Portrait on the Front Steps of 435

     This lovely family portrait that is staged and yet has a candid feel, was taken in 1906 at 435 Valley Avenue in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The lady in the center chair is Nellie, my great-grandmother, who was pregnant with my grandmother at the time. Two of Nellie's children are near - seventeen year old Florence, holding her cat, and eight year old Wendell, who stands next to his father, Alfred. The lady seated to Nellie's right is her mother, Jane Long, who would have been 64 years old, and the lady to her left is Alfred's mother, Sarah Phillips, age 72.

     The two-story white house was home to a myriad of extended family and friends over the years. It would later belong to Florence and her husband, who continued the same tradition until the mid 1960s when, tragically, the house was torn down to make way for a new highway.

Ruby-throated Hummingbird in Flight

     All during the long, hot summer we watched them. First just one, then another and finally several of the tiny hummers frequented the two feeders outside the kitchen window and two near the front porch. We became fond as one could of a wild thing - enjoying their closeness and their antics. Because they feed so often, one was almost always making a quick appearance for a snack and sometimes would spar with its own reflection in the window.  However, it seemed another was always close by and would swoop in to chase the first away, causing lots of aerial displays. 

     They're gone now. The last one visited Monday morning and it is now Friday afternoon. Autumn begins tomorrow and we suppose that the hummers have begun their migratory flight to a warmer clime for winter, perhaps southern Mexico or northern Panama. It is so hard to imagine that our seemingly fragile wee friends can survive such a long trip, but we have learned that they are bad ass little fighters as well. We look forward to their return in the spring!

My favorite photo from this summer - a young hummer in flight.

Hasselback Potato (with bacon and cheese)

     Sometimes steak is the main dish and sometimes it looses its starring role. Case in point - when a very nice grilled steak is served on the same plate as an equally nice potato that is prepared in the Swedish way called Hasselback. The original version is thin sliced and drizzled with butter and breadcrumbs, producing a crisp, crunchy skin and smooth, creamy center. This variation included thicker slices (easy to do with a wooden spoon handle placed next to a large precooked potato) interspersed with cooked bacon and cheese (cojack - because that is what we had on hand). A quick broil effected the finishing touches of melty cheese and crisp top, and when removed from the oven a sprinkling of fresh chives was added. We even added dollops of sour cream at the table! 

Sunset from a Meramec Valley

     
      In a southwest corner of St. Louis County, near the confluence of the Meramec and the Big Rivers, the scenery is quite beautiful.  It boasts rolling hills, forests and farmland but on a recent visit, it was the moment of sunset that inspired a photographic impulse.

First-Day-Of-Kindergarten Dress

   
     There are lots of stories this week about the first day of school, which evoke memories of my own. One of the most vivid spans nearly a decade in the 1960's. Three of my sisters and myself attended our first day of kindergarten in the exact same dress - a full skirted, blue and green cotton plaid. Pictured above are the youngest sisters in 1963 and 1967 (I couldn't find photos of us older ones).

     Those were the days when, obviously, clothes were passed down as they were outgrown. A side note to this story is that our little brother did not want to start school because we told him he had to follow tradition and wear the dress too. Poor little kid - we loved him so much but we did tease him unmercifully. I think he has forgiven us by now.

2018 PGA Championship (and a heron)

     A prestigious event is being held this week in St. Louis - the PGA Championship. Golfers, spectators (some 80,000 strong), and more than 4,000 volunteer workers have converged at Bellerive Country Club; the eyes of the nation and even the world are on our own neck of the woods. It is predicted that 10 million viewers will watch the televised coverage.

    

     I am proud and pleased at the perspective that has emerged from this event. The crowds were always orderly, respectful and supportive, even when challenged with temperatures in the nineties or an afternoon thunderstorm. Organizers and even some of the golfers expressed their admiration for the number and the comportment of the fans.Take heed media outlets - the St. Louis area is much more about good folks than the racism and crime that you are so keen to publicize!

     On a personal level, I did attend the event midweek, not because I am an avid golfer or fan, but because husband is. He wanted some good photographs and I obliged because, at the very least, using a camera is something I love and I would be outside at a beautiful venue. Husband was pleased with the album we put together, especially pics of several favorites, like Ricky Fowler (shown above) and I was pleased to get at least one nature shot - a scruffy little green heron!

