Replacing Ol' Smokey All Covered with Soot

Yep, we've finally done it. No, Glenda hasn't opted for a younger, newer model. She just got tired of hauling in four-foot logs just to keep ol' Betsy going during the winter. So this last week we went by a woodstove shop and browsed. Sure enough, there sitting on the floor in all of his glory was Miss Avalon. She's guaranteed to burn 25% less wood and be about 71% efficient. To all of this we clap our hands and are so thankful we are not switching from wood heat--that radiant stuff is so soothing to achy, old bones. So now without further ado, let me present to you...Miss Avalon

Over the River and Through the Woods...

Well, Jim had just returned from Washington, DC and his first trip. We had cancelled our trip to see our grandkids just two weeks prior--due to snow (duh!). Well, we picked the first weekend of April to drive over before Jim's next trip back East. Well, it was memorable; and the Lord delivered us to Salem so we could enjoy all our kids and grandkids. We were so pleased that Tobin could join us as well.

Spending time with our kids and grandkids is the best. What a way to stay young!





Here's Grandma trying to win in "Go Fish" against a wily opponent. Gracie is wondering if Grandma is really holding out on handing over the apple.














Grandpa gets into the action as he reads "Stand Back, Elephant Is Going to Sneeze!" What an exciting way to end the day.