Rainy Wednesday

We have had several cloudy summer days and now we have had some rain. We need the rain as it's been very dry here in Oregon this summer. I am taking today to catch up on some computer work and blog work. I don't mind a few days to stay in and I enjoy a bit of a break from watering the flowers and our little veggie garden. Jimmy's garden is gifting us with tomatoes, onions and cukes now! It's so nice to go out and find a few goodies for our salads, fresh from the garden.

We had a very busy week! We did a lot of babysitting our little Otto and his big party was on Sunday. I will post pictures on his actual birthday- July 25th.  Last Friday, we just wanted to take a little drive and have a fun day. That's what you can do when you are retired! We drove up to Richfield WA, about a half hour from home. There's a darling little cafe and bakery there that we really enjoy. It's called the Pioneer Street Cafe and Bakery. They are known for their Mac and Cheese and that's what Jimmy ordered! it is pretty cheesy.

I had the most delightful Sangria! It was made with a Washington Riesling, so no wonder it was so good.

You just can't leave without a treat or two from the bakery. Look at that smile on Jimmy's face! Their scones are to die for...I choses apricot and walnut and I do believe it was the best scone I have ever tasted.I am thankful they are a drive away from home.

A really nice man stopped to take our picture for us. I think we look pretty happy here. It was such a pretty day and a fun day!

Isn't the sky just the perfect blue? This is a little church in the small town where couples get married. It's really darling and in a lovely spot.

Someone's garden in town. It was just so cute and growing like crazy. We were just driving around on our way out.

These are the things I love about summer. It's just fun to get in the car and take a drive. We both worked for so long and never had the weekends off together. It is a treat to be retired and have good health that allows us to really enjoy life. I am thankful for this time.

Teacup # 69 and Update

It's been a few weeks since I've posted...so much has happened and it's hard to start telling the story. Jim and I went to the Oregon coast last week to meet some friends from California, Bend and the Seattle area. We didn't have WiFi in our lovely room, so that caused a delay in my posting. On Thursday we received word that my sister's husband Marcos had had a serious stroke. He is only 54. Then my brother had to go to the hospital with a serious bacterial infection in his back. We have been busy helping family and visiting hospitals. It's been an emotional roller coaster ride but some good news today. I think my brother is going home tomorrow but will be on antibiotics for a month and so. My BIL opened his eyes today and they are hoping to wake him up slowly to access the damage. Lots of prayers, support and good wishes have been keeping us all going.
When I was at the hospital yesterday, my niece took me for a walk in the children's garden....so fun. I took some pix to share and get me writing again.

I loved the bird houses and that gave me the idea to feature my bird cup and saucer for Miss Spenser's Teacup Thursday.

Here's my lovely teacup that I recently got at the Aurora Antique Street Faire.

Sweet little birds! It's marked VICTORIA  Bone China England on the bottom.

This clear glass bird candy dish is also a favorite of mine since I'm sharing bird items!

I've been wanting to show this teapot that I bought earlier this spring. It's Carlton Ware, which I love and collect. Don't you adore the little teapot top? I wonder how it has survived all these years without being broken!

When I was visiting my friends up north for Clarice's birthday, I was given a wonderful gift from Angie. I do believe this is one of my most favorite handmade gifts I have ever received. I was so touched! She knit these gloves with my friend LaVonne's yarn from her sheep. The blue trim is Angie's hand dyed yarn from her sheep. I am a lucky girl! Aren't they just wonderful? Love the birds and all the little birdie tracks. Thank you so very much Angie!

I was given an embroidery pattern and supplies from  my friend Lynda that I finally have gotten ready to work on. It's so cute and she gave me dried lavender to fill it when I'm finished with the stitching. I like to have something small to do in the evenings....well, maybe before too long.

My daughter Gina told me today that her wedding is only 16 days away! YIKES! Lots to do yet. Praying for strength to get everything done between helping my family during this trying time.