Life in Rice Lake, WI

Lucky 7 Hotel

2012-02-12T22:02:00.000-06:00

I spent the weekend in Luck for the Winter Carnival. I have lots of pictures to sort through before I write a post about the weekend.

The newest addition to the family there is Lucky the rabbit.

Little Lucky is settling in

Hello from the girls

2012-02-10T10:41:00.001-06:00

I thought it was time that Barley & Hops show up here. While I am busy packing up for a busy weekend at the Luck Winter Carnival, they are snuggled into their big bed for the day.
Whatta life!

Wanda from my Android

Whose shoes

2012-02-08T12:09:00.003-06:00

I stayed overnight at Kyle's after the Superbowl on Sunday.

On Monday, I had to chuckle when I went to put on my shoes to leave.

Ruby's shoes and my shoes...seriously were my feet ever that small?

Ruby's black shoes, Great Aunt Wanda's brown shoes

Stella had asked for a piece of paper so she could do some 'work'.

She worked very hard on her 'work'.

Very nice Stella.ê

Jens is 'talking' all the time now. Maybe it is Danish, with his name, it should be.

He is a happy baby, which is good, #5 needs to be happy.

He looks very serious in these pictures, but it was because he was telling me something.

Jens Henry Valdemar

TTTTT

When I left Rice Lake on Sunday to drive over to Luck, the sun was shining.

Many times I have made this drive of 48 miles to find the weather to be completely different at the other end.

This time, the closer I got to Luck the cloudier and more 'socked in' it got,

and everything was covered in frost.

When I got to Luck, I took a couple of photos

Hwy 48 look back East.

Frost pine needles

Near the lake, a perfect pine, with frosty needles.

As I rounded the lake on the way to Kyle's,

I spied Gus's fish house looking pretty lonely out on Big Butternut.

û:û:ûû:û:û

Looks like I might have a little part time job brewing.

I have been doing computer maintenance for the family all along,

now I am branching out to help them with the computers at their businesses.

I think I can work 1 or 2 days a month, but what I am not sure about is if that really fits into my schedule.

Emily and Lois celebrate birthdays

2012-02-06T20:09:00.000-06:00

Lois Skow was nice enough to take this great picture of Emily and Lois and their joint birthday cake (Dairy Queen Ice Cream Cake - my favorite!).

I'll post a few more photos from the party and trip to Luck after a bit.

Happy Birthday Girls!

Emily and Lois - Photo by Lois Skow

Frost

2012-02-04T10:39:00.004-06:00

While Laila is being pounded with a big blizzard in Denver, we have been enjoying temperatures in the 30's for about 4 day straight. This morning, the trees were coated with frost. My favorite sight in the winter is the frosty trees.

I took these pictures from my living room window with my Android phone, you get the idea.

Goodbye January

2012-02-02T16:55:00.003-06:00

I feel like I should say something for the record about what a mild winter this has been so far. Last winter was record amounts of snow and this year is record high temperatures. I am not complaining. So, now it is already February and Spring is within shouting distance, yay!

I am trying to do some computer clean up for Kyle at the Bella Salon, so I spent Monday in Luck. I had lunch with Lois and Mary Jo, and we celebrated Lois's birthday.

I am continuing on piano lessons and some weeks feel like I am making good progress. The teacher is a good cheerleader and I am enjoying playing. I should practice more, but as long as I practice some each week, I count it as a good week.

The Bridge group I signed up with in Cameron is turning out to be a very nice group of women and I am learning much about Bridge that I either never knew or had forgotten. Playing cards is fun and I am getting to know the others a little better each week.

The cats are fine, they seem to like their big cat bed and spend most of their time sleeping in it or in front of the fireplace.

I get a chuckle out of the Rice Lake Chronotype Police Log. Whoever writes it, does such a good job of 'tongue in cheek' reporting of the calls to the police.

This one made me chuckle.

Small town life.

Cold & slippery but sunny

2012-01-29T19:30:00.003-06:00

It was a really sunny, crisp day today. The snow was crunchy.

Glenn's family was gathered at his cabin at Big Moon for Krista's (40th) birthday dinner and I was invited.

When I got there, the kids were busy sliding, so I took a few shots.

It's always fun taking pictures with bright sun, snow and lots of colorful winter clothes.

Here is a YouTube video I made of one of the rides by Breanna, Charli & Wynni.

☼ _*☼ _*☼ _*☼ _*☼

Milli had on her ice skates for the first time ever.

The ice is so slipper, thank heavens Mom is there to help.

Getting the hang of it

Push and glide, push and glide

Maybe if Mom walks backward it will be easier (not for Mom tho)

Mom & Grandpa helping and a hockey stick to hold on to

It sure is fun

But you have to take a break sometimes and stand someplace where you won't fall down so easily.

But then get back out there learning, Grandma and Mom helping

Millija

Milli came in the house to warm up and immediately crashed.

Learning to skate is very hard work, exhausting really.

☼ _*☼ _*☼ _*☼ _*☼

Charli, Breanna & Wynni

Glenn is just a big kid

Jackson and his flying saucer

Charli

We need a rope tow to get back to the top of the hill....Grandpa?

Jackson and some hockey

Grandpa and Jackson on the same team

Grandma and a little hockey

☼ _*☼ _*☼ _*☼ _*☼

In the house, there was visiting and some of the smaller kids and then a wonderful lasagne dinner.

Bryce was snuggled with Grandma so he could have is bottle

Vincent with Grandpa Mark

Vinny

Somehow I missed getting a picture of many other, owell, next time.

Gage and 4th grade basketball & more eagles

2012-01-28T18:57:00.000-06:00

I spent the night in Luck last night and this morning I went to Gage's 4th grade basketball games.

The Luck kids won both games and Gage had quite a few points.

He wanted me to take some action shots and post them on my blog.

Gage with the ball

Driving to the hoop

and the shot.

A tribute to Aaron Rodgers.

This is the LINK to the entire album of photos from today.

*****

On the way home I saw 2 eagles sitting in the same tree where I saw an eagle on my birthday.

It was snowing and windy, but I guess they were hunting for supper.

The one decided that I had taken enough photos.

But I got lucky and got him as he flew away.

Fresh snow

2012-01-25T18:00:00.000-06:00

A light and fluffy 3 inches of snow fell overnight.

The sun was out this morning and the world was so beautiful.

I am still trying out a 300mm lens, so snapped a few winter scenes from the deck.

A path in the new snow into the woods

Little pine at the edge of the woods

I always love the shadows on snow

*****

I have been listening to books on my iPod while I drive for quite some time, today it dawned on me that I could listen while I push snow off the driveway. What fun, the work was done in no time.

I'm listening to a good book, Edgar Sawtelle, and it made quick work of the driveway snow, that is for sure.

Life is Good.

Quick trip to Luck and back

2012-01-24T22:35:00.002-06:00

I had a very successful day today. I drove to Luck to finally do the final fix on Ryan's computer, and it is done, was easy and everything is working well for them again. I dropped off my old set of dishes for Angie-yay that she wanted them and yay that they are out of my house. Then I babysat for a couple of hours for Kyle and Heather so I got a few pictures of the kids to post.

Jens and Ruby were having a blast this afternoon....

But it wasn't long before it was nap time for the baby Jens...

And big sister Ruby needed a little recharge as well.

But before I left, everyone was back wide awake and silly.

Stella and Ruby thought they were pretty silly wearing the big shoes.

I wonder what time these two finally settled down for bedtime.

***

I was also test driving a new 300mm camera lens on my trip to Luck.

Much to my delight, 2 eagles were easy to spot along the way.

I was directly under this big guy.

He gave me the eye a couple of times, I took it to mean "Move along".

So I did.

Saturday Hoops

2012-01-22T13:59:00.001-06:00

Saturday started with 4th grade basketball in Shell Lake. Great nephew Gage and his team won 2 games. I only saw the second.

The lighting in the Shell Lake gym was really dim, it was a challenge to get any good photos.

Gage going for the ball.

Getting back

Focused

Passing

*****

Then a quick 40 mile drive South to Clear Lake to see the Luck 7th graders play. Great nephew Jack was playing on that team. Saw the second half of his first game and then the next two games.
Jack is good a getting a steal from his opponents.
Here he starts on Defense and ends up on Offense after a steal.

Bleachers are killers after that much time, but the hoops were good.
Gage won both of his games.
Jack's team won the first two and lost the last one.
It is always fun to see the rest of Kyle's family as well.

