Day Camp

Camp Jeremiah Johnson day.  Carson enjoyed his hours in the canyon with his Webelos Cub Scout group.  He brought home lots of treasures including: souvenir dog tags, a bear claw, sling shot, self-made catapult, wooden puzzle, and an unidentified piece of animal fur.  As usual, the high point of the day for him was archery (which he excels at) and shooting BB guns. 

More photos

Micah's teacher's husband is a photographer for the Associated Press.  She sent us some of the photos he took of her class this last year.  I just have to add them in.  It's a mom-thing:)
These are of the "Oliver Twist" play, performance at the senior care center, preparing the their Hukilau dance, and making moon phased with buddy readers.

Water quote

I love quotes, and collect them.   Anyone who know me well, or has read my work knows that I am also slightly obsessed with the subject of water.  Here is one of my favorite quotes on the subject.

"Empty your mind, be formless, shapeless ... like water.  Now you put water into a cup, it becomes the cup.  You put water into a bottle, it becomes the bottle.  You put it in a teapot, it becomes the teapot.  Now water can flow or it can crash.  Be water, my friend."

                                                                            Bruce Lee

Father's Day

I am remembering my own hero Dad today, and all my memories of him.  Although as a Firefighter he had a dangerous job and witnessed much sadness, he was never that way at home.  His even disposition and funny personality was a true stabilizing force in my life.  I love him and miss him each day. 
I am also grateful for my husband Ray, and his love for our children.  Here are some pics of me and my Dad, Ray and our boys.  Happy Father's Day to everyone!

My chapbook is here!

My prize came yesterday, which included my 25 copies of my chapbook and my check for $100.  I was so excited and nervous to look at the finished product.  I am very pleased with the book.  Cynthia's artwork is  stunning on the cover, printed on glossy white paper.  I haven't found any serious typos or errors in the printing so far.  It is just so crazy to look at my own book. 

At first it was all excitement, and now as people have begun to buy copies from me, I am starting to feel a bit exposed.  Sort of like that dream you have every once in awhile, where you are in a public place without much clothing on:)  Some of my writing is very personal, and of course I have been published in journals before, and have read in public many times, but not like this.  A whole collection is another experience entirely.

I am so grateful to everyone for their support.  I have the best family, friends, and co-workers anywhere. 

News

I just received news from Colette and JoAn at "Tiger's Eye" that my chapbook is finished.  My copies will be mailed to me immediately.  I am slightly excited:)  I am looking forward to finally seeing the finished product, and realize I am only days away from that now. 

The beginning of summer

The heat is officially here.  We've enjoyed being outside more, and look forward to the swimming and other activities.  Carson and Micah like to fly kites when the wind kicks up.  I'm watching my little English garden grow.  Flowers are a favorite hobby of mine.