Thursday, June 20, 2013
Friday, June 14, 2013
Today at Iten's Acres: The Outlaws
The Outlaws:
The gang has been separated by technology. My neighbor put up an electric fence to make sure his little beagle doesn't get into the road and get hit. I can't blame him. Poor Stella--his beautiful black lab--lost her life to one of those speeding back road demons. So, this will keep the beagle safe.
It does mean the end of the gang. Bonnie stays away. Even brain-dead Gus has learned to keep his distance. The only slow learner has been the little beagle. I feel guilty--a little--because whenever I'm out walking or "working," she wants to run over and "help." Yowl!!!! Several times already. And there is an element of injustice here: the old huge brown lab that visits on occasion is impervious to the shock. She doesn't have a collar, so she just runs right through it like it's not even there, joins me for my walks, and keeps me company. Bonnie will join us once in awhile. The alpaca are scared to death of the lab and squeal--I don't know what else to call it--whenever she's with me out back in the meadow. Protective Bonnie comes racing to the rescue, but when she sees who it is, she just joins us, tail wagging, completely out of guarding mode. Hats off to Gus. Sorry little beagle. Welcome Big Brown. Let's walk, shall we?
The gang has been separated by technology. My neighbor put up an electric fence to make sure his little beagle doesn't get into the road and get hit. I can't blame him. Poor Stella--his beautiful black lab--lost her life to one of those speeding back road demons. So, this will keep the beagle safe.
It does mean the end of the gang. Bonnie stays away. Even brain-dead Gus has learned to keep his distance. The only slow learner has been the little beagle. I feel guilty--a little--because whenever I'm out walking or "working," she wants to run over and "help." Yowl!!!! Several times already. And there is an element of injustice here: the old huge brown lab that visits on occasion is impervious to the shock. She doesn't have a collar, so she just runs right through it like it's not even there, joins me for my walks, and keeps me company. Bonnie will join us once in awhile. The alpaca are scared to death of the lab and squeal--I don't know what else to call it--whenever she's with me out back in the meadow. Protective Bonnie comes racing to the rescue, but when she sees who it is, she just joins us, tail wagging, completely out of guarding mode. Hats off to Gus. Sorry little beagle. Welcome Big Brown. Let's walk, shall we?
Tuesday, June 4, 2013
Backroads of Morrow County: Beginnings
Backroads of Morrow County Update:
It has begun. The farmer's reward and risk. The winter wheat is several inches high. Still green--not enough time and sun yet for "amber waves of grain." But it can't be too long. I'm sure I can hear the wheat singing in the wind. "O, beautiful for spacious skies . . ." Most of the other fields show evidence of crops too. I say "most" because a few fields are still not plowed--notably, the one across the way from me. The agricultural engineer who plows it usually does it "late" so I'm not worried. Last year corn. This year I expect soy beans. Everywhere else--almost--the long green lines of plants are racing toward the horizons. The corn is distinctive. There's no doubt what it is. The soy beans not so much. I assume that it's soy beans though now it merely looks like small green patches of "weedy" stuff stretching off into the distance. They are not yet big enough to "connect." They look like fields of green polka dots at this point. But before you know it, they will be cords of green.
The only wild flowers along the roads are wild phlox, daisies, and sweet pea. Pink and white borders nodding "welcome" as I drive past. The "doormats" of dusty roads. The doves have already committed themselves to wire sitting. The swallows are practicing their wind skimming. No doubt already gathering lunch for the kids. The blue birds grace the open meadows with an occasional meadowlark to add some yellow and black--and a song. The red-wings are everywhere--the neighborhood fussing crones. The red-headed woodpeckers are in their usual haunts. Red, black, and silver-white they are always a feast for my eyes. An occasional goldfinch will arc his way across the road, just showing off I imagine--like most males. The bird life of Morrow County is in full swing--or should I say full wing. Gorgeous, for sure.
Surprisingly, the wet spring has led to some early haying. I saw an older man, a younger man, and a boy at work in the field down the road from me. History at work. Grandpa, son, grandson making a team. The boy was too small to be of much help, but the knowledge of generations was, no doubt, being filtered down to him. Not much help, but probably the most important person in the field. The knowledge of good farming is being passed down, and the lad is our hope. May he see joy in the labor and nourish a love for it. Grandpa--as this grandpa knows--is not as strong as he once was at the work, but he has the "tricks and resolution" to pass on Santiago-like to the "boy" that he loves. Dad--son--is the evidence that grandpa knows what he's doing and is worthy of emulation in this labor of love for the land, the animals who will feast on the hay, and the farmers who earn their living--and ours--in the historical story of mankind's relationship to his "place on earth" as Wendell would call it. As I watch them, a favorite quote comes to mind: "Simplicity carried to extremes is elegance." Not to mention lovely in its generational way.
Yep, it has begun. Rural America, Adam-like, facing the hardships of life, at the mercy of the weather, learning the beauty and character building of hard work--and the joy of family.
It has begun. The farmer's reward and risk. The winter wheat is several inches high. Still green--not enough time and sun yet for "amber waves of grain." But it can't be too long. I'm sure I can hear the wheat singing in the wind. "O, beautiful for spacious skies . . ." Most of the other fields show evidence of crops too. I say "most" because a few fields are still not plowed--notably, the one across the way from me. The agricultural engineer who plows it usually does it "late" so I'm not worried. Last year corn. This year I expect soy beans. Everywhere else--almost--the long green lines of plants are racing toward the horizons. The corn is distinctive. There's no doubt what it is. The soy beans not so much. I assume that it's soy beans though now it merely looks like small green patches of "weedy" stuff stretching off into the distance. They are not yet big enough to "connect." They look like fields of green polka dots at this point. But before you know it, they will be cords of green.
The only wild flowers along the roads are wild phlox, daisies, and sweet pea. Pink and white borders nodding "welcome" as I drive past. The "doormats" of dusty roads. The doves have already committed themselves to wire sitting. The swallows are practicing their wind skimming. No doubt already gathering lunch for the kids. The blue birds grace the open meadows with an occasional meadowlark to add some yellow and black--and a song. The red-wings are everywhere--the neighborhood fussing crones. The red-headed woodpeckers are in their usual haunts. Red, black, and silver-white they are always a feast for my eyes. An occasional goldfinch will arc his way across the road, just showing off I imagine--like most males. The bird life of Morrow County is in full swing--or should I say full wing. Gorgeous, for sure.
Surprisingly, the wet spring has led to some early haying. I saw an older man, a younger man, and a boy at work in the field down the road from me. History at work. Grandpa, son, grandson making a team. The boy was too small to be of much help, but the knowledge of generations was, no doubt, being filtered down to him. Not much help, but probably the most important person in the field. The knowledge of good farming is being passed down, and the lad is our hope. May he see joy in the labor and nourish a love for it. Grandpa--as this grandpa knows--is not as strong as he once was at the work, but he has the "tricks and resolution" to pass on Santiago-like to the "boy" that he loves. Dad--son--is the evidence that grandpa knows what he's doing and is worthy of emulation in this labor of love for the land, the animals who will feast on the hay, and the farmers who earn their living--and ours--in the historical story of mankind's relationship to his "place on earth" as Wendell would call it. As I watch them, a favorite quote comes to mind: "Simplicity carried to extremes is elegance." Not to mention lovely in its generational way.
Yep, it has begun. Rural America, Adam-like, facing the hardships of life, at the mercy of the weather, learning the beauty and character building of hard work--and the joy of family.
Saturday, May 25, 2013
Walking Iten's Acres: Prevarication May 25, 2013
I'm
going to sue. Whom you ask? The weather channel, all the
weatherpersons on the local channels, and the Farmer's Almanac. Why you
ask? They declared that there would be no frost in Ohio after May
15th. Prevaricators. ("Liars" sounds so harsh.) Charges you ask?
Extreme physical trauma. I should not have had to cover a zillion
plants on May 24th. Severe emotional stress. It is impossible
to cover all the plants that have come up that would be susceptible to
frost on May 25th. I had to choose. Heartbreaking. Evidence you ask?
We have them all on tape. Well, FA is on paper. "The frost date for
Ohio is May 15th. You can go buy your flowers now and plant them worry
free." Open and shut case--the wretches. Oh, don't give me this "we
can't control the weather" excuse. Then, quit acting as if you can.
Quit trying to be the Nostradamus of weather. (He didn't know what he
was talking about either, by the way.) All that you own will be mine.
Heh, heh. Hey, maybe it's a conspiracy? Maybe the nurseries pay them
to say that? We buy our flowers, plant them, the frost comes.
Flowerslaughter occurs. We beauty addicts have to go buy some more to
replace the ones that got the cold shoulder. Hmmmmm. I'll have to have
my lawyers check their bank statements. I will own the world.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Today at Iten's Acres: May 22, 2013
Today at Iten's Acres:
Do you want the good news first or the bad news?
Bad news: It's been a terrible, horrible, excruciatingly disappointing iris spring. Four of my beds that are usually loaded have either had only one bloom or as of now have only one bulb that hasn't even bloomed yet. My iris eyes are not smiling. And I don't think they're just running late because there aren't even any bulbs.
Good news: The ones that have bloomed are stunning. Look for the pictures on Saturday. Some real beauties. And several of them are first timers at the acres.
More good news: Wild turkey in the Back 40. She must have been just sitting in the tall grass watching me. Only when I turned to walk toward where she was concealed did she hit the air waves. Monstrous bird. Great aviator too. Called me something in turkish that I'm sure was not an "Oh, glad to see you chubby, old bald human." I was surprised. Maybe she has a nest back there? I'll have to stay away for awhile and see. Don't want to be a family wrecker.
More bad news: She almost gave me a heart attack. I am now 70--lost three years off my life. At least.
I'll end with good news: I've been trying since I moved here to find something that would thrive in my bog and add color to the Acres. Now, my gardening angels have added some monkey grass and just a tad of trollius, but no success for me. Well, along the edge I have some wild hyacinth, Japanese and Siberian Iris, and some hibiscus that have bloomed--but just along the edges. But, la di dah, this year I have three patches of gorgeous yellow water iris right in the middle of the bog! I planted them last fall under a great deal of skepticism. I mean, what flower enjoys being drowned for most of the year--submerged in swamp water? The answer: yellow flag iris. I repent of my skepticism and gladly do a bog dance!!
Do you want the good news first or the bad news?
Bad news: It's been a terrible, horrible, excruciatingly disappointing iris spring. Four of my beds that are usually loaded have either had only one bloom or as of now have only one bulb that hasn't even bloomed yet. My iris eyes are not smiling. And I don't think they're just running late because there aren't even any bulbs.
Good news: The ones that have bloomed are stunning. Look for the pictures on Saturday. Some real beauties. And several of them are first timers at the acres.
More good news: Wild turkey in the Back 40. She must have been just sitting in the tall grass watching me. Only when I turned to walk toward where she was concealed did she hit the air waves. Monstrous bird. Great aviator too. Called me something in turkish that I'm sure was not an "Oh, glad to see you chubby, old bald human." I was surprised. Maybe she has a nest back there? I'll have to stay away for awhile and see. Don't want to be a family wrecker.
More bad news: She almost gave me a heart attack. I am now 70--lost three years off my life. At least.
I'll end with good news: I've been trying since I moved here to find something that would thrive in my bog and add color to the Acres. Now, my gardening angels have added some monkey grass and just a tad of trollius, but no success for me. Well, along the edge I have some wild hyacinth, Japanese and Siberian Iris, and some hibiscus that have bloomed--but just along the edges. But, la di dah, this year I have three patches of gorgeous yellow water iris right in the middle of the bog! I planted them last fall under a great deal of skepticism. I mean, what flower enjoys being drowned for most of the year--submerged in swamp water? The answer: yellow flag iris. I repent of my skepticism and gladly do a bog dance!!
Saturday, May 18, 2013
This Week at Iten's Acres: May 18, 2013
This Week at Iten's Acres:
It feels as if I tried to pack the whole month of May into five days. And the weirdness of the weather didn't help. Frost on Monday morning, eighty degrees by the end of the week, and a monsoon rain storm in between. Ah, well. I enjoyed sitting in the recliner, lights off, watching the storm move in: strong winds bending the trees, day night, day night as the lightning ricocheted across the acres, raucous thunder, and then torrents of rain turning the acres into a morass one more time this spring. Quite a storm.
The highlight of the week was, of course, loading down my little red wagon with tons of flowers from Baker's Acres. I always go back and forth between thinking I have enough to fill my planters to wondering if I need to get a few more. Invariably, by the time I've planted everything--and what a lovely day and a half that was--I"m a few plants short. My problem is I'm a "planter packer." I put lots of the little beauties in each pot. Can't help myself. Ah well. I can pick up a few more somewhere. Mom's container garden is luscious. Even though she's not here to enjoy it--and give her advice--I'm sure she would love it: snapdragons, petunia, geraniums, dianthus, marigolds, bright eyes, zinnia, dahlia, salvia, lantana--all her favorites. And the ruby throat has already checked them out and given his approval. I believe he may like the real thing better than the "fake" red "flower juice" in the feeder. (Actually, there's two of them, and the battle is raging for summer squatter rights.) Next, on the work schedule is some mulching and some weed thinning. With all the rain and the days I spent out of town, my beds are overrun. Not than I mind that much. Some of the weeds will be beautiful when they bloom. And the one's that don't will be overshadowed by the flowers. I am a little concerned that the cool, wet spring may limit my iris show. That would be depressing for an iris addict like myself. But maybe, they'll just be a little late this year. I certainly won't scold them for that.
The flower planting did cause me to put off mowing the front of the Acres the day before the storm. Ugh. And it's supposed to rain again tomorrow. The grass will be high again when--if--I can find a warm, sunny day to feed the bluebirds. They have been patiently sitting on the wires waiting for me to do my catering.
And, of course, Homesteader had her surgery this week. My sense of time was so discombobulated that I accidentally took her in a day early. They were gracious enough to take her anyway. Good thing. It's a major production to get her into the carrier. Wears an old man out. She's smarter than I am, a zillion times quicker than I am, and not the least bit interested in taking a ride in a cage. Perseverance won out, eventually. She's home now and doing great, though not exactly feeling fully frisky. Lots of nap time. In between name calling.
Yep, another week at the Acres has slipped away. Seems like a month, at least. But thankfully, it wasn't. Two more glorious weeks of May to go--and I promise to enjoy them. And I'm sure I'll post some pictures for you. Be patient!
It feels as if I tried to pack the whole month of May into five days. And the weirdness of the weather didn't help. Frost on Monday morning, eighty degrees by the end of the week, and a monsoon rain storm in between. Ah, well. I enjoyed sitting in the recliner, lights off, watching the storm move in: strong winds bending the trees, day night, day night as the lightning ricocheted across the acres, raucous thunder, and then torrents of rain turning the acres into a morass one more time this spring. Quite a storm.