Ruby and Stella hangin' out with Dad watching the game.

Little Jens is growing up so fast, I didn't get any photos tho, next time for sure.
Fun family day and good hoops too.

Click here for the LINK the complete album of Jack's pictures from today.

Mixed feelings

2012-01-16T13:57:00.001-06:00

This morning I was enjoying watching a huge flock of Red Polls at the feeder out front. One minute it would be feather-to-feather crowding at the feeder, and the next second, they would all fly off.

I was enjoying a lazy morning of Scrabble, Words With Friends and reading when I saw a big shadow fly by the window.

Much to my delight and yet much to my concern for the little birds, I saw this hawk sitting on a branch not far from the feeders.

I am not sure, but I think it is a Sharp-shinned Hawk, although, it could be a Cooper's Hawk.
Both are common in this area.
These photos were taken through the window and from a distance, so not tack sharp.

The Audubon bird book says that the Sharp-shinned & Cooper's hawk are similar to a Northern Goshawk.

It also states that all three of those birds are agile in pursuing smalls birds through trees and bushes.

So, while I was excited to see this big fella, I am not happy that he was hunting at my feeders.

He flew off, but didn't go far, I found him sitting on this branch in the backyard.

Then he flew.

I was trying to get as many pictures as I could, blurry or not, for identification.

He did a fly over and then headed North.

I think his square tail also points to this being a Sharp-shinned hawk.

Luckily the little birds are already back at the feeders.

I have not seen any evidence that Mr. Hawk was successful hunting here.

Nature is so amazing.

Red Polls on Saturday

2012-01-14T14:13:00.002-06:00

I have had a few Red Polls at the feeders lately.

I just loved this one sitting up on a branch.

What a pretty little fella.

And this one on the finch sack, I think is a different bird.

***

Big football day today,

New Orleans vs San Francisco

and then

Our Denver Broncos vs New England Patriots.

Go Broncos!

A couple of updates & it is winter

2012-01-12T17:27:00.003-06:00

On Tuesday I had lunch with my brother Gus. For those of you who know he has been struggling with his health, for right now at least, his blood disorder seems to be under control. He continues to have some upper respiratory / pneumonia, but that is treatable.

***

Wednesday is piano lesson day and I have graduated into the second instruction book. I am pretty pleased with my progress. I am able to play a few familiar songs by sight (although never without making at least one mistake) and I plan to continue the lessons.

Glenn and Kathy gave me a gift certificate for my birthday (my 2011 birthday) and I am going to post a picture of it here so that it will be in the 2012 blog book, that way it will be easy to see if I cash it in or not.

Last summer I had said that my only summer goal was to finally ride in a canoe, it never happened...

We had a little snow today and it got cold overnight, so now at least the lakes will start to freeze again. I got the driveway cleared this forenoon before I went to play bridge. This was my second time playing with a group in Cameron, and it was very fun. They are a nice bunch who are willing to help and teach as we play.

Don't be fooled by that winter sun, it was not warm and it never did come out.

More snow to push off the driveway tomorrow, but it is winter afterall.

A note and A bird

2012-01-10T00:00:00.000-06:00

I got this nice note from Milena today.

She and I share the same birthday and I had sent her a card and money.

I love getting these notes.

Some of you might have read my posting last year about trying to write 365 thank you notes, so I really appreciate receiving them from the kids (kids of all ages).

This afternoon I caught this pretty guy sitting in the sun at the feeder in the back yard.

I believe this is a juvenile cardinal as his feathers are still turning.

He was so pretty in the bright sunshine.

Big Fish

2012-01-09T09:15:00.000-06:00

I had a lazy weekend, watching football and taking it easy after my Iowa trip.

Football was good, I really enjoyed the big win by the Broncos in overtime on Sunday, very exciting.

My nephew Ryan had an exciting Sunday too.

He caught a 35.25 inch Northern Pike ice fishing in Luck out in front of his brother Kyle's house.

It weighed 15 pounds.

He said that when they got it out on the ice he saw that it was barely hooked on the lip and the line broke just as he yanked it out of the ice hole. His girls were watching from inside the house, but his nephew Gage was right there. Very fun day for them and I am glad he had his camera and shared these photos.

Ryan and the big Northern.

Elliana, Ryan, Milena
Big Fish

I think we will be seeing this fish again...hanging on the wall at Ryan's house.

Iowanians

2012-01-04T15:50:00.001-06:00

On Tuesday I drove to Iowa to spend a couple of nights with the folks. The drive down was a breeze, zero snow in Iowa so the roads were great the whole way. 5 hours door to door.
As I pulled into the parking lot here, I noticed a woman taking a picture of the sunset, you know me, I whipped out my trusty Pentax and snapped a couple myself. I am glad I didn't miss it.

The folks have such a nice cozy apartment here and I keep an airbed in the closet so I can camp out on their living room floor. We had a little happy hour after I arrived and then ate a late supper.

Today I got their cell phone receiving their emails again, and we also made our reservations for our trip to Las Vegas in March. More to come on that adventure, but at least we have our flights booked and we are excited.

I'm not sure we have many other chores to do here. I'll set up their answering machine for their landline but that's about it.

It is a really nice day here, in the 40s and sunny. The view out their living room window is a nice one, with some huge blue spruce trees.

It is also interesting how many jet streams a person sees here. I see so very few in Rice Lake, but just sitting here this morning I have seen at least a dozen out their window. I suppose it must the the traffic pattern for Des Moines and/or Chicago.

Dad and Ev are about the best recycling people you will ever find. The apartments here encourage recycling everything...cardboard, plastic, glass, etc. Ev is meticulous about putting nothing in the garbage that can be recycled. It is inspirational and they are really doing what they can to save Mother Earth.

Dad is always a good problem solver. Most recently, he wanted to make some legs for a table top to put outside their picture window to hold a bird feeder and maybe a flower pot come summer.

He had held onto 2 floor lamps because the metal tubes were strong and he felt like they could be used for something. Well, sure enough, he was able to use the metal combined with some wood spindles, to make legs for this old table top and it worked perfectly.

Now if the birds would just find the seeds, so far the weather here has been so nice the birds have not had to go far for their food. I am sure that will change.

I'll probably head home tomorrow afternoon unless we come up with a reason for me to stay until Friday. The cats are covered either way, so we'll see what develops.

More Football stuff

2012-01-02T20:38:00.001-06:00

There is joy for me in my fantasy football league. This is a fun venture that I participate in with friends & family from Colorado. Normally we play for a (picture of) a trophy, but this year since I am the winner, we skipped that step.

Fun stuff, and keeps me interested in more players than just the Packers.

No Joy

2012-01-02T18:30:00.000-06:00

The Badgers played an exciting game at the Rose Bowl, with lots of red clad fans present, but in the end, they lost to the Oregon Ducks. While I was sad to see them lose, I am still proud to be a Badger fan.

Happy New Snow

2012-01-01T23:30:00.000-06:00

We got a much needed snow on New Year's Day. I think it was 8-10 inches in Rice Lake.

I am so lucky to have a good neighbor who plows driveways and always clears mine if he gets there first.

I was hoping for him to plow this snow,

it was heavy and wet and would have taken me hours...took him about 10 minutes.

Sweet!

The birds seemed to enjoy the snow a little too.

A quick snack under the canopy for Mrs. Downy Woodpecker

Here he was eyeing the bird feeder below and getting ready to drop down for a snack.

Happy New Year

2011-12-31T23:30:00.000-06:00

Like my Grandparents wrote on a Christmas card to my parents many years ago...

thanks for the old year.

Here's to a great 2012.

Wrap up

2011-12-31T14:29:00.004-06:00

As I enjoy this last day of the year,

I wanted to note that my blog has had over 24,000 views and more than 77 countries have visited as well.

Not sure if all that data was collected in 2011, but fun to think about just the same.

Keepsakes

2011-12-29T03:00:00.000-06:00

I always feel badly about the nice photo Christmas cards people send, they get looked at a few times and then they end up stored away.

This year I decided to scan those from the family and put them in the blog, that way they will be in the blog book for this year.

*****

For Christmas I got pictures from Gage & Jack.

and Anders.

