.

Greg is a big fisherman and taught me to fly fish during our "courting" years. I think it cemented the deal for him to marry me once I was able to tie my own fly and cast my own rod. (But I'd make him take the fish off for me of course. No way was I touching that slimey fish! Ha!)

Clean Cabin

2009-10-23T11:12:00.002-04:00

As many of you know our log cabin is a weekend place for our family. When we get ready to leave, I clean that place inside and out. I mop the floors, wash the rugs, dust every nook and cranny - you name it! I love the feeling of when I come back the following weekend and the place is spic and span. Now for my downstate home...well lets just say it's not given the same treatment. (I was about to say I treat it like a stepchild but then I remembered I have a stepson - ha,ha! Never mind, some of you won't think that is funny. But some of you might...Suz??)

Now the one thing I don't like to pick up (and make Greg and my stepson do cuz I am the evil stepmother) - DOG POOP! Yep, everyone is running from me now...

Birds at the Log Cabin

2009-10-20T23:01:00.003-04:00

Some of you already know that I'm a birdwatching enthusiast (okay - I'll say it - I'm a bird nerd!) Winters at the log cabin bring some of the best birding opportunities. Last year I had an abundance of Pine Siskins and Common Redpolls that passed through and ate out of my hands. (Can you imagine what my neighbors think when I'm outside in my sheep pjs, holding out my hand and talking to the little birdies?) Anyways, I've notice the bird activity has increased at my feeders. Come meet some of my friends!

Can you see the Downy Woodpecker storing his food supply?

Here's the Tufted Titmouse. He likes to hang with the Black-capped Chickadees. His bird call sounds like a strangled duck in my opinion - but I still like him!

Here's the Dark-eyed Junco - a sure sign winter is on its way! (I know the only people happy about this is me and Betsy!)

Okay, Scout is not a bird, but I just have to show you how big she is getting. I love this dog so much. She is a big cuddler and still crawls onto my lap whenever she can. Marvin kitty still gets jealous but they are playing well together - i.e. Scout goes to give Marvin a kiss and then Marvin slaps her 10 times in a row.

Leaves at the cabin

2009-10-19T07:21:00.003-04:00

Look at all the leaves that have fallen around the cabin! And I have one question...

Who is going to rake all these lovely leaves?

Anyone?

Hey! Greg and Scout - where do you think you two are going???

First Snowfall

2009-10-14T21:42:00.002-04:00

I was disappointed to learn that I missed the first snowfall in Northern Michigan this year. This photo was taken last year in the early morning. I remember how the trees looked so beautiful with that light dusting of snow. Oh well - I have to admit I'm not really ready for winter yet!

This weekend we will be getting the cabin prepped for winter - a.k.a. putting away the lawn furniture and getting quotes from snow removal services. (I have to admit, I'm a little embarrassed at my list, especially when I see what my blogger friend Small Pines is doing to get ready for winter!) Maybe I should have Greg chop some firewood for our electric fireplace??

Thinking of fall and dog halloween costumes

2009-10-13T07:28:00.010-04:00

“There is a harmony in autumn, and a luster in its sky, which through the summer is not heard or seen, as if it could not be, as if it had not been!”

- Percy Bysshe Shelley

I hope my husband is not reading this today because I know he'll think I'm ridiculous for wanting to get Scout a halloween costume. (He better watch it or I'll get him a matching one and make him take Scout trick or treating! Ha!) Anyways, here's a few I found on the Internet:

Look at this Taco one! I think Scout is too big, but JEN - how about for Hershey or Betty?

Darla, I can't remember if you have any dogs but I know you like flowers!

Suz, for some reason this made me think of Bartholomew!

Hmmm.....I've always wanted Scout to become a doctor when she grows up....

Decisions, decisions! What is your pooch going to be for Halloween?

The Chocolate Covered Peanuts Story

2009-10-11T09:20:00.002-04:00

There's a funny story in my family about chocolate covered peanuts. My husband and stepson love this story and have made me and my mom tell it several times. Greg thought you might like to hear it. WARNING - it's a little gross.

This takes place about 10 years ago when my aunt was living with my Grandma and helping her out. My grandmother had a notorious sweet tooth. One day while my aunt was out, my grandmother found some chocolate covered peanuts. She hated peanuts but liked chocolate. She proceeded to eat the chocolate around them but spit back out the peanuts into a bowl. She then went to bed.

My aunt comes home later that night. The next morning my grandmother gets up and went over to find the bowl of peanuts to throw away and notices they were all gone. My grandma asks my aunt - what happened to those nuts I was going to throw away? I had eaten the chocolate off of them. My aunt about had a heart attack as she said SHE ATE THEM! She had thought they were regular peanuts that tasted stale. Needless to say she was very upset with my grandmother.....especially later when my grandmother called all of us in the family to tell us what happened.... ha,ha! Anyways, whenever our family sees chocolate covered peanuts - it sends us into hysterical fits of laughter. I'm thinking about buying some Goobers for my aunt this Christmas....what do you think?!

A walk in Nature

2009-10-08T16:11:00.002-04:00

This past weekend we had friends at the cabin. We did so much over a short period of time. We went to an Oktoberfest, ate at a great Mexican Restaurant, played Sequence and had a bonfire. On Sunday morning, Greg and I took them to one of our favorite nature trails that is nearby.

I love tall pines!

In the winter, this is a great place for snowshoeing.

As we walk through the trail, it alternates between light and dark depending on the density of the trees. Here are my friends - aren't they a cute couple?

By the way, This weekend only - there's a Columbus Day sale at my nature store! You receive 14.92% off any item. Just use the following promotional code at checkout: 1492COLUMBUS. There are new items too such as binders, stationary, pet clothing and invitations. I can personalize or create any item with any of my photos that you like. Just contact me directly thru my store before ordering.

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