The highlight of the week was, of course, loading down my little red wagon with tons of flowers from Baker's Acres. I always go back and forth between thinking I have enough to fill my planters to wondering if I need to get a few more. Invariably, by the time I've planted everything--and what a lovely day and a half that was--I"m a few plants short. My problem is I'm a "planter packer." I put lots of the little beauties in each pot. Can't help myself. Ah well. I can pick up a few more somewhere. Mom's container garden is luscious. Even though she's not here to enjoy it--and give her advice--I'm sure she would love it: snapdragons, petunia, geraniums, dianthus, marigolds, bright eyes, zinnia, dahlia, salvia, lantana--all her favorites. And the ruby throat has already checked them out and given his approval. I believe he may like the real thing better than the "fake" red "flower juice" in the feeder. (Actually, there's two of them, and the battle is raging for summer squatter rights.) Next, on the work schedule is some mulching and some weed thinning. With all the rain and the days I spent out of town, my beds are overrun. Not than I mind that much. Some of the weeds will be beautiful when they bloom. And the one's that don't will be overshadowed by the flowers. I am a little concerned that the cool, wet spring may limit my iris show. That would be depressing for an iris addict like myself. But maybe, they'll just be a little late this year. I certainly won't scold them for that.
The flower planting did cause me to put off mowing the front of the Acres the day before the storm. Ugh. And it's supposed to rain again tomorrow. The grass will be high again when--if--I can find a warm, sunny day to feed the bluebirds. They have been patiently sitting on the wires waiting for me to do my catering.
And, of course, Homesteader had her surgery this week. My sense of time was so discombobulated that I accidentally took her in a day early. They were gracious enough to take her anyway. Good thing. It's a major production to get her into the carrier. Wears an old man out. She's smarter than I am, a zillion times quicker than I am, and not the least bit interested in taking a ride in a cage. Perseverance won out, eventually. She's home now and doing great, though not exactly feeling fully frisky. Lots of nap time. In between name calling.
Yep, another week at the Acres has slipped away. Seems like a month, at least. But thankfully, it wasn't. Two more glorious weeks of May to go--and I promise to enjoy them. And I'm sure I'll post some pictures for you. Be patient!
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Homesteader Update: May 15, 2013
It
will be a traumatic day for the Homesteader--aka Nosy Rosy, aka white
dish rag, aka CAT!! As of today there will be no chance of kittens in
her future. I couldn't begin to imagine a whole house full of the furry
troublemakers.
At least the day should be quiet and trauma free. No one to give me a "piece of her mind" about anything and everything. No one to try to kick me out of her recliner so she can comfortably watch what's going on outside on her Acres. No one to vainly pounce on the doorwindow in an attempt to attack the neighborhood chipmunks. No one to knock around her favorite new plaything--a plastic football--all over the house. I have no idea where she found it. But, ah, is it ever a noise maker. She must enjoy the unpredictability of its bounces. She plays with it everywhere. Amusing to watch, entertaining little creature. Well, it's not so entertaining at 4 A.M. I'm going to have to send her to obedience school so she can learn to tell time. Not that that would change anything. It is her house after all. But today and tonight it will be quiet and uneventful. I can type on the computer without her interference. I can eat without getting a lecture on sharing. I can sit in the recliner and read the paper without all the commentary, and the "Don't you think it's time to get out of my chair" blueyellow eyed stares. I can sleep all night. I can wake up on my own, not to the tune of paw prints up and down my back, a wet nose in my face, and "the get up lazy human" serenade. Ah, a day of peace. (It will be nice to have her back tomorrow. Hey! Quit reading between the parentheses!)
At least the day should be quiet and trauma free. No one to give me a "piece of her mind" about anything and everything. No one to try to kick me out of her recliner so she can comfortably watch what's going on outside on her Acres. No one to vainly pounce on the doorwindow in an attempt to attack the neighborhood chipmunks. No one to knock around her favorite new plaything--a plastic football--all over the house. I have no idea where she found it. But, ah, is it ever a noise maker. She must enjoy the unpredictability of its bounces. She plays with it everywhere. Amusing to watch, entertaining little creature. Well, it's not so entertaining at 4 A.M. I'm going to have to send her to obedience school so she can learn to tell time. Not that that would change anything. It is her house after all. But today and tonight it will be quiet and uneventful. I can type on the computer without her interference. I can eat without getting a lecture on sharing. I can sit in the recliner and read the paper without all the commentary, and the "Don't you think it's time to get out of my chair" blueyellow eyed stares. I can sleep all night. I can wake up on my own, not to the tune of paw prints up and down my back, a wet nose in my face, and "the get up lazy human" serenade. Ah, a day of peace. (It will be nice to have her back tomorrow. Hey! Quit reading between the parentheses!)
Sunday, May 5, 2013
Backroads of Morrow County Update: May 5, 2013
It's glass half-full, glass half-empty time along the roads of Morrow County.
Some of my feathered friends are back. The red-winged blackbirds are everywhere, sitting on the wires, fussing at each other. The swallows are back skimming over the swamp having dinner. I saw a small green-blue heron there as well. But--no meadowlark yet. I hope they return again to the meadow down the road from me. I'll miss their voice in the choir if they don't spend a summer here. Not to mention the flashes of yellow and black disappearing into the tall grasses. And I have not yet seen the deep ethereal bluish flash of the indigo bunting as well. Bluer than the bluest sky.
Many of the trees are turning enviously green. But not all of them. And I doubt if any of them are completely full of green. (Conifers don't count!) Oh, they will be in full leaf soon. The hidden houses that were revealed through the winter's bareness will soon be invisible again. My cave in two or three weeks will be practically unnoticeable by those traveling down County Road 25--just the way an old bald recluse likes it.
The same flowering bushes and shrubs that are bursting with color on my acres are doing the same on everyone else's property as well. Though I must confess, some of my neighbors have different trees than I do--tulip trees and Bradford pears, for example--and some of them have bigger trees than I do, too. There are a plethora of huge lilac bushes around these parts. It will take a decade or so for my little lilacs to attain such heights of beauty. And, oh! to slow down and roll down the window is glorious. God's incense. Yes, there are multitudes of folks out here that as I pass their acres, I imagine that we would make fast friends--beautiful tree lovers must unite!
As I meander the backroads only about half the fields are plowed so far. As you know, I love their symmetry. I'm sure the others will get their parallel lines soon. It will be joyous--believe it or not--to watch the growth of summer crops. Even now, the process has begun. Seeds are dying, the growth will begin, early rains, latter rains, sunshine, abundant fruitfulness. In the fields and in life the progress is the same. It can't be rushed. And you must trust the grace of the God who brings the rain and the sun to do His work at His pace. It is totally beyond our power to control. May we all develop the patience and faith of the farmer.
I passed more than a few farmers doing their plowing. Huge green beasts chewing up the soil. You can see the dust settling from a mile away--long before you reach them at work in the fields. Impressive. But I will be taking trips into Amish territory so I can see the proud work horses pulling their plows. Gorgeous and impressive. Lovers of a hard day's toil.
Ah, most the birds are here. But the glass won't be full until the meadowlark arrives. And the indigo bunting. More than half the trees are green; but they are not all green yet, and none of them are completely clothed in their summer richness. And the hidden houses can still be seen by the traveler of the backroads. Jealously, some of my trees are only half as mature as my neighbors. All the beauty but half the size. Only half of the fields are plowed and planted. The mystery of growth is just beginning. But half the fields have not yet been churned into geometrical masterpieces, and I have not yet found any team of horses prancing in the joy of the labor they were created for. Indeed, the "glass is half empty," but I am not sad or disappointed. The joy of my wanderings on the backroads of Morrow County is to watch the "glass" fill up. Wouldn't have it any other way. A toast to the half-full glass of Morrow County. Beautiful!
Some of my feathered friends are back. The red-winged blackbirds are everywhere, sitting on the wires, fussing at each other. The swallows are back skimming over the swamp having dinner. I saw a small green-blue heron there as well. But--no meadowlark yet. I hope they return again to the meadow down the road from me. I'll miss their voice in the choir if they don't spend a summer here. Not to mention the flashes of yellow and black disappearing into the tall grasses. And I have not yet seen the deep ethereal bluish flash of the indigo bunting as well. Bluer than the bluest sky.
Many of the trees are turning enviously green. But not all of them. And I doubt if any of them are completely full of green. (Conifers don't count!) Oh, they will be in full leaf soon. The hidden houses that were revealed through the winter's bareness will soon be invisible again. My cave in two or three weeks will be practically unnoticeable by those traveling down County Road 25--just the way an old bald recluse likes it.
The same flowering bushes and shrubs that are bursting with color on my acres are doing the same on everyone else's property as well. Though I must confess, some of my neighbors have different trees than I do--tulip trees and Bradford pears, for example--and some of them have bigger trees than I do, too. There are a plethora of huge lilac bushes around these parts. It will take a decade or so for my little lilacs to attain such heights of beauty. And, oh! to slow down and roll down the window is glorious. God's incense. Yes, there are multitudes of folks out here that as I pass their acres, I imagine that we would make fast friends--beautiful tree lovers must unite!
As I meander the backroads only about half the fields are plowed so far. As you know, I love their symmetry. I'm sure the others will get their parallel lines soon. It will be joyous--believe it or not--to watch the growth of summer crops. Even now, the process has begun. Seeds are dying, the growth will begin, early rains, latter rains, sunshine, abundant fruitfulness. In the fields and in life the progress is the same. It can't be rushed. And you must trust the grace of the God who brings the rain and the sun to do His work at His pace. It is totally beyond our power to control. May we all develop the patience and faith of the farmer.
I passed more than a few farmers doing their plowing. Huge green beasts chewing up the soil. You can see the dust settling from a mile away--long before you reach them at work in the fields. Impressive. But I will be taking trips into Amish territory so I can see the proud work horses pulling their plows. Gorgeous and impressive. Lovers of a hard day's toil.
Ah, most the birds are here. But the glass won't be full until the meadowlark arrives. And the indigo bunting. More than half the trees are green; but they are not all green yet, and none of them are completely clothed in their summer richness. And the hidden houses can still be seen by the traveler of the backroads. Jealously, some of my trees are only half as mature as my neighbors. All the beauty but half the size. Only half of the fields are plowed and planted. The mystery of growth is just beginning. But half the fields have not yet been churned into geometrical masterpieces, and I have not yet found any team of horses prancing in the joy of the labor they were created for. Indeed, the "glass is half empty," but I am not sad or disappointed. The joy of my wanderings on the backroads of Morrow County is to watch the "glass" fill up. Wouldn't have it any other way. A toast to the half-full glass of Morrow County. Beautiful!
Saturday, May 4, 2013
Riding Iten's Acres: May 3, 2013
Riding Iten's Acres:
I spent the last two afternoons riding the Acres. For some, I suppose, cutting the grass would be a chore. I love it! Being outside, cruising the property, beheading a thousand dandelions, life is good. By mid-summer the barn swallows will join me for lunch when I cut the meadow and the wild area out back, and the blue birds will join me when I cut the front, winding my way among the flower beds. Today, it was just me and the robins. Well, the redwings fussed a bit when I cut near the pond, but they were a little subdued for them--guess there aren't any fledglings yet. The birds at the feeder just ignore me.
I am expanding the wild area a tad--again. I just am in love with God's wildness, and the beauty of the natural wildflowers of Ohio. Oh, I "seeded" the area with some daffodils, iris, lilies, monarda, spiderwort, and grape hyacinths. I threw in a few handfuls of wild flower seeds as well. Can't wait to see what happens this summer and fall. Don't worry, I still have plenty of meadow, the back forty, the orchard, and the rock garden out back, so it's still wide open. A park--minus the picnic tables.
The flowering trees and shrubs are magnificent--as I mentioned before: several redbuds, red and white crab apples, white and pink dogwoods, apple trees, pear trees, marsh marigold, red and white bleeding hearts, lilacs, azalea--color is everywhere painted on God's blue canvas. A few daffodils are still around--two or three dozen small white ones and the miniature golden bells are the last to bloom. They'll be around another ten days or so. A couple dozen tulips of various colors dot the flower beds and other areas, dozens of grape hyacinth are still blooming, the rock garden is a carpet of thrift and creeping phlox, and the first iris bloomed today. It caught me by surprise suddenly appearing in the rock garden. Two others are about to bloom--the usual early bloomers--a rosy white one and a yellow. Yes, all this beauty means my riding looks as if I'm in the middle of some city in rush hour traffic: stop and go, stop and go, stop and go. And sadly, my mower is a single seater so you'll have to walk the Acres if you want to see everything. Fear not! I will not run you over. Probably.
Two days of riding the Acres for the first time in 2013. I can't wait until it morphs into Feeding the Bluebirds and Feeding the swallows. Flying flowers are luscious too.
I spent the last two afternoons riding the Acres. For some, I suppose, cutting the grass would be a chore. I love it! Being outside, cruising the property, beheading a thousand dandelions, life is good. By mid-summer the barn swallows will join me for lunch when I cut the meadow and the wild area out back, and the blue birds will join me when I cut the front, winding my way among the flower beds. Today, it was just me and the robins. Well, the redwings fussed a bit when I cut near the pond, but they were a little subdued for them--guess there aren't any fledglings yet. The birds at the feeder just ignore me.
I am expanding the wild area a tad--again. I just am in love with God's wildness, and the beauty of the natural wildflowers of Ohio. Oh, I "seeded" the area with some daffodils, iris, lilies, monarda, spiderwort, and grape hyacinths. I threw in a few handfuls of wild flower seeds as well. Can't wait to see what happens this summer and fall. Don't worry, I still have plenty of meadow, the back forty, the orchard, and the rock garden out back, so it's still wide open. A park--minus the picnic tables.
The flowering trees and shrubs are magnificent--as I mentioned before: several redbuds, red and white crab apples, white and pink dogwoods, apple trees, pear trees, marsh marigold, red and white bleeding hearts, lilacs, azalea--color is everywhere painted on God's blue canvas. A few daffodils are still around--two or three dozen small white ones and the miniature golden bells are the last to bloom. They'll be around another ten days or so. A couple dozen tulips of various colors dot the flower beds and other areas, dozens of grape hyacinth are still blooming, the rock garden is a carpet of thrift and creeping phlox, and the first iris bloomed today. It caught me by surprise suddenly appearing in the rock garden. Two others are about to bloom--the usual early bloomers--a rosy white one and a yellow. Yes, all this beauty means my riding looks as if I'm in the middle of some city in rush hour traffic: stop and go, stop and go, stop and go. And sadly, my mower is a single seater so you'll have to walk the Acres if you want to see everything. Fear not! I will not run you over. Probably.
Two days of riding the Acres for the first time in 2013. I can't wait until it morphs into Feeding the Bluebirds and Feeding the swallows. Flying flowers are luscious too.
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Walking Iten's Acres: May 1, 2013
It
must be red day in the feathered kingdom: The rose-breasted grosbeak
has arrived--well, the male anyway. The female has been here for a
couple weeks already. And the ruby-throated hummingbird arrived today
as well. I love red.
Today at Iten's Acres: May 1, 2013
Today at Iten's Acres:
My Gardening Angels didn't do much the five days that I was gone. I understand the weather didn't help much. My land is still wet and sloppy. It has been a rainy, cold spring. But there's two months to go. I will be patient. I will be patient. I will be patient. Though it is particularly difficult to do so with the iris. No sign of any buds yet. The winter of 2011 messed up my expectations. Last year things started blooming in February. This year they are back to normal--whatever normal is in Ohio. I guess, there really isn't such a thing as normal when it comes to Ohio.