The Birthday Eagle

2011-12-27T22:38:00.001-06:00

My Aunt Johanne suggested that I do something just for me on my birthday, and the more I thought about it, the more I thought that I should take my camera and go find some photographs. I headed off to Luck to do an errand and then had in mind to continue North to Grantsburg to Crex Meadows to see what was what. About 7 miles East of Luck on Hwy 48 I noticed this big guy sitting on a rather low branch. He cooperated and allowed me to get out of my car and walk close to the tree. He was a beautiful fella.

Next to all the nice cards I got in the mail, greetings on Facebook and hugs from great nephews & great nieces, he was a most special birthday prize.

One Facebook friend called this one The Money Shot.

Bye Now!

The Eve and The Day

2011-12-26T15:11:00.000-06:00

Now that I am planning on binding my blogs into a book each year,

I want to be sure I capture all the significant events of the year,

for both the family, and me.

So, indulge me as I document the Christmas gathering of 2011.

This is gonna be a long one...

I was invited to join the Luck Johansens at Kyle & Heather's home on Christmas Eve for light meal, dice game and family fellowship.

When I got up Christmas Eve morning, I was feeling kind of lazy and dragging around the house putting together everything I wanted to take with to Luck.

Then the mailman brought a nice note from my Dad.

This is such a delightful thank-you that I decided to include it in my blog,

not to blow my own horn,

but because it was a very nice note from my Dad.

It's very personal, but heck, this is my personal blog.

The gift of appreciation is the nicest Christmas gift

About midday, I was getting myself organized and starting to think, ugh...if I could only just stay home...

then my cell phone rang. It was Kyle's number but his son Jack was on the phone.

Jack told me that his little sister, Stella, had wanted to call me

and invite me to have a sleep over at their house that night after Christmas.

Well, that call made my day,

and gave me the boost to get excited again about packing up and heading off to Luck.

***

It was Christmas Eve and a beautiful day

I loaded up my car and got on my way.

Headed west to be with family for the Christmas Eve

Adult cold beverages, behind I did not leave.

Silver bullets from Golden and Angry Minnows from Hayward

All were loaded into the car before I headed Westward.

A Merry Christmas Eve was about to unfold

Memories to be made; and stories to be told.

wjo

***

Kyle and Heather had made plans to have their baby boy, Jens, baptized during the Christmas Eve service at Luck Lutheran Church. So, my plan was to be in Luck early to be sure I would get a good seat in case I wanted to take a few photos. So, after making a stop to pick up a few last minute items at Menard's (camera batteries for me, sour cream and an American flag for Kyle), I headed off to Luck.

About 2 miles out of town I realized that my overnight bag was still at home, so...U Turn.

Finally on my way, I was still in good shape to be at the church early, whew.

Two babies were baptized on this Christmas Eve.

From where I was sitting, it was hard to get a good shot of Jens.

Alec and Cole Mortel are the godparents for Jens.

Jens was a good baby during the ceremony

Happy Pastor Ralph with the babies

Getting ready for a family photo, Ruby needed a prephoto nap.

Alec Mortel, Heather, Ruby, Kyle, Cole Mortel
Gage, Stella, Jens Henry Valdemar, Jack

Great grandma Virginia Olson, Heather and a sleepy Jens

***

After a very nice candlelight service that included the baptisms, we all headed off to Kyle's house.

There was delicious food: bite sized pork ribs, baked potatoes, salads, shrimp, chips, dips and yummy sweets too numerous to list.

Of course there were festive beverages as well.
Lois and Larry always come prepared to take the group photo.

Aaron, Angie, Harry, Kyle
Lora, Gus, Lois, Ruby, Heather, Jens, Lois, Jack, Owen, Larry, Ryan
Gage, Wanda, Emily, Milena, Megan, Elliana, Stella, Anders, Kris
Thanks Larry and Lois for this photo!

Great Niece Emily had planned and organized all the little ones to present the play,

Charlie Brown's Christmas.

Jack was Charlie Brown, Owen was Woodstock, the other kids had the roles of all Charlie Brown's pals.
Emily was the director & narrator.

Anders was Snoopy

It was a very nice production and we enjoyed it very much.

After the play, we moved on to a dice game with presents to steal and swap.

The kids enjoy this a bunch and everyone ends up with a little gift.

Before it was all over, I played my piano song, There's No Place Like Home for the Holidays.

I am happy that I did, maybe I'll have 2 songs for next year.
Kyle took a run at Silent Night on his Grandpa Elmer's Concertina too.

***

As the evening went on, the kids wore down, parents loaded up their families to head home and eventually the house was peaceful again.

I headed up to bed and in getting ready, I noticed that the upstairs toilet was plugged, so before I went to bed, I plunged away and mopped up the mess.

(I didn't really want to wake up Kyle so figured this could wait until morning.)

***

When I got up in the morning, the kids were already looking in their stockings and checking out what Santa had left for them. This is nice family time and I am appreciative that Kyle & Heather include me.

Soon, the boys headed upstairs to watch a new movie. Heather and Jens were on the couch so Jens could eat, I had my coffee and was sitting next to Stella while she played on my iPod. Ruby was sitting next to her Mom. I was thinking how nice and peaceful the morning was and we were just chatting about nothing in particular, when suddenly, Ruby projectile puked.

So much for peace.

Chaos.

As Heather quickly handed Jens off to Stella and headed to the bathroom, I ran for the kitchen to grab towels for clean up, and Kyle scooped up Ruby and headed for the bathtub.

Once we got through the shock, we started to figure out how to clean the couch cushion (especially since more company was coming for the afternoon).

I gathered up the cushion cover and wet towels and headed for the washing machine.

Much to my surprise, standing in the laundry room was none other than Santa himself.

"Did I come at a bad time?"

I'm not sure how many kids have had Santa show up during their 'after puking bath', but Ruby did.

Ruby looked kind of amazed when she saw Santa walk in.

Santa had a new Barbie doll for little Ruby Anna

Stella might have had an idea about who this Santa was, but then again....maybe it really is Santa?

Jens Henry Valdemar liked his time with Santa Uncle Kris

Jack (on Ruby's new pink motorcycle that Santa brought, Stella, Gage, Santa & Ruby

Okay, off Santa went to his next stop and

I decided it was time to pack up and get on my way home.

Not only did I not want to catch the flu bug, but also Kyle & Heather had chores to do before their next round of entertaining.

Just before I left I remembered, "Oh Yeah, Kyle, the upstairs toilet isn't working."

Merry Christmas.

***

I made a quick stop at Gus & Lois's to see what Anders was up to.

Anders told me all about how Santa had been to visit him before I got there.

He knew that Santa's Elves had probably made the toys.

And finally, I headed East to Rice Lake.

I spent the rest of the day reading, relaxing and playing Scrabble & Words With Friends on my iPad.

We had a nice Christmas Day gift of another Green Bay Packer win in the evening.

Merry Christmas Wisconsin!

***

Merry Christmas to my blog readers

2011-12-25T00:30:00.000-06:00

Thank you for stopping by and reading my blog.

I hope that you will have a very Merry Christmas.

Wanda’s Odeto 2011

If you read my blog, you can skipahead,

Get some rest, go early to bed.

But for those who might think itfun to hear,

I will recap a little about 2011,a pretty good year.

We started it with a Super Bowlwin for the Packers,

A big thrill that made manyWisconsinites go crackers.

Basketball started and many tripswere made West,

To watch 4^th, 5^thgrade and high schoolers play their best.

I also made some college games, a cousin’s daughter played,her senior year,

Women’s college basketball is a thrill, sad to see end, Ieven shed a tear.

Grade school, high school and college, I loved their passionfor hoops,

My blog was full of updates; it was fun posting the scoops.

While not all their tournamentdreams could come true,

They gave their best, that much Iknew.

The winter was long, the snow deep, temperatures low,

I couldn’t wait for it to end, started thinking about seedsto sow.

And so sew I did, but not the gardening kind,

Making aprons out of used men’s shirts, fun and fine.

One last big storm in March dumpedon us, but it melted fast,

I went to get the mail, slipped,fell and ended up in a cast.

So for 8 long weeks, I managedwith my left arm in a sling,

For chores around the house, Ineeded help, even for the simplest thing.

I felt sorry for myself some days,but others enjoyed the time reading,

My travel was a bit limited butgoing many places, I wasn’t really needing.

It all turned out fine, by the end I was getting along justgreat,

My garden got planted, did some sewing and finally got backto a normal state.

