It's an Ill wind that does no Good. . ..

One less thing to worry about. Yesterday roofers put a new top on Jennifer's home. 

For years now, Jennifer (and Mom) have worried about her roof... not wanting any rain to spoil the work she's done inside. But where would the money come from? Then, this spring an evil windstorm came to Dundas and tore off some of the roof, enough so that she qualified for a new one, courtesy the insurance company (minus deductible). The experience gave us the opportunity to relearn the meaning of the old axiom: "It's an ill wind that blows no good." Translation:
Few things are so bad that no one profits from them.

Signs of spring

Yes, many of you in other parts of the country have lots of these signs, but here in the tundra a bit of early green sedum is a welcome sight. This morning's walk drew an eye to these beginnings, sure to thrill us later in the year.

Fair Warning. . .

Photo by Kathleen Rolfsrud

Traffic advisory to Motorists in Scott County and surrounding area: A stroke survivor has been cleared and his vehicle is now at large in the immediate area. The driver is staying off freeways for now, but that is subject to change without notice. This is fair warning and will be the only one issued. Drive at your own risk.

Quiet, artist at work

Emily, soon to be our 11 year old, is over for the weekend. While grandma slipped out to Target to get a new softball mitt (we love to spoil her) for evaluations tomorrow, Emily drew this. No internet privileges this week, Mom says, so it's a good thing there's stuff to do.
A portrait of grandpa? Stay tuned.
We measured her today. She's now taller than grandma... which ordinarily isn't such a big thing, but it was a big deal today.

Ducks on the Pond

Papa duck (a mallard drake) seems to be encouraging his partner (upper right) to get off the ice and into the water. A high of 52 (and drizzly -- great for ducks) today will keep the pond open.

Mrs. Murphy's coffee cake

We had the old family recipe today, left behind by the late Mrs. Murphy from down the block. MMM warm and tasty with just the right amount of sour cream and crunch.

Small victories.. .

Pulling a tab on a juice can is harder than you'd think. At least after a stroke. Today, using right-hand only, this pop top came off with a satisfying snap. It's easier in the afternoon.

Our first one

Puffed up against the cold, this robin, probably full of eggs, scouted the territory. It's the first one of the year for us and comes the day after St. Patricks. Sharp-eyed viewers will see that we have yet to remove the lights from the tree we decorate for Christmas. Will we have a nest there soon?

Flat Stanley OK to drive

Photos by Kathleen Rolfsrud

Jump machine again today. 

A doctor's review today resulted in praise for the stroke survivor's progress and when all doctoring was said and done, a detailed discussion of "Flat Stanley," that mythical character who was mailed all over to see the world. Stan will refine some walking techniques and slightly increase blood pressure meds. Looking for 120/80 perfection. Thanks for all the interest in my condition... I feel grateful and fortunate.
Today's Rx: OK to drive; continue physical therapy.

Winter.... again

SOLD! went to Woodbury. . .

This dated dining set is on sale today! Craigslist.

Forty-pounder comes with a story

A big gash in the side of the yellowtail may have been made by a shark.

Reeling in another yellowtail near San Diego today, Hai felt the usual action on the end of the line. The 40-pounder fought valiantly, but then BAM, our fisherman felt a gigantic tug. . . and then nothing. The line went soft. Moments later he finished reeling the monster in. A quick inspection revealed a gaping hole in its side that set the ship's company to speculation. Was there a shark that took a swipe at the yellowtail on its way to Hai's net? Looks like it.
Whatever happened, there was enough fish left for Hai to win the Fish-of-the-Day pot. A lucky ship's captain got a $27 tip today.

Small Abbey Point night; no John

We came close to setting a winter record at Abbey Point night: just 3 diners, Stan, Kathleen and Mary. John didn’t come, he’s drinking alone. He has a colonoscopy tomorrow.