Not that all is lost. Some daffodils are still blooming; in fact, a couple dozen or so haven't even bloomed yet. And that's not even counting the dozens of miniature golden bell daffodils that are just starting to add their yellow tiny trumpets to the beauty of the beds. Puddles of grape hyacinth are everywhere. Lots of tulips and more to go. The thrift and creeping phlox are warming up. And the flowering trees are raring to show off. The redbud are already living up to their name. The pear and apple trees--including the crab apples--are on the verge of brilliance. The dogwoods--white and pink--should be in full bloom by the end of the week. The flowering almond are sharing their pink view of the world, and one azalea has started to bloom. And everywhere--yes, everywhere--the Gardening Angels have sprinkled the world with violets--purples, whites, two-tones, even a few yellows. Sometimes the ordinary is so gorgeous I miss it. Thousands and thousands of dabs of color everywhere you look. Oh, and don't forget the bleeding hearts--whites and reds beautifying the shady areas everywhere.
I guess I owe the Gardening Angels an apology. The Acres, as May comes in, are a lovely place to take a nice long walk--or two, or three, or . . .
My Gardening Angels didn't do much the five days that I was gone. I understand the weather didn't help much. My land is still wet and sloppy. It has been a rainy, cold spring. But there's two months to go. I will be patient. I will be patient. I will be patient. Though it is particularly difficult to do so with the iris. No sign of any buds yet. The winter of 2011 messed up my expectations. Last year things started blooming in February. This year they are back to normal--whatever normal is in Ohio. I guess, there really isn't such a thing as normal when it comes to Ohio.
Not that all is lost. Some daffodils are still blooming; in fact, a couple dozen or so haven't even bloomed yet. And that's not even counting the dozens of miniature golden bell daffodils that are just starting to add their yellow tiny trumpets to the beauty of the beds. Puddles of grape hyacinth are everywhere. Lots of tulips and more to go. The thrift and creeping phlox are warming up. And the flowering trees are raring to show off. The redbud are already living up to their name. The pear and apple trees--including the crab apples--are on the verge of brilliance. The dogwoods--white and pink--should be in full bloom by the end of the week. The flowering almond are sharing their pink view of the world, and one azalea has started to bloom. And everywhere--yes, everywhere--the Gardening Angels have sprinkled the world with violets--purples, whites, two-tones, even a few yellows. Sometimes the ordinary is so gorgeous I miss it. Thousands and thousands of dabs of color everywhere you look. Oh, and don't forget the bleeding hearts--whites and reds beautifying the shady areas everywhere.
I guess I owe the Gardening Angels an apology. The Acres, as May comes in, are a lovely place to take a nice long walk--or two, or three, or . . .
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
This Week at Iten's Acres: April 12, 2013
This Week at Iten's Acres:
Weather: We had weather every day this week. Somewhere in the deep recesses of my mind, I feel as if there may have even been some sunshine earlier in the week. You know--that bright yellow thing that sometimes--once a month or so--hovers over the Ohio landscape bringing warmth. Of course, we also had a hail storm this week. Didn't really do any damage unless you call sending the Homesteader into a frenzy watching all those little white orbs ricocheting everywhere outside the doorwindow--just beyond her reach, "damage." I call it a good laugh. An ark of rain the last couple of days, too. The creeks of Morrow County are peeking over the edge of all those picturesque one lane bridges. And the Acres are under water. FAS: the forsythia are starting to bloom--three more snows!
Creature Features: A herd of deer went leaping across the upper meadow yesterday. Out of Aaron's pines, through my trees, and into Dennis' thickets. I hope they kept going across the road, through the swamp, and into the trees on the other side. Keep your appetites away from my flowers you varmints! Speaking of varmints, the ticks are here. I'll have to get some Frontline for the white dish rag. No, she doesn't go out, but invariably I bring some of those wretches into the house after I've walked the Acres in spring. The squirrel population declined this week. Heh, heh. And, I think the newest member of the Outlaws has puppies. No, really. The gang will be a pack! Dennis has his "flock" roaming free. I'm sorry city folks but a herd of animals feeding on a hillside--regardless of its size--defines "serenity." (Miss you Blaze.)
Beauty Update: For the eyes--it's daffodil time. They only started blooming in earnest this week, and I have, at least, 500-600 blooms today all over the landscape. Myriads more to come. In the beds, surrounding the pond, in the trees, laying siege to the mound, out along the edges of the meadow, scattered throughout the wild area: if you love yellows and whites and pinks--and eventually oranges--rejoice, it's daffodil time. They are great for naturalizing--grow anywhere, the beasts don't like them, multiply like crazy.
For the olfactory glands: hyacinth. They also appeal to the eyes: brilliant dark colors and soft pastel colors. And, ah, the lovely scents. I only have a few dozen of them scattered everywhere, but they add diversity to the Acre's color scheme this time of year. And grow anywhere, too. Throw in the pansies I planted in various places, the spring beauties that God planted everywhere, the "fattening" of the buds on the trees, and the walks are lovely in mid-April on Iten's Acres. Next, will be the forsythia in full bloom, the redbuds, the tulips that the rabbits don't eat, and the bleeding hearts! Let's hear it for April. Well, let's see it and smell it for April!
My Feathered Friends: As mentioned before the goldfinch have bloomed. Robins are everywhere in hoards. The red-wings are staking claims to nesting sites in the pond and the bog. A male towhee dropped by the feeder this week. I think I saw a female grosbeak as well which means the males will be here soon. Still a few snowbirds around--reading the blooms on the forsythia I imagine. No sign of the ruby throats yet. Or the indigo buntings. Or the meadowlarks. Soon. I hope. Why is it that the bird world is so opposite the human race? For the most part, the male birds are the gorgeous ones and the females rather plain. In we humans--well, sorry guys, it's backwards. Or frontwards, maybe. Oh, the road-kill-clean-up-crew is back--all a buzz. No beauty there in either gender. I almost forgot. The swallows aren't back yet, either. Guess they're waiting for lawn mower season.
I did do a little work this week, in case you were worried. Raked some leaves out of a few beds. Got to get some sun on the iris! Planted a couple things as well. Still have to plant the gladiolas and some seed packets, but that can wait. I think I'll go rest awhile on the bench by the pond. Then, maybe I'll spend a little time on the top of the hill resting in the green throne. I'm developing the Iten heresy. "One day shalt thou labor, and six days shalt thou rest." Forgive me, Lord. I will go job hunting once May gets here, I promise.
Weather: We had weather every day this week. Somewhere in the deep recesses of my mind, I feel as if there may have even been some sunshine earlier in the week. You know--that bright yellow thing that sometimes--once a month or so--hovers over the Ohio landscape bringing warmth. Of course, we also had a hail storm this week. Didn't really do any damage unless you call sending the Homesteader into a frenzy watching all those little white orbs ricocheting everywhere outside the doorwindow--just beyond her reach, "damage." I call it a good laugh. An ark of rain the last couple of days, too. The creeks of Morrow County are peeking over the edge of all those picturesque one lane bridges. And the Acres are under water. FAS: the forsythia are starting to bloom--three more snows!
Creature Features: A herd of deer went leaping across the upper meadow yesterday. Out of Aaron's pines, through my trees, and into Dennis' thickets. I hope they kept going across the road, through the swamp, and into the trees on the other side. Keep your appetites away from my flowers you varmints! Speaking of varmints, the ticks are here. I'll have to get some Frontline for the white dish rag. No, she doesn't go out, but invariably I bring some of those wretches into the house after I've walked the Acres in spring. The squirrel population declined this week. Heh, heh. And, I think the newest member of the Outlaws has puppies. No, really. The gang will be a pack! Dennis has his "flock" roaming free. I'm sorry city folks but a herd of animals feeding on a hillside--regardless of its size--defines "serenity." (Miss you Blaze.)
Beauty Update: For the eyes--it's daffodil time. They only started blooming in earnest this week, and I have, at least, 500-600 blooms today all over the landscape. Myriads more to come. In the beds, surrounding the pond, in the trees, laying siege to the mound, out along the edges of the meadow, scattered throughout the wild area: if you love yellows and whites and pinks--and eventually oranges--rejoice, it's daffodil time. They are great for naturalizing--grow anywhere, the beasts don't like them, multiply like crazy.
For the olfactory glands: hyacinth. They also appeal to the eyes: brilliant dark colors and soft pastel colors. And, ah, the lovely scents. I only have a few dozen of them scattered everywhere, but they add diversity to the Acre's color scheme this time of year. And grow anywhere, too. Throw in the pansies I planted in various places, the spring beauties that God planted everywhere, the "fattening" of the buds on the trees, and the walks are lovely in mid-April on Iten's Acres. Next, will be the forsythia in full bloom, the redbuds, the tulips that the rabbits don't eat, and the bleeding hearts! Let's hear it for April. Well, let's see it and smell it for April!
My Feathered Friends: As mentioned before the goldfinch have bloomed. Robins are everywhere in hoards. The red-wings are staking claims to nesting sites in the pond and the bog. A male towhee dropped by the feeder this week. I think I saw a female grosbeak as well which means the males will be here soon. Still a few snowbirds around--reading the blooms on the forsythia I imagine. No sign of the ruby throats yet. Or the indigo buntings. Or the meadowlarks. Soon. I hope. Why is it that the bird world is so opposite the human race? For the most part, the male birds are the gorgeous ones and the females rather plain. In we humans--well, sorry guys, it's backwards. Or frontwards, maybe. Oh, the road-kill-clean-up-crew is back--all a buzz. No beauty there in either gender. I almost forgot. The swallows aren't back yet, either. Guess they're waiting for lawn mower season.
I did do a little work this week, in case you were worried. Raked some leaves out of a few beds. Got to get some sun on the iris! Planted a couple things as well. Still have to plant the gladiolas and some seed packets, but that can wait. I think I'll go rest awhile on the bench by the pond. Then, maybe I'll spend a little time on the top of the hill resting in the green throne. I'm developing the Iten heresy. "One day shalt thou labor, and six days shalt thou rest." Forgive me, Lord. I will go job hunting once May gets here, I promise.
Backroads of Morrow County: April 8, 2013
Backroads of Morrow County Update:
For those of you who have not yet recovered from the angst of childhood . . . for those of you who wake up at night in cold sweats knowing that your childhood searches for the meaning of life remain unfulfilled . . . for those of you who still have bouts of blurry, fuzzy vision . . . Listen very, very, very, carefully:
Take 23 North to Marion.
Turn right--West--on 95.
At the fourth traffic light, turn right again on 98--South.
Go EXACTLY nine miles----And--------you will find Waldo. Every time. Guaranteed.
Sure. Glad I could help. I knew my ricocheting all around the backroads of Ohio would someday lead to a cure for something. Not my roving malady, but something.
For those of you who have not yet recovered from the angst of childhood . . . for those of you who wake up at night in cold sweats knowing that your childhood searches for the meaning of life remain unfulfilled . . . for those of you who still have bouts of blurry, fuzzy vision . . . Listen very, very, very, carefully:
Take 23 North to Marion.
Turn right--West--on 95.
At the fourth traffic light, turn right again on 98--South.
Go EXACTLY nine miles----And--------you will find Waldo. Every time. Guaranteed.
Sure. Glad I could help. I knew my ricocheting all around the backroads of Ohio would someday lead to a cure for something. Not my roving malady, but something.
Saturday, April 6, 2013
Walking Iten's Acres: April 4, 2013
Walking Iten's Acres:
It's amazing what three days of sun and slowly warming temperatures can do for the Acres! More crocus blooming, more dwarf iris, primrose, wood hyacinth (can their big brothers be far behind), more Lenten rose, the beginning of the daffodils. Even the goldfinch are starting to bloom. And the wild flowers are on their way beginning with the spring beauties. The joy of wild flowers everywhere, blooming wherever they please, is that old truth that they reinforce: "There is nothing more extraordinary as the ordinary."
It's amazing what three days of sun and slowly warming temperatures can do for the Acres! More crocus blooming, more dwarf iris, primrose, wood hyacinth (can their big brothers be far behind), more Lenten rose, the beginning of the daffodils. Even the goldfinch are starting to bloom. And the wild flowers are on their way beginning with the spring beauties. The joy of wild flowers everywhere, blooming wherever they please, is that old truth that they reinforce: "There is nothing more extraordinary as the ordinary."
Sunday, March 31, 2013
Homesteader Update: March 30, 2013
Homesteader update: (AKA the white dish rag; nosy Rosy, CAT!!!)
My primary function in life these days is to provide a lap in the green recliner that looks out on the front of the Acres through the doorwindow. From there, she can see the bird feeder, the chipmunks scurrying around the flower pots, the Outlaw gang as they mosey by, and the peepers climbing the glass. Favorite imaginary meals? The chipmunks and the mourning doves. At least those are the ones that will get her out of my lap to charge the window, prop her front paws on the glass, strike the "ears back intimidating pose", and watch the scattering. She follows the Outlaw Gang from window to window as they pass the house. She hates it, no doubt, that they ignore her.
She makes a great alarm clock--if consistency is a measure of greatness. Every morning at 7:30 AM: plop on the bed, pointy paws up and down my back, a morning serenade, and a cold nose in the face. I assume the serenade is along the lines of "Get up lazy human. It's a new day." Ugh. Yes, she also does a great job as a snooze alarm.
Current favorite toy: that budget-busting cap from the top of a bottle of bottled water. Especially joyful to knock around on the tiles or to drop down the stairs. It seems that noise is a necessary component of fun. She also loves playing with ink pens that she knocks from my desk to the floor. Weird. If I start finding anonymous notes around the house, I'll really start to worry.
Basking in sunlight is a must for each day. (Provided there is some.) Usually in the mornings it's in front of the doorwindow and in the afternoons the bathroom floor upstairs. Wherever rays can be found.
Favorite speed: the dash.
Favorite way to distract the slave: get in his lap and place both your paws over the arm he's trying to type with on the computer. And be sure to express your disgust when he makes you move--even if it's just to his lap.
Each day is the same battle: Who's the boss? What? Of course I'm losing.
My primary function in life these days is to provide a lap in the green recliner that looks out on the front of the Acres through the doorwindow. From there, she can see the bird feeder, the chipmunks scurrying around the flower pots, the Outlaw gang as they mosey by, and the peepers climbing the glass. Favorite imaginary meals? The chipmunks and the mourning doves. At least those are the ones that will get her out of my lap to charge the window, prop her front paws on the glass, strike the "ears back intimidating pose", and watch the scattering. She follows the Outlaw Gang from window to window as they pass the house. She hates it, no doubt, that they ignore her.
She makes a great alarm clock--if consistency is a measure of greatness. Every morning at 7:30 AM: plop on the bed, pointy paws up and down my back, a morning serenade, and a cold nose in the face. I assume the serenade is along the lines of "Get up lazy human. It's a new day." Ugh. Yes, she also does a great job as a snooze alarm.
