Which Way to the Witches

I stay away from witches night. It puts me in a terrible fright. My skin crawls and my throat gets tight. I don't want to scream, but I just might.

A quaint village in a nearby town has an annual witches night celebration over a dozen nights in October. People come from all over the state. Traffic is at a standstill and parking is a premium. The locals try out for the coveted Witches Ball and winners get prizes, perform and enjoy perks. The place used to be fun to visit, but has become impossible with a young family.

I have never really attended during 'Witches night', because I hate crowds. Maybe next year I will give it a try. Yeah! may next year, I will.

Have Tomato Will Travel

A mighty fortress is this tomato plant. It needs major pruning, but I just can’t. From an Heirloom seed, to leaning at a good slant. The first frost may my wish soon grant.

The large tomato fruit is yellow. I had forgotten that the package showed big juicy golden tomatoes. But they have been hidden by the massive green vines. I found a few and discovered there are two tomato plants, not one.

I got courageous on Saturday and pruned the dickens out of the plant. It was surprising how much fruit was ripe but I couldn't see it. Now it will ripen faster and he will know who is really the boss.

Two plants masquerading as one. Got the courage and trimmed them a ton. Now their fruit can bask in the sun. Could be too late, is the season done?

A Young Man Baptized

Zach is eight. He accepted the challenge to be baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We traveled to New Jersey to enjoy the special event. He's a little camera shy. When I pulled it out he took off.

But he came back and stood for a moment to be included in a picture with Jesus. Actually, it looks like He is speaking to Zach, kind and wise words to live by. Little brother,Josh seems to be listening and willing big bro to listen and obey.

Dad & Zach, then Zach, our newest member of the Church are posing so politely. I didn't even have to bribe them. Big sis, Sarah, performed on the violin and both grandfathers talked about baptism and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost. It was a beautiful day for a wonderful ordinance. Thank you for the opportunity to spend it with you, Zach.

Schmidt's Spend Time At Shingle Creek

We were more than lucky to accompany our daughter, Alicia and family to Florida for an UHC business conference her husband attended. We called ourselves Mr. & Mrs. Nanny, otherwise known as Grams & Gramps. The name of the hotel, wasn't my favorite, Shingle Creek, because it reminded me of the disease, shingles. But it isn't anything close. This very beautiful place is surrounded by golf courses, away from the city of Orlando and the many theme parks nearby.

Several limos, taxis and arriving guests filled the spacious 50 x 100 foot drive-up entrance. We were greeted by abundant assisting parties. The hallways leading to guest services, dining, conference and lobby areas was cavernous.

Our fifth floor rooms were deluxe and inviting. Since it was after dark, we were happy to get a good night's sleep.

The view from our room was spectacular, which overlooked the four swimming pools. Palm trees swaying in the breeze and the skyline was dreamy. The hours were even better 6am to midnight. We spent every evening we could in the warm waters relaxing.

One last photo of the entire hotel in all its splendor, because I may never stay at anything so swanky again. Five days on the fifth floor in Florida and beyond.

Butts To You

While watering my flowering pear tree in the parkway by the street, I saw a generous amount of cigarette butts at its base. What a treat. No thanks for tossing your waste at his towering feet. Find some other receptical and leave my yard off your beat.

The Blooming Bush

This was the year for the blooming bush. The Rose of Sharon took top honors, with blossoms crowding every spot available. The side of my house looked like pink and purple sunset 24/7.

Tall and tan and young and lovely the bush from Epa-Bloomina keeps blooming. A month of gorgeous beauty and so little up-keep, is the Rose of Sharon. When a co-worker had a bucket of starts to share, I didn't know what the plant was. Thanks to her, I enjoy their aroma and unique flower all month.

While walking one morning I came across this purple splashed bush, with more blooms than a teen has zits. I couldn't resist snapping its photo and staring at it, like an impolite person. It didn't mind one bit, and stretched its branches out a little more as if to say, "Yes, I am beautiful, stare away!"

Funny thing is, I think it's a Rose of Sharon, too! The blooms are the exact same. Probably had lots of fertilizer and attention, unlike mine that were ignored, other than pruning.

Goin' On a Zucchini Hunt

Going on a zucchini hunt. Might catch a big one. I’m not afraid. Yay, it’s the size of a hot dog bun! Can’t leave it, gotta cut it, to grill in the summer sun.

Going on a bean hunt, Might catch a stringy one. I’m not afraid, have some green ‘Where’s Waldo’ fun. Pick a bunch to cook for an evening snack or run. Going on a cucumber hunt. Might catch a fat one. I’m not afraid. Grind it up in relish, give it to a nun.

Back to the zucchini hunt, afraid and never done. Someone missed this alligator and now it weighs a ton.