It forced me to take time to appreciate my health and allthat I have been given,

And to be mindful that others face great challenges yetcontinue to be driven.

And then Spring sprung, and I wasdelighted,

To see tulips popping up, almost200 sighted.

Stone steps to the garden werebuilt by my nephew Mark,

My lower yard now looking like avery nice park.

My backyard began to be a busyplace, sometimes out of sight,

My trail cam catching raccoons onfilm, almost every night.

Summer went fast; trips to Luck,the Sandcastle cabin, and Big Moon Lake,

Finding people, flowers, animalsand birds for photographs to take.

Dad and Ev arrived for a 6 week visit and the fun began,

The garage turned cabinet shop got busy, Dad was running JohansenCabinetry again.

He made a sewing desk for Ev to be installed in Iowa digs,

And bear resistant bird feeders for my yard, those bears aresuch pigs.

Dad & Ev & I took a short trip to Upper Michigan to see friends,

I loved the area, more and more trees around every bend.

4^th of July was at Glenn’s Big Moon cottage withmany of the Johansen clan,

Kids swimmin’ in the lake, burgers on the grill &visiting was all in the plan.

A fresh baby name Bryce to Kaijaand Mike was born,

His sisters so proud, a littlebrother they the can adore.

I am happy to note, one item on myto-do list, piano lessons I began,

The teacher quite patient and myprogress slower than what was in my plan.

But now at the end of the year, Iam quite pleased to play a few tunes,

It’s harder than I expected butprogress is steady, practicing filling many afternoons.

My ‘Other Mother’ Betty passed away in August, she was myfriend,

Her daughters my best pals and a celebration of life for herI did attend.

Though the occasion was sad, it was time well spent with TheRosenows,

Visiting with many of Betty’s family and friends, andmeeting many I did not know.

More good news, Heather & Kylewelcomed a sweet little baby,

Number 5 for them, Jens HenryValdemar, a big name? maybe.

Dad and Ev returned in October, inIowa the lastweeks of summer they had spent,

Now back in Wisconsin to house sit for me so Out-West Iwent.

I spent a little time with Laila,so nice to see my Coloradopals,

Even had time to play Bridge withthe gals.

Home again in time for a Johansen gathering at a localmotel,

All Dad’s descendants there except for 2, amazing and reallyswell.

Laila a surprise guest; Glenn & Kathy planned it all,

The kids in the pool, lots of good food, a great familygathering for the Fall.

Dad joined the Johansen guys at thecabin Up North for The Hunt,

The first weekend included a footof snow dumped by a storm front.

The second weekend better weather,but both weekends filled with fun,

Playing cards, visiting, napping,watching football, who cares if they fired a gun.

Back to Iowathe folks went and so now I am back to living alone,

They are settled back into their apartment and getting usedto their new phone.

So they can check their email, receive photos and sometimestalk, a smart phone,

They were game for the challenge even though learning to useit might make them groan.

That’s enough, o-my two pages, whatwas I thinking,

From reading all this your eyes areprobably blinking.

As we close the year, I wish yougood cheer,

I continue to appreciate my lifehere.

Many good days is my wish for you,

Have a Merry Christmas and a great2012 too.

The last basketball for the middle schoolers

2011-12-23T15:02:00.000-06:00

On Thursday I drove over to Luck to see Jack's last basketball game for this season. It was a well played game and a good outcome for the Cardinals.

Jack is a good ball handler.

Jack and his pal Payton.

Jens was at the game to watch his brother Jack, but mostly he was flirting with friend Jillian Klatt.

I stuck around for part of the 8th grade game.

Noah Mortel is a great nephew in law (Kyle's nephew on his wife's side).

Noah is the younger brother of the twins that I watched play last year,

and he is a good ball player in his own right.

Tip off pictures are my favorite picture to take.
I continue to think about upgrading my photography equipment to take better pictures in the gym.
Until then, these are no so bad, just quite grainy.

A Rice Lake Tree

2011-12-19T12:28:00.002-06:00

Every year the family that lives in this home decorates their big Colorado Blue Spruce tree with huge ornaments. It is on my route to and from Luck, so I see it often.

I always look forward to seeing it as part of the holiday season, it is such a beauty.

Keeping in on my toes

2011-12-18T19:37:00.001-06:00

Ryan and Camilla had a computer problem back in October, we did a couple of things to keep the machine operational but I knew that it was not fixed. This week, things got worse so on Friday, I headed over to help get it fixed. Their girls, Elliana & Milena were fun to visit with. Milena drew me a picture and Elliana visited and offered to bring me something to drink.

Milena drew this nice picture of Spring flowers for me.

Milena and Elliana

I ended up having to back again on Saturday and spent the better part of the day there, but with the help of the technical folks at SecureIT, we refreshed the hard drive and now everything is working again. While I was waiting on the computer, I took advantage of the piano there in the basement and worked on my Christmas song. I still have never played it through without error, but I am getting closer.

Click here to see the YouTube video I made.

Before I headed home on Saturday night, I stopped at Gus & Lois's to drop off a couple of things.

I had some jars and containers in a cardboard box.

As soon as I put the box on the rocking chair, Topaz & Toby got so excited and while one got in the box the other was on the outside trying to get the one in the box.

You just never know what will delight a kitten.

One thing about working on these computers for the kids is that it keeps me learning and remembering what I have learned about doing maintenance on the machines.

It's interesting to me and keeps me on my toes.

Slop

2011-12-14T11:09:00.001-06:00

Wednesday morning and I just spent an hour pushing an inch and a half of slush off the drveway in hopes that it will not freeze into skating rink later.
I have been wearing spikes on my shoes whenver it is just a little bit slippery, I have no desire to repeat last March's slip/fall/fracture. Today I needed them!
Meanwhile, Barley was enjoying some lounge time in my chair.
Wanda from my Android

A little Luck

2011-12-12T16:40:00.003-06:00

This summer or fall, I saw a professional photograph taken by a man who did a book of photos taken in small towns around the country. The photo of a water tower interested me and I checked on the pricing with the help of a friend. Needless to say, the photographer was charging more than my monthly income and then some, so I decided to take my own photos.

Here are a few of my photographs.

If you would like to pay me $3,000 each for these, you can, otherwise,

if you ask, I'll give you the image for free.

Luck Basketball

2011-12-08T18:09:00.001-06:00

On Tuesday, 12/6, I went to Luck to see as many basketball games as my butt could handle on the bleachers. I saw Jack & the 6-7 grade team, then Noah and the 7-8 grade team, I caught the last 3 quarters of the boys JV game (I had to have a short bathroom break during the first quarter), and then the entire Varsity boys game.

Jack on defense and then wide open on offense.

Auggie shooting, Noah is #25

Successful free-throw.

So, who is Noah Mortel? He is my nephew Kyle's nephew. So, my great nephew by marriage??

The younger brother (notice I did not say little, there is nothing little about this kid) of the twins who I watched play at Luck until they graduated last year.

John Denny jumping for the tip off. # 20 is Brodie Kunze.
My favorite shot to take is the tip off.

Karsten Petersen on defense.
This was a rough game, lots of contact.

So, who are these kids?

Karsten is my 2nd cousin once removed. His Dad grew up across the road from where we lived in Luck.

The others are not related to me.

A heart breaker for the Cardinals, and such a physical contest.

Snowing

2011-12-05T12:15:00.001-06:00

I've decided to keep track of how many times I push the snow off the driveway to gather some semi accurate data about the snowfall here this year.

So far, I would say we are at about 10 inches and it is still snowing.

I always like to get the driveway cleared so that it melts off, not only because I like how it looks, but for safety. No slips and falls this winter!

The backyard is starting to have a nice blanket of snow.

Some snow and some guests

2011-12-04T18:50:00.001-06:00

Getting back into some of my old routines here, house is empty without the folks around, that is for sure. Andy & Michelle had a Company B Christmas party here in Rice Lake on Saturday night, so they had a reservation here and I agreed to be their designated driver.

It was a formal affair and they looked like a million bucks when they were ready to go.

Captain Andrew & Michelle Johansen

Add caption

Running the Twin Cities Marathon in October certainly paid off.

Meanwhile, Mother Nature was brewing up an interesting evening. It was snowing like crazy and very slippery. After a near miss on the way to the party when we fishtailed right on Main Street, I was a nervous driver coming back home to await their call for pick up.

But, I kept busy clearing the driveway.

I pushed the snow off 4 times before midnight.

