First Fruits

If you look closely you can see my first tomato of the season, in my very own garden! I'm not sure how long before I can pick and eat it, but I am watching it everyday to be sure I pick it just in time. Ethan's garden is actually doing better than mine. He picked his first pepper last night and we shared it at dinner. I don't think he even likes it, but having grown it himself he was brave enough to try. He kept asking me if it was suppose to taste that way and was I sure it was ready? I think he probably prefers his produce in a jar of pickling juice or cooked on top of a pizza. He has peppers and tomatoes and I have cucumbers and tomatoes. We almost have enough stuff for a salad! Mom has tomatoes and squash so before long we should have a great summer meal! I realize that this post is not overly exciting, but alas, this is the big life in the country. Watching things grow and eating. I might go out and take my laundry off the line when I get up enough motivation to get dressed, are 3 days long enough for towels to dry??

This is Lisa, living the county life and loving it!

Boykin Springs

Boykin Springs is part of our family's history. When we were young we played there many times, as we got older and brought our kids there they too enjoyed the beautiful springs and lake, while we tripped, fell down, turned ankles, etc. We had many church and school function picnics there as well. I think Ethan will want to go camping with his Houston friends there later this summer. I am all for camping, can't wait! We can find us a shady camp spot in the forest, set up the tent, lawn chairs, hammock, etc. Bring lots of cool camp food, fishing and swimming gear, and last but not least..... I can go home to shower and sleep at the end of the day!!!! Who's in??

We Have Two Graduates

This is Bailey she is a recent graduate of the Kindergarten Class of 2009. Way to go Bailey, keep that smile and you will go far. (That sounds like a lame year book entry doesn't it??) Any, we are very proud of her and of her parents and sisters. She is the first one in that family to graduate from Kindergarten. If you blink really slow, the next picture will be of her high school graduation! Which brings me to the second graduate in the family. Jeffrey A. Poland is graduating from High School this week. Yea, class of 2009! We are so proud of Jeff. He will be attending college in the fall at Virginia Tech on a ROTC scholarship. He still needs lots of prayer and support as he heads out on his own. All major cash and checks accepted!

I need a Vacation

I so need a vacation. Actually I think I'd really like to retire and become a more devoted domestic engineer. Have to be careful talking about needing time away from work, last 2 times I prayed for time off, my prayers were answered and my time off was spent either totally in bed or in the hospital. Be specific when you ask God for things. He DOES answer.

We've been busy on the Poland and Seale ranches lately. Weekend before last Lisa, Mom & I (well Aunt Iris mostly) hosted a baby shower for our little Leah who is expecting the newest baby girl to our family. Had quite a turn out, way more than I expected. It was nice just to visit with everyone.

Then my new sister in town, Lisa, hosted lunch for Mother's Day. That was really nice and probably more so for Mom. She has always cooked lunch at her house on Mother's Day. I always considered that kind of an oxymoron due to the fact it was "her" day and she was the one doing all the work. Doesn't make sense to me. I'd just as soon go out somewhere. I'm not going to be the mother who cooks on Mother's Day, shoot I don't want to cook anyday. I'm a good cook I just don't enjoy it.

Haven't heard from our soldier in Afghanistan for a while now. I think he's talked to his dad. Last time I talked with him he had gotten so many packages from us that he told us not to send him anymore for awhile. That must be really bad when a soldier gets too much. Just continue to pray that he and other serving with him will be protected by God's hand and stay out of harms way.

I'm being paid to work so better get back at it.

Let Freedom Ring!

We can enjoy the sweet sound of freedom in part due to this young man. Our very own personal hero. Michael is very busy serving our country and we are so proud of him. We pray for him every day and send letters and packages. It will be one of our sweetest reunions when he gets to come back home. Until then, put his picture, name or any other reminder where you can see it often throughout your day, and pray, pray, and pray everytime you see it. Pray for his dad and brother as well as they have to be apart from him during this time.

Sisters

This is mom and Aunt Iris. She has been spending lots of time with mom helping her as she recovers from her hip, pelvic, tail bone breaks. We have enjoyed her cooking and getting together for coffee and visits. This picture was taken this week at Lisa's mom-in-law's 80th birthday party. They looked so pretty all dressed up and smiling. In a few weeks we will all get together again for their aunt's birthday. Mom is almost recovered and is anxious to get out to the garden. She is currently growing berries, lemons and grapefruit and is planning to plant tomatos and more berry plants. We will post pictures as soon as all starts producing.