Current favorite toy: that budget-busting cap from the top of a bottle of bottled water. Especially joyful to knock around on the tiles or to drop down the stairs. It seems that noise is a necessary component of fun. She also loves playing with ink pens that she knocks from my desk to the floor. Weird. If I start finding anonymous notes around the house, I'll really start to worry.
Basking in sunlight is a must for each day. (Provided there is some.) Usually in the mornings it's in front of the doorwindow and in the afternoons the bathroom floor upstairs. Wherever rays can be found.
Favorite speed: the dash.
Favorite way to distract the slave: get in his lap and place both your paws over the arm he's trying to type with on the computer. And be sure to express your disgust when he makes you move--even if it's just to his lap.
Each day is the same battle: Who's the boss? What? Of course I'm losing.
Monday, March 25, 2013
Today at Iten's Acres: March 25, 2013
Today at Iten's Acres:
Gus, after a winter tied up, has been set free. So, on all my walks I have at least one furry friend. When his "sibling" the little hound is out, she joins us as well. They always check out the prairie rat's hole, meander down the paths in the wild area, and then ramble back up to the house with me. They know by now that I always go through the trees on my return and wait for me there. I guess I'm as predictable as they are.
Though spring is officially here, it has not done much beautifying yet. The ground in most places is still fairly hard. My planters are like concrete. Out front lots of daffodils and tulips and hyacinths have let it be known that they will be blooming as soon as the warmth catches up with the calendar. I will have to be on the alert for my friends the rabbits; they have already done some damage. Rabbit stew anyone? I'm sure the dogs will enjoy having them over for dinner. Out back, not much is coming up at all. The wild area has been pretty much flattened by the winter's weather, except for the brambles, of course--things with thorns seem to be fairly indestructible. No daffodils or hyacinth even coming up out there yet. A few crocus, though. Dabs of purple, white, lilac, and yellow scattered here and there along the edges of the paths or under the barren bushes.
I am hoping for a good snow tonight--five inches or more would be delectable. I'll sit in my old green recliner by the doorwindow and watch the world turn white. Will be lovely if it happens. I'm sure the white dish rag would join me, curled up in my lap, temporarily distracted now and then by the birds at the feeder once daylight gets here. Provided, naturally, that she's willing to share her chair with me. The goldfinch have not yet bloomed. And no sign of the rose-breasted grosbeak yet either. The male redwings are here. And the criminal cowbirds.
I wonder how the peepers will enjoy the snow?
I confess that I have enjoyed the "normal" winter. A little warmer would be acceptable now, but not real warm yet. It's a long time until Ohio becomes frost free. I don't want any "tender" plants coming up too soon. Call me over protective.
Highlights of the week. I actually saw the sun two days in a row. And one day was warm enough for me to enjoy a nice long rest in the green throne on the top of the hill. Ahhh, the joys of being king. What? Oh, I'll share sovereignty for awhile if you're in the neighborhood. But remember--bring your own throne.
Gus, after a winter tied up, has been set free. So, on all my walks I have at least one furry friend. When his "sibling" the little hound is out, she joins us as well. They always check out the prairie rat's hole, meander down the paths in the wild area, and then ramble back up to the house with me. They know by now that I always go through the trees on my return and wait for me there. I guess I'm as predictable as they are.
Though spring is officially here, it has not done much beautifying yet. The ground in most places is still fairly hard. My planters are like concrete. Out front lots of daffodils and tulips and hyacinths have let it be known that they will be blooming as soon as the warmth catches up with the calendar. I will have to be on the alert for my friends the rabbits; they have already done some damage. Rabbit stew anyone? I'm sure the dogs will enjoy having them over for dinner. Out back, not much is coming up at all. The wild area has been pretty much flattened by the winter's weather, except for the brambles, of course--things with thorns seem to be fairly indestructible. No daffodils or hyacinth even coming up out there yet. A few crocus, though. Dabs of purple, white, lilac, and yellow scattered here and there along the edges of the paths or under the barren bushes.
I am hoping for a good snow tonight--five inches or more would be delectable. I'll sit in my old green recliner by the doorwindow and watch the world turn white. Will be lovely if it happens. I'm sure the white dish rag would join me, curled up in my lap, temporarily distracted now and then by the birds at the feeder once daylight gets here. Provided, naturally, that she's willing to share her chair with me. The goldfinch have not yet bloomed. And no sign of the rose-breasted grosbeak yet either. The male redwings are here. And the criminal cowbirds.
I wonder how the peepers will enjoy the snow?
I confess that I have enjoyed the "normal" winter. A little warmer would be acceptable now, but not real warm yet. It's a long time until Ohio becomes frost free. I don't want any "tender" plants coming up too soon. Call me over protective.
Highlights of the week. I actually saw the sun two days in a row. And one day was warm enough for me to enjoy a nice long rest in the green throne on the top of the hill. Ahhh, the joys of being king. What? Oh, I'll share sovereignty for awhile if you're in the neighborhood. But remember--bring your own throne.
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Backroads of Morrow County: March 7, 2013
Backroads of Morrow County Update:
I took a nice long excursion along the back roads today. I didn't have any particular destination in mind. In fact, No Place in Particular was the exact destination I had in mind. I find such travels therapeutic. My thoughts and my emotions needed a trip to nowhere today.
Though it is only three weeks until the official arrival of spring, there was little evidence of its coming. Some snow is still left over from the snowfall of a couple of days ago--but not much. The rows in the fields seem to collect it, and there are always those locations--shaded for the most part--that will resist any melting. The ponds are not iced over, but they do have patches still. None of the houses in the trees have even begun to go back into hiding. A few--very few--of the fields are plowed. I really don't know if anything has been planted in them yet. Nothing is certainly coming up. What kind of crop would someone plant this time of year? Winter wheat? I confess my ignorance. But the symmetry of a plowed field is lovely.
In fact, despite the winteryness of the landscape, it produces in me a sense of serenity. An "all's right with the world" feeling. There are some sheep in their pastures. Oblivious to my creeping by. One cattle "ranch" has bales of hay out for the creatures. They seem to enjoy the congregating. Cow gossip, I guess. A few hawks, still as silhouettes, sit high on the barren branches of the trees. Mourning doves are everywhere. I guess they aren't on the menu.
I did, eventually, ricochet into Mount Gilead--no, I don't think they sell balm there--and had a bite to eat at the local dive. They do specialize in comfort food. Nice country folks. Full of laughter as they discuss the stories of their lives. Yes, I eavesdrop. Suppress a smile, maybe even a laugh, though I have no idea what has them laughing. Contagious stuff that joy thing.
When I headed back to home, the sky was gray. But off on the horizon was a patch of pale yellow--dare I say, almost ivory. The sun is hidden behind the grayness, but it's glow lightens the distance, announcing that it is still around and just waiting for a break. I have to weave down 25 to avoid the plethora of pot holes. I wonder what a patrolman would think if he saw me. Too much Pepsi, I'm sure. Though it is not dark yet, my porch lights which are light sensitive (lack of light maybe) beckon me back from my meanderings. Homesteader is in the doorwindow, but she's focused on her feathered friends. It is not a "welcome home" party. I know my place in the universe according to cats. Supposedly, a couple days of warmer weather are coming soon. I hope it triggers the crocus, Lenten roses, and snowdrops to begin to show off. I'm ready for a colorful walking of the Acres.
I took a nice long excursion along the back roads today. I didn't have any particular destination in mind. In fact, No Place in Particular was the exact destination I had in mind. I find such travels therapeutic. My thoughts and my emotions needed a trip to nowhere today.
Though it is only three weeks until the official arrival of spring, there was little evidence of its coming. Some snow is still left over from the snowfall of a couple of days ago--but not much. The rows in the fields seem to collect it, and there are always those locations--shaded for the most part--that will resist any melting. The ponds are not iced over, but they do have patches still. None of the houses in the trees have even begun to go back into hiding. A few--very few--of the fields are plowed. I really don't know if anything has been planted in them yet. Nothing is certainly coming up. What kind of crop would someone plant this time of year? Winter wheat? I confess my ignorance. But the symmetry of a plowed field is lovely.
In fact, despite the winteryness of the landscape, it produces in me a sense of serenity. An "all's right with the world" feeling. There are some sheep in their pastures. Oblivious to my creeping by. One cattle "ranch" has bales of hay out for the creatures. They seem to enjoy the congregating. Cow gossip, I guess. A few hawks, still as silhouettes, sit high on the barren branches of the trees. Mourning doves are everywhere. I guess they aren't on the menu.
I did, eventually, ricochet into Mount Gilead--no, I don't think they sell balm there--and had a bite to eat at the local dive. They do specialize in comfort food. Nice country folks. Full of laughter as they discuss the stories of their lives. Yes, I eavesdrop. Suppress a smile, maybe even a laugh, though I have no idea what has them laughing. Contagious stuff that joy thing.
When I headed back to home, the sky was gray. But off on the horizon was a patch of pale yellow--dare I say, almost ivory. The sun is hidden behind the grayness, but it's glow lightens the distance, announcing that it is still around and just waiting for a break. I have to weave down 25 to avoid the plethora of pot holes. I wonder what a patrolman would think if he saw me. Too much Pepsi, I'm sure. Though it is not dark yet, my porch lights which are light sensitive (lack of light maybe) beckon me back from my meanderings. Homesteader is in the doorwindow, but she's focused on her feathered friends. It is not a "welcome home" party. I know my place in the universe according to cats. Supposedly, a couple days of warmer weather are coming soon. I hope it triggers the crocus, Lenten roses, and snowdrops to begin to show off. I'm ready for a colorful walking of the Acres.
Thursday, March 7, 2013
Backroads of Morrow County: August 20, 2010
The world is coming to an end. I sat next to
an Amish family at Wendy's and they had a CELL PHONE. Then they started
discussing problems they were having with their COMPUTER. There is no
hope left for us. And they drove up in a CAR. Today is the last day.
Goodbye.
Today at Iten's Acres: August 25, 2010
Yesterday was Feeding the Swallows. One of
the joys of living in the country and mowing a pasture is the barn
swallows think you do it for them--a bug feast. There must have been a
dozen of them yesterday swarming around me like blue velvet jets.
Fearless. At times I think they can't help but run into me. I duck
instinctively, and I'm sure they do the barn swallow guffaw.
Today at Iten's Acres: October 1, 2010
if buzzards circle overhead the entire time
I'm cutting my back pasture does that mean a) call the crematorium b)
shower more often, c) the neighbor's dog killed another raccoon and I'm
delaying dinner, d) i'm too paranoid e) i've been reading too much
fantasy?
Today at Iten's Acres: October 24, 2010
The great thing about fall crocus--other than
the fact that it's nice to have lilac/lavender blooms everywhere in
October and November--is the element of surprise. They don't send up
leaves to let you know they're coming; it's just "presto" and there are
new lilac polka dots all over the landscape.
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Today at Iten's Acres: April 6, 2011
My neighbor has let his alpacas and goats roam
today. It's a marvelous portrait of serenity and peace as they graze
the hill on the back of his property. There is such calm in simple
pastoral scenes.
Today at Iten's Acres: June 3, 2011
No, neighbor. I was not cutting the grass today. I was feeding the swallows. (They're back! Just two--for now.)
I need a bumper sticker for my riding mower that reads: "This mower stops for honey bees."
I need a bumper sticker for my riding mower that reads: "This mower stops for honey bees."
Backroads of Morrow County: June 4, 2011
I love the symmetry of a plowed field. I have
this image in my mind from last spring when Mom and I watched an Amish
man with a team of four horses plowing his field. You could see in his
countenance his pride in and love for his horses. And, believe it or
not, in the gait of the horses you could see their joy in the work.
Gorgeous.
Saturday, March 2, 2013
Today at Iten's Acres: March 1, 2013
Today at Iten's Acres:
Sloppy. Mushy. Slushy. Take your pick. Wet. Feels as if March is going to do its "Come in like a lion" thing. I was hoping the weather would be about ten degrees colder these last few days so that we could have a nice, deep snowfall. Alas, it was not to be. Frozen tundra is keeping the water from sinking in, and a walk of the Acres was sloppy to say the least.
Three weeks until spring, at least. Officially, anyway. God has already given hints of His yearly resurrection of the beautiful. The pink heather has been blooming for three weeks. Daffodils, crocus, tulips, and even a hyacinth or two have peaked out to check the weather. Several of the Lenten Roses have budded. A white one looks as if it will bloom any day! One yellow crocus has already bloomed as well as a single aconite--a yellow flower as well. Last year at this time because of the mild winter the Acres was already awash in crocus. This year with a real winter--to some degree--it should be a couple of weeks or three until spring starts to color everything. Can't wait. I hope the spring is beautiful this year. There will, no doubt, be a tinge of sorrow in the midst of this year's beauty, but the joy will triumph. The first step will be to bring in a branch or two from the pussy willow, silverize the house, and hope they will take root so that I can plant them later on the Acres.
Roar your way in March! Spring will not be intimidated! Loveliness is around the corner!
Sloppy. Mushy. Slushy. Take your pick. Wet. Feels as if March is going to do its "Come in like a lion" thing. I was hoping the weather would be about ten degrees colder these last few days so that we could have a nice, deep snowfall. Alas, it was not to be. Frozen tundra is keeping the water from sinking in, and a walk of the Acres was sloppy to say the least.
Three weeks until spring, at least. Officially, anyway. God has already given hints of His yearly resurrection of the beautiful. The pink heather has been blooming for three weeks. Daffodils, crocus, tulips, and even a hyacinth or two have peaked out to check the weather. Several of the Lenten Roses have budded. A white one looks as if it will bloom any day! One yellow crocus has already bloomed as well as a single aconite--a yellow flower as well. Last year at this time because of the mild winter the Acres was already awash in crocus. This year with a real winter--to some degree--it should be a couple of weeks or three until spring starts to color everything. Can't wait. I hope the spring is beautiful this year. There will, no doubt, be a tinge of sorrow in the midst of this year's beauty, but the joy will triumph. The first step will be to bring in a branch or two from the pussy willow, silverize the house, and hope they will take root so that I can plant them later on the Acres.
Roar your way in March! Spring will not be intimidated! Loveliness is around the corner!
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Today at Iten's Acres: July 17, 2011
My Gardening Angels have planted three new
wildflowers on Iten's Acres this year: spiderwort, smooth ruellia, and
prairie coneflowers. And it's still only the middle of July!
Today at Iten's Acres: July 21, 2011
I'm being ganged up on. When Stella, my
neighbor's black lab, wants to go for a walk (they don't walk her), she
comes and paces in front of the glass doors where Mom is sitting,
looking in with those sad brown eyes, as if to say, "Mrs. Iten can your
chubby son come out and play?"
I hear, "Stella's out. (Pause) I like Stella."
Translation: "My chubby son WILL come out and play. Now."
I have no chance.
I hear, "Stella's out. (Pause) I like Stella."
Translation: "My chubby son WILL come out and play. Now."
I have no chance.