In between snow pushing, I watched the thrilling Big Ten Championship game and the Wisconsin Badgers won a close game against Michigan State University.

Off to the Rose Bowl for the second year in a row.

Go Badgers!

Birds of Winter

2011-11-30T14:38:00.001-06:00

Mr. Cardinal
11.24.2011

Downy showing off his red cap. 11.24.2011

11.24.2011 Nuthatch with suet

Pileated Woodpecker (Dryocopus pileatus) at my bird feeder on 11.30.2011

I have to keep the feeders full now so that the cardinals and woodpeckers and others keep coming.

The snow we had melted away, but I am sure more is coming, so having the birds for entertainment will be a real nice winter treat.

The Second Week of Deer Camp

2011-11-28T23:49:00.001-06:00

Second Week of Deer Camp

By: Da Yoopers

CHORUS:

IT'S THE SECOND WEEK OFDEER CAMP

AND ALL THE GUYS AREHERE

WE DRINK PLAY CARDS ANDSHOOT THE BULL

BUT NEVER SHOOT NO DEER

THE ONLY TIME WE LEAVE THE CAMP

IS WHEN WE GO FOR BEER

THE SECOND WEEK OF DEERCAMP

IS THE GREATEST TIME OFYEAR

Years ago my friend Karen called me from Meeker, Colorado and sang this chorus to me. I think that it sums up the weekend at the Sandcastle.

Dad, Gus, Glenn, Kris, Kyle, Jack & Gage, Andy & Alyxis, Ryan were all there Friday night. Dad reports that they played much Poker and that by the end of the weekend Alyxis and Jack were playing some very competent Cribbage as well. The new barstools were well used by the time the weekend was over, and modifications are being planned to make them a bit more comfortable.

First year hunter, Gage Johansen

Lexie bagged her buck inside the cabin.

Here are a few more photographs taken by Kris during the second weekend of hunting.

Cards and stuff

Gage, Jack, Glenn, Kyle, Valdemar, Andy and Lex

A daughter and her very cool father. Grandpa in the back.

Gus, Kyle
Gage, Jack
Dead Deer

Ralph, Valdemar & Glenn

Ralph, Valdemar & Glenn...again

Kris, Glenn, Kyle, Gus, Valdemar, Andrew
Gage, Jack & Alyxis
2011 Sandcastle Hunters
Gordon, WI

Many thanks to Kris for supplying these great pictures from the hunt, 2011.

Just to be sure that these are saved, I am posting the original sketches that Gus made before the remodel of the Sandcastle. I'm planning to do a bog entry later documenting the progress.

Cats are basically lazy and so am I

2011-11-25T09:00:00.001-06:00

Gus and Lois's cats, Topaz and Toby, had the right idea yesterday. They lounged on the bed while the house was filling up with family, while kids raced up and down hallways, and while Lois worked all day in the kitchen preparing a delicious Thanksgiving Feast.

Cats have their priorities aligned, I think I'll start working on aligning mine too.

More hunting this weekend. Record attendance is planned for the Sandcastle tonight, 10 will be sleeping there. I have to admit that I am not sad that I will not be one of those who are going up there, it will be a lot of folks crammed into a very small space.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T09:04:00.001-06:00

Turkeys in the Nebraska Sandhills on my recent trip to Colorado

Dad & Ev and I will be heading to Luck after the Packer game for Thanksgiving dinner at Gus & Lois's. This morning it is 40 degrees and it rained a little during the night,

this does not seem like November in Wisconsin but I am NOT complaining.

Snow!

2011-11-23T04:00:00.001-06:00

The first real snow of the season came on Saturday, 11/19.

The weathermen were saying an inch, but it was more like 4 inches.

Enough that I had to push the snow off the driveway on Sunday morning.

The Packers keep winning, so I had to take this picture.

I always feel better when the driveway is cleared.

Dad, Glenn, Andy, Dana and Gus were at the Sandcastle for opening weekend of deer hunting.

The snow got pretty deep up there.

But that didn't hamper the card playing and story telling much.

During the snow, Ev and I enjoyed watching all the birds at the feeder.
It is always fun to see the male cardinals.

We've been lucky to have a slow start to winter 2011-12.

A major project

2011-11-22T19:22:00.000-06:00

Right before I left for Colorado, I had showed Dad the instructions for a child's chair that I found on Ana-White.com and suggested that we adapt this idea to build bar stools for our Sandcastle cabin.

I knew Dad could look at the plans and improve on them using the idea of a storage box as part of the chair construction.

When I got back from Colorado, Dad had the prototype almost complete and was in gear to start cranking out barstools. I had thought this would be a project for over the summer, but Dad was motivated to get them made in time for The Hunt, which was 2 short weeks away.

With Laila here, it was busy, but we got the lumber home and the construction began.

Dad had to wear a warm uniform to work in the unheated garage.

Laila was in charge of inventory and parts management.

There were 6 chairs to be made and it took some organizing to make sure all the correct parts were cut.

It is fun to work with Dad in the woodshop.

Nothing like a staged photo

Happy workers

Due to winter temperatures, the kitchen became the assembly annex one evening.

Here is the picture of the prototype.

This picture hatched the idea.
Thank you ana-white.com

Ready for shipping

Ev and Dad and the finished project

Each owner will have their own stool and a little storage box for their valuables.

Friday morning before hunting, I drove up to the Sandcastle with a load of 3 stools.

The other 3 fit into Dana's pickup when he came to Rice Lake to pick up Dad for the hunting weekend.

The barstools are a fine addition to the cabin bar.

The crunch was really on during the construction of these stools, but it is very nice to have them completed and ready for card playing at the cabin.

Finally, I'm back blogging...lots of catching up to do, so hang on

2011-11-22T18:21:00.001-06:00

The last time I blogged, I was arriving back in Wisconsin on November 9th after a 3 week trip Out West. The trip was fun, busy and the travel weather just about perfect.

I arrived home on Wednesday evening,

and most of Thursday was spent unloading the car and doing laundry.

***

Friday, we headed off to the Veteran's Day program at Luck High School. It was a very nice program with much music by the school kids.

Megan was in the chorus, just in front of the boy in the blue & gray sweatshirt.

The elementary school kids sang the anthems of each of the branches of service.
Emily is in the back row with long blonde hair.

Gage (eyes closed) was part of the Cub Scout color guard.

Emily was part of a dance group that tap danced as part of the program.

Afterwards, Dad & Ev and I met Gus for lunch in downtown Luck.

Dad said it was one of the nicest Veteran's Day programs he had ever attended.

***

Saturday we drove to Baldwin to stay overnight and enjoy a gathering organized by Glenn & Kathy at the AmericInn. We had the party room right next to the pool, so the kids had a ton of fun. We were celebrating Alyxis's birthday and her friend Tootie was there too.

Alyxis and her friend TootieI love this picture of the two serious girls.

Much to our surprise, G & K had arranged to have Laila there as a surprise for everyone. It was cute that the hotel staff played along and allowed Laila to be at the check in counter as we arrived. I was very surprised, especially since I had just seen Laila in Colorado. Everyone was at the party except Michelle who had the stomach flu and Linsey who is still detained in Dunn County's facility.

I had hoped to take a photo of each family member, but only got a few.

Dana & Erin

Gus and Lois and grandkids

Alyxis and her birthday cake

Anders & Emily. Emily was a good cousin and made sure Anders was having a safe and fun time swimming.

All the birthday kids: Angie, Megan, Dana & Gage and Alyxis

The surprise guest, Laila

Uncle Dana and nephew Bryce Vanasse

Lora & Heather and little Jens

Jake and his little buddy Vinny

My new iPad was a hit with Jackson, Jack, & Jake

Destined for a life on the stage, Alyxis showing some theatrics

After a nice 'afterglow' in the folk's hotel room after the party, we spent the night in Baldwin.

On Sunday, we headed home to Rice Lake, and Laila came along as our surprise house guest.

Welcome?

2011-11-08T13:43:00.001-06:00

I am making good progress as I head East towards Wisconsin. I wanted to stretch my legs at the reststop in Chamberlain, but thought better of taking this path after reading the welcome/warning.

50 degrees and bright sunsine and an uneventful driving with a very intense book on tape is making for fine travel so far.