Baked Chimichangas

     This lovely summer supper features a combination of spicy Mexican flavor and cool side veggies. Tortillas are spread with sauteed beef, onion and spices, refried beans and cheese, then rolled and placed in a baking pan. After lightly brushing with oil, they are baked in the oven for about twenty minutes till lightly brown and crispy, and then topped with more cheese. With sour cream piped over and salsa on the side, they can be picked up with fingers or eaten with a fork. We like to eat the simple chopped lettuce mixed with the drippings, etc. that fall while eating the chimichangas (and we NEVER wear white shirts while enjoying Mexican cuisine!)

Balloon Glow at Brookdale Farm

     On one of the last nights in July, one would expect sweltering temperatures and soaring humidity. That is the norm here in our part of the Midwest, but Mother Nature granted us a gift on this particular evening. It was very comfortable and even a bit cool as the sun dropped below the horizon - perfect for viewing hot air balloons (and people watching too). Families gathered beforehand at the food booths and danced to the classic rock band playing in the bandstand. Eager anticipation heightened as propane burners began to inflate the balloons.

      The spheres, some round and some inverted-tear drop, took shape and rose slowly. The crowd gathered closer to get a glimpse of the mechanization involved, which was simple but fascinating. Shortly after all were full and upright, darkness fell and the "glow" began. Every few minutes a horn would sound and all the balloonists would blast simultaneously, creating a magical moment of light and color. Photographers and children and even adults thrilled to the sight, an unforgettable experience.

Prom Photos...at the Barn...with the Horse

     I was honored when granddaughter asked me to take her prom pictures. She requested we meet a couple of hours before the event, at the barn where she has been taking riding lessons for several years AND she wanted her horse, Comanche in the photos as well. I did a little research and found some poses, like the silhouette, and props, such as the prom sign, that were helpful but most of the shots turned out to be impromptu. The silhouette  was meant to be only the young couple, but Comanche waiting patiently outside the door was irresistible. The only photo that had required much editing was the top center shot - I changed the background to be all barn siding instead of a stall door and darkened it a bit. Rissy thought her skin looked too white but I thought it was sylphlike. 

The collage above is Rissy alone with Comanche and the one below features both of the kids. 

Of course there were many photos taken and only a few chosen for the final album. The two below show a couple of "behind the scene" actions. Comanche was very well behaved but did spook a little with the floofy tulle of the long skirt. Rissy's dad had to bunch it up and hold it while she mounted.

   
Before embarking to the actual prom, a little clean up was necessary - even a well-groomed horse will shed a great deal in the late spring. Both the inside and the outside of Rissy's dress needed a once-over with a lint remover (mom's job)! All things considered, it was a lot of fun, but how could I go wrong? Two cute, agreeable kids, a handsome gentle horse (and some handling help) and a bright but overcast sky. Can't wait to do another one!

The Elusive Photo - Hummingbirds

     These little buggers drive me crazy. I love 'em - they're beautiful - they're enchanting - but they are a huge challenge to photograph. For years, I have tried with no real success; the rapidly beating wings and constant flitting defeated me every time, precluding a crisp, clear image. (My goal as always is the use of natural light and background, and no photoshop filters or effects.) This morning, I took my coffee and my camera outside, sat on a porch step behind a patio chair and took aim. After waiting patiently, I was rewarded with a visit from this guy. He didn't stick around long but I got about twenty  quick shots, holding my breath the entire time. These two photos were the best of the lot - not very good but still better than any taken previously. 

I am still on a mission...I am determined to conquer this challenge!

Cauliflower Hash

     Here is proof that a low-carb entree can be quite tasty and easily prepared to boot.  The simple ingredients include partially cooked cauliflower, ground chuck, onion and garlic browned together and drained, shredded cheese and a dab of sour cream, all mixed together and topped with more cheddar and parmesan. Twenty minutes in the oven was enough to bring the pan to a golden bubbly conclusion. A sprinkling of chopped chives, fresh cut from the garden, are added right before serving. Cauliflower hash will definitely make an encore appearance on our dinner table!

Sunflower Field at Columbia Bottoms

     A reprieve from the sultry weather of July prompted a trip to Columbia Bottoms Conservation Area, which is just a sixteen minute drive from home. It is remarkable because it was created to maintain and view the bottom land plains, forests and waterways that subsist at the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. There are 4,318 acres, including riverfront and an island - which boast a variety of wildlife - especially during migration times. But on this cool morning, the sun was rising on a perfectly clear sky, so it was the sunflower fields that were the main attraction. Planted by a Missouri Department of Conservation team, the field beckons photographers and bees. It was such fun to capture these images and share the time with other photographers. The low sun, the blue sky and the brilliant yellow flowers combined to make an exceptional opportunity for some creative images.