Monday, February 25, 2013
Today at Iten's Acres: August 9, 2011
The Advantages of Having a Huge Wild Flower Area:
1. It's a butterfly airport.
2. Every year there are new wild flowers and new "patches" of some of the old ones.
3. Bluebirds.
4. Feeding the Swallows.
5. No weeding allowed.
1. It's a butterfly airport.
2. Every year there are new wild flowers and new "patches" of some of the old ones.
3. Bluebirds.
4. Feeding the Swallows.
5. No weeding allowed.
Today at Iten's Acres: August 10, 2011
I saw one of my Gardening Angels this
afternoon--the one responsible for spreading cone flowers all over my
property. Man, did he do a great job last fall! Anyway, there he was,
sitting right on top of the tallest cone flower gathering seeds for
later "distribution." It was the Archangel Goldfinch.
Today at Iten's Acres: August 19, 2011
The great things about phlox:
smells amazing
spreads like crazy--and not just in the beds where you plant it. It knows no boundaries.
changes colors as it spreads. plant one color in a bed and in a year or two you have three or four colors.
blooms 'til frost.
gotta love 'em!
smells amazing
spreads like crazy--and not just in the beds where you plant it. It knows no boundaries.
changes colors as it spreads. plant one color in a bed and in a year or two you have three or four colors.
blooms 'til frost.
gotta love 'em!
Today at Iten's Acres: August 28, 2011
I'm becoming old and sedentary. My idea of a productive day is:
1. Sit on the bench by the pond and watch the turtles and frogs. It's easy. They just sit and watch back.
2. Admire the water lilies.
3. Pet the dogs if they happen to wander by.
4. Sneer at the scolding red-winged blackbirds.
5. Oh, and think about all the things I should be doing. (And who I can coerce into doing them for me.)
1. Sit on the bench by the pond and watch the turtles and frogs. It's easy. They just sit and watch back.
2. Admire the water lilies.
3. Pet the dogs if they happen to wander by.
4. Sneer at the scolding red-winged blackbirds.
5. Oh, and think about all the things I should be doing. (And who I can coerce into doing them for me.)
Friday, February 15, 2013
Today at Iten's Acres: September 1, 2011
Ahhhh. Gus is either completely brain dead,
or he has no sense of smell. He had another encounter with a skunk.
That makes at least four. I think I'm going to set aside the command
"to pet your neighbor's dog" for at least a week or so.
Today at Iten's Acres: September 17, 2011
One of the stars of Iten Acres this time of
year are the planter "gardens." The flowers in the planters have been
maturing for four months now, and they are gorgeous: impatiens,
marigolds, dianthus, alyssum, coleus, petunias, dahlias, snapdragon,
begonia, mums, cosmos, lobelia, verbena, geraniums. . . Need I say more
flower lovers? The flower beds may be on the decline, but there is
still beauty to enrich each walk.
Today at Iten's Acres: September 21, 2011
The summer of 2011 has officially succumbed to
the vagaries of the calender. Fall/autumn is here. Autumn appeals to
my poetic side; fall is probably more accurate. The dogwood has started
to turn. The red maple is beginning to live up to its name. The fall
is coming. The wild area is immersed in yellows, whites, and
purples--gorgeous. The re-blooming iris have been invigorated by cooler
temperatures along with the snapdragons and alyssum. I love the change
of seasons. God gets out His paint brush and redoes the scenery again!
Today at Iten's Acres: September 24, 2011
What a terrible afternoon. I had to spend the
whole afternoon outside on a perfect fall day. Bright sunshine, a few
white and soft gray clouds playing shadows on the lawn. A cool breeze
too. And several monarch butterflies flitting about being beautiful.
Lots of little yellow and white butterflies flitting about as well.
Birds singing everywhere. And the cat bird doing whatever you call its
song. What did I have to do all afternoon? Plant gorgeous flowers for
next spring's flower show. Terrible, just terrible. Sigh. =) Somebody
has to do it.
Today at Iten's Acres: September 28, 2011
I was pining last spring at the dearth of
honey bees on my acres; but this fall the wild area is teeming with
them. every honey bee in Morrow County must be in my wild area
gathering nectar. zillions of them. my wild area buzzes. love it.
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Today at Iten's Acres: October 1, 2011
I need a hard hat. The walnut trees knowing
my disdain for them as a species, and my constant lobbying to have them
included in "Plants that came after the Fall" use windy days to try to
exact their revenge by bombarding me with nuts. I need a hard hat--or a
chain saw.
Today at Iten's Acres: October 2, 2011
God had His paint brush out tonight: gorgeous
golden sunset in the western sky competing with a glorious rainbow in
the eastern sky.
"The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is declaring the works of His hands." (Psa. 19:1)
""For since the beginning of the world the invisible attributes of God, for example, His eternal power and divinity, have been plainly discernible through things which He has made and which are commonly seen and known, thus leaving men without a rag of an excuse." (Romans 1:20--Phillips)
"The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is declaring the works of His hands." (Psa. 19:1)
""For since the beginning of the world the invisible attributes of God, for example, His eternal power and divinity, have been plainly discernible through things which He has made and which are commonly seen and known, thus leaving men without a rag of an excuse." (Romans 1:20--Phillips)
Today at Iten's Acres: October 7, 2011
I think we're in for a tough winter.
Evidence. Last year I had hummingbirds at my feeder well into October.
This year? Haven't seen a hummer in a month. Last year when I mowed
the acres in October, surrounded by barn swallows. This October not a
velvet acrobat in sight. Evidence? Or have I just lived in the country
too long and been infected with FAS disease and trying to read "signs"
like a superstitious old man. (FAS--Farmers' Almanac Syndrom)
Today at Iten's Acres: October 18, 2011
Bonnie and Gus thought I needed help mulching
this afternoon. Of course, every time I bent over to pour out some
mulch, spread mulch, or anything else that required stooping, they were
sure that was the sign that I wanted to wrestle with them and pet them.
And since I lacked the fortitude to lay claim to all the new mulch,
they were more than happy to provide me with some common scents.
Interesting afternoon with the "neighbors."
Today at Iten's Acres: October 19, 2011
Behold the cosmos. Starts blooming in early
June--pinks, reds, wines, white. By mid-October some of them are ten to
twelve feet tall and covered with blooms. Some have so many blooms
they fall over! They are unfazed by the chill and the certainty of the
coming frost and winter. They have a "secret." Their seeds are
everywhere and next spring--no matter how cold the winter--they'll be
back. Gorgeous as ever.
Today at Iten's Acres: October 31, 2011
Must be big bird day: (No, not the yellow
one.) First, the pileated and then this afternoon the Sentinel is
adored with ten or so buzzards. Ugly birds. No offense Lord.
Impressive though. Several are sitting there with their wings fully
stretched out. Don't know if they're daring the wind to try to blow
them off the limbs, exercising for the migration, letting the other
birds know this branch is taken, or pretending to be Count Dracula for
Halloween.
Today at Iten's Acres: November 23, 2011
Another
joy of country living: a clear, cool, cloudless night. Can you see a
million stars with the naked eye? It seems like it. Dazzling! And to
think, He knows them all by name.
Backroads of Morrow County: December 3, 2011
My faith in the Amish has been somewhat
restored. Last year they showed up at Wendy's in a car. This year they
showed up at McDonald's in their horse and buggy--four families. The
"somewhat"? Amish eating McDonald's? Maybe they haven't read Fast Food
Nation or Omnivore's Dilemma, or Animal, Vegetable, Miracle? I should
have gone home and brought them back a copy. Maybe next time they're
going to be in the neighborhood, they'll call ahead? Oh, wait. . .
Today at Iten's Acres: December 12, 2011
I think I have a slight case of RVW. I mean, I
don't have any of the symptoms. There's no wife, let alone a nagging
one. I don't bowl very well notwithstanding the Junior-Senior trips to
Seven Springs. But when I took a walk this morning, the pussy willow by
the pond has blooms; a had a crocus coming up and blooming, and I have a
couple of daffodils coming up. Is it April already? Did I sleep
through winter
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
January Walking: 2012
Gorgeous day! I loved my walk in the falling
snow this morning. I think the outlaw gang Bonnie and Gus love snowy
days the best. Like kids they eat the snow, wrestle, run like a
ricochet everywhere, jump on me no doubt wondering why I'm not
frolicking in the snow. Dennis' goats are "hiding" in the shed peeking
out at everything. The alpacas love the snow too. They just sit in the
wind and snow perfectly serene. And
the snow makes everything lovely. Even the bracing wind is
marvelous--invigorating. Tracks of wildlife on the paths in the wild
area. The deer were busy last night. And it looks like a 'possum' was
all over the back patio looking for who knows what. The pond is full.
Just a great day for walking Iten's Acres!
When
I get new boots down here on the "farm," I regress to my childhood.
When the snow is on the ground, I kick my way through the highest
drifts. Now that the Acres are under water, I walk through the puddles,
not around them. And I bask in the scolding from my 98 year old
mother, when I track mud into her room. Ahhh, the good young days.
Monday, February 11, 2013
Iten's Acres: January 31, 2012
I saw him on Sunday. Frisky. Energetic.
Gamboling all over the hillside. Stupid groundhog. His day isn't
until Thursday. Why we give a fat, ugly, destructive rodent a day, I
don't know? By the way, no doubt that he saw his shadow. I can never
remember what that means. Six more weeks of winter? Spring's coming
early? Does it even count if it happens on January 29th? Does it count
if he comes out when the sun is behind a
cloud and I shoot the varmint before he can see his shadow? The only
good groundhog is a dead groundhog. Undoubtedly part of the curse. And
while I'm pontificating, the only good squirrel is a dead squirrel.
And the only good deer is venison. I mean, who was the "genius" who saw
a groundhog on February 2nd and then marked his calendar for six weeks
to see what would happen? And how many eons did he do it to come up
with his theory? The only good thing about the inane superstition we
call Groundhog Day is the movie.
Today at Iten's Acres: February 7, 2012
My
friends, the outlaws Bonnie and Gus, gave me a gift last night at about
3 AM. They had it out with a skunk on my patio. Did you know that
smell can permeate your entire house? =) I think I'll buy myself some
air fresheners for my birthday. And not pet my furry friends for a few
days. Slow learners those two. =)
Today at Iten's Acres: February 17, 2012
Spring has officially arrived. Yeah, I know
the snow birds are still flitting around. The forsythia haven't bloomed
yet so we have at least three snows to come--or so says the old
"legend." (No, I don't know what a new legend would be.) And yes, the
daffodils, tulips, glory of the snow, aconite have all been poking out
checking on the weather for a couple weeks already. And I have my eyes
on the snowdrops and the Lenten Rose because they've been budding since
the weekend. But the official arrival? The first crocus bloomed this
morning--lovely purple! (Sure, you city dwellers can be jealous.)
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Homesteader Update: February 10th, 2013
Homesteader Update:
The white ghost continues to increase her influence over the world of Iten's Acres. Since Mom has been spending her nights sleeping in the recliner rather than her bed, Homesteader has made two adjustments. First, since Mom appears to need a living comforter, she spends a lot of time each evening curled up in Mom's lap. Several times a night when I go in to check on Mom, she has this living white blanket stretched out on the real blankets. If Mom happens to stir, Homesteader has developed a gentle version of the head butt, I guess, letting Mom know she's still there. And that women rule, of course. (Side note: the head butt is really rather ridiculous, don't you think? Even with helmets on. Grown men do some rather stupid things at times. Too many times to be honest.) Homesteader's second adjustment is the obvious one. Since Mom is no longer using her bed, somebody has to keep it warm. She has used her mathematical skills to find the exact center of the bed for her lounging purposes. Cats and sleep are quite attracted to one another. Especially if you throw in sunlight.
She has also become a frequent denizen of the upstairs room. It's basically an attic filled with odds and ends. I couldn't even tell you what all is lying around up there. But she loves it. Lots of places to hide for sneak attacks if the old man of the house wanders by. Lots of soft places to continue her sleep studies. I'm sure the paper will be out any day now. She has also developed an utterly bizarre behavior. When I'm up there rummaging around, she'll race as fast as she can from one end of the room to the other, and then come up and demand that I pet her. Every time such an action leads to an "electric shock" on her nose. I can see her flinch knowing it's coming, but she does it over and over again. Weird, demented creature. And she's still trying to hone her now non-existent claws on everything from the door jambs to the leather furniture. Instinct? Sounds better than mentally deficient, I suppose.
I seem to remember when Brad and Ben were young tykes that there was this cartoon called something like "Binky and the Brain," "Pinky and the Brain." Something like that--where this erudite rodent was always trying to take over the world and ended up being rescued from utter disaster by his brain dead mousey counterpart. I think someone must be developing an updated version using cats instead of mice. Homesteader appears to be auditioning for both parts.
The white ghost continues to increase her influence over the world of Iten's Acres. Since Mom has been spending her nights sleeping in the recliner rather than her bed, Homesteader has made two adjustments. First, since Mom appears to need a living comforter, she spends a lot of time each evening curled up in Mom's lap. Several times a night when I go in to check on Mom, she has this living white blanket stretched out on the real blankets. If Mom happens to stir, Homesteader has developed a gentle version of the head butt, I guess, letting Mom know she's still there. And that women rule, of course. (Side note: the head butt is really rather ridiculous, don't you think? Even with helmets on. Grown men do some rather stupid things at times. Too many times to be honest.) Homesteader's second adjustment is the obvious one. Since Mom is no longer using her bed, somebody has to keep it warm. She has used her mathematical skills to find the exact center of the bed for her lounging purposes. Cats and sleep are quite attracted to one another. Especially if you throw in sunlight.
She has also become a frequent denizen of the upstairs room. It's basically an attic filled with odds and ends. I couldn't even tell you what all is lying around up there. But she loves it. Lots of places to hide for sneak attacks if the old man of the house wanders by. Lots of soft places to continue her sleep studies. I'm sure the paper will be out any day now. She has also developed an utterly bizarre behavior. When I'm up there rummaging around, she'll race as fast as she can from one end of the room to the other, and then come up and demand that I pet her. Every time such an action leads to an "electric shock" on her nose. I can see her flinch knowing it's coming, but she does it over and over again. Weird, demented creature. And she's still trying to hone her now non-existent claws on everything from the door jambs to the leather furniture. Instinct? Sounds better than mentally deficient, I suppose.
I seem to remember when Brad and Ben were young tykes that there was this cartoon called something like "Binky and the Brain," "Pinky and the Brain." Something like that--where this erudite rodent was always trying to take over the world and ended up being rescued from utter disaster by his brain dead mousey counterpart. I think someone must be developing an updated version using cats instead of mice. Homesteader appears to be auditioning for both parts.
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Today at Iten's Acres: February 5, 2013
I had wanted a real winter compared to last year's "winter." Got it. So far. Lots of glorious snow. Some actual cold weather. Lots of layers have been a necessity for many of my walks. I'll bet I could walk on water if I had the nerve. The pond has to be frozen fairly thoroughly. The Outlaw Gang has been around but not as a gang, sadly. In fact, I've only seen Gus once. They've been keeping him tied up for some reason. Sigh. Bonnie is as active and loveable as ever. I am always greeted with her version of a handshake: two paws on my chest and a pair of brown eyes demanding a little affection. It's easy to respond in the affirmative. The new hound dog puppy always wants to come in the house. Sorry, little one. The Homesteader would not be pleased.