(Click on photographs to see them larger.)
Wanda from my Android

Denver Wrap Up

2011-11-07T19:19:00.000-06:00

I know I didn't write much during my Colorado visit, but it was a good one. Lots of time to chill out and yet lots of visiting. Sunday was a nice ending to the trip. LeAnna invited Laila and I and Tom & Roche to brunch. We had delicious food and a nice visit.

Tom, Roche, LeAnna & Wanda - Laila took the photo

We watched the Broncos and the Packers win in the afternoon, so nice ending to the day.

*****

Monday I started my drive East towards Wisconsin.

As I was leaving a rest stop in Eastern Colorado, I noticed this license plate.

Colorado has legalized marijuana for medicinal purposes, I guess this driver is a supplier.

I drove to North Platte, NE & got settled into the Hampton Inn in time to watch DWTS.

I talked to Dad & Ev in Rice Lake, and they were ready to watch as well.

Snow is predicted here overnight, so whether or not I leave here, is totally dependent on what it looks like in the morning. The next leg of this driving trip is long and through the sand hills of Nebraska, so I won't risk slippery roads and this is a nice place. We'll see.

I'm on the 4th floor of this hotel, so I have a good view of the highway, I'll be able to see what's what in the morning, but first The Dancing!

Golden Days

2011-11-05T13:28:00.004-05:00

One thing about Colorado, even when it snows 6-10 inches this time of year, if the sun comes out,

it melts away pretty quickly.

On Wednesday, I started my day of visiting by having lunch with Dave & Suzi

at a Thai restaurant in Olde Town Arvada.

Oh man, that was tasty.

Green Curry, yummy.

We had a great visit and I am hoping they will be in Wisconsin again soon.

Wednesday evening was dinner with Lance & Jamie (my neighbors from the Dover Street neighborhood in Arvada) and Roche & Tom. We ate at 3 Marguerite's and it was great Mexican food.

*********

Visiting Golden on Thursday was so nice. The snow along the creek was classic.

Looking West from Washington Street in Golden, CO

Looking East from Washington

^^^^^^^^

My visit to Bills' Bar at the Golden Brewery was really fun.

I saw many of my old pals.

The bar is a nice tribute to Bill Coors.

Cheers! to Bill

Original artwork by the folks at the glass plant.
Bottles made of recycled bottles.
Very nice.

Hosted by the Guest Relations folks, this is a very nice gathering place open to employees daily.

A welcome to Bill's

A good crowd on a Thursday afternoon.
One department was finishing a team building exercise, while others were just there to quench their thirst.

Jenny, Melissa, Steve & Tammy, Reichow

After a great visit at the brewery, Steve and Tammy took me to dinner at 3 Sons Italian Restaurant in Arvada. Great food and by far the best waitress ever, Anna. Ask for her if you go.

It is so nice to see all my Colorado pals again.

Snowday

2011-11-02T16:40:00.001-05:00

The Denver area had between 6 - 8 inches of wet snow overnight. It was really pretty this morning. By mid-day the roads were only wet.
Click on the picture to see panoramic view of Roche and Tom's yard & house.
Wanda from my Android

Eating my way through Denver

2011-10-30T13:12:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, I visited at Laila's house and then we went to dinner at On The Border. I am so hungry for good, spicy Mexican food. We had marg's and great food and a very nice visit.

We watched part of the Badger's game before I drove back to Roche's.

It was a bad ending for the Badgers though.

Hobb's is a big dude

2011-10-29T11:58:00.001-05:00

On Friday I Roche and I stopped at Leanna's for a short visit on our way home from lunch with the Garthrights. I got to meet Hobbs. He is a very healthy cat.

He is also very friendly. Hobbs weighs in at 21 pounds.

Wanda from my Android

Denver!

2011-10-28T10:03:00.000-05:00

It was a chilly morning leaving Murdo on Thursday.

I always like staying in Murdo.

The Best Western there is so nice and I feel like I know the folks at the motel.

The drive through the sandhills was really nice, lots of sunshine and 50 degrees.

Minnechaduza Creek
Sandhills of Nebraska

Do you see a coyote?

I wanted to stop to take a picture when I saw this coyote sitting among these Hereford beef cattle.

When I circled back he had moved into the taller grass.

He certainly wasn't upsetting the cattle, they must be pals.

Driving into Denver yesterday was interesting. It was a beautiful sunset but pretty hard driving straight into it. I managed to snap a picture or two while I was driving - I know, safety first.

Great to be here, it's like I never left.

Roll out the white carpet

2011-10-28T00:19:00.001-05:00

I arrived safely in Colorado and it was surprising how much snow is on the ground. This panoramic picture is at the rest stop in Wiggins, Colorado. The drive through Nebraska today was nice. Sunny and uneventful.

Wanda from my Android

My Grandfather was born and raised in Tyler, MN

2011-10-27T05:00:00.000-05:00

My Dad's father, Ansgar Johansen, was born & raised in Tyler, MN. I had never been there and Wednesday on my drive, I saw a little sign pointing North that said Tyler, so I took a side trip.

Tyler was hit hard by a storm in early July of this year and the clean up is still underway.

Looks like the big cottonwood trees took a beating but this pine tree was unharmed.

My grandparents and aunts and uncles have all traveled to the Danish Tyler Meetings for years, so I looked around and found the Danebod Danish school campus.

Click on the photographs to see the full sized pano.

Still some Johansen's in the community it seems.

This next pano is from the Visitor's Center at Chamberlain, SD

A very nice rest stop with a view of the Missouri that can't be beat.

The evening finished up with a fantastic sunset.

I was lucky enough to come upon an exit in time to safely pull off I-90 and click away.

Granite Falls, MN

2011-10-26T12:11:00.001-05:00

Click on the photograph to see it full sized.

Chilly, cloudy, but no snow! The Red Sled is running like a top so far. Heading for Murdo, Sd for tonight. More later...

Wanda from my Android

Joy of Juxtaposition

2011-10-25T18:42:00.002-05:00

A Joy of Juxtaposition occurs when you see or read one thing that reminds you of another and then shortly thereafter, see or read about the "another" thing you were reminded about.

A couple of days ago, Ev said "I think I would like to have a dolphin for a pet".

I laughed, seemed like a funny thing to say.

Today, as I was driving across N Minnesota, I saw these guys 'swimming' across of field.

I think it qualifies.

A little further down the road I took this photograph.

I wonder what will happen to all of these orange orbs?

Let's Go

2011-10-25T10:03:00.002-05:00

I am slowly packing up to head West today. Tonight I am staying in St. Cloud, so it is a short drive which makes getting ready nice and relaxing.

Yesterday the folks and I made the cheese run to the Co-Op in Alpha and then went to Luck. The folks had a visit with Gus while I worked on Ryan's computer some more.

When I went to leave Ryan's house, I was surprised to find this artwork on the front seat of my car.

Nice picture by Milena

Elliana did a nice job on her drawing too

The Iowanians are back in town

2011-10-23T16:09:00.004-05:00

Dad and Ev are back in Rice Lake.

We are having a nice visit and then I will be heading off to Colorado on Tuesday. The cats are happy to have more people to pet them.

Today I planted the 60 daffodil bulbs that I ordered last Spring.

Geesh!

NO MORE bulbs for at least a couple of years.

Barley found an interesting place to perch yesterday.

The bird feeders have been literally full of finches today.
Hops was watching them intently and the finches didn't care.

Another help desk visit

2011-10-21T10:57:00.002-05:00

On Tuesday evening I had a call from nephew Ryan asking for a little help with his PC. So, off to Luck I went on Wednesday. It was a beautiful day for a drive. A fresh deer kill on the road had about 20 birds eating and a big red tailed hawk. Of course, they didn't stick around for the photo.

After spending the afternoon at Ryan's, their computer was working again and I had a nice visit with his family. His daughters are so cute and growing up so fast.

Milena and Elliana

Milena made me a red and white bead bracelet while I was there and Elliana made sure I had coffee to drink while I worked on their computer. Cam sent me home with a nice selection of her canned goods as well as a big bag of delicious apples. It was a very profitable trip to Luck for me!!

Getting Organized

2011-10-19T14:54:00.000-05:00

My folks are scheduled to arrive here on Friday and I am scheduled to leave on Tuesday for a couple weeks in Colorado. So, I am trying to get some errands done and tidy up around here for the folks.

Haircut, post office, return some purchases to Farm & Fleet, etc. etc.