Patriotic Popcorn Snack

     With the air so humid it was hard to breath and the temperature hovering in the mid-nineties all day, our Fourth of July did not boast a lot of outdoor time. In fact it consisted of only a brief dog walk at sunrise, watering  the potted plants and a quick dip in the pool. Later, after sunset, we set up chairs and a cooler in the front yard, along with the neighbors, to enjoy our city's annual fireworks display. To make the day special, I had put together a festive snack to nibble on during the show but because of the heat, we kept the treat inside so the air-conditioning would keep it from melting. We ate only a handful afterward so there is plenty left for a movie tonight.

     Popped corn was mixed with a butter/marshmallow coating (similar to Rice Krispie treats) and little marshmallows, M&Ms and sprinkles were added, making a pretty red, white and blue combo that was quite tasty too. And the fireworks were awesome, as usual - love hometown holidays!

Fourth of July at Home

     The colors of summer are easy to love. Outside my front door in the first days of July, those colors are enhanced by Independence Day accents. The light gray siding, the airy iron mesh furniture and landscaping plantings made lush by the recent days of rain, are perfect foils for the patriotic hues of red, white and blue. None of these are big bold displays or grand gestures but rather simple accessories: little flags and a primitive painted wood sign added to the basket already holding a red spray of flowers, a bright red pillow sprinkled with white stars perched on the glider, and more flags that stand sentinel along the front walk. These are OUR declarations of independence!

Raspberry Sauce with Waffles

     I love berries - all berries - therefore I love berry season! That's why I don't call this waffles with raspberry sauce because the waffles, even though home made, are not the star here. And even though this was a breakfast entree it could also pass as a dessert. The only problem is that snacking on a few plump berries while assembling the ingredients and multiple taste tests while the sauce cooks, tends to diminish the quantity of the end result!

Chipping Sparrow's BIG Baby

     For a couple of days, we've been watching this busy little duo from the patio. This morning I had time to snap a few photos and identify the species. The mother was so tiny and sprightly that I had assumed she was a wren when in fact, she was a chipping sparrow, but the baby was a puzzle - he was way too big to be hers! So I did some investigating and found that brown-headed cowbirds are brood parasites, laying their eggs in other bird's nests. The chicks monopolize the parent's feeding and grow faster than their nestmates. I'm pretty sure that's the scenario we have here.

Garden Welcome

     Our average-sized suburban back yard is nothing too special. There is a lawn of mixed types of grass that is pretty lush this June, thanks in part to the recent generous spring rains and to the removal of a very large ash tree that was split by lightening last year. We've always been limited to total shade plants so the additional light has also allowed us to include a few sun-loving flowers to the garden areas as well. Our very small vegetable garden, which was restricted to a strip on the side of the garage, has been extended along the fence line a few more feet. These are small but significant changes for us. Of course we still enjoy the shady expanses - the three hosta plots, the begonia beds near the pond, the "snowball corner" that is lined with hydrangeas, and the patio with comfortable chairs that always boasts a leafy canopy and a breeze.

     

     A gray picket fence and gate separate the backyard from the front. I think it is appealing in its simplicity and it begs a sneak peak beyond more so than a privacy fence would allow. So perhaps the small bejeweled oval sign that says "Welcome to My Garden" should include in fine print, "That is Very Special to Us"!

Lemon Blueberry Bundt Cake

     It's not quite blueberry season yet but I had a frozen cupful left over from last week's pancakes (Pop's favorite). Incorporating them into a yellow cake mix along with some sour cream and an extra egg produced this lovely bundt cake. A generous lemon glaze boosted the citrus flavor. This cake may be MY new summer favorite!

Eastern Bluebird

     It was Easter. It was also April Fools Day. We were enjoying a sunny morning on the patio but snow was forecast for the afternoon. So why were we surprised to see the first ever bluebird at our feeder?

     

     On this day of incongruities, when a flash of vivid sapphire flew across the yard and lit on the feeder, I immediately ran into the house for my camera and was amazed that the chap remained in place long enough for a very focused photo. I was pretty sure this little guy was an Eastern Bluebird but my supposition was confirmed when I uploaded the photos and was able to fully distinguish his field marks - which included a white belly, rusty throat and short bill. I've seen bluebirds in non-urban areas but never inside the city limits. Our pretty pint-sized visitor didn't stay long and we haven't seen him since but we certainly enjoyed a little Easter April Fool!