I moved the window/door bird feeder down so that it's easier for Mom to see. With her strength failing a little extra enjoyment is always a good thing. She and the Homesteader love to sit together and enjoy the drama. The chickadees are Mom's favorite. Homesteader has not expressed an opinion. They all look delicious to her. We did have two strange visitors to add to the scene. A hawk flashed in for a chickadee meal and missed. He hit the door and feeder so hard it knocked the feeder off the window and knocked the poor hawk senseless. Took him twenty minutes to recover and fly off. I reckon he'll do his grocery shopping elsewhere. But, then again, I have no idea how much short term memory a hawk has. The other visitor was a 'possum--in broad daylight. Seems to have a taste for the sunflower seeds that have fallen to the patio space beneath the feeder. Luckily for him (or her) Bonnie or Gus weren't around. After feeding, he wandered out to skate on the pond for awhile and then trekked back to the groundhog hole beneath the shed--his winter highway, I guess. If a 'possum sees his shadow a little later in February than the varmint groundhog does that cancel out the meadow rat's prediction? Hope so. (The best part of the movie "Groundhog Day" is when he drives the truck off the cliff--with the groundhog sitting next to him. Goodbye little critter. Weep. Weep. Yeah, right. Good riddance.) And has anyone ever seen a 'possum walk in a straight line? I thought it would take him two or three days to get where he was going.
The weather folks are predicting a warmer than normal February and March. I hope they're wrong. My plants and bulbs could use a nice long winter nap. Say, 'til about late April. The snowscape, the greens of the conifers, Lenten rose, rhododendron, and grape hyacinth are beautiful enough to enthrall me until late March at least. And there's always the pussy willow I love to brag about--uh, I mean, I just happen to mention every time I write. And another couple "bonus" are the few daffodils that popped up in December and the "magic lilies" that are always starting up this early. Winter, be good and hang around until you're supposed to leave. You owe us that from last time. Go ahead. Give me the cold shoulder.
Sunday, February 3, 2013
Backroads of Morrow County: February 3, 2013
Backroads of Morrow County Update:
I love an early morning drive on a snowy morning. Strangely, it began with a sound memory before I even made it to the car. When I opened the back door to leave, it creaked and the sound took me back to the cabin doors in a camp I used to attend back in my Missouri days. It was outside of Ironton, Missouri, and it was a beautiful rustic place to spend a week. Lovely memories of good times, of an old place that I can see in great detail as I walk from my backdoor in Morrow County, Ohio--decades later. Memory--being in two places at the same time. Ever have a sound memory? A gift from the God of love.
The great thing about an early snow drive is that the plows have not yet destroyed the snow on the roads. All is white. The contrast with the starkness of the trees is lovely. And yet there is color. The trees and shrubs are not one color, but browns of different shades, even tans. The tops of the weeds look like cotton swabs. Some of the snow banks--maybe it's my imagination--have a blue tinge to them. The green conifers dot the landscape. They too are different shades. It is not a deep snow--yet--and the cornstalks still stand in their rows, orderly, disciplined. They will not surrender their place in the world until the plows of spring come. And then only reluctantly.
There is wildlife. Life, anyway. The horses seem unfazed by the snow. In the place that has a few of them, they stand together, companions. They are not looking at each other, but the sense of group is obvious. One place has a single horse. Spoiled, he has a blanket against the cold. He doesn't know he's spoiled I'm sure. His herd is made up of a flotilla of barn cats. They are not fans of the snow. They congregate at the doorway looking out. Cat church? Wonder who's doing the preaching? Yellow, black, orange, calico, white, multicolored--no robed choir here. One brave soul has wandered out and climbed up on a fence post. He sits face to face with the horse. It's as if they are discussing the weather. Storybook friends, if I had the time to imagine and write a tale. A huge flock of crows glean the corn fields. Can there still be food there this far along in the winter? Must be. It's quite a group--worthy of the Hitchcock tale. They'll never catch my car.
No flock of sheep unless they blend in. No guard llama for sure. Must be secure in a barn somewhere. Softies!
I do meet a car or two going the other direction. I guess on snowy roads the wave tradition is set aside. I wave anyway. I'll see who's brave enough to look away from the slick road and take a hand off the steering wheel to stand up for country living--to be a cornstalk in a snow storm. At least, on a beautiful snowy morning, I can creep along feasting on the beauty of God's black and white landscaping without any other drivers being irritated if they come up behind me. Snowy roads may manufacture trepidation but impatience doesn't seem to be flourishing. I did "catch up" to a metal horse--a white Mustang--that was creeping along even more slowly than I. Thanks! I knew I was going too fast. "Slow down and live" should be a highway sign everywhere. Life's too beautiful to hurry through a moment. I'm building up lovely memories for the decades to come. Now that's an investment no economic crisis can take from me--or you. Anyone--everyone--can be rich.
I love an early morning drive on a snowy morning. Strangely, it began with a sound memory before I even made it to the car. When I opened the back door to leave, it creaked and the sound took me back to the cabin doors in a camp I used to attend back in my Missouri days. It was outside of Ironton, Missouri, and it was a beautiful rustic place to spend a week. Lovely memories of good times, of an old place that I can see in great detail as I walk from my backdoor in Morrow County, Ohio--decades later. Memory--being in two places at the same time. Ever have a sound memory? A gift from the God of love.
The great thing about an early snow drive is that the plows have not yet destroyed the snow on the roads. All is white. The contrast with the starkness of the trees is lovely. And yet there is color. The trees and shrubs are not one color, but browns of different shades, even tans. The tops of the weeds look like cotton swabs. Some of the snow banks--maybe it's my imagination--have a blue tinge to them. The green conifers dot the landscape. They too are different shades. It is not a deep snow--yet--and the cornstalks still stand in their rows, orderly, disciplined. They will not surrender their place in the world until the plows of spring come. And then only reluctantly.
There is wildlife. Life, anyway. The horses seem unfazed by the snow. In the place that has a few of them, they stand together, companions. They are not looking at each other, but the sense of group is obvious. One place has a single horse. Spoiled, he has a blanket against the cold. He doesn't know he's spoiled I'm sure. His herd is made up of a flotilla of barn cats. They are not fans of the snow. They congregate at the doorway looking out. Cat church? Wonder who's doing the preaching? Yellow, black, orange, calico, white, multicolored--no robed choir here. One brave soul has wandered out and climbed up on a fence post. He sits face to face with the horse. It's as if they are discussing the weather. Storybook friends, if I had the time to imagine and write a tale. A huge flock of crows glean the corn fields. Can there still be food there this far along in the winter? Must be. It's quite a group--worthy of the Hitchcock tale. They'll never catch my car.
No flock of sheep unless they blend in. No guard llama for sure. Must be secure in a barn somewhere. Softies!
I do meet a car or two going the other direction. I guess on snowy roads the wave tradition is set aside. I wave anyway. I'll see who's brave enough to look away from the slick road and take a hand off the steering wheel to stand up for country living--to be a cornstalk in a snow storm. At least, on a beautiful snowy morning, I can creep along feasting on the beauty of God's black and white landscaping without any other drivers being irritated if they come up behind me. Snowy roads may manufacture trepidation but impatience doesn't seem to be flourishing. I did "catch up" to a metal horse--a white Mustang--that was creeping along even more slowly than I. Thanks! I knew I was going too fast. "Slow down and live" should be a highway sign everywhere. Life's too beautiful to hurry through a moment. I'm building up lovely memories for the decades to come. Now that's an investment no economic crisis can take from me--or you. Anyone--everyone--can be rich.
Sunday, January 27, 2013
Backroads of Morrow County: December 3, 2011
My faith in the Amish has been somewhat
restored. Last year they showed up at Wendy's in a car. This year they
showed up at McDonald's in their horse and buggy--four families. The
"somewhat"? Amish eating McDonald's? Maybe they haven't read Fast Food
Nation or Omnivore's Dilemma, or Animal, Vegetable, Miracle? I should
have gone home and brought them back a copy. Maybe next time they're
going to be in the neighborhood, they'll call ahead? Oh, wait. . .
Today at Iten's Acres: February 23, 2012
This early spring is messing with my mind. (I
know that doesn't take much.) But flowers should not be blooming for
another month (well Lenten rose--yes), not even the crocus. I should be
able to walk my acres for another month without getting the
"anticipation" bug. I should be able to walk without starting to look
around to see what's blooming, worrying about why it hasn't come up yet
and bloomed. It's not supposed to be
blooming yet!!!!!! I don't mind--in fact I love--being a "blooming
idiot" from mid-March to the first frosts of November. But I should
have another month free of the mental "strains" of anticipation. Watch.
March will be twenty below zero all month, and nothing will ever
bloom. Oh me of little faith. Yes, of course, you should feel sorry
for me. And come pull weeds. I'm sure they'll come up early too.
Today at Iten's Acres: March 12, 2012
Today at Iten's Acres: Yes, it is now
officially spring. The star of spring is, of course, the daffodil.
They come up and bloom anywhere--even in the trees and the wild area.
My property is today immersed in them: yellows, whites, pinks, even
some red and orange. All the beds have them. The pond is under siege.
Must have at least 500 blooms spread everywhere you look. And there's
more to come! And after they have bloomed and gone "dormant," they will
actually be creeping along under the soil--spreading, so that they can
be even more glorious next spring. Ahhh--the daffodil!Today at Iten's Acres: Yes, it is now
officially spring. The star of spring is, of course, the daffodil.
They come up and bloom anywhere--even in the trees and the wild area.
My property is today immersed in them: yellows, whites, pinks, even
some red and orange. All the beds have them. The pond is under siege.
Must have at least 500 blooms spread everywhere you look. And there's
more to come! And after they have bloomed and gone "dormant," they will
actually be creeping along under the soil--spreading, so that they can
be even more glorious next spring. Ahhh--the daffodil!
Backroads of Morrow County: December 13, 2011
I have this malady. I think I caught it from
Brad and Ben. Reverse DNA. Not sure what it's called? Maybe that
thing that killed the proverbial cat. It all started when the three of
us lived in Traveler's Rest, South Carolina. We'd drive by this country
road and one of the boys would say, "I wonder where that goes?" And
away we would go. The road would usually end up in one of my favorite places:
Nowhere In Particular, S.C. Then we would turn around and drive back
because everyone who has this malady knows that a country road looks
totally different coming from the other direction. When we came back to
Ohio I went into regression. Who cares where a city road goes? But
now that I'm a country boy again, the malady has returned. I'm telling
you this so in case I disappear one of these days, you won't need to
look for me. I'll just be in Nowhere In Particular, Ohio. Probably
found a diner that serves Pepsi.
Today at Iten's Acres: March 10, 2012
Ten days before spring even officially
arrives. Yet, the crocus are blooming everywhere--even in the wild area
which is usually a couple of weeks behind the front of the Acres. More
blooming each day. Daffodils budding by the hundreds. The dwarf iris
started blooming mid-week. The woodpeckers are hyper active. Are they
scoffing, laughing, or just starting to flirt early. Predicted temps in
the 60s by the end of the week.
But---it was 22 degrees this morning. Heavy frost. The snow birds are
still here--in mass. Isn't doesn't even look as if they've packed their
bags for the trip north. The forsythia haven't bloomed yet. (FSA keeps
whispering in my ear, "Three more snows AFTER the forsythia blooms.)
The gladiolas and calla lilies are sitting there daring me to plant
them. Ohhh, the joys and agonies of a flower lover in Ohio in 2012.
Friday, January 25, 2013
Homesteader Update: January 23, 2013
The Homesteader is on her way to a full
recovery. She spent a few days walking a little gingerly, but the last
two days she's been back in business--in attack mode, doing her elephant
runs up the stairs to see is she's still faster than the speed of
light, explaining her point of view on every possible topic. She has
also increased her control over--I mean deepened her relationship--with
Mom. It started with sleeping at her
feet, Then it progressed to sleeping on the kitchen chair near Mom.
Step three was sleeping on the back of Mom's chair. And now, she just
plops next to Mom right in the chair, stretches out, and let's Mom share
with her. She, also, had developed a new pose. While her feet were a
little sore, she would sit on her back haunches like a prairie dog on
alert or a kangaroo in a boxing stance. I guess she's decided that's a
cool way to sit even if your feet don't hurt. I can just see it her cat
eyes: "Don't I look cute sitting like this?" Egomaniac.
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
Today at Iten's Acres: March 20, 2012
Today at Iten's Acres: Yes, it is now
officially spring. The star of spring is, of course, the daffodil.
They come up and bloom anywhere--even in the trees and the wild area.
My property is today immersed in them: yellows, whites, pinks, even
some red and orange. All the beds have them. The pond is under siege.
Must have at least 500 blooms spread everywhere you look. And there's
more to come! And after they have bloomed and gone "dormant," they will
actually be creeping along under the soil--spreading, so that they can
be even more glorious next spring. Ahhh--the daffodil!
Today at Iten's Acres: September 12, 2012
I wish I could put into words how luxurious
the wild area is this time of year. Yes, there are brilliant patches of
flowers there from spring to first frost, but this time of year it's an
acre or two of nothing but flowers--yellows, whites, pinks, blues,
purples, reds. It is a canvas immersed in color. And despite the fact
that it has been a dry year, I can turn down many of the paths and just disappear
into the painting, the flowers towering over my head. And the final
touch to the grand finale is the hundreds of butterflies flitting from
place to place in total rebellion to the idea that the fastest way from
one point to another is a straight line. "Solomon in all his glory was
not arrayed like this." Not even close.
Today at Iten's Acres: September 24, 2011
The summer of 2011 has officially succumbed to
the vagaries of the calender. Fall/autumn is here. Autumn appeals to
my poetic side; fall is probably more accurate. The dogwood has started
to turn. The red maple is beginning to live up to its name. The fall
is coming. The wild area is immersed in yellows, whites, and
purples--gorgeous. The re-blooming iris have been invigorated by cooler
temperatures along with the snapdragons and alyssum. I love the change
of seasons. God gets out His paint brush and redoes the scenery again!
Today at Iten's Acres: September 24, 2012
What a terrible afternoon. I had to spend the
whole afternoon outside on a perfect fall day. Bright sunshine, a few
white and soft gray clouds playing shadows on the lawn. A cool breeze
too. And several monarch butterflies flitting about being beautiful.
Lots of little yellow and white butterflies flitting about as well.
Birds singing everywhere. And the cat bird doing whatever you call its
song. What did I have to do all afternoon? Plant gorgeous flowers for
next spring's flower show. Terrible, just terrible. Sigh. =) Somebody
has to do it.
Sunday, January 20, 2013
Today at Iten's Acres: March 30, 2012
Today at Iten's Acres: Firsts--Lamium. I
spiffed up Mom's window garden--pansies (my name sake) and calla lilies.
The azalea are getting ready to bloom. Peonies starting to emerge.