Today I took a drive over to Glenn's Lake Cottage to drop off my old sewing machine for Kaija. Glenn will deliver it from there for me. The lake was really pretty as the sun peeked out from behind the clouds.

It really is a sweet spot.
Click on the photograph to see it larger.

The view from the lake of the cottage.

Today is my last piano lesson for 3 weeks, I hope I don't backslide while I am on the trip.

I think I'll take my books along in case I get a chance to practice on someone's piano.

It is more fun now that I can finally play a song or two that actually sounds like music.

Lunch Up North

2011-10-18T18:45:00.001-05:00

I met my friend Mary for lunch in Hayward today. I didn't realize until today that I have never been down the main street of the town. After lunch I walked into a few shops and am going to be sure to go back. Some of the shops are really touristy but some are more interesting.

When I left Hayward, I headed to our Sandcastle cabin to drop off a few items.

I took this panoramic photograph with my new Android phone.

It's different up in that country without leaves on the trees.

Feels more like the 'boonies' in a way, but still pretty.

Help Desk X2

2011-10-17T17:24:00.004-05:00

Last week I spent a day working on getting the tech folks to clean a wicked Restore Virus off Kyle & Heather's laptop. This week Kyle called and said that they were having some error messages and a weird music problem. I ran over there Sunday after the game. The tech people remoted in again, but this music deal was strange. About 15 minutes after the computer was started, a very faint music would run, even when Internet Explorer was closed and no programs were running. Eventually the Boot Link virus was isolated and removed but in the process we ended up having to do a factory restore on the computer.

Bye bye to any files they had and and about 12 hours later,

their laptop is back to factory basics.

Whew. Finally.

Jens pretty much slept through most of the computer work, although he did sit on my lap for a short time.

I don't think it was his thing...yet anyway.

Stella snapped with photo with my phone, but the swing was in motion so it's blurry.
Jens is a good baby, happy to just hang out.

Stella and Ruby thought it was fun to sit on my lap and look at the computer wallpaper picture.

so I took this little picture, blurry but you get the idea.

Fun girls.

Stella and Ruby's birthdays are close together, so Stella wrote all the thank you notes for both girls.

Can't beat a thank you note like this!

**********^^^**********

It has been so stinking windy! I am no fan of wind.

On Sunday Big Butternut Lake had white caps.

When I got back to Rice Lake today, the gas grill was on its side with a broken handle and who knows what else, probably find out in the Spring.

I hope this wind settles down pretty soon.

Big Moon for lunch

2011-10-12T17:44:00.000-05:00

I met Glenn at his lake cottage today. He was doing some dock work for his neighbor and I brought Subway for lunch. I mostly stood around and chatted while he worked. It was such a nice day, kind of humid, very warm and the clouds moving by.

The water almost looked like oil when the sun hit it just right

The clouds were so interesting today, weather was moving in.

Some of the time it looked like diamonds on the water.

We watched a couple of flocks of small water fowl fly quickly across the lake, just above the water and then circle back. I'm interested to figure out what those birds were, fun to watch. I left the house without my good camera, so only had the phone for photos.

Help Desk

2011-10-11T22:24:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I am the family help desk when computers want to act up. On Monday night Kyle called me and told me that their laptop had some problems. After asking a few questions, I decided the best idea was for me to go over to Luck on Tuesday and take a look. I had not been to Luck since Harry's birthday party so was hoping to catch Lois for lunch and then work on the laptop. But, Gus is back in the hospital so Lois was going to the Cities on Tuesday to be at the hospital. He continues to struggle with his health and the many blood problems he has. It is tiring for both Gus and Lois and we all hope that soon the doctors will find a treatment that works for Gus.

I thought I might spend an couple of hours on Kyle's laptop problem, so arrived just after lunch and started the work. It was a serious virus called a Restore Virus and I knew right away that this would take professional help. Luckily, Kyle has Secure It Plus for his antivirus service and I was able to contact them. They took over and I just had to be there to reconnect them to the laptop and occasionally click on a button. Some 8 hours later, the laptop was fixed and back to good health.

At least I got to see little Jens and all the rest of Kyle and Heather's kids.

Ruby and her little brother Jens.

Nothing sweeter than a sleeping baby Jens.

He's a sweet boy, Jens Henry Valdemar - big name for such a little man

Ruby seemed like she was telling Jens something important

Holding little brother's hand

Looking pretty serious for a baby.

Ruby and Stella gave each other haircuts about a month ago, you can see that they both have some pretty short bangs, but no one got hurt and it will be fun for them to see photos of their handiwork when they are grown ups.

I did get a short visit with Lois in the evening before heading home and took a couple snaps of her very cute kitties, Topaz and Toby.

Toby is the dark cat and Topaz the lighter.

This weather is insane! (in a good way)

2011-10-10T12:42:00.003-05:00

Warm again today.

We still have not had frost so today I picked a 1/2 ice cream bucket of cherry tomatoes off the plants in the big pots. The tomatoes are super sweet, a little small and the skin is a little chewy, but very tasty.

My first harvest of tomatillas (toe-ma-tee-ohs),
,now to make some Salsa Verde.
The flowering beans were grown from 4 seeds, next year I'll be able to share with the whole family.

The geraniums are continuing to bloom too.

I suppose when it (that season that shall not be named) comes,

it will really come, but for now, this is some killer weather.

Waumandee Trip

2011-10-09T21:59:00.001-05:00

This morning I took a drive to Waumandee

The idea was to pick up a load of items that need to go to Colorado.

It's not even a full load, so I can jam in some clothes for the trip West.

In a few weeks, I'll be taking a drive Out West to deliver a carload to Roche & LeAnna.

********

It was a very nice day, again, this warm fall weather is pretty hard to take! After we loaded the car, Paul & I went to Cochrane and met his Uncle Dale and the 3 of us went to lunch in Buffalo City @ The Cove.

After lunch we had a nice drive along the river, I had never been to the Buffalo City area but I know I'll go back to take some photographs next time I am down that way.

Paul & his Uncle Dale

Wanda & Dale

When I left Cochrane, I headed North on the river road, Hwy 35. Me and about a million motorcycles and hot-rods. The town of Nelson was really full. The cheese factory was swamped with business and I was very glad to negotiate that stretch of road safely.

Crazy traffic all for cheese curds & ice cream cones.

I stopped at Reick's Lake to see if there were any birds there.

I saw a few geese and ducks in the distance, but got some nice pictures of the fall color.

The colors are more muted as the leaves get ready to fall, but still a pretty sight.

Reick's Lake Area

Next stop was at friend Sherri's studio at Catfish Corners, part of the Fresh Art Fall Tour.

The weather was very conducive for a successful art tour.

I took a couple of panoramic pictures with the new phone for fun.

The gourds she was giving as a thank-you for a donation to Refuge Farms horse rescue were really something. I took a couple to my great nephew Anders, and he really liked them.

I had a yummy salmon dinner with Kris, Lora and Anders in Durand and then headed for home.

Luckily I got the Packer game on the radio so the drive home went quickly as I was cheering the Packers on. The roads were pretty empty on the way home, most people were settled in front of their TVs I think.

The weather is supposed to stay warm the rest of the week.

What a wonderful autumn.

Sleepless in Rice Lake

2011-10-08T08:30:00.001-05:00

For some reason, maybe it was the weird hot weather overnight, who knows, but I was awake until almost 4am, so no photography club for me today. Hopefully I get there next month.

I took a panoramic view of the front of the house this morning when I walked down to get the newspaper.

This is a very fun feature of the new Android cell phone camera.

Most of the leaves are off the trees now, so sad, but it was a fall with fabulous colors.
Click on any of the photographs to see them full sized.

Fall this and that

2011-10-07T20:47:00.000-05:00

Our neighbor Tigger dropped by on Thursday afternoon and looked in to see what we were up to.

I had no idea that this little maple was growing in my woods until it turned such a pretty fall color.

Oaks don't get much credit for being pretty in the fall, but the one in my yard is a beauty right now, especially next to the maple that is growing beside it.

Headed to photography club tomorrow at Crex Meadows.

This month the subject is landscapes, all photos are to be taken at Crex Meadows.

Here are my submissions for this month's review / critique.

More leaves and more leaves and more leaves

2011-10-06T17:48:00.001-05:00

I saw someone post on Facebook today that

they were so sick of seeing so many leaves on the grass that they were going to close the curtains! Ha!

