Monthly Archives: October 2023

That’s a Big Pumpkin!

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I would rather sit on a pumpkin and have it all to myself than be crowded on a velvet cushion. ~Henry David Thoreau (American poet, essayist, philosopher), “Economy,” Walden: Or, Life in the Woods, 1854

I chanced to see this big pumpkin sitting on its vine while Monkey and I were outside walking one day, and immediately there sprang to mind a story.

Back when my son Domer was a little boy, the preschool teachers taught his class a wonderful Halloween tale. The kids loved it, and Domer remembered it word for word, bringing it home to share with me.

In case you haven’t heard it, or perhaps have forgotten it, I’m happy to pass it along. Only takes about five minutes, but it feels appropriate for the season. Enjoy!

Walktober 2023

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An early morning walk is a blessing for the whole day. ~Henry David Thoreau,American naturalist, poet, philosopher

Once again, it’s time for the annual group walk known as Walktober. Hosted this year by Dawn, Walktober encourages us to get outside and experience nature by walking, biking, riding, boating, whatever; and to share that enjoyment with others through words and photos.

Monkey’s already done his walk — he prides himself on being an over-achiever, hmph — so this one’s just for me. I traveled to Charleston, IL, home of Eastern Illinois University and the Whiteside Garden.

Opened to the public in 2021, this five-acre tract was the home of the late Dr. Wesley Whiteside, a botany professor at the university, and features thousands of plants from around the world.

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Walking with Monkey 2023

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The difference between friends and pets is that friends we allow into our company, pets we allow into our solitude. ~Robert Brault,American writer

I Monkey here.

I think Mama was trying to hide the news of this year’s Walktober from me — she probably didn’t want to have to do two walks! Huh.

But I found out, and I’m raring to go. Fall day? Check. Leash and harness? Check. Link to the official Walktober post? Check.

Let’s do this!!

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“Tiny” No More

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There’s nothing wrong with having a tree for a friend. ~Bob Ross, The Joy of Painting

I read somewhere that the average height of an NBA player in 2022-23 was 6 feet 6 inches.

Would you believe that’s exactly the height of my once-tiny Tiny Tree?

More formally known as an Eastern Juniper (or Red Cedar), this tree made its first appearance in my backyard in late 2020 (AKA Pandemic Year). It’s not in a location I’d have chosen, but perhaps the bird who “planted” it had a better idea.

At least it’s in a fairly sheltered site and seems happy with its surroundings.

Way back then, I tied a jaunty red piece of yarn around its tiny trunk, hoping to brighten its spirits for the holidays while warming it from the cold to come.

Today, Tiny Tree is so big that I can no longer find its scarf.

Maybe it will hold still for some colorful bows and Christmas ornaments as the holidays near?