Author Archives: Debbie

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?

Throwback Thursday

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Time is like the wind, it lifts the light and leaves the heavy. ~Doménico Cieri Estrada, Mexican writer

I Monkey here.

My mama is beside herself these days with projects, so I’ve volunteered to post on her blog for her.

I know, I’m nice that way.

Take a look at this picture:

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Flutter on By

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The butterfly counts not months but moments, and has time enough. ~Rabindranath Tagore, Indian poet, composer, and philosopher

Some

People

Believe that

Seeing a blue

Butterfly is a

Sign of good fortune and

Indicates that you’re about

To receive a reward for your

Noble and honorable efforts.

Wouldn’t it be lovely if that were true?

I’m not positive, but I think this is

A red-spotted purple admiral.

Seeing this one’s pretty blue wings

Brought me lots of happiness.

Blue butterflies are rare!

It’s my good fortune,

And I wanted

To share it

With you

Now.

Note: Poetry form is Double Etheree. If you’d like more information about this butterfly, please see the Butterfly Identification site. And for information about the symbolism of seeing a blue butterfly, please see Animals A-Z.

Monkey Helps Outdoors

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May your search through Nature lead you to yourself. ~Author unknown

I Monkey here.

Mama is still busy with her blogging break, but I convinced her to let me say a few words today. After all, it’s been ages since you’ve heard from me, and who’s more important around here anyway?!

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Blogging Break Time

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Most of us, in all conditions, are weighted down with superfluities or worried to acquire them. ~Charles Dudley Warner, American essayist and novelist

Can’t you see yourself
Curled up on this seat?
Nestled ‘neath the trees
Away from the noisy street?

Can’t you feel the wind
Gently caressing your face?
Playing with your hair?
Slowing your hectic pace?

Can’t you hear the quiet
As peace envelopes you,
Casts aside your burdens,
Bestows a calmer view?

Our lives are often fraught
With too much activity.
Time to take a needed break,
Nurture my creativity.

Note: Happy Labor Day! I’m taking a short break and will be back soon.

Why I Don’t Go Swimming

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I have a fear of water, believe it or not. To put a wire 12 feet over a swimming pool frightens me. I don’t like water. — Philippe Petit, French high-wire artist

I realize swimming is great exercise, beneficial for building endurance, toning muscles, and maintaining a healthy weight.

But I’m totally with Philippe Petit here — I’m afraid of the water, so I don’t enjoy swimming and frankly, can’t ever see that changing.

Unless I’m forced into a pool to do something like physical therapy … maybe.

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Welcoming You Home

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Among these kinds of beauty the eye takes most delight in colours. ~Joseph Addison, English essayist, poet, playwright, and politician

According to Feng Shui (the Chinese art of placement using energy forces to harmonize with environment), your front door is one of the most important areas of your home, representing the face you show the world.

Before a recent walk with Monkey, I would have guessed most front doors in my community were neutral colors. But I’d have been wrong.

Now it seems there’s an explosion of color possibilities for front doors, all designed to boost a home’s curb appeal while making an impression on visitors.

Who knew?

So let’s take a look at some of the doors Monk and I found.

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