Well, I had been having a lazing morning, playing internet games, reading Facebook status updates and watching some DVR TV, but that comment got me moving.

I got out the big leaf blower and spent 2 hours in the backyard moving the first layer of leaves to the woods. Only a couple of maples have dropped their leaves and of course the ash trees.

Gotta love ash trees, they drop all their leaves on the same day or two.

Maples take their sweet time, a few each day...makes clean up an ongoing fall job.

A couple of panoramic shots of the backyard after I moved the leaves.

I love the new phone camera for having this fun feature, and glad the salesman showed it to me.

Self portrait

Moving a wave of leaves
This big tree continues to be a beauty.

Moving the leaves.

View from the red chairs, a nice spot for a cold beverage.

Some fall decor.

Direction-ally Correct

2011-10-05T19:58:00.003-05:00

This phrase (an old Coors-ism) popped in my head today as I headed back to Rice Lake from my 2nd trip to Eau Claire in two days.

The new Android phone that I got yesterday, had a software glitch this morning and I could not seem to fix it, so headed back to the store.

Since it was such a nice day, again, I decided that instead of being bummed about 'having to go back to EC', I might as well make it an opportunity to see more fall color.

I found a bridge over the Eau Claire River at the Boyd Neighborhood Park.

Eau Claire River

Just West of downtown Eau Claire, WI

Looking West

Little Free Library located at the park. Love this idea.

Maple on river bank

I heard a father telling his son that it looks like this tree is on fire, yup, I agree.

When I left Eau Claire, I headed kind of North, kind of West to get back home.

I didn't really know a good route, but figured as long as I was traveling in a directionally correct manner, eventually it would work out.

A couple of years ago, I visited this bridge near Jim Falls with friends Terry and Janet. Today I had brought my Taco Bell lunch and a lawn chair and enjoyed the view & sunshine while I ate my crunchy tacos.

Took this panoramic view with my new phone.

The Chippewa River near Jim Falls, WI

This area of the river is downstream from an electrical dam and is a fish refuge year round, so no fishing.

It was a pretty nice spot to have lunch.

I was messing around with shutter speeds on my camera and got this effect in the water.
I might have to play with this some more, but will need a tripod next time.

Continuing to aim directionally correct towards home, I took some country roads.

The drive was so picturesque it almost seemed surreal.

My eyes were on sensory overload from all the color.

This little pond caught my eye as I drove by, so I stopped and took a longer look.

Make's ya wanna sing that John Denver song about Country Roads takin' ya home...

Beauty

There is nothing more Wisconsin to me than Holstein cows and fall leaves.

When I got home, I looked out the living room window and decided that some of the prettiest leaves I had seen all day were right there.

Looking out my living room window.

Walking along the East edge of my yard.

This is surely a fall to remember, I am hoping the leaves hang on so I can enjoy them and take more pictures.

It will be nice to see this color in a couple of months when this whole area is under a layer of white.

More color

2011-10-04T23:36:00.001-05:00

On Tuesday I drove to Eau Claire to do my part to stimulate the economy and stopped to take a few fall photographs along the way.

Highway 53 between Rice Lake and Eau Claire really is a pretty nice drive, and lots of colorful hillsides this time of year.

Here are a few shots.

Red sled on a fall road trip.

I could not drive down this road due to construction, but took a snap of these lovely trees anyway.

Classic Wisconsin fall shot

This hillside is about at its peak, so sad that it won't last longer.

So, there's your Wisconsin fall color report courtesy of me and the Red Sled.

Back in Rice Lake

2011-10-04T06:30:00.000-05:00

After spending the weekend Up North looking at all the pretty fall colors, I took my favorite photograph of the fall just 2 miles from my house on a road that I drive almost everyday.

This is the Red Cedar River in Rice Lake, WI

Looking South from the County Road O bridge.

My niece (in law) and my nephew are awesome

2011-10-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

On Sunday, 10/2, Andy & Michelle ran in the Twin Cities Marathon. It was the first marathon for them both. They trained hard and finished the race with heads high. I am so proud of them, what an amazing accomplishment.

I am so proud of them both.

♥ ♥ ♥

I signed up to get race updates for the kids as they ran while I was Up North at the Sandcastle, here are the updates. It was very exciting to get these text messages and know that the running was going well for the kids.

Received: Oct 2, 2011 8:15 AM
Subject: MICHELLE JOHANSEN just started.
MICHELLE JOHANSEN just started. Stay tuned forupdates!

*************

Received: Oct 2, 2011 9:33 AM
Subject: Update: ANDREW JOHANSEN passed the...
Update: ANDREW JOHANSEN passed the 6.2 mile mark at 9:24. At this pace,he will be at the 13.1 mile at 10:44

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Received: Oct 2, 201110:46 AM
Subject: Update: ANDREW JOHANSEN passed the...
Update: ANDREW JOHANSEN passed the 13.1 mile mark at 10:44.At this pace, he will be at the 18.6 mile at 12:38

*************

Received: Oct 2, 2011 1:01 PM

Subject: Update: MICHELLEJOHANSEN passed...
Update: MICHELLE JOHANSEN passed the 24 mile mark at1:01. At this pace, she will be at the Finish mile at 2:16

*************

Received: Oct 2, 20111:01 PM
Subject: Update: ANDREW JOHANSEN passed the...
Update: ANDREW JOHANSEN passed the 24 mile mark at1:01. At this pace, he will be at the Finish mile at 2:16

********************

Received: Oct 2, 20111:28 PM
Subject: Update: MICHELLE JOHANSEN finished...
Update: MICHELLE JOHANSEN finished at 1:28 at an unofficial time of05:17:06.

*************

Received: Oct 2, 20111:29 PM
Subject: Update: ANDREW JOHANSEN finished...
Update: ANDREW JOHANSEN finished at 1:28 at an unofficial time of05:17:05.

October Up North

2011-10-02T20:41:00.000-05:00

First I have to say, it was an amazing weekend for 'Sconnie sports.

The Milwaukee Brewers won the first two games of their National League Division Series.

The Wisconsin Badgers beat the Nebraska Cornhuskers on Saturday

and on Sunday, the Green Bay Packers beat up on my old team, the Denver Broncos.

A clean sweep for the Wisconsin teams, how fun is that!

Photo courtesy of Facebook/Green Bay Press-Gazette

.......................

And, as far as my weekend, I am finally feeling better and

Kris, Lora and Anders met me at our cabin Up North on Friday night.

Serious conversation between Mother Lora and son Anders

Anders really loves the outdoors and he seems to be a natural at cabin life.

The trees Up North can use a little moisture once in a while.

.............................

I took a few scenery pictures also.

The leaves are really pretty right now and the weather was quite excellent.

Gordon, WI

The Red Sled in Gordon, WI

View from the rest stop just North of Spooner, WI

I love spending the weekend at the cabin.

We did a few little projects...

New lights over the bar, & some cabin curtains.

New steps & railing off the porch.

New thermometer, and yes it was almost 80 degrees today.

And last, but not least, a new curtain on the OH window.

I love it up there and it is always much fun,

but when I got home and took a long, long hot shower, that was really sweet.

Home Sweet Home.

Fall

2011-09-30T05:30:00.000-05:00

The leaves are starting to turn here in Rice Lake.
Here are a few pictures of the color in my yard.

The backyard is changing from summer to fall.

A collage of leaves around my yard.

More to come.

Those Cats

2011-09-25T12:03:00.001-05:00

Those cats that live here don't get much blog time,

so today (Sunday) I have a couple of photos that I think they would approve of me using.

♥♥☼☼☼♥♥

Yesterday, Hops was content to be snuggled under a blanket on the couch.

That's where I've been for almost a week, so I get that.

Today, Barley was catching some sun and keeping an eye on the front deck.

She usually finds a spot in a corner, always interesting to see where she curls up.

Then there is Tigger.

Tigger is a male cat who lives a couple of houses away. His parents let him out of the house during the day when they are home. He always comes over and lounges on my deck and acts like he owns the place.

Today he was sitting up on the deck railing looking in the living room window acting like I should let him in.

Tigger (or as Dad says 'Trigger')

♥♥☼☼☼♥♥

It's a nice sunny, fall day, I'm headed for a drive to Glenn's lake,

hopefully I'll have some fall pictures to share tomorrow.

PS
Here is a little cat who Laila lives with in Colorado, she needs her 15 minutes of fame too.
Introducing The Princess Cleopatra