New Dresser Top

     The dressers in our master bedroom posed somewhat of a dilemma. They were old but not antique ...the wood finish was in good shape, except for the tops...and nobody ever saw them but us! We could afford a new set but the frugal little gnome that sits continually on my shoulder whispered, "They're perfectly good so why spend the money on new ones?!"

      I tossed around the idea of refinishing or painting them but couldn't come to a decision. And then I happened upon a solution while scrolling through ideas on Pinterest. Put a marble top on them! Well a marble finish anyway...actually a contact paper that looks like marble. Husband was skeptical until we agreed that something was better than nothing in this case. And it certainly was! We love the new lighter, cleaner look - no more ugly dents or scratches.

     There was very little prep work involved - just minimal sanding of the scratches and water damage followed by a good scrubbing to removed dirt and any other residues. Accurate measurements were critical and applying the sticky paper was challenging but not horrendously difficult. I did use a credit card to push out bubbles and smooth some wrinkles. A few imperfections remained but they are almost undetectable because of the marble print. I think we'll keep this bedroom set a few more years.

Vintage Hand-Colored Portrait of Mom and Meema

     This beautiful photograph of little Joan and Phyllis, is a glimpse of maternal love and the comfort of a child in her mother's arms. It is also a splendid study of portrait techniques of the very early 1930s. In the midst of the Great Depression and in the midst of a failing marriage, Phyllis has a simple but polished look; Joan, who was born in June of 1927 and appears to be about four years old, is dressed in a pretty yellow dress with a frilly collar and a matching big bow, typical of the era. The coloring, which at that time was done by hand, is subtle but beautiful, with only the use of very soft shades of yellow and pink. 

     This is also a personal treasure because it is my mother and grandmother (who have both left this earth), at a time long past.

BIG Flat Oatmeal Cookies

     It's February...it's winter...but the weather is hardly cooperating. The sky has been the same shade of gray for about six days, with rain falling a good bit of that time, and the temperature is holding in the boring forties. Housework is finished but I did notice the cookie jar is empty. Since Christmas (and all the requisite special cookies), we've cut way back on sweet eating so the only baking I've done recently is a loaf of French Bread. Therefore I decided it would be appropriate to make a batch of "ordinary' oatmeal cookies (oats are nutritious, right?) Pop doesn't care for soft cookies - he likes big flat ones with crispy edges and chewy middles, so I obliged him with these beauties and even drizzled a glaze over them for good measure. I thought we would ration them to one a day, but I'm pretty sure a couple went missing mid afternoon!

Winter Visitors - Juncos and White-Throated Sparrows

     Several days of sub-zero temps kept us in the house (except for a dog walk around the block). To combat seasonal depression, we keep the drapes drawn wide open on the sliding back door and let the sun shine in. We also keep the bird feeders full because the winter visitors are quite entertaining. 

     It is amazing that the tiny little legs and bodies of these juncos don't freeze! I know it has to do with altered blood flow but these happy guys are always moving too - darting and flitting at top speed!

     Some new faces joined the group this year - a family of white-throated sparrows. Their faces have a disgruntled appearance, something like Grumpy Cat.

Homemade Raviolis (with help from a muffin tin)

     Ever the adventurous cook, I had to add something new to my repertoire. Although I have made simple noodles (some call them Amish noodles) from scratch for soup, I never had the time or even the inclination to try raviolis. Pinterest struck again on a cold snowy weekend after Christmas, when I saw a pin about using mini muffin tins as a form. So I made the filling of ground beef, onion, spinach, garlic and egg and then made the dough. After rolling it out extremely thin, which was the tedious part of the process, I placed half on the muffin tin and pushed down slightly with a melon scoop to make round depressions. Then I brushed around each indentation with water to help the top layer of dough adhere, and spooned in the filling . I don't have a ravioli cutter or pastry wheel so I just used a sharp knife to cut the squares and then crimped the edges with the tines of a dinner fork. They went into the freezer after a parboil, for a quick dinner during the work week.

  

     The funny part of this story is that I was still at work when Pop decided to cook dinner and pulled out the bag of raviolis. He phoned me to find out how to prepare them and I explained, "just drop them in boiling water for a few minutes and then keep them warm in a pan of marinara sauce until I get home." He phoned me a few minutes later and asked, "but how do you get them crispy?"

     Hated to burst his bubble with the fact that these were not the fried variety, but he was happy enough after eating more than one cheese-topped helping!