Our blimp is back, but the mountain seems to be gone! No worry, it’s just behind all the white fog!

The blimp is a radar device used by the Border Patrol, watching for low-flying drug-running planes coming over the border. The high winds in early December knocked it out of commission and today is the first day I have seen it back in the air. It makes for a nice landmark when you are traveling the area, as it can be seen for miles and miles. Just head for the blimp at the end of the day and you will find home.

This is one of my most treasured pictures of my children. I think this was taken the summer of 2001, maybe 2000, on our deck in the woods of north Alabama. It captured them so well in that moment. Kat with her quirky hat and lovely smile, which she so rarely gives to the camera; David with his blue, blue eyes and ever-friendly grin; Charles trying a little tough-guy squinting and doing his best not to smile.

my wonderful children

I scanned this picture from one that sits on my kitchen counter, right above the sink.  Unfortunately, the picture was stuck to the glass in the frame and a small piece came off.  I hope I have the original somewhere in digital rather than a negative, but if it was pre-2002, it’s in a negative.  Another project for another year, sorting through old pictures!

For the past several years, maybe close to twenty years, I have collected Santa Clauses. Every Christmas I look for one special Santa Clause for my collection. There have been many years where I have not found one that I liked (I’m a bit particular). And there have been several years where the children have gifted me with some special Santa Clauses. I have a Scottish one and an Irish one that are very special to me. Unfortunately, most of my collection is still in storage in Alabama. I only have with me the few that I have acquired since we moved from Alabama. Of all the things that are in storage, those are probably the things I miss the most.

This Christmas Bill surprised me with three Santas! Two are made of cloth and are battery operated, singing and dancing; they are really very funny to watch. But the one I treasure the most is this candy dish glass and ceramic Santa.

Santa Claus

Isn’t he lovely? I think this Santa will be left out for all to see and enjoy year round!