Some more forget-me-nots remembered to bloom. And the iris are starting
to bud. It's not even April yet! I don't know if I can handle this
early stuff. I think the robin believes I take my walks so I can follow
him around while he sings for me. Loud is his forte.
Today at Iten's Acres: April 1, 2012
Today at Iten's Acres: Planted this year's
group of Arbor Day trees (saplings). These are for the next generation.
Hope someone that loves beauty gets this place after I'm gone. The
old apple tree has finally taken blossoming seriously. The old dogwood
is in its glory especially with the redbuds around it. The pond choir
is complete: the falsetto of the peepers has been joined full force by
the baritones of the bull frogs. Daffodils still blooming; some have
just started to bud. Tulips are out in force. The race is on for first
iris bloom; looks as if the reigning champion is about to be dethroned
for the first time at Iten's Acres by a small orangish yellow newcomer
in the Morning Glory bed up front on the Acres.
Today at Iten's Acres: April 15, 2012
Today at Iten Acres: It's amazing what a good
day's rain can do to perk things up. Bluebells everywhere. (Can the
coral bells be far behind?) Triteleia started blooming as well. And
the crab apples are in their glory. The pond is surrounded by white
clouds of blossoms; the scarlet and white ones by the house and in the
back meadow are mixing their colors together in a lovely visual
symphony. And the redbud and dogwood are still glorious as well.
(One month til the freeze day. Can I sustain my paranoia until then?)
(One month til the freeze day. Can I sustain my paranoia until then?)
Today at Iten's Acres: April 17, 2012
Today at Iten's Acres: Feeding the swallows
again. Still no swallows. Of course, I just cut the front today, maybe
they'll be out back tomorrow. I should just go and look in Dennis'
shed to see if they're in there building nests. There were some
bluebirds today. They like the bug feast engendered by mowing as well,
but they are not as bold as the swallows. To watch them for awhile, I
have to turn off the mower and just sit.
The bluebirds then do their hunting in the mowed areas. Lovely
creatures. And, the goldfinch have bloomed as well by the way.
I like to stop right at the bend in the driveway where it winds around the old red maple and goes straight up to the house. On the left is the dogwood gloriously white. On the right is a redbud living up to its name. In the middle, up by the house, is a deep scarlet crab apple. It's a lovely view.
Sadly, I must restart the mower and go back to "work." I do, however, sit there for awhile enjoying the beauty of the trees and the loveliness of the bluebirds and goldfinch flitting about. Oh, did I mention the flock of robins enjoying the acres today. They're are so "common," I often overlook their beauty.
It's a pity that we miss so much just because we don't take the time to stop and observe.
I like to stop right at the bend in the driveway where it winds around the old red maple and goes straight up to the house. On the left is the dogwood gloriously white. On the right is a redbud living up to its name. In the middle, up by the house, is a deep scarlet crab apple. It's a lovely view.
Sadly, I must restart the mower and go back to "work." I do, however, sit there for awhile enjoying the beauty of the trees and the loveliness of the bluebirds and goldfinch flitting about. Oh, did I mention the flock of robins enjoying the acres today. They're are so "common," I often overlook their beauty.
It's a pity that we miss so much just because we don't take the time to stop and observe.
Backroads of Morrow County: April 20, 2012
I took the back roads to lunch today--gravel
roads and the "paved" roads that are actually just decades of patches,
rougher than the gravel roads. It's a lovely trip. Most of the fields
are still in stubble; some have been recently plowed; some have wheat
coming up (I guess that's what it is), five, six inches tall--kelly
green, some are hills landscaped in Angus cows. Little or no "traffic,"
if you do meet someone, waving is
obligatory. One farm has sheep and one alpaca--do they have "guard
alpaca"? He knows he's the king--standing regally surveying his kingdom
of wool and mutton. I pause at one bend in the road next to a place
with its flowered yard, idyllic red barns, visible serenity. I do feel
sorry for you poor folks that have to live in the city
Today at Iten's Acres: April 22, 2012
This weekend at Iten's Acres: Did some
mulching. I could do it all year I imagine and still not be finished. I
enjoy doing it at least. Also, did a little planting--seeds: morning
glory and cosmos. I know, I know, more morning glories? You see, the
huge light blue ones don't seem to reseed themselves for some reason; so
new ones every spring.
Had a pheasant passing through. They never stay. Beautiful birds!
Had to cover things tonight. And tomorrow night too. Will May 15th ever get here? "Do all things without murmuring. . ." I'm trying.
Robin's have built their first nest--across the pond. Now when I walk over there I can get called bird names by the redwings and the robins. I hope my self-esteem can stand it.
Had a pheasant passing through. They never stay. Beautiful birds!
Had to cover things tonight. And tomorrow night too. Will May 15th ever get here? "Do all things without murmuring. . ." I'm trying.
Robin's have built their first nest--across the pond. Now when I walk over there I can get called bird names by the redwings and the robins. I hope my self-esteem can stand it.
Today at Iten's Acres: April 25, 2012
Today
at Iten's Acres: The neighborhood fox has been busy hunting in my
"woods" and my neighbor Dennis' strand of trees as well. Happy hunting
red; may all the squirrels and rabbits be caught with their backs
turned.
More buds on the iris!!
Hibiscus and balloon flowers coming up. The Rainbow Bed by the house must have 50 balloon flowers in it. It's going to be a blue summer and that's a good thing.
More buds on the iris!!
Hibiscus and balloon flowers coming up. The Rainbow Bed by the house must have 50 balloon flowers in it. It's going to be a blue summer and that's a good thing.
Today at Iten's Acres: April 30, 2012
Today at Iten's Acres:
I made myself wear my Cardinal hat as I worked outside.
I made myself plant some more flowers.
I made myself take a few pictures of new blooms. (Firsts today: periwinkle; wild geraniums)
I made myself feed the swallows.
I made myself have a nice chat with my neighbor and pet Bonnie.
Man, do I possess some self-discipline or what? Forcing myself to do all those horrible things. And in one day! Sometimes I amaze myself.
I made myself wear my Cardinal hat as I worked outside.
I made myself plant some more flowers.
I made myself take a few pictures of new blooms. (Firsts today: periwinkle; wild geraniums)
I made myself feed the swallows.
I made myself have a nice chat with my neighbor and pet Bonnie.
Man, do I possess some self-discipline or what? Forcing myself to do all those horrible things. And in one day! Sometimes I amaze myself.
Today at Iten's Acres: May 1st, 2012
May has begun at Iten's Acres:
Anxiously watching the iris searching for more buds. Will the strange weather of 2012 (March in February; June in March; February in April) affect my irises? Anxiously checking my iris walk by walk.
Bluebells, coral bells, allium, mountain bells all flourishing. And the thrift in the rock garden is still thriving.
Camassia started blooming yesterday just about everywhere they're planted.
Buttercups are the star wildflower of the moment.
Put up the hummingbird feeder on Mom's window. A gorgeous ruby-throat has already begun partaking. Guess he's hungry from the trip up North.
Got my eye fixed on the 15th; planters are reading for some annuals.
May has arrived: anxiously watching the iris searching for more buds.
Anxiously watching the iris searching for more buds. Will the strange weather of 2012 (March in February; June in March; February in April) affect my irises? Anxiously checking my iris walk by walk.
Bluebells, coral bells, allium, mountain bells all flourishing. And the thrift in the rock garden is still thriving.
Camassia started blooming yesterday just about everywhere they're planted.
Buttercups are the star wildflower of the moment.
Put up the hummingbird feeder on Mom's window. A gorgeous ruby-throat has already begun partaking. Guess he's hungry from the trip up North.
Got my eye fixed on the 15th; planters are reading for some annuals.
May has arrived: anxiously watching the iris searching for more buds.
Today at Iten's Acres: May 10, 2012
Today at Iten's Acres:
Mom's container garden outside of her window seat is starting to mature: red and white dianthus, pansies, pinks, a rose. More to come since it's almost the 15th. Time to buy the annuals.
Fed the swallows--just one pair and they came and went; didn't hang out for the whole time. But there was a pair! More blue velvet flyers to come!
Firsts this week: lavender mountain lily, spiderwort, more and more iris--lots of variety but not many blooms among the iris. maybe the rest of May will bring more. I'll try being patient.
Mom's container garden outside of her window seat is starting to mature: red and white dianthus, pansies, pinks, a rose. More to come since it's almost the 15th. Time to buy the annuals.
Fed the swallows--just one pair and they came and went; didn't hang out for the whole time. But there was a pair! More blue velvet flyers to come!
Firsts this week: lavender mountain lily, spiderwort, more and more iris--lots of variety but not many blooms among the iris. maybe the rest of May will bring more. I'll try being patient.
Today at Iten's Acres: May 13, 2012
Today at Iten's Acres: Mother's Day was
celebrated with the traditional duck dinner. And a bouquet of iris, of
course. Chloe and Jan called. She spent awhile outside on the front
patio--her favorite place. My youngest son called to wish me a "happy
MoDad day."
Bird sightings: oriole and yellow warbler--a colorful day.
More and more iris blooming every day--see "photo shoot" on Wednesday. It's actually been a down year for the queen of flowers, but there are still plenty of beauties to enjoy at the Acres.
Firsts this week: Lavender Mountain Lilies and alpine rosy bells
Bird sightings: oriole and yellow warbler--a colorful day.
More and more iris blooming every day--see "photo shoot" on Wednesday. It's actually been a down year for the queen of flowers, but there are still plenty of beauties to enjoy at the Acres.
Firsts this week: Lavender Mountain Lilies and alpine rosy bells
Saturday, January 19, 2013
Backroads of Morrow County: May 14, 2012
Back roads of Morrow County Update: The
canopy over the single lane bridges is full and the shade of the place
makes it cool there even on the hottest summer days. The stream is
always flowing; after a good rain it's a torrent. Only a couple of
fields are still in stubble yet; most of them have been plowed and
planted. In fact, it looks as if the corn and soy beans have already
started their climb toward the heavens.
The wheat is growing like mad. I haven't seen the doe and her latest
fawn yet. I usually see her at least every other week in the spring and
summer. The hawks are hunting from the phone lines. What did they do
before we built them such great hunting seats? Mourning doves seem to
love dusty roads and the weedy margins between the road and the fields.
Most of the farms have iris. Occasionally I covet a color that I don't
have. (Okay, more than occasionally.) There's a sign on these back
roads: "Share the Road" it commands. If I ever meet someone, I promise
that I will. Maybe it means I should share it with the wildlife? I
always do that--even the groundhogs and rabbits. As always the great
thing about back-road meanderings is that if I want to I can just stop
and observe. I think that when I grow up I want to be a rural mailman.
Today at Iten's Acres: May 18, 2012
I am excelling at my Elmer Fudd impersonation.
"Wascally Wabbits." I think they've mastered the perfect strategy.
When they see me aim at them, they just stop and sit perfectly still.
Safe. Arrrgh. One day I'll get a sight on the trusty old .22 and their
long-eared mockery will end. No, I will not feel a tinge of regret.
I've already printed the invitations to the "If at First You Don't
Succeed" party. One invitation goes to Brer Bear and one to Brer Fox.
I'm seriously considering inviting Wile E. and Sylvester as well. Kind
of an encouragement thing.
Today at Iten's Acres: May 21, 2012
Today at Iten Acres--hoping for rain; i can hear the nine pins but just a sprinkle so far. Would love to have a downpour.
Daisies are everywhere, and the sweet peas are covering the brush by the bog. The iris are about finished for this year; I have a couple that haven't bloomed yet but look as if they will. Hope so.
Lilies will be the next major player. None yet.
Daisies are everywhere, and the sweet peas are covering the brush by the bog. The iris are about finished for this year; I have a couple that haven't bloomed yet but look as if they will. Hope so.
Lilies will be the next major player. None yet.
Today at Iten's Acres: May 24, 2012
Today at Iten's Acres: First lily; last iris
The rain dance and animal sacrifice didn't work so I had to water the new annuals myself. Ugh. (Am I getting old or just lazy? Don't answer that!)
Catbirds are here. First one I've seen this spring. Love them.
Roses are starting to bloom everywhere. Can't wait till the wild ones adorn the wild area! They intermingle with the daisies--a white blanket with red and pink polka dots.
The rain dance and animal sacrifice didn't work so I had to water the new annuals myself. Ugh. (Am I getting old or just lazy? Don't answer that!)
Catbirds are here. First one I've seen this spring. Love them.
Roses are starting to bloom everywhere. Can't wait till the wild ones adorn the wild area! They intermingle with the daisies--a white blanket with red and pink polka dots.
Backroads of Morrow County: May 27, 2012
Back roads of Morrow County Update: There's
no way to hide your presence these days. The lack of rain on the gravel
roads makes a dust cloud to accompany all travelers. No one is going
to sneak up on anybody til the rains come. The red winged blackboards
must think that the road side ditches were the main purpose for our
constructing the byways for our cars. Their activity as I drive along
suggests the next generation has arrived and are in need of parenting.
Only one field is still in stubble. Perhaps they're doing the biblical thing and giving it a year of rest. No rain means that the crops are not growing very quickly. "Knee high by the fourth of July" may not come true this year without a little moisture. The first mowing for hay is over. A couple fields still have it lying in the sun drying out. Most of the hay fields have been baled. Serenity: a hilly field punctuated with bales of hay resting under blue cloudless skies. A second haying will take place in early fall. Those farmers who have wheat fields will have a third. After they harvest the wheat, they go back and make hay of the stubble that's been left behind. "Waste not, want not." The cattle and horses of Morrow County will not go hungry this winter. One farmer always leaves about a quarter acre unmowed. I think he's been "sweet talked," sweet sung, by the meadowlarks, and he goes around their nesting places to guarantee another song and flashes of brilliant yellow for next year. Sacrifices a little money for his winged neighbors. A conservationist with a red tractor and a John Deere baseball cap; I think I'd like him for a friend.
This weekend a couple of the places have lines of flags "planted" along the front of their homes. Fences of thankfulness, remembrance, and, no doubt, for some a deep proudful sorrow. The wind caresses; they flutter in the country breezes.
Only one field is still in stubble. Perhaps they're doing the biblical thing and giving it a year of rest. No rain means that the crops are not growing very quickly. "Knee high by the fourth of July" may not come true this year without a little moisture. The first mowing for hay is over. A couple fields still have it lying in the sun drying out. Most of the hay fields have been baled. Serenity: a hilly field punctuated with bales of hay resting under blue cloudless skies. A second haying will take place in early fall. Those farmers who have wheat fields will have a third. After they harvest the wheat, they go back and make hay of the stubble that's been left behind. "Waste not, want not." The cattle and horses of Morrow County will not go hungry this winter. One farmer always leaves about a quarter acre unmowed. I think he's been "sweet talked," sweet sung, by the meadowlarks, and he goes around their nesting places to guarantee another song and flashes of brilliant yellow for next year. Sacrifices a little money for his winged neighbors. A conservationist with a red tractor and a John Deere baseball cap; I think I'd like him for a friend.
This weekend a couple of the places have lines of flags "planted" along the front of their homes. Fences of thankfulness, remembrance, and, no doubt, for some a deep proudful sorrow. The wind caresses; they flutter in the country breezes.
Today at Iten's Acres: May 28, 2012
Today at Iten's Acres:
Feeding the bluebirds--until the belt on the mower blades broke. AGAIN. It's a yearly occurrence. If you need to buy a riding mower, call me. I can tell you what not to buy. Oh well, it will probably work better than a rain dance. What brings the rain more surely than a broken lawn mower? Hope Dave the lawn mower guy isn't too busy. Cutting over five acres with a push mower--no thanks.
A few iris are left--one new one today; maybe one more later this week. Hopefully the lilies will start blooming soon. Firsts today: two wild flowers--I'll need to get Ben to see if he can identify them from the photo shoot on Tuesday. Other firsts--larkspur--purple and pink--and the white rose. The daisies have taken over the rock garden for the time being. I love them. The pink spirea will look marvelous by mid-week in the midst of a sea of dancing white.
Every day brings something new this time of year. Delightful to a weird old man.
Feeding the bluebirds--until the belt on the mower blades broke. AGAIN. It's a yearly occurrence. If you need to buy a riding mower, call me. I can tell you what not to buy. Oh well, it will probably work better than a rain dance. What brings the rain more surely than a broken lawn mower? Hope Dave the lawn mower guy isn't too busy. Cutting over five acres with a push mower--no thanks.
A few iris are left--one new one today; maybe one more later this week. Hopefully the lilies will start blooming soon. Firsts today: two wild flowers--I'll need to get Ben to see if he can identify them from the photo shoot on Tuesday. Other firsts--larkspur--purple and pink--and the white rose. The daisies have taken over the rock garden for the time being. I love them. The pink spirea will look marvelous by mid-week in the midst of a sea of dancing white.
Every day brings something new this time of year. Delightful to a weird old man.
Today at Iten's Acres: May 31, 2012
Today at Iten's Acres:
Saw a fox and coyote today. The coyote was checking out a deer carcass in the swamp across the road. The neighborhood fox greeted me on my afternoon walk--at the back of the property. Checked me out and decided I was scary I guess. Ran off into the tall grass. Beautiful creature.
Neighbor Aaron has another dog--brown lab I think. She's not as "hyper" as Stella was. Loves to walk though and joins me whenever I'm out and about. Haven't seen the Outlaws for a couple days though. Yes, she found the pond. And knows how to shake the water off. Yes, my clothes are damp.
Still waiting for a lily outburst. One last iris is still considering whether to bloom. The Japanese iris should be blooming in a week or so; they're always last. Triteleia started blooming today and astrantia. God has a "corner of the market" on variety.
Still no word from Dave.
Oh, planted a bunch of wild flowers the last two days. Love naturalizing my property with Ohio flowers. Hope they take root and enjoy their new home at Iten's Acres. Let the competition begin. First Queen Anne's Lace today as well.
Saw a fox and coyote today. The coyote was checking out a deer carcass in the swamp across the road. The neighborhood fox greeted me on my afternoon walk--at the back of the property. Checked me out and decided I was scary I guess. Ran off into the tall grass. Beautiful creature.
Neighbor Aaron has another dog--brown lab I think. She's not as "hyper" as Stella was. Loves to walk though and joins me whenever I'm out and about. Haven't seen the Outlaws for a couple days though. Yes, she found the pond. And knows how to shake the water off. Yes, my clothes are damp.
Still waiting for a lily outburst. One last iris is still considering whether to bloom. The Japanese iris should be blooming in a week or so; they're always last. Triteleia started blooming today and astrantia. God has a "corner of the market" on variety.
Still no word from Dave.
Oh, planted a bunch of wild flowers the last two days. Love naturalizing my property with Ohio flowers. Hope they take root and enjoy their new home at Iten's Acres. Let the competition begin. First Queen Anne's Lace today as well.
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Today at Iten's Acres: June 4, 2012
Today at Iten's Acres: Lightning bug
convention. I heard somewhere that they are decreasing in number. I
just think the one's they're missing are at my place. Red-headed
woodpecker: just three colors--red, white, black. Stunningly beautiful
bird.
Today was moving day: moved some iris, some red daisies, some blue cress, a lily, and a rose. Now I have to keep an eye on them to see if they like their new neighborhood. My Gardening Angels put a new tiny dark blue flower in my wild area. I'll have to try to get a picture of it to see if some of you flower experts can identify it. I'm going to have to train my Angels to label the things they plant.
Spiderwort is blooming in the wild area.
Mom has become such a fixture on the front patio that the hummingbirds and neighborhood lizards just ignore her as if she's not there--or one of them. The new dog next door has become a constant companion on my walks. Gus joins us once in awhile. Bonnie we miss you!
Still waiting for the lily explosion. Last iris is still hanging in there.
Today was moving day: moved some iris, some red daisies, some blue cress, a lily, and a rose. Now I have to keep an eye on them to see if they like their new neighborhood. My Gardening Angels put a new tiny dark blue flower in my wild area. I'll have to try to get a picture of it to see if some of you flower experts can identify it. I'm going to have to train my Angels to label the things they plant.
Spiderwort is blooming in the wild area.
Mom has become such a fixture on the front patio that the hummingbirds and neighborhood lizards just ignore her as if she's not there--or one of them. The new dog next door has become a constant companion on my walks. Gus joins us once in awhile. Bonnie we miss you!
Still waiting for the lily explosion. Last iris is still hanging in there.
Today at Iten's Acres: June 8, 2012
Today at Iten's Acres:
Dave the lawnmower doctor showed up at 8 AM and got the beast going. Who said doctors don't make house call anymore! Fed the swallows breakfast today. They were grateful if number of "customers" is any indication. Dennis must have a barn full of nests! Yes, I'm jealous.
Saw Bonnie. Hadn't seen her for awhile. I like the other two bandits, but Bonnie is the best. Gorgeous, smart, independent yet affectionate.
Need rain!!! Guess I'll have to go back to the rain dance. Can't break the mower again this soon. Had to do a lot of water carrying today. I'm getting too old for manual labor and Arthur doesn't help. Rain please!
Calla lilies, astilbe, and wild roses are the new bloomers. Love them all. Oh, and there are blooms on the elderberry. If only the birds would let me have some of them. They are arguing already on who gets them. I wonder if they drop them in the bird bath--you know a little robin-made elderberry wine. I'll have to see how straight they fly once the berries start disappearing. And I have to fill up the deepest bird bath every day. I guess since it's deeper, they think it actually is a bath and not a place for a drink on a hot day. Like little kids they love to splash!
Wouldn't it be great if lightning bugs were like those bug lamps you can put up--every flash a fried mosquito? Just letting my feeble mind ricochet from inane thought to inane thought. I'm quite good at it.
Dave the lawnmower doctor showed up at 8 AM and got the beast going. Who said doctors don't make house call anymore! Fed the swallows breakfast today. They were grateful if number of "customers" is any indication. Dennis must have a barn full of nests! Yes, I'm jealous.
Saw Bonnie. Hadn't seen her for awhile. I like the other two bandits, but Bonnie is the best. Gorgeous, smart, independent yet affectionate.
Need rain!!! Guess I'll have to go back to the rain dance. Can't break the mower again this soon. Had to do a lot of water carrying today. I'm getting too old for manual labor and Arthur doesn't help. Rain please!
Calla lilies, astilbe, and wild roses are the new bloomers. Love them all. Oh, and there are blooms on the elderberry. If only the birds would let me have some of them. They are arguing already on who gets them. I wonder if they drop them in the bird bath--you know a little robin-made elderberry wine. I'll have to see how straight they fly once the berries start disappearing. And I have to fill up the deepest bird bath every day. I guess since it's deeper, they think it actually is a bath and not a place for a drink on a hot day. Like little kids they love to splash!
Wouldn't it be great if lightning bugs were like those bug lamps you can put up--every flash a fried mosquito? Just letting my feeble mind ricochet from inane thought to inane thought. I'm quite good at it.
Today at Iten's Acres: June 13, 2012
Today at Iten's Acres:
Got an early start. Mom got up about 1 AM, sat in her chair, and basked in the light of a clear star-filled sky and a myriad of lightning bugs. She was in the "heavens."
The heron comes just about every day now; between he and the black water snake, I'm surprised there are still frogs in the pond. Yet, I hear a chorus of basses every evening. No turtles this year, though. Guess they moved on. Maybe some new ones will move in later this summer. Maybe I could convince my new heron friend to bring over a few fish from my neighbors' ponds.
Still no rain and no hint of a chance until Tuesday. Some folks got rain last week. We didn't at Iten's Acres. Well, maybe a drop or two. Could really use a day or two of steady rain. The place would burst into color, I'm sure. Not that a few things aren't blooming. The Acres are never devoid of lots of color. I just need some more--especially the lilies. The balloon flowers and coneflowers are ready to bloom. Blues and pinks coming up!
Got an early start. Mom got up about 1 AM, sat in her chair, and basked in the light of a clear star-filled sky and a myriad of lightning bugs. She was in the "heavens."
The heron comes just about every day now; between he and the black water snake, I'm surprised there are still frogs in the pond. Yet, I hear a chorus of basses every evening. No turtles this year, though. Guess they moved on. Maybe some new ones will move in later this summer. Maybe I could convince my new heron friend to bring over a few fish from my neighbors' ponds.
Still no rain and no hint of a chance until Tuesday. Some folks got rain last week. We didn't at Iten's Acres. Well, maybe a drop or two. Could really use a day or two of steady rain. The place would burst into color, I'm sure. Not that a few things aren't blooming. The Acres are never devoid of lots of color. I just need some more--especially the lilies. The balloon flowers and coneflowers are ready to bloom. Blues and pinks coming up!
Today at Iten's Acres: June 28, 2012
Today at Iten's Acres:
Hot. Dry. Humid. Arthur and I are going to be hauling a lot of water. Maybe the high humidity will work up some thunderation.
Happy blues: the garden visible from Mom's window had fifty or so balloon flowers on display today; there will be more tomorrow. Lovely. And the delphinium in her container garden is radiant blue--a dancer in the wind.
The black-eyed Susans are up in the wild area along with a multitude of Queen Anne's Lace, tall yellow clover, and milkweed. The wild roses must love the heat and dryness. They are spectacular this year. I walk slowly through the wild area.
Hoping the water lilies will bloom before the pond disappears.
The robins sing loudly regardless of the weather. They celebrate each day. Good lesson for we humans who would rather murmur than sing.
Hot. Dry. Humid. Arthur and I are going to be hauling a lot of water. Maybe the high humidity will work up some thunderation.
Happy blues: the garden visible from Mom's window had fifty or so balloon flowers on display today; there will be more tomorrow. Lovely. And the delphinium in her container garden is radiant blue--a dancer in the wind.
The black-eyed Susans are up in the wild area along with a multitude of Queen Anne's Lace, tall yellow clover, and milkweed. The wild roses must love the heat and dryness. They are spectacular this year. I walk slowly through the wild area.
Hoping the water lilies will bloom before the pond disappears.
The robins sing loudly regardless of the weather. They celebrate each day. Good lesson for we humans who would rather murmur than sing.
Backroads of Morrow County: June 16, 2012
Backroads of Morrow County Update:
I saw her today for the first time--the doe with her fawn. He was such a little thing and struggling to match mom's pace. She would stop and go, stop and go, and he would keep following: a portrait of patience and perseverance.
There are lots of little churches along the back roads: Harmony Chapel, Gethsemane Baptist--always has "words of wisdom" on the sign post, Independent Baptist--they always have a "sermon" on their sign. You can't miss them since most of them have a spire, but they all get a yellow sign: "Church." A warning or an invitation? Harmony Chapel has an old cemetery across the way. I'd like to check it out some day; see how old some of the stones are. God's people have been around for a long time you know--even here in Morrow County.
Several people name their farms: "A Touch of Texas," "Hidden Cove" (not any more), "Pleasant Acres." I heard an arrogant chubby old bald guy gave his place a generic name, but he hasn't been crazy enough to put up a placard. Not that he's not arrogant; he's just a hermit at heart and wants to make sure he's hard to find. Today a couple of them had the same name: "Huge Garage Sale"--competing arrows pointing in opposite directions. If my sister Chloe had been with me, I'd still be out there in the hinterlands--just sayin'.
Even though we are rain starved out here, the wild flowers don't seem to mind. Orange daylilies everywhere. I think they would grow and spread in a desert. And the chicory is just as persistent, dancing along the very edges of the pavement or gravel. Is "Fearless Blue" a color? Should be. Lots of sweet peas everywhere as well. Pink sprinkled in the roadside ditches.
If I had a good camera I could publish a book--"Backroad Birds." Most of them have their own little territory. The red-winged blackbirds and mourning doves own the whole world, of course, but the others have their "spot." I know just where to look for the bluebirds, the red-headed woodpeckers, the goldfinch, the sparrow hawk, the indigo bunting. They have a "hangout." I'm pretty sure they're flapping their wings to say "hello" when I creep by. Oh, the huge, ugly clean up crews are roaming everywhere--nomads. Wherever the road kill is, behold the buzzards. Cleaning up other people's mess. Actually, quite impressive creatures. Glad I'm not a dead raccoon.
I saw her today for the first time--the doe with her fawn. He was such a little thing and struggling to match mom's pace. She would stop and go, stop and go, and he would keep following: a portrait of patience and perseverance.
There are lots of little churches along the back roads: Harmony Chapel, Gethsemane Baptist--always has "words of wisdom" on the sign post, Independent Baptist--they always have a "sermon" on their sign. You can't miss them since most of them have a spire, but they all get a yellow sign: "Church." A warning or an invitation? Harmony Chapel has an old cemetery across the way. I'd like to check it out some day; see how old some of the stones are. God's people have been around for a long time you know--even here in Morrow County.
Several people name their farms: "A Touch of Texas," "Hidden Cove" (not any more), "Pleasant Acres." I heard an arrogant chubby old bald guy gave his place a generic name, but he hasn't been crazy enough to put up a placard. Not that he's not arrogant; he's just a hermit at heart and wants to make sure he's hard to find. Today a couple of them had the same name: "Huge Garage Sale"--competing arrows pointing in opposite directions. If my sister Chloe had been with me, I'd still be out there in the hinterlands--just sayin'.
Even though we are rain starved out here, the wild flowers don't seem to mind. Orange daylilies everywhere. I think they would grow and spread in a desert. And the chicory is just as persistent, dancing along the very edges of the pavement or gravel. Is "Fearless Blue" a color? Should be. Lots of sweet peas everywhere as well. Pink sprinkled in the roadside ditches.
If I had a good camera I could publish a book--"Backroad Birds." Most of them have their own little territory. The red-winged blackbirds and mourning doves own the whole world, of course, but the others have their "spot." I know just where to look for the bluebirds, the red-headed woodpeckers, the goldfinch, the sparrow hawk, the indigo bunting. They have a "hangout." I'm pretty sure they're flapping their wings to say "hello" when I creep by. Oh, the huge, ugly clean up crews are roaming everywhere--nomads. Wherever the road kill is, behold the buzzards. Cleaning up other people's mess. Actually, quite impressive creatures. Glad I'm not a dead raccoon.
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